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Home My WebLink AboutCouncil Presentation 12/08/2020- Marana Parks and Rec MaterplanTown Of Marana Parks & Recreation Master Plan 2020-2030 DRAFT NOVEMBER 2020 Acknowledgements Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Acknowledgements Town of Marana Mayor and Council Ed Honea .................................................................................................................................................... Mayor Jon Post .............................................................................................................................................. Vice Mayor Patti Comerford ........................................................................................................................ Councilmember Jacki Craig ................................................................................................................................. Councilmember Herb Kai ...................................................................................................................................... Councilmember John Officer ............................................................................................................................... Councilmember Roxanne Ziegler ........................................................................................................................ Councilmember Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department Jim Conroy ............................................................................................................................................... Director Wayne Barnett .......................................................................................................................... Deputy Director Corey Larriva .......................................................................................................... Recreation Superintendent Dave Herman ................................................................................................................... Parks Superintendent McGann & Associates Consultant Team Don McGann (McGann & Associates) ................................................................................. Project Manager Scott Martinez (McGann & Associates) ........................................................ Planner / Landscape Architect Maria Voris (McGann & Associates) .............................................................. Planner / Landscape Designer Ken Ballard (Ballard + King) ............................................................ Senior Park / Recreation Facility Planner Frank Slingerland (BWS Architects) ........................................................................................ Project Architect David Acklin (Aqua-Design International) .............................................................. Aquatic Facility Designer Ken Paulson (Aqua-Design International) ............................................................... Aquatic Facility Designer Project Advisory Committee Kirk Astroth (Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists) ............................................................................... Member Kati Carbonneu (Citizen Member-at-Large) ...................................................................................... Member Dan Contorno (Marana Unified School District) ................................................................................. Member Sean Ellis (Continental Little League) .................................................................................................. Member Sharon Foltz (Citizens Forum Member) ................................................................................................ Member Jacqy Gorman (Continental Little League) ...................................................................................... Member Kyle Hoyer (Marana Little League) ...................................................................................................... Member Brian Jones (Cyclist / Birder).................................................................................................................. Member John Kennedy (Citizen Member-at-Large) ......................................................................................... Member Dustin Krau (Hiker / Mountain Bicyclist) ............................................................................................... Member Stephanie Luppert (Marana Marlins Swim Club) ............................................................................... Member Usman and Mahrukh Maqsood (Citizens Forum Member) ............................................................... Member Todd McGee (Marana Little League) ................................................................................................. Member Zeno Pfau (American Youth Soccer Organization - AYSO) .............................................................. Member Dottie Rhodes (North Marana Senior Club) ........................................................................................ Member Amy Ruiz (Marana Marlins Swim Club) ................................................................................................ Member Table of Contents Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Table of Contents i Executive Summary .................................................................................................................................... ES-1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. ES-1 Purpose of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan .................................................................................. ES-1 Listening and Responding to the Marana Community .......................................................................... ES-2 A Community with Three Distinct Districts ................................................................................................ ES-2 Elements of the Plan ................................................................................................................................... ES-2 Major Initiatives — Developed Parks ........................................................................................................ ES-5 Major Initiatives — Community Center and Aquatic Facility................................................................. ES-7 Major Initiatives — Linear Parks and Trails ................................................................................................. ES-8 Major Initiatives — Natural Resource Parks and Preserves ..................................................................... ES-9 Major Initiatives — Recreation Programming ........................................................................................ ES-10 Recommendations for Department Organization and Operations ................................................... ES-11 Section 1: Introduction Purpose of Master Plan................................................................................................................................ 1-1 Plan Foundations ......................................................................................................................................... 1-1 A Community Focus with a Welcoming Approach ................................................................................. 1-1 Scope of the Town of Marana Park System .............................................................................................. 1-1 Community Input ......................................................................................................................................... 1-2 Other Background Research ...................................................................................................................... 1-3 A Public / Private Partnership ..................................................................................................................... 1-3 Related Document ...................................................................................................................................... 1-3 Section 2: Community Demographics Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 2-1 Areas Evaluated........................................................................................................................................... 2-1 Summary of Findings .................................................................................................................................... 2-2 Key Findings .................................................................................................................................................. 2-3 Additional Information ................................................................................................................................ 2-3 Section 3: Public Engagement Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 3-1 Public Outreach ........................................................................................................................................... 3-1 On-Line Survey Results ................................................................................................................................. 3-2 Telephone Survey Results .......................................................................................................................... 3-12 Section 4: Overview of Existing Resources and Facility Needs Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 4-1 Developed Parkland ................................................................................................................................... 4-1 Park Facility Inventory .................................................................................................................................. 4-3 Factors Considered when Establishing Facility Needs ............................................................................. 4-3 Projected Facility Needs (2030) .................................................................................................................. 4-3 Table of Contents ii Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Section 5: Peer Community Benchmark Survey Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 5-1 Peer Community Benchmark Survey — Summary of Results .................................................................. 5-2 Size of Benchmark Communities — Land Area ........................................................................................ 5-2 Population of Benchmark Communities (2010 and 2020) ....................................................................... 5-2 Population Growth — Benchmark Communities (2010 to 2020) ............................................................ 5-2 Scope of Parks Department Responsibilities ............................................................................................. 5-3 Total Acreage and Developed Park Acreage per 1,000 Residents ...................................................... 5-3 Quantity and Acreage of Developed parks by Park Type ..................................................................... 5-4 Linear Parks, Shared-Use Pathways, and Trails.......................................................................................... 5-5 Natural Resource Parks and Preserves ...................................................................................................... 5-5 Aquatic Facilities .......................................................................................................................................... 5-6 Bike Parks and Skate / Wheel Parks ........................................................................................................... 5-6 Outdoor Performance Venues ................................................................................................................... 5-7 Rectangular Fields ....................................................................................................................................... 5-7 Diamond Fields — Little League and Fast Pict Softball ............................................................................ 5-8 Full Size Baseball Fields................................................................................................................................. 5-8 Slow-Pitch Softball Fields ............................................................................................................................. 5-8 Tennis Courts ................................................................................................................................................. 5-9 Pickleball Courts ........................................................................................................................................... 5-9 Basketball Courts ......................................................................................................................................... 5-9 Community / Multi-Generational Center ................................................................................................ 5-10 Facilities Included in Community Center ................................................................................................ 5-10 Recreation Program Offerings .................................................................................................................. 5-11 Facility or Service Partnerships .................................................................................................................. 5-11 Capital Improvement Funding ................................................................................................................. 5-11 Relevant Findings from Peer Community Benchmark Survey ............................................................... 5-12 Section 6: Developed Park Element Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 6-1 Relationship to General Plan ...................................................................................................................... 6-1 Developed Park Types ................................................................................................................................ 6-1 Complementary Community Resources ................................................................................................... 6-2 Goals for Developed Park System ............................................................................................................. 6-3 Policies for Developed Park System ........................................................................................................... 6-3 Strategies for the Expansion and Enhancement of the Developed Park System ................................ 6-4 Developed Municipal Parks Map (Existing and Planned) ....................................................................... 6-5 Complementary Resources Map (Existing and Planned) ....................................................................... 6-6 Tangerine Sky Park ....................................................................................................................................... 6-7 Gladden Farms Park .................................................................................................................................... 6-8 Ora Mae Harn Parks .................................................................................................................................... 6-9 San Lucas Park ........................................................................................................................................... 6-11 Honea Heights Park (East) ......................................................................................................................... 6-12 Marana Heritage Park ............................................................................................................................... 6-13 Crossroads at Silverbell Park ..................................................................................................................... 6-14 Continental Ranch Park ............................................................................................................................ 6-15 Continental Reserve Park .......................................................................................................................... 6-16 Table of Contents Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) iii Wade Mclean Park .................................................................................................................................... 6-17 El Rio Park .................................................................................................................................................... 6-18 Saguaro Bloom Park .................................................................................................................................. 6-19 Utilization of Undeveloped Park Land ..................................................................................................... 6-20 Gladden Farms East Bike Park .................................................................................................................. 6-21 Area between Gladden Farms Park and Marana Heritage Park ........................................................ 6-22 Honea Heights Park West .......................................................................................................................... 6-23 New Park Development ............................................................................................................................ 6-24 Twin Peaks Corridor District Park (Proposed)........................................................................................... 6-24 North Marana District Park (Proposed) .................................................................................................... 6-26 Community Sports Field Complex ............................................................................................................ 6-27 Future Community Parks Identified in Specific Plans ............................................................................. 6-28 Section 7: Community Center and Aquatic Facility Element Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 7-1 Relationship to Strategic Plan ..................................................................................................................... 7-1 Relationship to General Plan ...................................................................................................................... 7-1 Community Needs ....................................................................................................................................... 7-2 Other Factors Supporting the Development of a Multi-Generational Center and Aquatic Facility . 7-3 Goals for Community Center and Aquatic Facility ................................................................................. 7-4 Policies for Community Center and Aquatic Facility ............................................................................... 7-4 Relationship of Community Center and Aquatic Facility ....................................................................... 7-5 Multi-Generational Community Center — Facility Program Overview and Conceptual Floorplan .. 7-5 Multi-Generational Community Center Facility Program ........................................................................ 7-7 Aquatic Facility — Program Overview and Conceptual Floorplan ....................................................... 7-8 Aquatic Facility Program ............................................................................................................................ 7-9 Overall Conceptual Floorplan, Site Plan and Renderings ..................................................................... 7-10 Preliminary Construction Cost Estimate ................................................................................................... 7-12 Preliminary Operation and Maintenance Cost Estimate ...................................................................... 7-12 Preliminary Estimate of Revenues Generated ........................................................................................ 7-12 Cost Estimate Notes ................................................................................................................................... 7-12 Section 8: Linear Park and Trail Element ................................................................................................... 8-1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 8-1 Relationship to the General Plan ............................................................................................................... 8-1 Linear Park and Trail Types .......................................................................................................................... 8-1 Complementary Resources ........................................................................................................................ 8-3 Goals for the Linear Park and Trail System ................................................................................................ 8-3 Policies for the Linear Park and Trail System .............................................................................................. 8-4 River Parks and Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail — Key Initiatives .................................... 8-5 River Parks and Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail — Recommended Action Items ........ 8-5 CAP National Recreation Trail — Key Initiatives ....................................................................................... 8-6 National Recreation Trails — Recommended Action items ................................................................... 8-6 Greenways — Key Initiatives ....................................................................................................................... 8-7 Greenways — Recommended Action items............................................................................................ 8-7 Utility Corridor Trails — Key Initiatives .......................................................................................................... 8-8 Utility Corridor Trails — Recommended Action Items .............................................................................. 8-8 Table of Contents iv Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Right-of-Way Trails — Key Initiatives ........................................................................................................... 8-9 Right-of-Way Trails — Recommended Action Items ................................................................................ 8-9 Mountain Park, Preserve, and Tortolita Fan Trails — Key Initiatives ....................................................... 8-10 Mountain Park, Preserve, and Tortolita Fan Trails — Recommended Action items ........................... 8-12 Community Pathways and Trails — Key Initiatives ................................................................................. 8-13 Community Pathways and Trails — Recommended Action Items ...................................................... 8-13 Linear Park and Trail System Map and List of Trails ................................................................................. 8-13 Linear Parks and Trails Map (Existing and Planned) ............................................................................... 8-15 Section 9: Natural Resource Park and Preserve Element ....................................................................... 9-1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 9-1 Relationship to the General Plan ............................................................................................................... 9-1 Types of Natural Resource Parks and Preserves ....................................................................................... 9-1 Goals for the Natural Resource Park and Preserve System..................................................................... 9-2 Policies for the Natural Resource Park and Preserve System .................................................................. 9-2 Elements of Natural Resource Park and Preserve System ....................................................................... 9-3 Natural Resource Parks, Preserves, and Contributing Elements Map .................................................... 9-5 Tortolita Mountain Park — Current Conditions ......................................................................................... 9-7 Tortolita Mountain Park — Key Initiatives ................................................................................................... 9-8 Tortolita Mountain Park — Recommended Action Items........................................................................ 9-9 Tortolita Mountain Park Map .................................................................................................................... 9-11 Tortolita Preserve — Current Conditions .................................................................................................. 9-13 Tortolita Preserve — Key Initiatives ........................................................................................................... 9-14 Tortolita Preserve — Recommended Action Items ................................................................................ 9-15 Tortolita Preserve Map ............................................................................................................................... 9-17 El Rio Preserve — Current Conditions ...................................................................................................... 9-19 El Rio Preserve — Key Initiatives ................................................................................................................ 9-21 El Rio Preserve — Recommended Action Items ..................................................................................... 9-22 El Rio Preserve and Disc Golf Course Map .............................................................................................. 9-23 Northwest Nature Park — Current Conditions ........................................................................................ 9-25 Northwest Nature Park — Key Initiatives .................................................................................................. 9-25 Northwest Nature Park — Recommended Action Items ...................................................................... 9-25 Contributing Elements — Current Conditions ......................................................................................... 9-26 Contributing Elements — Key Initiatives .................................................................................................. 9-27 Section 10: Recreation Program Element ............................................................................................... 10-1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 10-1 Recreation Program and Services Assessment ...................................................................................... 10-1 Programming Inventory by Classifications .............................................................................................. 10-2 Program Area Definitions .......................................................................................................................... 10-4 Programming Areas by Level of Emphasis .............................................................................................. 10-5 Recreation Programs and Services Challenges ..................................................................................... 10-6 Other Providers of Recreation Programs and Services .......................................................................... 10-7 Future Recreation Program Needs .......................................................................................................... 10-8 Youth Sports ................................................................................................................................................ 10-8 Adult Sports ................................................................................................................................................. 10-9 Fitness /Wellness ......................................................................................................................................... 10-9 Table of Contents Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) v Cultural Arts ................................................................................................................................................ 10-9 Youth Programs ........................................................................................................................................ 10-10 Aquatics .................................................................................................................................................... 10-10 Special Needs .......................................................................................................................................... 10-10 Special Events .......................................................................................................................................... 10-11 Outdoor Recreation ................................................................................................................................ 10-11 Seniors ....................................................................................................................................................... 10-12 Teens ......................................................................................................................................................... 10-12 Self-Directed ............................................................................................................................................. 10-12 Social Services .......................................................................................................................................... 10-13 Summary of Future Recreation Programs and Role of the Town ....................................................... 10-13 Programming Strategies .......................................................................................................................... 10-13 Section 11: Department Organization and Operations Element .......................................................... 11-1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 11-1 Organizational Assessment ....................................................................................................................... 11-1 General Department Assessment ............................................................................................................ 11-2 Specific Division Assessment ..................................................................................................................... 11-3 Future Organizational Needs .................................................................................................................... 11-4 Budget & Operations ................................................................................................................................ 11-7 Operations Policies and Procedures ....................................................................................................... 11-8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Executive Summary Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) ES-1 Introduction In the 43 years since the Town of Marana was incorporated it has grown from a small agricultural community with a population of 1,500 to a diverse and vibrant community with more than 50,000 residents. The dramatic growth of the Town is likely to continue over the next decade as new families, new businesses, and new industries become part of the Marana community. By the year 2030, it is anticipated that more than 65,000 people will call Marana home. During this four-decade period of growth, the Town has given priority to the development of a high-quality park system. New parks have been built, new trail systems have been developed, and large tracts of land have been set aside as preserved natural open space. A wide range of recreational and enrichment programs have also been developed and offered to the community to enhance the quality of life for Marana residents. The Town’s very strong commitment to parks and recreation has been confirmed by two important Mayor and Council-adopted documents. The Town’s 2017 Strategic Plan identifies “Recreation” as one of five focus areas for community development. The Town’s 2020 General Plan builds on the Strategic Plan’s vision and identifies goals and policies that support the construction of new parks, the building of trails, the development of community recreation facilities, the preservation of important natural resource areas, and the offering of programs for community recreation, fitness, and enrichment. The General Plan also commits the Town to actions intended to address existing deficiencies in the park system and to provide for the expansion of the park system as needed to accommodate anticipated growth. The preparation of this Parks and Recreation Master Plan is an important next step in the Town’s continuing commitment to parks and recreation. Purpose of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan This Parks and Recreation Master Plan is intended to serve as a guide for the phased development and enhancement of the Town of Marana’s park system during the period from 2020 to 2030. It takes inventory of the current park system resources, it considers and responds to the vision of the Marana community, and it charts a course for park system development over the next decade. Marana Town Hall, late 1970s Founder’s Day Parade, late 2010s Executive Summary ES-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Listening and Responding to the Marana Community An initial step in the preparation of this master plan was to listen to the Marana community with the goal of understanding the community’s needs, preferences, and vision for its park system. To gain this understanding, a multi-faceted outreach program was undertaken. This program included: • An on-line survey that received nearly 2,000 responses • A 400 person, randomly selected and statistically predictable telephone survey • Public meetings conducted in each of the geographical districts of the Town • Focus group meetings related to specific plan elements • Intercept interviews in existing parks and at community events • Informational email messages sent to organizations that previously partnered with the Parks and Recreation Department • Informational email messages sent to individuals who previously participated in Town sponsored programs • A public service announcement that was presented at a local (Harkins) movie theater • Meetings with a 16-person Advisory Committee representing a wide range of community organizations and interests The Master Plan presented herein reflects the vision and priorities of the Marana community as identified through this public outreach program. A Community with Three Distinct Districts While listening to the broad spectrum of Marana residents was very important, it was also important to acknowledge the geographical and demographic diversity of the community. The needs and characteristics of Northeast, Northwest, and South Marana, while similar, are not identical. Understanding the unique characteristics of each district was a goal of the planning process. Toward this end, the public outreach surveys conducted allowed respondents to identify the area where they lived, and the responses received from residents within each district were evaluated separately. A demographics profile of each district was also prepared and the scope of the existing recreational resources within each district was also identified. This information allowed the Master Plan to be responsive not just to the Marana community as a whole but also to needs and preferences of each district. Executive Summary Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) ES-3 Elements of the Plan To appropriately address the various features of the Marana park system, this Master Plan is organized to include recommendations for five distinct but interrelated elements of the community’s park system. These are: • Developed Parks • Community Center and Aquatic Facilities • Linear Parks and Trails • Natural Resource Parks and Preserves • Recreation Programs Developed parks are those with fields, courts, playgrounds, and ramadas where individuals and families go to participate in sports programs, engage in unstructured play, and participate in community events. They serve a broad spectrum of residents and visitors and provide opportunities for exercise, fitness, and play. This plan identifies the need for improvements to existing parks and the development of new parks. A community center is an important complement to a municipality’s developed Executive Summary ES-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) park network. It provides opportunities for indoor recreation, fitness, and enrichment. The Town’s current center is quite small and provides limited opportunities for indoor recreation. The public noted these limitations and requested a new multi- generation center that will serve all members of the community and support a full range of indoor recreation, fitness, and enrichment programs. The public similarly noted the limitations associated with the Town’s seasonal swimming pool. Residents expressed a keen interest in the construction of a year-round aquatic facility to provide for competitive, recreational, and therapeutic aquatic programs. Linear parks and trails are also a key component of the Marana park system. They provide opportunities for recreation and exercise and connect residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and other community facilities. They also provide opportunities for residents and visitors to the community to hike, bike, and experience the Town’s spectacular Sonoran Desert environment. The residents of the Town of Marana, through the public input process, identified the continued expansion and integration of the linear park and trail system as a high priority. The Town’s natural resource parks and preserves are unique elements that distinguish Marana’s park system from that of most municipalities. They serve the dual function of protecting important natural, cultural, and scenic resources while providing opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife observation, and equestrian activities. They are used and valued by both residents and visitors to the community. As part of the public outreach program, Marana residents expressed a keen interest in protecting the Town’s natural resource parks and preserves while also accommodating and supporting appropriate public use. Executive Summary Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) ES-5 Recreation programs are also a key element of this master plan. While many residents engage in self- directed recreational activities, they and others also have a desire to participate in organized group programs. These can range from youth sports to senior wellness programs, from adult fitness classes to cultural enrichment activities. The input received from the public was used to identify program areas to be expanded and strengthened. It was also used to identify the physical resources needed to support the programs requested. Major Initiatives — Developed Parks The major initiatives recommended by this Master Plan related to developed parks are: • Construction of improvements at existing developed parks • Development of two new District Parks • Planning for a Community Sports Field Complex Improvements to Existing Parks: As the Town’s existing parks age and as trends in the community’s recreational activities emerge, there is a need for reinvestment in these existing facilities. Included in this master plan are specific recommendations for improvements at each existing park. (See Section 9 - Developed Parks Element). These range from basic infrastructure improvements, such as replacement of restrooms, to the construction of new facilities, such as pickleball courts, to accommodate changing recreational activity patterns. Development of Two New District Parks: The recommended improvements to the Town’s existing parks will not be sufficient to meet the needs of the growing community. To meet these needs, it is recommended that the Town develop two new district parks. These parks will be similar in size to Crossroads at Silverbell Park and will include similar facilities. The proposed new district parks will be located in areas where growth is currently occurring, and where it is anticipated, as identified in the General Plan. Executive Summary ES-6 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) It is recommended that the first new District Park be constructed along the Twin Peaks Road corridor, between Interstate 10 and Tangerine Road. The proposed Twin Peak Corridor District Park will be the first and only district park in Northeast Marana and will be reasonably accessible from other portions of the community. The construction of this new park will lessen the demand for facilities at other Town parks, where demand currently exceeds capacity. It will also address the needs of a growing population in this portion of the community. The selection and acquisition of a site, approximately 50 acres in size, will be the first step in the development of this new park. The selected site could be in conjunction with lands set-aside by approved specific plans or an alternative site deemed to be more appropriate for park development. It is recommended that land acquisition for this new park be given high priority with design, engineering, and construction to follow. The second new district park is proposed for north Marana, in the area east of Interstate 10 and south of the Pima / Pinal county line. This is within an area of projected growth and development as identified in the General Plan. The initial focus will be to acquire suitable real estate through development agreements, acquisitions, or other measures. With land in Town ownership or control, the construction of this North Marana District Park can occur as and when new development takes place in this northern portion of the community. Planning for a Community Sports Field Complex The construction of a community sports field complex has been an element of various Town of Marana planning documents for more than a decade. The proposed location for this facility is on land along Avra Valley Road near the Marana Airport. This land is owned by the federal government and managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. It was acquired in conjunction with the construction of the Central Arizona Project aqueduct and while its proximity to the airport makes it unsuitable for certain types of development, it is suitable for sports field construction. While not the highest priority for development, this master plan anticipates the need for a community sports field complex with lighted multi-sport rectangular fields, diamond fields, and support facilities during the later years of this 10-year plan. Construction of the community sports field complex will likely follow the construction of the proposed Twin Peaks corridor District Park. To prepare for the development of this sports field complex, it is recommended that the Town begin planning activities including, but not limited to, formal discussions with the Bureau of Reclamation related to a long-term lease for the subject property. The Town should also consider the infrastructure requirements for the sports field complex and integrate these requirements into its transportation and infrastructure planning and capital improvement plans. Executive Summary Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) ES-7 Major Initiatives — Community Center and Aquatic Facility The major initiatives recommended by this master plan related to the community center and the aquatic facility are: • Construct a new Multi-Generational Community Center • Construct a new Aquatics Facility Construction of a New Multi-Generational Community Center: The Town’s current community center in Ora Mae Harn Park, which was constructed to serve a community with a population a fraction of the Town’s current size, does not have the capacity to serve the current and rapidly expanding need for indoor recreation and related programs. As such, it is recommended that the Town of Marana construct a 55,000 square foot Multi-Generational Community Center, with an indoor gymnasium, weight training areas, cardio fitness space, group exercise rooms, meeting rooms, and other related facilities. The proposed facility is similar to what other peer communities provide their residents. It will also address an important community need as articulated by Marana residents during the public input process. It is also recommended that this facility be constructed within or near downtown Marana. The construction of this facility in the downtown area will make it reasonably accessible to all portions of the community, including future growth areas in north Marana. It will also be a catalyst for the creation of the vibrant downtown as envisioned by the recently adopted General Plan. Construction of a new Aquatics Facility: The Town’s existing swimming pool and bathhouse at Ora Mae Harn Park are approximately 40 years old, are substandard in terms of current codes and guidelines, and support seasonal use only. The water filtration and purifications systems are similarly at the end of their useful life. The pool is not heated making it operational for only a few months each year. The residents of Marana, through the public input process, have expressed a keen interest in replacing this pool with a new facility. The proposed new facility will include a 50-meter competitive pool, a recreation / therapy pool, various play components, and supporting utility systems. The new pool will be heated to allow for year-round use. These facilities will accommodate youth swim teams, adult / masters swim teams, water aerobics, learn-to-swim programs, water therapy programs, recreational swimming, and various water based recreational activities. The proposed facility will include restrooms, changing rooms, rentable spaces for private parties, and space for administrative and life-guard staff. It is recommended that the new aquatic facility be constructed as part of the Multi-Generational Community Center campus. This will facilitate the staffing of the facility and will reduce the cost of operating and administering the complex. Executive Summary ES-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Major Initiatives — Linear Parks and Trails The major initiatives recommended by this master plan related to the development of linear parks and trails are: • Complete the regional trail system as a framework for the local trail system • Integrate shared-use pathway and greenway development with transportation and infrastructure projects • Develop trails linking key community assets • Expand the natural resource park and preserve trail systems • Incrementally construct local trail systems in conjunction with new private development Completion of the Regional Trail System: The Loop along the Santa Cruz River is the spine of the Town of Marana’s trail system. The regional trail system also includes the Central Ariz ona Project (CAP) Trail which connects Marana with other communities in both Pima and Pinal counties. The completion and enhancement of these regional trails is strongly supported by Marana residents and should be given high priority. Integration of Shared-Use Pathways and Greenways with Transportation and Infrastructure Projects: The shared-use pathways and greenways that extend out from the regional trail system will typically be developed along roadways or constructed drainage corridors. It is recommended that the design and construction of these shared-use pathways and greenways be made an integral part of the scope of these transportation and infrastructure projects. This will enable the design and construction of these facilities to be concurrent with the larger public works projects. Develop Trails Linking Key Community Assets: It is recommended than an emphasis be given to the development of urban trails that connect the places where people live with places where they recreate, work, or go to school. As new residential subdivisions are approved, as new schools are constructed, and as new parks and other civic facilities are developed, urban trails that connect them should be constructed. For this to happen effectively, it will be important that the Parks and Recreation Department continue to be an active participant in project reviews and long-term Town planning efforts. Expand the Natural Resource Park and Preserve Trail Systems: The expansion and development of the trail systems within the El Rio Preserve, the Tortolita Preserve, and Tortolita Mountain Park will be needed to support the growing demand for the recreational use and enjoyment of these areas. This expansion, however, will need to be balanced with the protection of the resources present. Specific recommendation for the expansion of these trail systems are provided in the “Natural Resource Parks and Preserves” section of this report. Executive Summary Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) ES-9 Major Initiatives — Natural Resource Parks and Preserves The major initiatives recommended by this master plan related to the development and enhancement of the Town’s natural resource parks and preserves are: • Construct public use and resource protection improvements at the Tortolita Preserve • Construct public use and resource protection improvements at the El Rio Preserve • Expand and enhance the trail system within Tortolita Mountain Park • Collaborate with other agencies to create a true Mountain Park in the Tortolita Mountains with integrated resource management Public Use and Resource Protection Improvements at the Tortolita Preserve: Work associated with this initiative includes completion of the boundary fence, construction of a new trailhead, and the construction of new trails. With regard to fencing, the eastern portion of the preserve is currently fenced but the western half is not. To prevent intentional or unintentional trespass into the Preserve, the remainder of the perimeter fence should be constructed. Access to the Preserve is also in need of improvement. The primary point of access at the southeastern corner of the site will be improved with the construction of a trailhead parking lot and related facilities. As part of a subsequent phase of development, a restroom will also be constructed in this location. Recommended public use improvements at the Preserve include the construction of new trails. These will include a short interpretive loop trail and new loop trails within the eastern and western portions of the site. Public Use and Resource Protection Improvements at the El Rio Preserve: As water is reintroduced to the El Rio Preserve and wildlife populations return, public use of the area will grow significantly. As such, it will be important to construct an internal trail system that provides for public access while also protecting the resources present. It is recommended that the construction of this trail system be given high priority. The growth in public use of the area will also necessitate the construction of the proposed parking lot. This parking lot will not only serve the Preserve, but also the adjacent recreational facilities and The Loop. Expand and Enhance the Trail System in Tortolita Mountain Park: The trail system in Tortolita Mountain Park is very popular with both Town residents and visitors to the community. There is a keen interest among users to expand this trail network. As such, it is recommended that new trails be constructed in and around the southwest portion of the mountain range. These trails will expand the capacity of the system and provide opportunities for individuals looking for a less strenuous trail experience. It is also recommended that a trail be constructed to connect Tortolita Mountain Park with the Tortolita Preserve. Collaborate with other agencies and jurisdictions to create a true Mountain Park with integrated Resource Management: The current ownership of lands within the Tortolita Mountain range is divided among multiple agencies, jurisdictions, and individuals with no single entity responsible for resource management. This condition creates the potential for land use changes that would be incompatible with the concept of a mountain park. It is recommended that the Town of Marana continue to show leadership and work with all appropriate stakeholders with the goal of establishing a true mountain park. This park should encompass the entire mountain range and have an integrated management team that shares the responsibilities and costs associated with the protection and management of the park’s resources. Executive Summary ES-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Major Initiatives — Recreation Programming The major initiatives recommended by this master plan related to recreation programming are: • Add recreation, fitness, and wellness programs that require indoor space • Add fitness, recreation, and therapy programs that require a year-round aquatic facility • Maintain, expand, and enhance current program offerings with large and growing participation • Maintain and refine programs serving special interest constituencies Add Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness Programs that require Indoor Space: A major gap in the programs that have been offered by the Town of Marana in recent years are programs that can only be effectively conducted in an indoor setting. This gap was due to the lack of an appropriately sized community center. When the multi-generational community center recommended by this Master Plan is constructed, the Town will have the ability to offer these programs and it will be a point-of- emphasis for new program development. Add Fitness, Recreation, and Therapy Programs that require a Year-Round Aquatic Facility: With a small, seasonal-use swimming pool, the Town has been able to offer only a very few water-based recreation and fitness programs. When the new aquatic facility recommended by the Master Plan is constructed, the Town will have the ability to offer a full complement of recreation, fitness, and water therapy programs serving the widest possible range of age and interest groups. The development of these highly desired programs will be a point of emphasis when the new aquatic facility is constructed. Maintain, Expand, and Enhance Program Offerings with Large and Growing Participation: There are several program areas, such as youth sports, youth programs, and outdoor recreation programs where participation levels are very high and growing. These programs will be examined and opportunities for their expansion and enhancement identified. The Town will continue to seek feedback from participants and will refine the program offerings in response to the feedback received. Maintain and Refine Programs serving Special Interest Constituencies: The recreation and enrichment programs offered by the Town are not based solely on popularity and registration numbers. They are also based on community needs and the desire to serve all residents. While the Town cannot provide programs for each and every interest group, it can and will continue to provide programs for underserved constituencies. Included will be adaptive recreation programs, cultural arts programs, and programs for seniors. Executive Summary Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) ES-11 Recommendations for Department Organization and Operations In addition to the initiatives associated with the development of parks and the expansion of recreation programs, this Master Plan also includes recommendations related to the organization of the Parks and Recreation Department and its day-to-day operations. It is recommended that the Department continue to be organized into three divisions. These divisions will be Administration, Recreation, and Parks. Administration will be responsible for the overall administration of the Parks and Recreation Department, long-range planning, budgeting, data / metrics tracking, and business services. As the park system grows, the scope of the Administrative Division will expand to include additional emphasis on marketing and project planning. The Recreation Division will continue to be responsible for the provisi on of recreation programs and services and the management of facilities (community center and aquatic facility). The business functions currently within this division will be transferred and consolidated with Administration. The Parks Division will be responsible for the maintenance of parks and for the maintenance of rights- of-way when this responsibility is transferred to the Department. As the Department grows, the Parks Division will be organized to provide separate maintenance teams within each of the Town’s three geographic regions. These maintenance teams will serve to improve operational efficiencies. Consideration will also be given to the development of a team within the Parks Division that is tasked with the unique responsibilities associated with trail and natural resource park maintenance. Park, Preserve, and Trail System Map Provided on the following page is a map that summarizes the existing park, preserve, and trail system, and the proposed additions to this network of trails. Additional more detailed maps are included in the Developed Parks, Linear Parks and Trails, and the Natural Resource Park and Preserve sections of this Master Plan. INTRODUCTION 1 1 Introduction Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) I-1 Purpose of Master Plan This master plan is intended to serve as a guide for the development, expansion, and improvement of the Town of Marana’s park system during the period from 2020 to 2030. It is intended to be a flexible document that allows the Town to respond appropriately when opportunities occur while also providing clear goals and specific benchmarks for park system development. Plan Foundations Previously adopted plans that serve as the foundation for this Master Plan include the Town’s Strategic Plan and its General Plan. The Town of Marana’s Strategic Plan, which was adopted by Mayor and Council in 2017, sets the Town on a course of action “…to address community needs and position Marana for the future.” One of the five areas of focus in the Strategic Plan is Recreation. The stated goal for the recreation element is to “…provide diverse recreational opportunities that create economic benefits and a healthy lifestyle.” The Town’s General Plan, Make Marana 2040, goes further and identifies the preparation of a Parks and Recreation Master Plan as a specific action item to be undertaken by the Town. The General Plan also includes numerous policies that express the Town’s commitment to the development of public parks, the preservation of natural open space, and the provision of programs that support community health and wellness. A Community Focus with a Welcoming Approach In all instances, the recommendations of this Master Plan are predicated on providing facilities and programs that respond to the stated needs and preferences of Marana residents . While the plan is community focused, it also recognizes that visitors to the Town, including individuals who use the Town’s parks and participate in Town sponsored events, can be beneficial to the economic well being of the community. In short, this plan has a very strong community focus balanced with a welcoming approach. Scope of the Town of Marana Park System The Town of Marana’s park system includes elements that vary widely in terms of character, purpose, and scale. The principal physical elements are: • Developed Parks • Community Center and Aquatic Facilities • Linear Parks and Trails • Natural Resource Parks and Preserves Each of these elements are examined in this Master Plan and specific action items are recommended for each. (See Sections 6, 7. 8, and 9 of this report). 1 Introduction I-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) In addition to the physical assets noted above, the recreation, fitness, and enrichment programs offered by the Department are an equally important element of the Town’s park system. The refinement and expansion of program offerings in response to public input is also an important component of this Master Plan. These recommendations are outlined in Section 10 of this report. While the Parks and Recreation Department’s delivery of services to the community is the major focus of this master plan, the document also looks inward to identify how the Department can most effectively and efficiently serve the community. Specific recommendations related to Department organization and its operations are summarized in Section 11 of this report. Community Input Level-of-service is a key concept for measuring a municipal parks department’s ability to provide the facilities and programs that are being requested by the community residents. Every community is unique. Understanding a community’s needs and preferences is of vital importance for the development of a park system that provides a high level-of-service. The need to understand and respond to the Marana community’s vision resulted in the broad and multi-faceted public input program that served as the basis for this Master Plan. That public input program included: • An on-line survey that received nearly 2,000 responses • A 400 person, randomly selected and statistically predictable telephone survey • Public meetings conducted in each of the geographical districts of the town • Focus group meetings related to specific plan elements • Intercept interviews in existing parks and at community events • Informational email messages sent to organizations who had previously partnered with the Parks and Recreation Department • Informational email messages to individuals who had previously participated in Department sponsored events • A public service announcement that was presented at a local movie theater • A 16-person advisory committee with representation from a wide range of community organizations and interests The input received was instrumental in understanding the community’s vision and very helpful in identifying the specific improvements needed to provide a high level-of-service. 1 Introduction Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) I-3 Other Background Research Background research conducted as part of the master planning process also included an examination of the community’s demographics, an inventory of all existing park resources, and a survey of peer communities to determine what facilities and programs are being offered by other jurisdictions. The analysis of the community’s demographics examined not just the Town as a whole but also the characteristics of the three geographic districts within the Town, Northeast Marana, Northwest Marana, and South Marana. The findings of this analysis are included in Section 2 of this report. The inventory of existing park resources examined the size, scope, and condition of all existing developed parks. It also looked at the features of the community center, the aquatic facilities, the linear park and trail system, and the existing natural resource parks and preserves. A summary of this inventory is included in Section 4 of this report. The survey of peer communities was undertaken to better understand the approaches and standards that have been adopted by other Arizona communities; communities that sometimes compete with the Town of Marana for new businesses and new residents. Information related to what park facilities and recreation programs other communities offer is included in Section 5 of this Master Plan report. A Public / Private Partnership An underlying principle of this master plan is that an effective park system must rely on both public and private entities to provide the various elements of a comprehensive park network. The role of the public sector is to construct, operate, and maintain the community and districts parks that serve the entire or large sectors of the community. It is also the role of the public sector to develop and maintain the linear parks and shared-use pathways that connect the various neighborhoods within the Town. Further, it is the role of the public sector to manage the various natural resource parks and preserves that make Marana’s park system so unique. The complementary role of the private sector. which may include developers, community associations, or individual neighborhood associations, is to build, operate, and maintain the neighborhood parks and small recreation areas that serve individual subdivisions. This approach allows the Parks Department to focus its efforts and resources on the larger components of the parks system while giving authority and control to the private sector related to the recreation facilities serving individual neighborhoods. Related Document The “Town of Marana Subdivision Recreational Area Design Manual” is by reference made an integral component of this Master Plan. This manual, adopted by Mayor and Council in 2020, identifies the space and facility requirements associated with recreational areas within subdivisions of various sizes and densities. 2 Community Demographics 2 COMMUNITY DEMOGRAPHICS 2 Community Demographics Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 2-1 Introduction A goal of the Town of Marana 2020 – 2030 Parks and Recreation Master Plan is to be responsive to the needs and preferences of all members of the community. As one of several steps undertaken to understand these needs and preferences, a review of the demographic characteristics of the Town and its key subregions was conducted. This section of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Report summarizes the findings of this investigation. Areas Evaluated Four areas were evaluated as part of the demographic analysis. • Area 1 is the entire Town of Marana based on its January 1, 2020 Town boundary • Area 2 is the Northeastern portion of the town as shown on the map below • Area 3 is the Northwestern portion of the Town as shown on the map below • Area 4 is the Southern portion of the Town as shown on the map below These sub-areas are geographically distinct and have been identified by the Town as individual benefit areas related to various Town programs. 2 Community Demographics 2-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Data Source The ESRI ArcGIS Business Analyst website was used as the source of the demographic data included in this report. Summary of Findings Population: 2000, 2010, 2019, and 2024 (Estimated) Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South 2000 = 15,222 2000 = 1,908 2000 = 1,971 2000 = 11,344 2010 = 34,859 2010 = 6,571 2010 = 6,226 2010 = 22,026 2019 = 47,418 2019 = 11,133 2019 = 9,853 2019 = 26,432 2024 = 54,125 (Est.) 2024 = 13,126 * 2024 = 11,280 * 2024 = 29,718 * * Estimated Annual Population Growth: 2000-2010, 2010-2019, and 2019-2024 Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South 2000 – 2010 = 8.64% 2000 – 2010 = 13.16% 2000 – 2110 = 12.19% 2000 – 2010 = 6.88% 2010 – 2019 = 3.38% 2010 – 2019 = 5.78% 2010 – 2019 = 5.09% 2010 – 2019 = 1.97% 2019 – 2024 = 2.68% * 2019 – 2024 = 3.35% * 2019 – 2024 = 2.74% * 2019 – 2024 = 2.37% * * Estimated Estimated Population 2030 Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South 65,000 (Est.) * N/A N/A N/A * Based on Town of Marana Projections Median Age: 2010, 2019, 2024 (Estimated) Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South 2010 = 38.3 Years 2010 = 51.2 Years 2010 = 32.7 Years 2010 = 37.1 Years 2019 = 41.1 Years 2019 = 55.9 Years 2019 = 36.0 Years 2019 = 38.6 Years 2024 = 41.9 Years * 2024 = 57.4 Years * 2024 = 34.3 Years * 2024 = 39.6 Years * * Estimated / Median Age for U.S. = 38.5 Average Household Size 2019 Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South 2.62 2.24 2.99 2.70 Median Household Income 2019 Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South $81,780. $89,530. $75,997. $80,036. Median Household Income for the U.S. = $69,180. 2 Community Demographics Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 2-3 Median Home Value Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South 2019 = $266,757. 2019 = $374,182. 2019 = $227,414. 2019 = $239,203 2024 – $298,876. * 2024 = $406,017. * 2024 = $287.076. * 2024 = $268,316. * * Estimated Percent of Households with Children Town of Marana Northeast Northwest South 35.2% 23.2% 43.5% 37.5% Key Findings Key findings for the Town of Marana include: • Median age is slightly older than the U.S. median age – (Town = 41.1 Years, U.S. = 38.5 Years) • Median household income is slightly higher than U.S. median income – (Town = $81,780, U.S. = $69,180) Key findings for Northeast Marana include: • Population is currently between the other subareas (11,133) • Median age is highest of subareas – (55.9 Years) • Percentage of households with children is lowest of subareas – (23.2%) • Median household income is highest of subareas – ($89,530.) Key findings for Northwest Marana include: • Population is currently lowest of subareas – (9,853) • Median age is youngest of subareas – (36.0 Years) • Percentage of households with children is highest of subareas – (43.5%) • Median income is the lowest of the subareas – ($75,997.) Key findings for South Marana include: • Population is currently the highest of the subareas (26,432) • Median age is close to U.S. median age (Subarea = 38.6, U.S. = 38.5 Years) • Percentage of households with children is between other subareas – (37.5%) • Median household income is between the other subareas – ($80,036.) Additional Information Additional information regarding the demographics of the Town of Marana, including information for each of the sub- areas, is included in the Town of “Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan – Supplemental Report 1 – Demographic Profile.” (June 2020). 3 Public Engagement 3 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 3 Public Engagement Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 3-1 Introduction To understand the needs and preferences of the Marana community as they relate to parks and recreation, a two-fold approach was undertaken to solicit and document community input. The first component of the public outreach program was an on-line survey that was advertised and made available at community events and public meetings as well as being advertised by digital contact (email) with individuals who had participated in previous park programs. Weekly newsletters from the Department to constituents were also used to advise the public of their opportunity to have a voice in the planning process. The on-line survey was available to Marana residents for a period of approximately 140 days. A total of 1,954 responses were received from interested citizens. The 1,954 survey responses received represents a sample that was equal to approximately ten percent (10%) of the total number of Marana households. This estimate is based on ESRI ArcGIS 2019 Business Analyst data which indicated a 2019 population of 47,418 and an average household size of 2.62 persons). The second component of the public outreach program was a 400-person, randomly selected, statistically projectable telephone survey of adult (18 or older) Marana residents. This survey was undertaken to confirm the results of the on-line survey and to ask additional questions related to the specifics of park and recreation program development. An equal number of respondents to the telephone survey were from the Northeast, Northwest, and South planning areas. Additional information regarding these surveys is included in “Supplemental Report 3 – Telephone Survey Results” dated June 2020 and in “Supplemental Report 4 – On-Line Survey Results” dated June 2020. Public Outreach In an effort to let residents know about the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 - 2030 and to solicit their initial input via the on-line survey, an extensive outreach program was implemented. This outreach program included: • An information booth at the annual Turkey Trot event • An information booth at the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Festival • An information booth at the start of El Tour de Tucson bicycle event • An information booth at the youth flag football playoff weekend • A public service announcement that was displayed before movies at the Marana Harkins Theaters during the month of January 2020 • Project information and link to the survey on the Town of Marana’s website • Informational email messages sent to organizations that previously used Marana parks • Informational email messages sent to individuals that previously enrolled in Town recreation programs 3 Public Engagement 3-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) • Coordination with the Project Advisory Committee so that a link to the survey could be sent to all members of the organizations represented on the Advisory Committee. • Public meeting at the Wheeler Taft Abbett Library with at-meeting opportunities to complete survey • Public meeting at the Dove Mountain CSTEM School with at- meeting opportunities to complete survey • Public meeting at the Marana Police Department Conference Room with at-meeting capability to complete survey • Walk-arounds at Ora Mae Harn Park to engage park users • Walk-arounds at Crossroads at Silverbell Park to engage park users • Distribution and collection of (hard copy) surveys to participants in senior programs a t Marana Community Center • Personal communications between Parks Department administrative staff and Town residents On-Line Survey Results Question 1 - Location of Residence Responses were provided by residents from within each of the three planning areas (Northeast Marana, Northwest Marana, and South Marana). The largest number of responses was received from residents of South Marana which has a larger population than the other two areas. A significant number of responses were also provided by non-residents suggesting widespread use of Marana parks by individuals living outside the Town’s boundaries. The percent of the total number of responses that came from each planning area is as follows. Northeast Marana ....................................................................................................................................... 20% Northwest Marana ....................................................................................................................................... 23% South Marana............................................................................................................................................... 34% Outside of Town Limits ................................................................................................................................. 23% Question 2 - Household Composition This question asked if there were minor children living in the home of the respondent. The lowest percentage of households with minor children was in the Northeast planning area (34.9%) and the highest percentage in the Northwest planning area (73.3%) Northeast Marana – Households with minor children ........................................................................... 34.9% Northwest Marana – Households with minor children .......................................................................... 73.3% South Marana – Households with minor children .................................................................................. 62.2% Outside of Town Limits – Households with minor children ..................................................................... 46.2% All respondents – Households with minor children ................................................................................ 54.6% 3 Public Engagement Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 3-3 Question 3 - Age of Respondent The age of respondents varied among the filtered groups. The respondents living in Northeast Marana tended to be older and the respondents living in Northwest Marana tended to be younger, consistent with the demographic profile of the Town. All Northeast Northwest South Non-Resident 17 or Younger 1.1% 0.9% 1.4% 1.1% 0.9% 18 – 24 1.8% 0.9% 2.5% 0.8% 2.1% 25 – 34 17.5% 11.5% 27.2% 15.6% 15.0% 35 – 44 29.7% 16.9% 37.5% 37.3% 22.9% 45 – 54 16.1% 18.3% 13.1% 16.2% 18.8% 55 – 64 15.6% 21.9% 8.6% 12.6% 20.8% 65 or Older 18.2% 29.6% 9.7% 16.4% 19.6% Question 4 - Park Facilities Used Survey respondents typically used several different types of parks within the current park system and used them quite extensively. Utilization patterns were similar in all planning areas. Natural resource parks and preserves were more extensively used by those living in Northeast Marana which is consistent with the proximity of this planning area to Tortolita Mountain Park. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Developed Parks 79.5% 73.4% 86.8% 82.5% 73.2% Linear Parks and Trails 71.0% 75.4% 73.1% 69.2% 71.1% Natural Resource Parks / Preserves 66.5% 78.1% 51.3% 66.7% 73.7% Swimming Pools and Splash Pads 57.0% 36.2% 76.2% 61.9% 51.0% Community / Senior Center 22.3% 15.3% 28.3% 24.4% 19.5% Question 5 - Frequency of Use Respondents used Marana Parks on a regular basis with nearly half of the respondents using these facilities several times a week. Frequency of use was highest in Northwest and Northeast Marana and lowest among non-residents. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Several times a week 47.2% 51.3% 52.4% 48.8% 40.1% Several times a month 35.7% 35.0% 32.9% 35.2% 40.7% Several times a year 13.6% 10.7% 11.4% 12.2% 16.8% Only infrequently or Never 3.2% 3.0% 3.3% 3.8% 2.4% 3 Public Engagement 3-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Question 6 - Perceived Quality of Existing Parks The respondents had high regard for the quality of the existing parks in the Town of Marana park system. Overall, nearly half (46.1%) thought the quality was Very Good or Excellent and 83.5% thought the parks were Good, Very Good, or Excellent. The perception of park quality was generally uniform in all planning districts. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Excellent 10.2% 13.8% 8.8% 7.8% 14.3% Very Good 35.9% 41.9% 34.4% 33.8% 39.3% Good 37.4% 32.0% 39.4% 39.4% 32.4% Fair 14.3% 9.9% 15.6% 17.0% 11.3% Poor 2.1% 2.4% 1.4% 1.9% 2.7% Question 7 - Quantity and Location of Parks In contrast with the public’s perception of the quality of existing Marana parks, the perception of the quantity and location of parks was somewhat lower. Overall, 29.9% of the public thought the quantity and location of parks was Fair or Poor. In the Northeast planning district, dissatisfaction with the quantity and location of parks was highest with 39.2% of respondents suggesting the quantity and location of parks was Fair or Poor. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Excellent 8.3% 7.8% 9.5% 7.1% 8.4% Very Good 25.8% 18.9% 28.5% 24.5% 24.9% Good 36.0% 34.1% 34.9% 35.1% 36.5% Fair 24.1% 28.4% 22.3% 26.8% 25.4% Poor 5.8% 10.8% 4.7% 6.5% 4.8% Question 8 - Participation in Recreation, Fitness, and Enrichment Programs Participation in Town sponsored recreation, fitness, and enrichment programs was quite high, with more than half of all respondents indicating that they had participated in a program during the past year. Participation rates were similar in the Northwest and South planning area and lower in the Northeast area. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Several times a year 44.0% 41.8% 47.6% 45.1% 45.3% At least once a year 22.3% 16.9% 24.8% 25.3% 20.6% Only infrequently or Never 33.6% 41.2% 27.6% 29.5% 34.1% 3 Public Engagement Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 3-5 Question 9 - Program Participation by Category While there was widespread participation in all of the recreation program categories, the highest levels of participation were in youth sports and in community events such as the 4th of July celebration. Outdoor recreation programs, such as guided hikes, received high levels of participation from respondents living in the Northeast planning area and those residing outside the Town limits. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Youth Sports Programs 44.1% 29.9% 53.6% 52.4% 34.2% Adult and Sr. Sports / Wellness Prog. 19.0% 21.2% 13.6% 20.8% 21.8% Outdoor Recreation Programs 41.2% 44.8% 37.9% 39.4% 45.3% Fitness Programs 27.2% 29.2% 26.9% 26.8% 25.0% Special Interest (Arts, Cultural) Prog. 28.9% 31.6% 29.6% 28.0% 26.6% Fun Runs and Races 39.3% 29.5% 41.7% 42.9% 42.4% Aquatic Programs 25.0% 17.0% 33.4% 23.5% 25.0% Youth Programs 26.2% 12.8% 37.9% 28.7% 20.9% Senior Programs 10.8% 11.5% 10.4% 10.1% 11.7% Community and Special Events 42.2% 35.4% 54.1% 45.4% 34.8% Other 7.7% 10.8% 5.9% 5.2% 12.3% Question 10 - Quality of Recreation Programs There was a high level of regard for the quality of the recreation programs offered with 81.5% of respondents ranking the quality of the recreation programs as Good, Very Good, or Excellent. Rankings by residents of each of the planning areas was similar. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Excellent 8.9% 10.3% 7.4% 6.5% 13.3% Very Good 25.6% 32.4% 18.1% 25.1% 29.4% Good 47.0% 40.9% 42.8% 47.7% 44.0% Fair 16.1% 13.5% 25.2% 18.8% 12.3% Poor 2.4% 2.8% 6.5% 2.0% 0.9% Question 11: Variety and Type of Programs While there was a high level of satisfaction with the variety and types of programs offered, (71.6% of respondents rated the variety and type of programs as Good, Very Good, or Excellent) the rankings for this item were slightly lower than the quality of the recreation programs offered. This may be a reflection of the limited physical resources currently available to provide various program categories. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Excellent 6.3% 6.0% 7.4% 4.8% 9.3% Very Good 22.7% 26.1% 18.1% 23.7% 26.2% Good 42.6% 44.1% 42.8% 39.8% 42.4% Fair 23.7% 20.1% 25.2% 26.5% 18.7% Poor 4.7% 3.7% 6.5% 5.2% 3.4% 3 Public Engagement 3-6 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Question 12 - Location where New Parks are most needed The responses to this question indicate a perceived need for new park facilities close to the respondent’s place of residence. 63.3% of respondents living in Northeast Marana gave high priority to new parks in that planning area. 57.8% of respondents living in Northwest Marana gave high priority to parks in that location. 68.5% of respondents living in South Marana give high priority to new parks in that planning area. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident New Parks in Northeast Marana High Priority 30.8% 63.3% 15.8% 13.1% 40.8% Medium Priority 36.8% 25.2% 43.5% 42.0% 33.4% Low Priority 32.4% 11.5% 40.7% 44.9% 25.8% New Parks in Northwest Marana High Priority 26.7% 15.1% 57.8% 10.8% 26.5% Medium Priority 37.8% 44.7% 29.2% 38.9% 40.6% Low Priority 35.5% 40.1% 13.0% 50.3% 32.9% New Parks in South Marana High Priority 35.8% 11.8% 12.1% 68.5% 28.3% Medium Priority 36.8% 46.1% 43.2% 22.2% 47.3% Low Priority 27.4% 42.1% 44.7% 9.3% 24.3% Question 13 - Parks by Type There is very strong support for new regional parks with more than half (56.2%) of all respondents indicating that they believed the development of parks of this type should be given high priority. Support for new District and Community parks was also strong with over 40% of all resident respondents giving high priority to these intermediate size parks. Support for Town built and maintained Neighborhood parks was lower than that of larger park types. There was also moderately strong support for the construction of a sports field / tournaments complex. Support for this type of facility was highest in the Northwest and South planning areas. It was lowest in the Northeast planning area likely in response to the median age of residents in this location. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Regional Parks (50 Acres+) High Priority 56.2% 58.7% 52.5% 53.3% 63.1% Medium Priority 31.1% 25.6% 35.3% 33.1% 28.0% Low Priority 12.7% 15.7% 12.2% 13.5% 8.9% District Parks (30 - 50 Acres) High Priority 47.0% 37.7% 50.7% 50.5% 46.2% Medium Priority 40.0% 42.8% 38.9% 37.9% 43.0% Low Priority 13.0% 19.5% 10.3% 11.6% 10.8% Community Parks (10 - 30 Acres) High Priority 41.8% 46.32% 42.3% 43.7% 33.6% Medium Priority 40.0% 32.3% 40.8% 40.3% 46.2% Low Priority 18.2% 21.4% 16.9% 16.0% 20.3% 3 Public Engagement Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 3-7 (Parks by Type, continued) All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Neighborhood Parks High Priority 39.8% 39.5% 44.9% 41.7% 31.4% Medium Priority 31.3% 27.5% 30.2% 33.4% 33.4% Low Priority 28.8% 33.0% 24.9% 24.9% 35.1% Sports Field / Tournament Complex High Priority 41.5% 34.6% 49.4% 43.1% 37.6% Medium Priority 32.1% 32.9% 32.6% 30.2% 32.7% Low Priority 26.4% 32.6% 17.9% 26.8% 29.7% Question 14 - Linear Parks and Trails Survey respondents indicated strong support for the development of linear parks with shared-use pathways, pathways that connect neighborhoods, and hiking trails in mountain parks and preserves. Over 85% of respondents indicated that these facilities should be a high or medium priority for development. Support for single-track mountain bike trails was lower, although trails of this type may be coincidental with hiking trails in mountain parks and preserves. Support for equestrian trails was low. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Linear Parks with Shared-Use Paths High Priority 55.9% 57.7% 54.2%% 54.5% 59.7% Medium Priority 31.1% 30.0% 30.7%% 32.9% 29.6% Low Priority 12.9% 12.3% 15.2% 12.5% 10.7% Paths Connecting Neighborhoods High Priority 53.4% 55.4% 54.5% 54.4% 48.2% Medium Priority 33.5% 34.0% 30.9% 32.3% 38.6% Low Priority 13.1% 10.6% 14.6% 13.3% 13.2% Mtn. Park / Preserve Hiking Trails High Priority 54.5% 65.6% 44.4% 51.1% 61.8% Medium Priority 32.0% 22.8% 35.1% 35.0% 31.2% Low Priority 13.5% 11.6% 20.5% 13.9% 6.9% Single-Track Mountain Bike Trails High Priority 27.4% 23.7% 22.1% 24.2% 42.6% Medium Priority 31.8% 34.9% 31.8% 30.0% 30.0% Low Priority 40.8% 41.4% 46.2% 44.8% 27.4% Equestrian Trails High Priority 9.2% 6.9% 9.1% 6.1% 17.2% Medium Priority 23.8% 24.0% 25.4% 19.6% 27.6% Low Priority 67.1% 69.1% 65.5% 74.3% 53.3% 3 Public Engagement 3-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Question 15 - Improvements to Natural Resource Parks and Preserves New access points and trailheads were priority improvements for the community with the strongest support coming from respondents living in the Northeast planning area. Not-surprisingly, non-residents who were likely users of Tortolita Mountain Park also strongly supported these improvements. There was also strong support for an expanded mountain park and preserve trail system. Interpretive facilities and a visitor center were generally given low priority. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Trailheads and Improved Access High Priority 48.0% 57.0% 35.6% 43.6% 61.6% Medium Priority 36.7% 31.5% 41.7% 39.4% 31.4% Low Priority 15.4% 11.5% 22.7% 17.0% 6.9% Expanded Mtn. Park Trail Systems High Priority 47.8% 61.7% 33.7% 41.7% 61.6% Medium Priority 33.2% 25.6% 39.0% 36.1% 29.5% Low Priority 19.0% 12.8% 27.3% 22.2% 8.9% Interpretive Facilities/ Visitor Ctr. High Priority 19.8% 19.2% 23.6% 15.2% 24.4% Medium Priority 37.0% 39.6% 39.9% 34.1% 40.3% Low Priority 42.3% 41.2% 36.4% 50.7% 35.3% Question 16 - Multi-Generation / Community Center Support for a Multi-Generational Community Center was high with nearly half of all respondents (48.7%) indicating that this should be a High Priority and more than three quarters of all respondents (77%) indicating this it should be a Medium or High Priority. The perceived need for an aquatic facility was even higher with 52.7% indicating this should be a High Priority and 77.9% indicating it should be a Medium or High Priority. Support for a designated Senior Center was lower with 43.7% of all respondents suggesting that this should be a Low Priority. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Community Center with Indoor Gym, Fitness Center, Mtg. Rooms High Priority 48.7% 41.0% 64.8% 48.4% 38.8% Medium Priority 28.3% 30.3% 21.6% 29.9% 31.3% Low Priority 23.0% 28.7% 13.6% 21.7% 30.0% Aquatic Facility with Competition Pool and Splash Pad High Priority 52.7% 40.0% 70.1% 53.5% 43.8% Medium Priority 25.2% 25.4% 18.8% 26.4% 30.9% Low Priority 22.1% 33.5% 11.1% 20.1% 25.2% Senior Center High Priority 22.9% 21.4% 25.5% 22.7% 22.1% Medium Priority 33.3% 33.5% 30.3% 33.6% 35.9% Low Priority 43.7% 45.0% 44.2% 43.7% 42.0% 3 Public Engagement Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 3-9 Question 17 - Recreation Programs The highest priorities for recreation programming based on responses from the overall community were for Youth Sports (52.8% ranked as High Priority) and other youth programs (51.6% ranked as High Priority). The second tier of priorities was given to outdoor recreation (45% High Priority) and swimming and aquatics programs (44.0% High Priority). There were some variations based on planning area with respondents from the (younger) Northwest area giving higher priority to youth program than the respondents from the (older) Northeast planning area. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Youth Sports Programs High Priority 52.8% 43.2% 61.8% 55.2% 47.6% Medium Priority 29.9% 30.3% 27.2% 29.9% 33.1% Low Priority 17.2% 26.5% 10.9% 14.9% 19.3% Adult / Senior Sports Programs High Priority 32.9% 31.4% 39.1% 30.5% 30.6% Medium Priority 41.5% 42.8% 38.0% 43.3% 41.6% Low Priority 25.6% 25.8% 22.9% 26.1% 27.7% Outdoor Recreation Programs High Priority 45.0% 40.7% 49.7% 42.7% 47.3% Medium Priority 43.0% 43.7% 41.4% 44.7% 41.5% Low Priority 12.0% 15.6% 8.9% 12.6% 11.3% Fitness Programs High Priority 37.7% 33.4% 47.5% 35.3% 35.3% Medium Priority 42.0% 44.0% 38.0% 42.9% 42.4% Low Priority 20.2% 22.5% 14.5% 21.8% 22.3% Arts, Cultural, Educational Programs High Priority 30.6% 30.7% 35.9% 27.7% 29.2% Medium Priority 44.0% 40.3% 42.3% 46.2% 47.1% Low Priority 25.5% 29.0% 21.9% 26.1% 23.7% Fun Run and Races High Priority 31.2% 27.4% 36.8% 29.4% 32.1% Medium Priority 41.9% 38.0% 40.4% 45.3% 41.2% Low Priority 26.9% 34.6% 22.8% 25.4% 26.6% Swimming and Aquatics High Priority 44.0% 33.9% 58.6% 41.6% 41.8% Medium Priority 35.4% 34.5% 29.3% 38.7% 37.6% Low Priority 20.6% 31.6% 12.2% 19.7% 20.6% Youth Programs High Priority 51.6% 41.1% 59.5% 54.3% 48.1% Medium Priority 31.9% 33.0% 31.7% 30.6% 34.4% Low Priority 16.4% 25.9% 8.9% 15.1% 17.5% Senior Programs High Priority 24.9% 27.6% 22.4% 23.6% 26.7% Medium Priority 37.3% 40.5% 36.1% 34.0% 42.4% Low Priority 37.8% 31.9% 41.5% 42.4% 30.0% 3 Public Engagement 3-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) (Recreation Programs continued) All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Adaptive Recreation Programs High Priority 19.0% 17.0% 19.8% 18.6% 21.3% Medium Priority 47.3% 47.6% 50.1% 43.6% 49.8% Low Priority 33.7% 35.4% 31.1% 37.8% 28.9% Community / Special Events High Priority 41.2% 31.4% 54.0% 41.0% 37.2% Medium Priority 41.0% 43.9% 33.7% 42.5% 44.3% Low Priority 17.8% 24.7% 12.3% 16.6% 18.4% Question 18 - Repairs and Enhancements to Existing Parks While the on-line survey indicated strong support for new park facilities, respondents also saw the benefits of making repairs and improvements to existing park facilities. All Northeast Northwest South Non- Resident Existing Park Enhancements High Priority 45.3% 40.1% 57.2% 42.3% 41.6% Medium Priority 41.3% 44.1% 33.4% 43.5% 44.9% Low Priority 13.4% 15.7% 9.4% 14.1% 13.4% Park Repairs and Improvements High Priority 52.2% 47.0% 60.1% 51.1% 49.8% Medium Priority 36.9% 42.1% 31.7% 36.4% 39.0% Low Priority 10.9% 10.9% 8.2% 12.5% 11.1% Items Mentioned in Comments Section The on-line survey allowed respondents to make additional comments and recommendations. The following summarizes the number of times various facilities and improvements were identified in the comments provided. Number of Times Mentioned Comments Advocating for Various Park Types Developed Parks 50 Natural Resource Parks and Preserves 40 Community Center / Aquatic Center 32 Linear Parks and Trails 1 Total - Parks (Various Types) 123 Comments Advocating for Specific Facilities in Developed Parks Fields (Rectangular / Diamond) 34 Dog Park 33 Field Lighting 30 Pickleball Courts 23 Ice Hockey Rink 17 Tennis Courts 14 Skate Park 10 Playgrounds 8 Outdoor Basketball Courts 8 Disc Golf 6 3 Public Engagement Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 3-11 ( continued from previous page) Number of Times Mentioned Roller Rink 6 Fishing Lake 5 Other: Golf, Volleyball, Fitness Stations, Bocce, Model Aviation, Community Garden, Zip Line, Amphitheater, Farmers Market, Archery 23 Total - Facilities within Parks 217 Comments Advocating for Community Center / Aquatic Center Facilities Swimming Pool 36 Splash Pad 13 Total - Aquatic Facilities 49 Comments Advocating for Community Center Facilities Gymnasium / Indoor Courts 36 Community / Multi-Generation Center 26 Event Space 8 Total - Community Center Facilities 70 Comments Advocating for Linear Parks and Trails Hiking / Mountain Bike Trails 41 Connecting Trails 40 Paved Pathways / Bike Lanes 24 Bike Park 9 Equestrian Trails 6 Total - Trails 120 Comments Advocating for Recreation Programs Youth / Teen and Youth Sports Programs 35 Fitness / Wellness Programs 21 Adult / Senior Programs 19 Community Events 5 Adaptive Recreation Programs 9 Mom-Baby-Toddler 4 Arts and Crafts 3 Equipment Rental 1 Total - Recreation Programs 97 3 Public Engagement 3-12 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Telephone Survey Results To confirm the results of the on-line survey, a statistically valid telephone survey of 400 Marana residents was conducted. This survey included an equal number of respondents from Northeast, Northwest, and South Marana. The complete results of the telephone survey are included in “Supplemental Report 3 - Telephone Survey Results” dated June 2020. The telephone survey respondents were 50% female and 50% male and 45% of respondents were individuals who had minor children living in their home. Respondents were a mix of full-time residents (92%) and seasonal residents (8%). The survey respondents included regular users of the park system with 36% indicating that they use the Marana park system several times a week and 38% using the park system several times a month. The sample also included individuals who have participated in Town sponsored recreation programs with 54% indicating that they had participated in at least one program in the past year. The telephone survey results were generally consistent with the on-line survey results as outlined below. Survey Item On-Line Survey Telephone Survey Percent of Respondents Ranking Quality of Existing Park System as Excellent, Very Good, or Good Percent of Respondents Ranking Quality of Existing Park System as Excellent or Good Quality of Existing Park System 83 % 81 % Percent of Respondents identifying item as High or Medium Priority Percent of Respondents identifying item as Extremely Important, Important, or Somewhat Important Need for Multi-Generational Community Center 84 % 86 % Need for new Year-Round Aquatic Facility 78 % 82 % Need for more large Developed Parks 87 % 93 % Need for Expanded Linear Park and Trail System 87 % 91 % 4 Overview of Existing Resources and Facility Needs 4 OVERVIEW OF EXISTNG RESOURCES AND FACILITY NEEDS 4 Overview of Existing Resources and Facility Needs Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 4-1 Introduction As an initial step in the master planning process, a comprehensive inventory of existing park resources was conducted. This inventory included a detailed inventory and assessment of each developed park in the Town’s park system. It also included an inventory of the components of the linear park, shared-use pathway, and trail system, as well as a review of the natural resource parks and preserves. A detailed assessment of the existing swimming pool and bath house at Ora Mae Harn Park was also performed. The results of this inventory work are summarized below and included in “Supplemental Report 2 - Existing Resources” dated June 2020. Developed Parkland Location Acres of Developed Parkland Estimated Population Acres of Parkland Per 1,000 Residents Number of Residents per Acre of Parkland Town of Marana 162 50,000 3.24 309 Northeast Marana 18 12,000 1.50 667 Northwest Marana 73 11,000 6.64 151 South Marana 71 27,000 2.62 380 Park Facility Inventory Indoor Recreational Facilities Building Size (S.F.) Community Center at Ora Mae Harn Park 7,400 Fields Quantity (Existing) Number of Residents per Field (2020) Rectangular Fields - Total 11 4,545 Rectangular Fields - Not overlapping Diamond Fields 5 10,000 Rectangular Fields with Lights 5 10,000 Diamond Fields - Little League/Fast-Pitch Softball - Total 16 3,125 Diamond Fields - Little League/Fast-Pitch Softball w/ Lights 6 8,333 Full-Size Slow Pitch Softball Fields - Total 2 25,000 Full-Size Slow Pitch Softball Fields - with Lights 2 25,000 Full-Size Baseball Fields - Total 0 N/A Full-Size Baseball Fields - with Lights 0 N/A 4 Overview of Existing Resources and Facility Needs 4-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Aquatic Facilities Quantity (Existing) Number of Residents per Pool / Pad (2020) Swimming Pool - 50 Meter - Competition 0 N/A Swimming Pool - 25 Yard 1 50,000 Splash Pad 2 25,000 Courts Quantity (Existing) Number of Residents per Court (2020) Basketball Courts - Indoor 0 N/A Basketball Courts - Outdoor - Total 10 5,000 Basketball Courts - Outdoor - With Lights 8 6,250 Tennis Courts - Total 4 12,500 Tennis Courts with Lights 4 12,500 Pickleball Courts - Total 4 12,500 Pickleball Courts with Lights 4 12,500 Other Facilities Quantity (Existing) Number of Residents per Facility (2020) Playgrounds 13 3,846 Dog Parks (Town Maintained) 4 12,500 Skate / Wheel Park 1 50,000 Bike Park 0 N/A Linear Parks, Shared-Use Pathways, and Trails Quantity (Existing) Miles Miles per 1,000 Residents Linear Parks 17.44 0.35 Shared-Use Pathways 10.65 0.21 Single-Track Trails 41.4 0.88 4 Overview of Existing Resources and Facility Needs Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 4-3 Natural Resource Parks and Preserves Area (Acres) Acres per 1,000 Residents (2020) El Rio Preserve 105 0.35 Tortolita Preserve 2,399 0.21 Tortolita Mountain Park * 10,000 0.88 Northwest Natural Resource Park 50 0.001 * 10,000 acres represents the approximate acreage of Tortolita Mountain Park within the Town of Marana’s planning boundary. Acreage of overall planned mountain park is larger. Factors Considered when Establishing Facility Needs To address existing deficiencies and to expand the Town’s park system to meet the needs of the 65,000 residents anticipated in 2030, additional facilities of all types will be required. The additional facilities recommended below are based on: • Public input as received during the public outreach component of this master plan. • An anticipated growth in the Town’s population from 50,000 in 2020 to 65,000 in 2030. • The Department’s assessment of requests for facility reservations and frequency of denials due to lack of capacity. • The Department’s assessment of recreation program offerings that are limited by lack of, or inadequately sized, facilities. • Operations and maintenance considerations for fields and the need to suspend public use of fields for a period of time each year for turf grass rehabilitation. • National trends related to the growth or decline in participation in various sports and/or leisure activities. • Other available facilities and resources that might be present in surrounding jurisdictions. • Marana’s weather that is too hot for certain daytime activities during the summer months but suitable for these activities during the cooler evening hours. Projected Facility Needs (2030) Indoor Recreation Facilities Target Quantity (2030) Size Multi-Generational Community Center 1 55,000 S.F. Senior Center * 1 7,400 S.F * Assumes existing Community Center at Ora Mae Harn Park will become a Senior Center. 4 Overview of Existing Resources and Facility Needs 4-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Aquatic Facilities Current (2020) Quantity Target (New by 2030) Total by 2030 Number of Residents per Facility (2030) 50 Meter Competition Pool 0 1 1 65,000 Recreation / Fitness Pool 1 1 1 * 65,000 Splash Pad 2 1 3 22,000 * Assumes existing pool at Ora Mae Harn Park will be removed. Fields Current (2020) Quantity Target (New by 2030) Total by 2030 Number of Residents per Facility (2030) Rectangular Fields with Lights 5 8 * 13 5,000 LL / Fast-Pitch Softball fields w/ Lights 6 7 * 13 5,000 Full-Size Softball Fields with Lights 2 1 3 22,000 Full Size Baseball Fields with Lights 0 2 2 32,500 * Lighted field may be created by adding lights to existing fields, where appropriate. All rectangular fields should be stand-alone and not overlap outfield of diamond field. Outdoor Courts Current (2020) Quantity Target (New by 2030) Total by 2030 Number of Residents per Facility (2030) Basketball Courts with Lights 8 5 13 5,000 Tennis Courts with Lights 5 9 13 5,000 Pickleball Courts 3 13 16 4,000 Special Use Facilities Current (2020) Quantity Target (New by 2030) Total by 2030 Number of Residents per Facility (2030) Disc Golf Course 0 1 1 65,000 Skate / Wheel Park 1 0 1 32,500 Bike Park 0 1 1 65,000 Other Quantity Playgrounds Not less than 1 Playground per Community Park Not less than 2 Playgrounds per District Park Dog Parks Not less than 1 Dog Park per Community Park Not less than 2 Dog Parks per District Park 4 Overview of Existing Resources and Facility Needs Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 4-5 The manner in which fields and courts will be added to existing parks or constructed in new parks is described in Section 6 (Developed Park Element) of this report. The scope and character of the proposed Multi-Generational Community Center and the proposed Aquatic Facility are described in Section 7 (Community Center and Aquatic Facility Element) of this report. The development and expansion of the community’s linear park and trail system will be less a function of targeting a specific number of miles of trail and more a function of connecting the places where people reside with where they may recreate, work, or go to school. Section 8 (Linear Parks and Trails Element) outlines how the linear park and trail system should be developed over the next decade. A similar approach is recommended for to the Town’s natural resource park and preserves. (See Section 9 - Natural Resource Parks and Preserves Element). The total land area currently encompassed in these parks and preserves far exceeds that of most jurisdictions making them a unique features of Marana’s park system. The proposed development of these areas will focus on the construction of facilities and amenities that enhance public access and public use. The acquisition of new lands, while it may be appropriate from time-to-time, will not be the focus of natural resource park and preserve development. 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 5 PEER COMMUNITY BENCHMARK SURVEY 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 5-1 Introduction In an effort to understand the level of service being provided by the Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department relative to similar communities in the southwest, a survey of three Arizona communities was conducted during the spring of 2020. These communities are the Town of Oro Valley, the Town of Queen Creek, and the City of Goodyear. The Town of Oro Valley is a nearby suburban community within the Tucson metropolitan area in Pima County. Queen Creek and Goodyear are located within the Phoenix metropolitan area in Maricopa County. These jurisdictions were selected due to a population size that was similar to that of the Town of Marana. They were also selected because they are located in areas of the southwest where environmental conditions are similar and where significant population growth has occurred over the past decade. In all of these communities, population growth is projected to continue over the next decade. It is also noteworthy that all of these communities have a seasonal resident population that spends several months of the year living in Arizona. While each of these communities is unique, they are similar enough to be evaluated as peer communities. They are also jurisdictions that compete in the arena of economic development and that use their municipal park system as a quality of life feature to attract new businesses and residents. Highlights from the Peer Community Benchmark Survey are provided below. (Additional information is provided in “Supplemental Reports 5 - Peer Community Benchmark Survey Results” dated June 2020). Peer Community Benchmark Survey — Summary of Results Population Percent Population Growth 2010 to 2020 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 70,000 80,000 90,000 100,000 Goodyear Marana Oro Valley Queen Creek 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 Goodyear Marana Oro Valley Queen Creek 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 5-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Size of Benchmark Community — Land Area While the benchmark communities have similar populations, the land area within each jurisdiction various widely. Like Marana, the City of Goodyear encompasses not just urban / suburban areas, but also large expanses of agricultural land. It also encompasses a part of the Estrella Mountain range similar to how the Town of Marana encompasses a portion of the Tortolita Mountain range. The towns of Oro Valley and Queen Creek encompass limited amounts of agricultural land. Both have mountain parks in close proximity but not within their jurisdictional boundaries. Community Approximate Land Area Square Miles City of Goodyear 117 Town of Marana 121 Town of Oro Valley 35 Town of Queen Creek 32 Population of Benchmark Communities (2010 and 2020) In 2010, the population of the benchmark communities ranged from 65,000 (Goodyear) to 26,600 (Queen Creek). All communities experienced significant population growth over the following decade and now range from 83,000 (Goodyear) to 46,000 (Oro Valley). Community Estimated Population - January 2010 City of Goodyear 65,500 Town of Oro Valley 41,000 Town of Marana 34,700 Town of Queen Creek 26,600 Community Estimated Population - January 2020 City of Goodyear 88,870 Town of Queen Creek 54,000 Town of Marana 50,000 Town of Oro Valley 46,000 Population Growth — Benchmark Communities (2010 to 2020) The Town of Queen Creek experienced the highest population growth rate over the past decade, more than doubling during this period of time. The Town of Marana grew by 43%. Growth rates were lower in the City of Goodyear and the Town of Oro Valley. Community Population Growth 2010 to 2020 Town of Queen Creek 103% Town of Marana 43% City of Goodyear 36% Town of Oro Valley 12% 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 4own of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 5-3 Scope of Parks Department Responsibilities In all of the benchmark communities, the responsibilities of the Parks and Recreation Department is similar. All jurisdictions have primary responsibility for the maintenance of public parks and municipal building grounds and all use contracted help for certain activities. Department responsibilities for public street landscape maintenance varies. It is anticipated that the Town of Marana will assume responsibility for maintenance of certain roadside and median landscape improvements in 2021. In Queen Creek, all high visibility, low speed roadway landscaping is maintained by department crews. High speed roadways outside the town center are maintained by outside contractors. The Town of Oro Valley Parks Department does not maintain roadway landscaping. Activity Town of Marana Town of Oro Valley Town of Queen Creek City of Goodyear All park maintenance with exclusive use of in-house crews No No No No Park maintenance with some subcontracted work (mowing, etc.) Yes Yes Yes Yes Maintenance of municipal building and municipal utility site grounds Yes Yes Yes No Maintenance of public street rights-of-way landscape improvements Yes* No Yes Yes Staffing of community events Yes Yes Yes Yes Maintenance of aquatic facilities, historic properties, other (Spring Training Facility) Yes Yes Yes Yes *Anticipated in 2021 Total Acreage and Developed Park Acreage per 1,000 Residents The calculation provided below is based on the gross acreage of developed parks only. It does not include linear parks, natural resource parks, or preserves. Park Type / Community Total Acres Developed Parks Acres of Developed Park Land per 1,000 Residents Developed Parks Marana 173 * 3.47 Oro Valley 263 5.72 Queen Creek 127 2.35 Goodyear 243 2.73 * Includes portions of Gladden Farms Park and Saguaro Bloom Park to be developed in 2020 / 2021. 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 5-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Quantity and Acreage of Developed Parks by Park Category The quantity of parks by category is summarized below. Also provided is the acreage of existing parks within each of jurisdiction. The acreage noted reflects gross acres of the developed park sites. Certain parks, such as Naranja Park in Oro Valley are only partially developed, but the gross acreage of the site is included below. In Marana, there are parks with areas that have not or cannot be developed. Crossroads at Silverbell Park includes an area that will never be developed due to the presence of cultural resources. Other parks, such as Honea Heights Park, include acreage that could be developed at a later date. Park Type / Community Quantity Acreage Regional Parks Marana 0 0 Oro Valley 1 213 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 0 0 Community / District Parks Marana 8 151 Oro Valley 2 50 Queen Creek 2 77 Goodyear 2 54.5 Neighborhood Park (Town Maintained) Marana 2 14 Oro Valley 0 0 Queen Creek 1 12 Goodyear 12 82 Sports Complexes Marana 0 0 Oro Valley 0 0 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 3 100 Other (Equestrian Center) Marana 0 0 Oro Valley 0 0 Queen Creek 1 38 Goodyear 0 0 Other (Heritage Farm / Com. Garden) Marana 1 48 Oro Valley 0 0 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 1 6 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 4own of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 5-5 Linear Parks, Shared-Use Pathways, and Trails The distance noted for linear parks in Marana is based on The Loop, with the distance shown being the sum of segments on both the east and west sides of the Santa Cruz River. Quantities for shared - use pathways and trails are for Town / City maintained pathways and trails only. Additional paths, in various configuration, may occur within HOA maintained areas. Trail Type / Community Miles (+/-) Miles per 1,000 Residents Linear Parks with Paved Pathways, etc. Marana 17.44 0.349 Oro Valley 4.00 0.087 Queen Creek 11.50 0.213 Goodyear 4.60 0.052 Shared-Use Pathways in Street ROW Marana 10.65 0.213 Oro Valley 18.00 0.391 Queen Creek 0.00 0.000 Goodyear 25.31 0.285 Single Track Tails Marana 41.40 0.828 Oro Valley 1.50 0.033 Queen Creek 0.00 0.000 Goodyear 0.00 0.000 Natural Resource Parks and Preserves The estimated 10,000-acre area noted for Mountain Parks in Marana reflects that portion of the Tortolita Mountain range within the Town that could be made a part of a defined Tortolita Mountain Park. The estimated area of the Tortolita Mountain range, including areas outside the Town boundary, is much larger and is estimated to be 32,000 acres or 50 Sq. Miles. The area noted for preserves in Marana reflects the area of the Tortolita Preserve and the El Rio Preserve. Park Type / Community Quantity Acres Mountain Parks with Trails Marana 1 10,000 * Oro Valley 0 0.00 Queen Creek 0 0.00 Goodyear 1 19,840 Preserves, Protected Habitat Areas Marana 2 2,504 Oro Valley 0 0.00 Queen Creek 0 0.00 Goodyear 0 0.00 Urban Natural Areas with Trails Marana 0 0 Oro Valley 2 110 Queen Creek 0 0.00 Goodyear 0 0.00 * (Mountain park area reflects approximate area of Tortolita Mountain range within Town of Marana boundary. “Tortolita Mountain Park” does not have a defined boundary. Area of overall mountain range is larger). 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 5-6 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Aquatic Facilities The information provided below reflects quantities only and not condition. Facilities such as the 50- meter pool and the 25-yard pool at the Oro Valley aquatic center are only a few years old in contrast to the 40-year-old swimming pool in Marana’s Ora Mae Harn Park. Facility Type / Community Quantity - Total Quantity - Heated Swimming Pools - 50 Meter Marana 0 0 Oro Valley 1 1 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 0 0 Swimming Pools - 25 Yard Marana 1 0 Oro Valley 2 2 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 2* 2 * Splash Pads Marana 2 N/A Oro Valley 1 N/A Queen Creek 2 N/A Goodyear 1 N/A * (Includes pools scheduled to open in 2021). Bike Parks and Skate / Wheel Parks For purposes of this evaluation, bike parks are those areas with natural or man -made jump, pump tracks, and other similar facilities. Examples of this type of facility in southern Arizona would be Fantasy Island Bike Park, with its largely natural terrain and features, and the Hundred Acre Wood Bike Park that includes constructed jumps and tracks. Skate / wheel parks are those facilities with concrete bowls, rails, and similar features. Park Type / Community Quantity Bike Parks (Pump / BMX) Marana 0 Oro Valley 0 Queen Creek 0 Goodyear 2 Skate / Wheel Parks Marana 1 Oro Valley 0 Queen Creek 2 Goodyear 1 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 4own of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 5-7 Outdoor Performance Venues Performance venues in public parks vary widely in terms of size, configuration, and capacity. For purposes of this analysis, the Event Area noted for Marana is the area within Crossroads at Silverbell Park that is adjacent to the library. The seating area is flat, but it includes provisions for the temporary set-up of a stage and sound systems. The estimated seating capacity is based on +/-20 S.F. per person. Venue Type / Community Quantity Estimated Seating Capacity Open Access Performance Venues Marana 0 0 Oro Valley 1 200 Queen Creek 1 200 Goodyear 2 2,000 Controlled Access Performance Venues Marana 0 0 Oro Valley 0 0 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 1* 10,300 Event Area in Park (Temporary Set-Up) Marana 1 1,000 Oro Valley 0 0 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 0 0 * (Baseball Stadium) Rectangular Fields Rectangular fields are those that will accommodate a variety of sports including football, lacrosse, and soccer. In some instances, these fields overlay the outfields associated with baseball and softball fields. Within the Town of Marana, this is the case at Continental Ranch, Continental Reserve, Gladden Farms, and San Lucas Parks. Community Quantity - Total Quantity with Lights Quantity of Fields per 1,000 Residents Rectangular Fields Marana 11 3 0.22 Oro Valley 10 10 0.22 Queen Creek 5 5 0.09 Goodyear 5 1 0.06 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 5-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Diamond Fields — Little League and Fast-Pitch Softball (with and without skinned infield) Various jurisdictions configure their diamond fields differently. In Marana, all Little League baseball fields and all fast-pitch softball fields are configured with skinned infields for maximum flexibility. For purposes of this evaluation, the quantities of Little League baseball and fast-pitch softball have been combined. Community Quantity - Total Quantity with Lights Quantity of Fields per 1,000 Residents Youth Diamond Fields Marana 16 6 0.32 Oro Valley 7 7 0.15 Queen Creek 7 7 0.13 Goodyear 4 4 0.05 Full-Size Baseball Fields (with turf infield, (+/-) 300’ Outfield Fence The full-size baseball fields noted below are fields with 90’ base paths, turf grass infields, and outfield fences that are approximately 300’ from home plate. Community Quantity - Total Quantity with Lights Quantity of Fields per 1,000 Residents Full-Size Baseball Fields Marana 0 0 0.000 Oro Valley 0 0 0.000 Queen Creek 1 1 0.019 Goodyear (General Public Use) 3 3 0.034 Goodyear (Spring Training) 13 13 0.146 Slow-Pitch Softball Field (Skinned infield, (+/-) 300’ Outfield Fence) The slow-pitch softball fields noted below are fields with 90’ base paths, skinned infields, and outfield fences that are approximately 300’ from home plate. Community Quantity - Total Quantity with Lights Quantity of Fields per 1,000 Residents Slow-Pitch Softball Fields Marana 2 2 0.04 Oro Valley 0 0 0.00 Queen Creek 1 1 0.02 Goodyear 3 3 0.03 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 4own of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 5-9 Tennis Courts The quantity of tennis courts various widely among jurisdictions with the Town of Oro Valley having many more courts than the other peer communities. The Town of Oro Valley has two large tennis centers that accommodate regional tournaments. The courts in other jurisdictions are provided for individual and local league play. Community Quantity - Total Quantity with Lights Quantity of Courts per 1,000 Residents Tennis Courts Marana 6 6 0.12 Oro Valley 32 32 0.70 Queen Creek 0 0 0.00 Goodyear 8* 8 0.09 * (Includes courts scheduled to open in 2021) Pickleball Courts The quantity of pickleball courts noted below reflect the quantity of courts in use as of the time of this report. The Town of Marana, and perhaps other jurisdictions have plans to convert some of their existing tennis courts to pickleball courts to address a growing demand for these facilities. Community Quantity - Total Quantity with Lights Quantity of Courts per 1,000 Residents Pickleball Courts Marana 3 3 0.06 Oro Valley 6 4 0.13 Queen Creek 0 0 0.00 Goodyear 10* 10 0.11 * (Includes courts scheduled to open in 2021). Basketball Courts The basketball courts included in this inventory are outdoor basketball courts for general recreational use. They vary in the quality of the court surface and the court lighting. The basketball courts at Crossroads at Silverbell Park include a photovoltaic array structure that provides shade for the courts below. Community Quantity - Total Quantity with Lights Quantity of Courts per 1,000 Residents Outdoor Basketball Courts Marana 10 8 0.20 Oro Valley 1 1 0.02 Queen Creek 6 6 0.11 Goodyear 10* 10 0.11 * (Includes courts scheduled to open in 2021) 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 5-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Community / Multi- Generational Center The Town of Marana’s center at Ora Mae Harn Park is a community center in name but is much smaller and has fewer facilities that most contemporary municipal community centers within towns of similar size. The Town of Oro Valley community center was originally built as a private country club / fitness center. As such, it includes a large restaurant but no gymnasium and has limited space for meeting rooms. Community Quantity - Total Size (Square Feet) Community Center Marana 1 7,400 Oro Valley 1 54,000 Queen Creek 0 0 Goodyear 1* 49,000 * (Scheduled to open in 2021) Facilities Included in Community Center Specific facilities included within the community centers evaluated are identified below. Facility Marana Oro Valley Queen Creek Goodyear Gymnasium No No N/A Yes Weight Training Room Yes Yes N/A Yes Cardio Machine Room Yes Yes N/A Yes Fitness Aerobics Room Yes Yes N/A Yes Indoor Walking / Jogging Track No No N/A Yes Locker Rooms No Yes N/A Yes Meeting Rooms Yes Yes N/A Yes Classrooms No No N/A No Senior Activity Room Yes No N/A No Art Studios / Classrooms with Sinks No No N/A No Computer Lab No No N/A No Racquetball Courts No Yes N/A No Restaurant / Snack Bar No Yes N/A No Parks Department Offices No Yes N/A No Associated Outdoor Facilities Athletic Fields No No N/A Yes Courts (Tennis, Pickleball, Basketball) No Yes N/A Yes Aquatic Facilities (Pool, Splash Pad) No Yes N/A Yes 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 4own of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 5-11 Recreation Program Offerings General categories of recreation programs offered by the Town of Marana and the other peer communities are identified below. Program Marana Oro Valley Queen Creek Goodyear Youth Sports Programs X X Youth Sports (with local leagues) X X X X Adult and Senior Sports Programs X X Outdoor Recreation Programs X X Fitness / Wellness Programs X X Special Interest (Art, Cultural) Programs X X X Swimming / Aquatics Programs X X X Youth Programs X X X Teen Programs X X X Senior Programs X X X X Adaptive Recreation Programs X X X X Community / Special Events X X X X Other (Golf or Equestrian Programs) X X X Facility or Service Partnerships All of the communities evaluated use a range of partners for the delivery of recreation and enrichment programs. The presence or absence of potential partners, such as the YMCA, was a limiting factor in some instances. Facility or Service Partner Marana Oro Valley Queen Creek Goodyear Public School Districts X X X Private Schools / Academies X X X X YMCA X Other Non-Profits (Boys / Girls Clubs etc.) X X Other X X Capital Improvement Funding Methods by which various jurisdictions fund park system capital improvements are noted below. Funding Method Marana Oro Valley Queen Creek Goodyear Pay-As-You-Go General Fund / CIP X X X X Sales Tax X X Park Impact Fee X X X X Grants X X X User Fees X Borrowing General Revenue Bonds X Revenue Bonds Other X 5 Peer Community Benchmark Survey 5-12 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Relevant Findings from Peer Community Benchmark Survey Marana, like its fast-growing peer communities, faces the challenge of providing the broad spectrum of parks, preserves, trails, and recreation programs that are being requested by residents. The Town has excelled in some areas but has fallen behind in others. Areas where the Town of Marana Excels: • Marana has taken advantage of its natural setting and has established a large and diverse natural resource park and preserve system. • Within the natural resource park and preserve system, the Town has developed an extensive and high-quality trail system. • The Town’s primary linear park, the Loop along the Santa Cruz River, creates a spine for a linear park and shared-use pathway system that is missing in the peer communities evaluated. Areas where The Town of Marana has performed similar to Peer Communities: • Marana has done a reasonable job of providing diamond fields for little league baseball and fast- pitch softball with one field for each 3,125 resident and one lighted field for each 8,333 residents. • Marana has converted two of its tennis courts to pickleball courts in response to changes in user demand. Other communities have constructed or converted courts to pickleball, but none have built pickleball court complexes. Areas where the Town of Marana’s Park System has not kept pace with Peer Communities: • Marana has not developed facilities to support indoor recreation and fitness programs. The current community center in Ora Mae Harn Park is not consistent with contemporary standards for a multi-generational community center. • While the Town has done a good job of building splash pads, it has not acted to replace the aging (and seasonal use only) swimming pool with a facility that can address current demands for aquatic programs including, but not limited to, competitive swim teams, youth swim teams, masters swim programs, lap / fitness swimming, water aerobics, learn to swim programs, and general recreation. • Like its peer communities, Marana has struggled to provide a sufficient quantity of rectangular sports fields, particularly lighted rectangular fields. The Town currently has over 16,000 residents for each lighted rectangular field. This will be reduced to 10,000 residents per lighted rectangular field when the planned fields at Gladden Farms Park are constructed. Other Findings: • The nearby Town of Oro Valley has a large inventory of tennis courts, including two court complexes that are set-up for tournament play. The construction of a similar court complex in Marana is not warranted. • Peer communities have not constructed large outdoor performance venues as part of their park systems. Smaller, multi-use spaces for outdoor performances and community events are more typical. 6 Developed Park Element 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-1 Introduction Developed parks are those components of the overall municipal park system that include athletic fields, courts, playgrounds, splash pads, ramadas, restrooms, open play areas, and similar constructed facilities. They serve a wide range of constituents including young children, teens, young adults, families, seniors, and individuals with special needs. They are of vital importance to the health and wellness of the community. Relationship to General Plan The People and Community element of “Make Marana 2040 General Plan” notes that developed “recreational facilities, such as parks, provide opportunities for phys ical activity and are essential in supporting healthy, active lifestyles and fostering more livable communities.” The expansion and enhancement of the Town’s developed park system is consistent with this community vision as expressed in the General Plan. Developed Park Types Developed park types that are or may be park of the Town’s municipal park system include Regional Parks, Sports Field Complexes, District Parks, Community Parks, Neighborhood Parks, and Special Use Facilities. These are defined as follows: Regional Parks: These are typically more than 50 acres in size with a range of constructed recreational facilities including lighted fields, courts, playgrounds, and other improvements. Regional parks serve the residents of the entire community. Community Sports Field Complexes: Sports field complexes are often the size of regional parks but have a specific focus on sports. They typically include both rectangular and diamond fields with lights as well as spectator areas, restrooms, concessions, and other supporting amenities. Like regional parks, sports field complexes serve the entire community and often draw users to tournaments and events from other cities and towns. District Parks: District Parks are typically between 30 and 50 acres in size and include lighted fields, courts, playgrounds, picnic ramadas, walking paths, open play areas, restrooms, dog parks and other improvements. These parks often serve both organized leagues and programs as well as general recreation. District parks serve individual geographic zones or districts within the overall community. Community Parks: Community parks are typically between 10 and 30 acres in size and include facilities for general recreation, They typically do not include large or lighted athletic fields but do provide turf grass play areas, courts, picnic ramadas, playgrounds, restrooms, and related facilities. Community parks serve the neighborhoods and subdivisions that surround or are in close proximity to the park. 6 Developed Park Element 6-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Special Use Facilities: Special use facilities can be of various sizes but typically provide for only one or a limited number of activities. A tennis or pickleball complex built on a site that is not part of a larger public park would be an example of a special use facility. These facilities serve members of the overall community that share an interest in the activity being accommodated at the site. It is anticipated that when more fully developed, the Marana municipal park system will include all of these developed park types with the exception of neighborhood parks which will continue to be constructed, operated, and maintained by others. Complementary Community Resources In addition to the developed parks that will be part of the municipal park system, there are and will continue to be complementary assets in the community that also serve the public’s recreational needs. These include neighborhood parks, school campuses, and private fitness facilities. Private Neighborhood Parks: Neighborhood Parks are developer constructed and homeowner maintained recreational facilities. They are typically less than 10 acres in size and include improvements such as (half-court) basketball courts, playgrounds, and ramadas. They may also include recreational swimming pools and small recreation center buildings. Neighborhood parks serve the surrounding neighborhood or a group of neighborhoods that are within walking distance of the site. Because these facilities are intended to serve a limited group of local residents, operating them as private recreation areas fosters a sense of stewardship where residents can actively participate in the operation of these facilities while also discouraging use by individuals living outside the neighborhood served. Having these small parks that are scattered throughout the community be operated and maintained by homeowner associations allows the Parks and Recreation Department to focus its resources on the larger parks that serve the entire community. This approach of having neighborhood parks be privately constructed and operated is consistent with the Marana Town Code which provides specific guidelines for neighborhood recreation area development. School Campuses: This Master Plan acknowledges the important issues of school safety and security. It also acknowledges the mandate placed on governing boards and administrators to give priority to school sponsored functions and the educational and enrichment activities they provide for enrolled students. As such, this Master Plan considers school facilities (athletic fields, gymnasiums, and multi- purpose rooms) to be complementary community assets. 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-3 Opportunities for the use of school campuses for Town sponsored events and recreational programs, such as Saturday morning youth sports programs, will continue to be pursued. If and when appropriate, the Town may also consider making improvements to school campuses for the joint benefit of the school and the Town. Private Fitness Centers: Private gyms and fitness centers provide opportunities for residents, typically adults, to engage in physical training and exercise programs on a fee basis. While there is some overlap between programs that might be offered at a private gym and those provided in a public park or community center, private gyms do not typically accommodate after school programs, youth sports leagues, local athletic tournaments, and non-sporting events such as public meetings which are integral to the concept of a public community center. As such, private gyms, like school campuses, are considered to be complementary resources by this Master Plan. Goals for the Developed Park System Goals for the expansion and enhancement of the existing developed park system include: • Provide developed parks in all districts within the overall Town • Provide facilities that are needed to address current deficits • Provide facilities that will be needed to address the recreational needs of a growing population • Maximize the public benefits that will accrue from repairing and expanding existing parks • Acquire lands as will be required to meet the future recreational needs of the community • Respond to trends in recreational activities through the construction of new park features • Provide facilities that support the recreation programs being requested by Marana residents Policies for the Developed Park System As the Town’s developed park system is expanded and improved, it is the policy of the Town of Marana to: Policy 1: Construct community parks, district parks, other large parks, and sports facilities that can be effectively and efficiently operated and maintained by the Town. Policy 2: Continue to require developers to construct neighborhood parks that serve individual residential neighborhoods, in accordance with Town codes and standards. Policy 3: Continue to require homeowner / community associations to operate and maintain neighborhood parks in accordance with Town codes and standards. Policy 4: Provide attractive, safe, and well-maintained parks that serve the recreational needs and preferences of the community. Policy 5: Make parks accessible to all residents in accordance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Policy 6: Respond to the warm and sunny Sonoran Desert environment by providing shade for the comfort of park users. Shade may be provided by trees, structures, photovoltaic arrays installed above park facilities or any combination thereof. Policy 7: Maximize the potential use and public benefit to be derived from park facilities by providing field and court lighting that allows for facility use during the early evening hours with the field and court lighting systems to be appropriate for individual park settings. 6 Developed Park Element 6-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Policy 8: Consider life cycle costs (construction plus maintenance) in the design of all new parks and park improvements. Policy 9: Enhance public safety by providing appropriate lighting and by d esigning facilities that incorporate the principles of “Crime Prevention through Environmental Design” or CEPTED. Policy 10: Limit irrigated turf grass areas to fields, play areas, and other locations where it will be used to create a safe surface for sports, unstructured play, and community events. Policy 11: Design new and replacement irrigation systems to utilize equipment and control systems that maximize irrigation efficiency. Policy 12: Use drought tolerant and desert adapted plant species to minimize the consumptive use of water for irrigation. Strategies for the Expansion and Enhancement of the Developed Park System It is recommended that multiple strategies be employed in the effort to expand and enhance the Town’s developed park system. Proposed strategies include: • Construction of facilities and enhancements within existing developed parks • Construction of new facilities on undeveloped portions of existing parks • Acquisition of land for new park development • Construction of new District Parks on the land acquired • Construction of a Community Sports Field Complex Provided on the following pages are specific recommendations for existing and new park development. 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-5 Figure 6-A Developed Municipal Parks (Existing and Planned) 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-6 Figure 6-B Complementary Resources Map (Existing and Planned) 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-7 Tangerine Sky Park Tangerine Sky Park is the newest park in the Marana Park system and the public use facilities and infrastructure improvements are in the early stages of their useful life. However, the high level of use at the park supports the construction of additional facilities. Improvement Justification Priority Construction of additional parking Current parking capacity not sufficient for current use and limits opportunities for programs. Very High Construction of new splash pad There are existing splash pads in NW and South Marana but not NE Marana High Installation of photovoltaic “roof” above basketball court Shade provided will expand public use of courts. PV panels will reduce utility costs. Medium Construction of a fitness court Will provide facility for young adults and seniors Medium Other improvements that might be considered include the enhancement of the stage area to include a shade structure. 6 Developed Park Element 6-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Gladden Farms Park Gladden Farms Park will be improved with the construction of two new rectangular fields with lights and a new restroom building in FY-20/21. The scope of this project includes the construction of a paved, looped walkway. Other improvements recommended for the park include: Improvement Justification Priority Installation of foul line and outfield fencing at the existing diamond fields Fencing will enhance the facility for Little League baseball and softball play. It will also create a grassy play area south of the fields. Very High Installation of lighting at existing diamond fields Lighting will enhance the facility for Little League baseball and softball play and increase usability. Very High Construction of a large ramada near the Splash Pad The existing turf grass hill receives limited use and there is high demand for shade and a rentable ramada near the Splash Pad. Medium Other improvements that might be considered include the construction of a fitness court. 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-9 Ora Mae Harn Park This park has been a part of the community for as long as Marana has been an incorporated town. The park is named after Ora Mae Harn, the “Matriarch of Marana” who served on the Town Council from 1985 to 2001 and who worked closely with many organizations supporting the growth of Marana and the health of its citizens. The park has been the site of numerous community gatherings over the decades and continues to host various Town sponsored recreation programs and events. While the Town has invested in improvements to the baseball / softball fields and the associated field lighting systems, other facilities such as the swimming pool and restrooms are nearing the end of their useful life. The park also lacks adequate on-site parking. As such, a wide range of improvements are proposed. While specific improvements are proposed, it is important to note that the park could be considered a candidate site for the Multi-Generational Community Center and Aquatic Facility recommended by this Master Plan. If the park site or an adjacent property is selected as the location for these new facilities, it will be necessary to modify the recommendations identified herein and a comprehensive site / campus master plan should be prepared to reconcile issues related to overall site development. Improvement Justification Priority Remove swimming pool and bathhouse (When new aquatic facility is constructed) The pool and bathhouse do not meet current standards and codes and are difficult to maintain. The facilities will not be required when the new aquatic center is constructed. High (Schedule contingent on other projects). Construct community pavilion and plaza There is a need in the community for a large gathering space for community events (and private gatherings). Adjacent community lawn makes this location desirable High (Schedule contingent on other projects). Create community lawn / event area west of pavilion The existing (lighted) field and the proposed community pavilion can work in concert to provide a needed community event space High (Schedule contingent on other projects). Remove and replace existing restroom buildings Restroom buildings are in poor condition and in some instances do not meet ADA requirements Very High Expand on-site parking capacity There is insufficient parking within the park for the existing fields and other facilities resulting in illegal or inappropriate on-street parking High Create small racquet sport area The existing court complex was recently upgraded to include four lighted pickleball courts. Amenities such as a ramada will enhance the character and functionality of this area. Moderate Construct small rectangular field (in basin area) The design of this lighted field was completed with the Lon Adams Road project and should be implemented to increase field inventory High Upgrade existing (large) playground Some of the existing play structures are old and in need of replacement. Work can be implemented on a phased basis. Moderate Remove and replace (small) playground The small playground is old and does not meet all appropriate standards. Moderate 6 Developed Park Element 6-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Ora Mae Harn Park (Continued) Improvement Justification Priority Expand dog park Expanded facility will allow an existing ramada to be incorporated into the dog park and increase the capacity of the facility Moderate Maintain and expand paved walking path loops The existing walking paths are popular and used extensively. Network of paths should be extended to create new loops and provide ADA access to park facilities. Moderate Construct park sign, entry feature at southwest corner of park This location is and will continue to be along the primary access route to the park. An entry sign, potentially incorporating public art should be developed in this location. Moderate 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-11 San Lucas Park San Lucas Park serves a growing community east of Interstate 10 and is located within a residential neighborhood. It provides families living in the surrounding neighborhood opportunities for general recreation, but it is not suitable for the installation of lighted fields or other facilities that would attract users from the larger metropolitan area. As a relatively new park, no major infrastructure improvements are proposed. Improvement Justification Priority None Recommended N/A N/A While no major expansion is proposed for San Lucas Park, the Town will continue to make as-needed repairs and upgrades to this park to ensure that it remains safe and to make certain that it continues to provide recreational opportunities for area residents. 6 Developed Park Element 6-12 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Honea Heights Park (East) Honea Heights Park was recently improved to provide a playground with a shade canopy, a (half-court) basketball court, a picnic ramada, a drinking fountain, and a small turf play area. This portion of the overall site will continue to function as a neighborhood park serving the adjacent community. It will also serve as a rest-stop for users of the adjacent Loop. (See also Page 6-23 for proposed improvements to undeveloped western portion of the park site). Facility improvements that are recommended for the eastern / neighborhood park portion of the Honea Heights Park site are as identified below. Improvement Justification Priority Construction of the second half of the basketball court Funds for initial development required construction of a half court. A full court will expand potential use of the facility Medium Construction of an expanded parking lot As public use of this park increases, there will likely be a need to provide additional paved parking spaces Medium Construction of a restroom The park currently has no restroom and is served by a port-a-potty Medium Other improvements that might be considered include the construction of a bicycle maintenance kiosk for users of the adjacent Loop shared-use pathway. 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-13 Marana Heritage Park Marana Heritage Park was developed to present Marana’s rich pre-historic and historic agricultural history and to provide opportunities for residents to participate in urban gardening. It also includes public use areas that accommodate both public and private events in a setting that is uniquely Marana. Improvement Justification Priority Construct new group ramada An old structure was recently removed due to structural problems. New ramada will accommodate a variety of recreation programs High Identify new use / tenant for Farm Headquarters Building Building is currently unoccupied but has value as potential office / meeting space Medium Reduce quantity and create various size garden plots The quantity of plots exceeds current demand and plots are larger than what most users are willing to maintain. A variety of plot sizes, including accessible raised beds, will expand public use. Medium Develop partnership for growing of heritage (ancient seed) plant species Local organizations are interested in partnering on this project which is compatible with theme of park. Medium Other improvements that might be considered include the expansion of the orchard and the demonstration field crop areas. Expansion of these areas should occur in response to the growth in public use. 6 Developed Park Element 6-14 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Crossroads at Silverbell Park Crossroads at Silverbell Park receives a very high level of use, but the cultural resources present within the undeveloped portions of the site preclude the construction of new fields or other large facilities. The improvements recommended for this site focus on maximizing opportunities for public use of the existing facilities and on the enhancement of public safety. Improvement Justification Priority Modify connection between the park and The Loop Better sight lines and merging zones will enhance bicycle safety particularly during events staged at the park Very High Improve the south entry from The Loop with an accessible walkway This improvement will provide an accessible route to The Loop from the playground area / hub of the park High Replace sand in sand volleyball courts with appropriate material There is high demand from schools and other users for a quality beach / sand volleyball court High Provide a parking lot crosswalk to connect the park and school Agreements allow for the Leman Academy’s use of the park. Access is currently through the parking lot High Provide a ramada for environmental education programs This will support EE programs that focus on the riparian resources associated with the Santa Cruz River Medium 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-15 Continental Ranch Park Continental Ranch Park is a compact park located within a residential neighborhood with homes immediately adjacent to the site. The existing fields (without lights) get extensive use and it is anticipated that this high level of use will continue. There is no undeveloped space within the park that is available for facility expansion, but improvements that enhance current uses and activities are recommended. Improvement Justification Priority Construct additional parking spaces The number of existing spaces is less than what is required during peak use times forcing on-street parking. High Construct accessible pathway connection to The Loop The Loop is in close proximity, there is no connection to the park. Proposed connection would be via drainageway High Construct drainage improvements at north and south sides of park Existing conditions result in damage to the park during storm events. Improvements will reduce maintenance costs High Replace horseshoe pits with fitness court and shade structure The horseshoe pits receive limited use and the space, with perimeter walls create a defined space for a court Medium Construct ramada near existing playground There is limited shade close to the playground for parents and caregivers Medium Other improvements that might be considered include the installation of a fence between the basketball court and the adjacent wheel park. 6 Developed Park Element 6-16 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Continental Reserve Park Continental Reserve Park is a unique facility within the park system in that it shares a parking lot and an athletic field with the adjacent Rattlesnake Ridge Elementary School. As the sole public park serving the Continental Reserve neighborhood and other neighborhoods west of Silverbell Road, it includes facilities for a wide range of users. These include a basketball court, a tennis court, two diamond fields (without lights), and a playground. The demand for these facilities will continue. Maintaining and enhancing the existing park facilities to serve local users is recommended. Improvement Justification Priority Replace existing play structure The existing play structure has very few play elements and may not meet current accessibility standards High Construct new ramada in the vicinity of the playground The existing ramadas do not provide a direct line-of-sight to the playground Medium Other improvements that might be considered include modifications to the central courtyard / restroom area to make this area more suitable for community gatherings and general recreation. 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-17 Wade McLean Park Wade Mclean Park is a small (+/- 4 acre) park located between the Coyote Trail Elementary School campus and The Loop. There is an existing restroom / concession building on site making it a convenient rest stop for cyclists and pedestrians using the adjacent portion of The Loop. There is also an unlit diamond field that is occasionally used for practice and general recreation. The existing ramada is not accessible and is infrequently used. Improvement Justification Priority Construct a path that will provide access to the existing ramada This will provide ADA access to the ramada and will also create a looped walking / exercise path Medium Eliminate turf outside of baseball field outfield fence Use levels do not warrant maintaining this turf area and removal will result in a reduction in irrigation water use Medium Install low water-use landscape plantings outside baseball field outfield fence The park’s location abutting residential properties make location suitable for quiet, shady neighborhood gathering area Medium Other improvements that might be considered for Wade Mclean Park include the construction of a small operations and maintenance building to facilitate maintenance of the park and nearby park properties. 6 Developed Park Element 6-18 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) El Rio Park El Rio Park is a small (1.3 acre) park that would typically be too small to be part of the municipal park system. However, its location adjacent to The Loop shared-use pathway and in the vicinity of the El Rio Preserve and the proposed El Rio Disc Golf Course allows it to function as a facility that supports a wide range of users in addition to neighborhood residents. (See also Section 10, Natural Resource Parks and Preserves, for additional information related to other proposed improvements in the vicinity of this neighborhood park). Improvement Justification Priority Install signs and pavement markings at interface with The Loop Improvements that alert bicyclists on The Loop to the presence of pedestrians will enhance safety in this location High Construct ramada Ramada will provide shade for Loop users who stop at the park and will serve as an entry for the disc golf course Medium Replace existing play structure Play structure components are nearing the end of their useful life. Medium Other improvements that might be considered for El Rio Park include the construction of a restroom on the park site or in a nearby location. 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-19 Saguaro Bloom Park Saguaro Bloom Park is a developer constructed park that will be dedicated to the Town of Marana for operation and maintenance. The initial phase of park development is scheduled to begin in FY 20/21. This phase will include a playground with shade, a restroom, open turf grass play areas, a basketball court, and a dog park. Upon construction of additional homes, the remaining park facilities will be built. These additional facilities are identified below. Improvement Justification Priority Construct rectangular field with lights This will be the only rectangular field within the Saguaro Bloom community Per Development Agreement Construct two diamond fields with lights These will be the only diamond fields within the Saguaro Bloom community Per Development Agreement Relocation and expansion of Dog Park The construction of the rectangular and diamond fields will necessitate the relocation of the dog park Per Development Agreement Saguaro Bloom Park is located adjacent to an (undeveloped) Marana Unified School District elementary school site. There may be opportunities to consider joint-use facilities if and when the proposed school is designed and constructed. 6 Developed Park Element 6-20 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Utilization of Undeveloped Park Land The Town of Marana has a limited inventory of undeveloped land suitable for park development but does have three sites within existing parks where facilities can be constructed to address community needs. These sites are: • The eastern portion of Gladden Farms Park • The area between Gladden Farms Park and Marana Heritage Park (the Silo site) • The western portion of Honea Heights Park Recommendations for the use of these parcels are described / illustrated on the following pages. WEST HONEA HEIGHTS EAST GLADDEN SILO SITE 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-21 Gladden Farms East Bike Park The undeveloped eastern portion of the Gladden Farms Park site is an ideal location for a bike park. Parks of this type have been gaining popularity throughout the country and usually include a variety of features including pump tracks, slopestyle tracks, jumps, and trails. They also provide facilities that serve the preferences and skill levels of riders of all ages and abilities. The subject site is located adjacent to The Loop which will provide for bicycle access to the site from residential areas along the Loop corridor. It can also be accessed from the nearby Gladden Farms subdivisions via the existing subdivision pathway system and the bike / pedestrian underpass under Tangerine Farms Road. The site was previously disturbed by the excavation and removal of soil which resulted in a depressed areas with slopes, in contrast to the flat land typical of lands adjacent to the Santa Cruz River. These slopes can be utilized in the development of the bike park. The prior site excavation also removed native vegetation from the site creating a condition where grading for the proposed bike park will not result in the removal of native plants. Restoration planting should be included in the scope of the bike park development. Improvement Justification Priority Prepare a master plan for the bike park A comprehensive plan for the park will allow for the phased construction of individual components High Construct entry drive from Tangerine Farms Rd. Separate traffic to bike park from traffic to other areas of Gladden Farms Park Medium Construct (+/-) 50 space paved parking lot Accommodate bike park users and provide for dust control Medium Construct ramada and restroom Provide an area for program / event staging and for park regulation signs Medium Construct trails and park features Address community interest in bike park with features for various ages / skill levels Medium Construct pathway connection to The Loop Maximize opportunities for bicycle access to the park Medium 6 Developed Park Element 6-22 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Area between Gladden Farms Park and Marana Heritage Park The area between the developed portion of Gladden Farms Park and Marana Heritage Park (the Silo Site) is frequently used as a parking and staging area for large community events. This use of the subject property is important and anticipated to continue. Access to the area is via a park drive that intersects with Tangerine Farms Road at two signalized intersections. This condition facilitates safe and convenient motor vehicle access to, and egress from, the site. There is also direct access to the site for bicyclists and pedestrians from The Loop which extends along the site’s southern boundary. Special events such as the Fall Festival, the start of the El Tour de Tucson bicycle ride, and special events at Gladden Farms Park all utilize this area for parking and event staging. It is recommended that the site be enhanced through the planting of street trees along the adjacent park drive. Improvement Justification Priority Plant street trees along the north side of the site, adjacent to the park drive. Trees will provide a visual separation between the park drive and the site and enhance the character of the park drive corridor Medium Construct accessible walkways that will connect Gladden Farms Park with Marana Heritage Park Walkways, separate from the park drive will enhance pedestrian safety along the park drive Medium Install plantings along south side, adjacent to The Loop Plantings will enhance this busy and highly visible section of The Loop / Santa Cruz River Park Medium 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-23 Honea Heights Park West The overall Honea Heights Park site consists of 36 acres only a small portion of which is developed. (See Page 6-12). The balance of the site is flat and large enough for lighted rectangular field construction. There are, however, several challenges associated with park and athletic field development in this location. These include access, visibility, and proximity to a low-density residential neighborhood. To access the parcel, a new park drive will need to be extended into the site from Sanders Road. There are several engineering issues to be overcome with the design of this drive. An important issue will be traffic safety due to the proximity of the proposed entry drive to the bridge over the Santa Cru z River. Visibility will also be an issue as the site may not be visible from surrounding street s. Wayfinding signs and related improvements will be necessary. The proximity of the site to an existing low-density residential neighborhood will also need to addressed and adjacent landowners will need to be consulted before lighted fields are constructed in this location. Given the challenges associated with this site it is recommended that field and park development in this location be deferred until there is sufficient residential growth along the Sanders Road corridor to warrant the construction of these facilities. Improvement Justification Priority Construct new entry drive from Sanders Road Access to the site from White Avenue will route traffic through a low-density neighborhood using residential streets. Medium / Low Construct two new lighted rectangular fields Provide fields for individuals living north and west of the park site Medium / Low Constructed parking lot, restrooms, other improvements Provide the support facilities and amenities needed to make site a viable park Medium / Low 6 Developed Park Element 6-24 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) New Park Development To address the growing recreational needs for the Town, it is recommended that two new District Parks and a Community Sports Field Complex be constructed. Twin Peaks Corridor District Park (Proposed) It is proposed that a 50 acre or larger district park be developed along the Twin Peaks Road corridor between Interstate 10 and Tangerine Road within the Northeast planning area. Unlike the Northwest and South planning areas, there are no existing district parks in this portion of the com munity. The proposed park will serve the Dove Mountain area as well as the new residential developments planned for the Twin Peaks Road corridor, between I-10 and Tangerine Road. There are several potential locations for this park. One is on land along the Interstate 10 corridor, northwest of the I-10 - Twin Peaks Road traffic interchange. There are two parcels in this location totaling 67.4 acres that are identified in the Cascada Specific Plan as future park sites. There are, however, several conditions that diminish the value of these parcels for new municipal park development. These include: • Proximity to the busy UPRR main line and the associated railroad noise • The potential for the railroad to be an attractive nuisance for young park users • Proximity to Interstate 10 and the associated traffic noise • The presence of a large overhead electrical transmission line parallel to the railroad • The planned use of the sites (as identified in the Cascada Specific Plan) for storm water detention • The long and narrow configuration of the parcels • The more than one-half mile separation between the two parcels In light of these conditions, it is recommended that alternative sites also be considered as a location for the planned district park. An alternative site, which will need to be acquired, would be north of the I-10 - Twin Peaks Road traffic interchange, and potentially adjacent to, or in the vicinity of, the site of a planned Marana Unified School District K-8 school. Advantages associated with such an alternative site close to a proposed school include: • Separation from the I-10 / UPRR corridor • Elimination of the need to combine park facilities with regional stormwater detention facilities • Better access for users living in Dove Mountain or along the Tangerine Road Corridor • The potential for the development of joint-use facilities with the School District 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-25 The preliminary facilities program for whichever site is selected for this district park is as follows : • Lighted Rectangular Fields (3) • Lighted Diamond Fields (4) • Playgrounds with Shade (2) • Basketball Courts with Lights and Shade (2) • Open Turf Grass Play Areas • Walking Path Loop • Group Ramada • Picnic Ramadas (4) • Restroom Buildings (2) • Dog Park • Parking Lot • Operations and Maintenance Building and Yard Conceptual Facility Diagram for Proposed Twin Peaks Corridor District Park 6 Developed Park Element 6-26 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) North Marana District Park It is proposed that a 50 acre or larger district park be developed within the northern portion of the Town’s planning boundary, within or adjacent to The Villages of Tortolita Specific Plan area. This park will serve the residential developments anticipated by the Town’s Make Marana 2040 General Plan in the area east of Interstate 10 and south of the Pima / Pinal County line. As a first step in the development of this district park, it is recommended that land be acquired at the earliest possible date so that it is available for park construction when needed. Park development will follow in response to population growth within the park’s primary service area. A preliminary program of facilities for this District Park is as follows: • Lighted Rectangular Fields (3) • Lighted Diamond Fields (4) • Playgrounds with Shade (2) • Basketball Courts with Lights and Shade (2) • Open Turf Grass Play Areas • Walking Path Loop • Group Ramada • Picnic Ramadas (4) • Restroom Buildings (2) • Dog Park • Parking Lot • Operations and Maintenance Building and Yard The conceptual layout of facilities for this park will be similar to that show n for the proposed Twin Peaks Corridor District Park. 6 Developed Park Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 6-27 Community Sports Field Complex It is proposed that a Sports Field Complex be developed on land owned by the federal government and managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. The site is located near the Central Arizona Project canal and the Marana Regional Airport. Portions of the site proposed for the Community Sports Field Complex are in the vicinity of the approach and departure corridor associated with the Marana Airport. As such, the subject land is not appropriate for residential, school, or certain other types of development, but is suitable for park and sports field construction. The proposed site is located approximately 4 miles west of the Interstate 10 / Avra Valley Road traffic interchange making it convenient for Marana residents and visitors from the Tucson metropolitan area. It is recommended that the Community Sports Field Complex be developed to address local Town of Marana needs and not as a national or regional sports complex where it would compete with Pima County’s Kino Complex or similar facilities in Maricopa County. It is also recommended that the site be planned to allow for future expansion if warranted and appropriate. The initial phase of development should be designed to provide fields for practices, games, and local tournaments conducted by Marana-based soccer, football, lacrosse, rugby, softball, baseball, and similar organizations. A preliminary program of facilities for the initial phase of development is as follows: • Lighted Rectangular Fields (6) • Lighted Diamond Fields - Little League Baseball and Softball (4) • Lighted Diamond Fields - Full-size Baseball (2) • Concession Complex with covered seating • Restrooms • General Recreation Area with ramadas and shaded playground • Parking Lot(s) • Operations and Maintenance Building and Yard Future phases to be constructed as the Town’s population grows might include: • Additional Lighted Rectangular Fields • Additional Lighted Diamond Fields • Additional General Recreation Facilities • Expanded infrastructure and support facilities. MARANA AIRPORT PROPOSED SITE AREA AVRA VALLEY RD 6 Developed Park Element 6-28 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Future Community Parks identified in Specific Plans There are future parks and recreation areas identified in the various specific plans that have been approved by the Town of Marana. In most instances, these parks will be of a size that results in them being constructed by the developer and ultimately operated and maintained by a homeowner or community association in accordance with Town standards. These neighborhood recreation areas will serve as complementary resources to the community and district parks built, operated, and maintained by the Town. There are also references to “community parks” in some of the approved specific plans but without sufficient information as to whether or not they would be eligible for incorporation into the municipal park system. It will be important to determine the size of these proposed parks and the scope of the proposed facilities. If it is determined that they are to be dedicated to the Town, the subject development agreement should clearly specify the location of the park, facilities to be built, the standards to which they are to be constructed, and all other requirements for Town acceptance of these facilities. 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element 7 COMMUNITY CENTER & AQUATIC FACILITY ELEMENT 7 Community Center & Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7-1 Aquatic Facility Element Introduction Over the past ten years, the Town of Marana has grown from a community of approximately 35,000 residents to a community of 50,000. Projections indicate that this population growth will continue, and that Marana will likely be a Town with 65,000 residents in 2030. While efforts are being made to preserve the community’s small-town roots, concurrent efforts a being made to provide the facilities that are reflective of a vibrant, growing, community offering an outstanding quality of life. Facilities that the public identified as important to maintaining and enhancing quality of life include a multi-generation community center and a year-round aquatic facility. Four out of five respondents to the public input survey indicated that these facilities should be give medium or high priority for development. As such, it is the recommendation of this plan that a multi-generational community center and an associated aquatic facility be developed to serve the entire Marana community. Relationship to Strategic Plan The Town of Marana’s Strategic Plan identifies four areas of focus, one of which is recreation. More specifically, the Strategic Plan notes that the Town supports “plans for a multi-purpose community recreation center.” The Strategic Plan also notes the Town’s support for “multi-generational programming and activities.” Relationship to General Plan The Make Marana 2040 General Plan notes that the health of Marana citizens is a preeminent goal of the General Plan. More specifically, the General Plan includes Policy PC-23.1 that states that the Town should “seek funding for and develop indoor community recreational facilities that can be enjoyed by community members of varying abilities.” Policy PC-23-2 notes that the Town will “consider multi- generational needs when planning for and developing new recreational facilities and/or programs.” 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element 7-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Community Needs The Town of Marana’s park system, while robust in many areas, has a significant deficiency in the lack of indoor recreational facilities. The existing community / senior center in Ora Mae Harn Park has a few meeting rooms and a very small exercise / fitness area. While this facility can serve and be an asset for a small segment of the population, it cannot address the needs of a growing community with an anticipated population of 65,000 or more. To address the lack of space in the existing center the Town from time-to-time leased storefronts in commercial buildings and used other available spaces for its various recreation and enrichment programs. While this approach has enabled the Parks and Recreation Department to occasionally offer a program or class requested by the public, it has not been sufficient to meet the growing needs of the community. Marana’s lack of indoor facilities is in stark contrast to its peer communities, nearly all of whom have, or are in the process of building, multi-generational community centers with an aquatic component. The following is a snapshot of what similar communities currently provide for their residents. Community Size of Community Center (SF) Gym(s) Fitness / Exercise Rooms Cardio and Weight Training Aquatic Facilities Outdoor Elements (Fields / Courts) City of Goodyear 49,000 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes City of Peoria 52,000 Yes Yes Yes No Yes City of Casa Grande 55,000 Yes Yes Yes No No Town of Oro Valley 55,000 No Yes Yes Yes Yes Town of Maricopa 52,000 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Town of Apache Junction 43,524 Yes Yes Yes Yes No 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7-3 Other Factors Supporting Development of a Multi-Generational Community Center and Aquatic Facility Community input and other factors that support the development of a multi-generational community center and an aquatic facility include: • Marana residents providing input related to this parks and recreation master plan have identified the construction of a multi-generational community center and a new aquatic facility as a priority project. • The community has requested a wide range of recreation programs that require indoor facilities and spaces that are not currently available within the Town. • The Town of Marana now has a population of more than 50,000 residents, a threshold that other communities around the country have used to initiate the development of a community center and aquatic facility. • The existing 7,400 S.F. community center in Ora Mae Harn Park does not have the size, or the potential for expansion, needed to address community needs for indoor recreational space. • The existing 40-year old swimming pool in Ora Mae Harn Park is very small and is equipped with out-of-date mechanical filtration and chemical treatment systems. The pool depth does not meet current pool codes, the supporting bath house does not meet ADA requirements, and there are other code and general operational deficiencies. In short, the existing facility needs to be replaced. • Peer communities that compete with the Town of Marana for the new businesses that are important to the Town’s economic health have constructed, or plan to construct, community centers and aquatic facilities to serve their residents. 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element 7-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Goals for the Community Center and Aquatic Facility Goals for the development of the multi-generational community center and aquatic facility include: • Provide facilities that address the needs and preferences of all members of the community including children, teens, young adults, adults, seniors, and special needs populations. • Provide facilities that enable the Town to safely and effectively provide the wide range of recreational, fitness, and cultural programs that have been requested by Town residents. • To locate the facility where it is reasonably accessible to all Marana residents. • To create facilities that enhance the community’s overall quality of life and that serve to retain and attract residents and businesses. • To use the development of the community center and aquatic facility to support and promote other Town initiatives such as the development an attractive and vital downtown. • To locate the community center and aquatic facility where they can be complemented by adjacent lighted athletic fields, courts, and other outdoor recreation facilities. Policies for the Community Center and Aquatic Facility As the detailed planning and design of the multi-generational community center and aquatic facility proceeds, it is the policy of the Town of Marana to: Policy 1: Include in the community center / aquatic complex a range of facilities for general recreation, for fitness and community health, and for cultural enrichment and educational programs. Policy 2: Design the community center and aquatic facilities for an anticipated population of 65,000 and in a manner that will allow for the phased construction of improvements, if needed. Policy 3: Organize the facilities within the complex in a manner that allows staff to effectively and efficiently monitor, supervise, and manage all components of the center, including indoor and outdoor elements. Policy 4: To the greatest extent possible, integrate and connect the community center / aquatic complex with other civic, recreational, and educational facilities and provide connections between them. Policy 5: To build and operate a facility in a manner that reflects the Town’s commitment to high quality design and energy efficiency. 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7-5 Relationship of Community Center and Aquatic Facility It is recommended that the multi-generational community center and aquatic facility be developed as part of a single integrated complex rather than being constructed at different locations. The consolidation of facilities will: • Facilitate daily operations by eliminating the need for supervisory and administrative staff to travel between sites. • Reduce staffing requirements by consolidating functions such as access control, membership checks, and fee collection. • Allow basic infrastructure and site development costs to be shared. • Make the complex more user-friendly. (i.e. a parent could use the community center while a child is participating in a swim practice). Multi-Generational Community Center — Facility Program Overview and Conceptual Floorplan The proposed Multi-Generational Community Center will consist of active use spaces including a gymnasium, a walking / jogging track, weight training areas, cardio fitness areas, functional training areas, group exercise rooms, a fitness studio, and associated stor age areas. Also provided will be community spaces including a large community room that can be divided into smaller spaces, a classroom with a stage, a crafts studio, an active adult lounge, a drop-in child watch room, a prep / catering kitchen, and associated storage areas. Supporting these active use and community spaces will be a front desk / lobby for access control, office space, locker rooms, universal changing rooms, restrooms, vending areas, a maintenance office with work rooms, and custodial closets. If the selected site will support it, it is strongly recommended that the program also include outdoor elements such as lighted sports fields, lighted sport courts, playgrounds, and community gathering areas. 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element 7-6 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7-7 Multi-Generational Community Center Facility Program The proposed facility program for the multi-generational community center is as follows: Space Area (SF) Quantity Subtotal (SF) Area (SF) Support Space Lobby/Lounge 1,000 1 1,000 Front Desk 300 1 300 Center Office Space 1,000 1 1,000 Locker Rooms 700 2 1,400 Universal Change Rooms 120 2 240 Restrooms 400 2 800 Maintenance Office/Work Area 300 1 300 Custodial Closets 150 2 300 Vending 60 1 60 Sub -Total Support Space 4,030 5,400 5,400 Active Use Gymnasium 13,500 1 13,500 Gym Storage 700 1 700 Walk/Jog Track 5,250 1 5,250 Weight/Cardio Space 5,000 1 5,000 Weight/Cardio Storage 300 1 300 Weight/Cardio Office 120 1 120 Functional Training (Cross-Fit/TRX, etc.) 1,500 1 1,500 Functional Training Storage 200 1 200 Group Exercise Room 2,000 1 2,000 Group Exercise Storage 300 1 300 Fitness Studio 1,000 1 1,000 Fitness Studio Storage 200 1 200 Sub -Total - Active Use 30,070 30,070 Community Space Community Room (1 Large Room / Divisible to 3) 3,000 1 3,000 Community Room Storage 500 1 500 Stage/Classroom 800 1 800 Stage/Classroom Storage 200 1 200 Prep/Catering Kitchen 500 1 500 Crafts/Classroom 1,200 1 1,200 Crafts/Classroom Storage 300 1 300 Active Adult Lounge 700 1 700 Active Adult Storage 200 1 200 Drop-in Child Watch Room 1,000 1 1,000 Drop-in Child Watch Restroom 50 1 50 Drop-in Child Watch Storage 200 1 200 Sub -Total - Community Space 8,650 8,650 Total Square Footage 42,750 44,120 Net to Gross Rate 25% 10,688 11,030 Total Estimated Square Footage 53,438 55,150 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element 7-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Aquatic Facility — Facility Program Overview and Conceptual Floorplan The proposed year-round aquatic facility will feature a 50-meter x 25-yard pool with associated deck areas and covered spectator bleachers. The complex will also include a shallower recreation pool as needed for activities such as water aerobics, water volleyball, learn-to-swim lessons, pool-based recreation programs, and similar fitness / recreational activities. These pools will be heated to accommodate year-round use. Shade ramadas will be provided for public use, including a ramada or ramadas within a designated area that can be reserved for private events. A rentable indoor party room will also be provided along with a concession space with a service window. Other elements include restrooms and changing rooms. These spaces will potentially be integrated with the adjacent community center building. Program elements related to pool safety and administration include a manager’s office, a lifeguard room, a training room, and associated storage. A mechanical room for water filtration, chemical treatment, and pool heaters will also be an integral part of the complex. 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7-9 Aquatic Facility Program Space / Facility Area (SF) Quantity Subtotal (SF) Area (SF) Competition Pool Competition / Lap Swim Pool (50 Meters x 25 Yards) 12,688 1 12,688 Pool Deck 10,000 (+/-) 1 10,000 (+/-) Bleachers (Capacity to be Determined) --- 1 --- 1 Meter Diving Boards --- 2 --- Timing System --- 1 --- Subtotal - Competition Pool and Deck 22,688 (+/-) Recreation Pool and Water Slide 6,500 (+/-) 1 6,500 (+/-) Recreation Pool with: --- --- --- Beach Entry --- 1 --- Shallow - End with Play Toys --- 1 --- Area for Water Volleyball --- 1 --- Area for Lap Swim / Swim Lessons --- 1 --- Area for Water Aerobics / Water Therapy and Exercise --- 1 --- 25’ Slide with two open flume slides --- 1 --- Deck with Rentable Ramada’s Private Party Spaces 10,000 (+/-) 1 10,000 (+/-) Subtotal - Recreation Pool, Deck, and Water Slide 16,500 (+/-) Bathhouse Bathhouse Building with: 6,500 (+/-) 1 6,500 (+/-) Entry / Fee Station --- 1 --- Office --- 1 --- Men’s and Women’s Restrooms / Changing Rooms --- 1 Each --- Family Restroom --- 1 --- Concession and Rentable Party Room --- 1 Each --- Storage Area --- 1 --- Subtotal - Bathhouse 6,500 (+/-) Mechanical Room Mechanical Equipment Room 2,500 (+/-) 1 2.500 (+/-) Subtotal - Mechanical Room 2,500 (+/-) 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element 7-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Overall Conceptual Floorplan, Site Plan and Renderings 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7-11 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element 7-12 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Preliminary Construction Cost Estimate The following preliminary cost estimate is based on the conceptual drawings presented herein. This estimate is exclusive of land acquisition costs (if required) and off-site improvement costs which will be a function of the selected site. Multi-Generation Community Center ........................................................................................... $24,548,000. Aquatic Facility ................................................................................................................................ $12,275,000. Preliminary Operation and Maintenance Cost Estimate The following preliminary estimate of recurring costs associated with the staffing, operation, and maintenance of the proposed facilities is based on the scope of the facilities as described herein. This estimate assumes that the multi-generational community center and the aquatic facility will be constructed at the same location. Multi-Generation Community Center ...................................................................... $1,350,000 to $1,450,000. Aquatic Facility ........................................................................................................... $1,500,000 to $1,600,000. Preliminary Estimate of Revenues Generated Based on the revenues historically generated by membership fees and rental receipts at multi- generation community centers and aquatic facilities in communities similar to the Town of Marana, it is anticipated that these new facilities will generate revenues equal to approximately fifty percent (50%) of the annual operations and maintenance costs. The rate and fee schedules adopted by Mayor and Council will ultimately determine cost recovery rates. Cost Estimate Notes The construction cost estimates provided above are based on the following. • Estimated construction costs are based on market costs for similar construction in Arizona as of the 4th quarter of 2020. An escalation factor should be added when budgeting to account for inflation from the 4th quarter of 2020 to the date of actual construction. • Construction estimates are based on the program of facilities for the community center and aquatic center as described herein. Changes to the size and composition of these facilities will impact construction costs. • Estimated construction costs include on-site development and utilities but do not include offsite improvements as may be associated with the site selected for the complex. 7 Community Center & Aquatic Facility Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 7-13 Considerations for Site Selection Items that should be considered when selecting the site for the multi-generational community center and the aquatic facility include: • Access: The selected site should provide reasonable access to the complex for users residing in all areas of the Town. • Visibility: The proposed complex will make a bold statement about the quality of life in the Town of Marana. As such it should be a visible landmark within the community. • Potential for Outdoor Facilities: The selected site’s ability to accommodate adjacent outdoor facilities including lighted athletic fields and courts will expand opportunities for programs, increase staffing efficiencies, and enhance the overall value of the complex to the community. • Compatible Land Uses: A site that is adjacent to or near community schools, parks, and other civic facilities will create a synergy that will benefit all these land uses. • Utilities and Infrastructure: Overall project costs will be reduced if the proposed complex is located where utility systems and basic infrastructure, such as drainage systems, are in place. • Transportation Improvements: Project costs will be reduced if the selected site can utilize the roadway network that is existing or that is currently programmed for improvement. • Advancement of other Town Initiatives: In addition to addressing the direct needs of the facility, the selected site should also seek to advance other Town’s goals and initiatives. These might include the development of a vibrant downtown district and the creation of incentives for businesses to locate downtown. • Operational Efficiencies: The selected site should facilitate the operations and maintenance of the complex by the Parks and Recreation Department staff. Multi-Generation Community Center and Aquatic Facility — Recommended Action Items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Conduct detailed site selection study and identify the most appropriate site. All subsequent design activities will be predicated on site specific conditions. Site selection will also inform other decisions such as roadway and infrastructure improvements. Very High Identify funding source for land acquisition (if required) and project development As a major capital improvement project, the multi-generational community center and aquatic facility will likely require a special funding source Very High Acquire additional real property, if required Title to selected site should precede the start of design Very High Initiate architectural / engineering design process Detailed design will be required for final reconciliation of cost estimates and budgets and for competitive bidding and project construction. High 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8 LINEAR PARKS AND TRAILS ELEMENT 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-1 Introduction Linear parks and trails are, and will continue to be, an important element of the Marana park system. The scope of this system ranges from developed linear park corridors that extend for many miles through the Town to single-track trails that provide access into the rugged canyons of the Tortolita Mountains. This network of linear parks and trails will serve the needs of families with young children, young adults, and active seniors as they walk, hike, run, and cycle through the community. The Town’s high-quality trail system will also promote tourism and attract visitors to the Town of Marana. Relationship to the General Plan There are several policies in the “Make Marana 2040 General Plan” that support the development, operation, and maintenance of a diverse, extensive, linear park and trail system. The General Plan makes specific reference to the potential for linear parks to connect various destinations within the community. The plan also notes the importance of providing parks and trails that serve the recreational needs of the community while also promoting community health and wellness. Linear Park and Trail Types Linear park and trail types that are or may be part of the Town’s linear park and trail system include national historic trails, national recreation trails, river parks, greenways, shared-use pathways, utility corridor trails, right-of-way trails, single-track backcountry trails, and other community trails and pathways. These linear park and trail types are defined as follows. National Historic Trail: National Historic Trails are trails that follow past routes of exploration, migration, struggle, trade, or military action. They are designated by an Act of the United State Congress and made a part of the National Trail System. The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail which passes through the Town of Marana follows the 1775 Anza Expedition which traveled through what is now southern Arizona on their way from Mexico to the San Francisco bay area. National Recreation Trails: National Recreation Trails are some of our country's highest caliber trails. They are trails that provide close-to-home recreational opportunities on federal, state, and local lands. National Recreation Trails are designated by the United States Secretary of the Interior. The designation is intended to provide communities with trail access, promote economic development through tourism, and create healthy recreation opportunities for a wide range of users. The Central Arizona Project or CAP Trail extends through the Town of Marana following the alignment of the CAP aqueduct. It is part of a 336-mile trail that, when fully developed, will extend from the Colorado River in northwestern Arizona to the Tohono O’Odham nation south of Tucson. 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) River Parks: River parks are linear parks that follow the major watercourses in the Tucson metropolitan area. They have been developed and are managed by Pima County in partnership with local jurisdictions. The Santa Cruz River Park extends the full-length of the Town and creates a spine that connects many of the Town’s parks. Segments of the Canada del Oro River Park and the Rillito River Park are present within the southern portion of the Town. These are part of a network of river parks that are referred to as The Loop. River parks typically include paved shared-use pathways, aggregate surfaced trails, access nodes with parking lots and restrooms, native or restored vegetation, and other amenities. Greenways: Greenways are similar to river parks except that they do not follow natural watercourses and typically have fewer amenities. Facilities that are typically included in greenways are paved shared-use pathways, aggregate surfaced trails, and native vegetation or landscape plantings. Access nodes, parking areas, and restrooms may also be provided along a greenway. Shared-Use Pathways: Shared-use pathways typically follow a roadway corridor and consist of paved paths that are constructed within the right-of-way but not as part of the roadway cross-section. They are intended to provide for safe recreational bicycling, walking, and running for users of all ages and abilities. Shared- use pathways can also provide safe routes to schools and municipal parks. Shared-use pathway corridors can be enhanced with native vegetation and/or landscape plantings. They typically do not have amenities such as parking areas or restrooms. Utility Corridor Trails: The overhead power lines and underground utility lines that serve the community frequently include an unpaved service road along the corridor that provides access for maintenance and repair of the utility line. These access roads are infrequently used by maintenance vehicles. As such, they can also safely function as recreational trails. Public access to these utility line corridors may require an agreement with the utility company and/or the underlying landowner. Right-of-Way Trails: Right-of-way trails are typically unpaved urban trails that are constructed within a public street right- of-way. They differ from sidewalks in that they may not be adjacent to the roadway and frequently meander through adjacent natural desert areas. They offer a different experience than a conventional sidewalk, but due to their unpaved surface, may not be fully accessible. Mountain Park, Preserve, and Tortolita Fan Trails: These trails are single-track, native soil trails that extend into the Town’s mountain parks and preserves. They provide a backcountry trail experience as they extend into the mountain ranges, preserves, and natural lands within the community. Included in this category of trails are trails that extend through the Tortolita Fan. While not remote or backcountry in character, they are trails that extend through undeveloped lands with important biological resources. Community Pathways and Trails: Community pathways and trails may be paved pathways or unpaved trails that are present within or near residential developments, both constructed and planned. They can provide connections between neighborhoods and/or serve as a recreational resource for local residents. While these pathways and trails will not be maintained by the Town, they can be important components of the community’s trail system. As such, these pathways and trails are identified and mapped as part of this 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-3 mater plan. Additions to this community pathway and trail system can and should be identified as individual development projects are submitted to the Town for review and approval. Community pathways and trails can also be sidewalks along certain roadway corridors. While these public facilities will not be maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department, they often provide connections between where people live and where they might recreate or work. Complementary Resources In addition to the linear parks and trails that will be part of the municipal trail system, there are and will continue to be complementary assets in the community that will also serve the public’s needs. These include Homeowner Association pathways and trails as well as bicycle lanes asso ciated with roadways. Homeowner Association / Community Association Pathways and Trails: Homeowner Association (HOA) and Community Association pathways and trails are not identified or mapped in this master plan but are resources that complement the community’s overall trail system. These trails extend through subdivisions connecting homes with neighborhood recreation areas and other HOA maintained facilities. They are also important links that can provide for public access to the municipal trail system. Bicycle Lanes: Bicycle lanes associated with public streets are part of the Town’s transportation network but also complement the Town’s parks and recreation system. Bicycle lanes are and will continue to be developed, operated, and maintained by the Public Works Department. This master plan acknowledges the value of bike lanes and recommends on-going collaboration between Departments so that the network of bike lanes, linear parks, and trails is comprehensive and fully integrated. Goals for the Linear Park and Trail System Goals for the expansion and enhancement of the Town’s linear park and trail system include: • Provide a comprehensive and integrated system of linear parks and trails that provide a range of opportunities for community recreation and exercise. • Develop a system of linear parks and trails that connect the northeast, northwest, and southern portions of the Town. • Develop a high-quality system of linear parks and trails that promote tourism and visitation to the Town of Marana • Provide opportunities for all members of the community to use the linear park and trail system including individuals with physical disabilities. • Maximize the connectivity of linear parks and trails within the Town of Marana. • Maximize the connectivity of linear parks and trails within Marana and those within neighboring jurisdictions. • Develop a linear park and trail system that supports alternative modes of transportation. 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Policies for the Linear Park and Trail System As the Town’s linear park and trail system is expande d and improved, it is the policy of the Town of Marana to: Policy 1: Develop, operate, and maintain that portion of the Santa Cruz River Park (also referred to as The Loop) that is within the Town of Marana and to use this river park as the central spine of the Town’s linear park and trail system. Policy 2: To collaborate with Pima County and other agencies to interpret the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail which is coincidental with the Santa Cruz River Park within the Town. Policy 3: To develop, operate, and maintain the Tangerine Road / Tangerine Farms Road Greenway as a primary east-west corridor for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non- motorized trail users. Policy 4: To develop, operate, and maintain a system of shared-use pathways that provide safe and accessible routes for pedestrians and bicyclists traveling between residential neighborhoods and parks, schools, or other community facilities. Policy 5: To develop, operate, and maintain a network of high-quality trails within the Tortolita Mountains, the Tortolita Preserve, and where appropriate, within the Tortolita Fan natural resource area. Policy 6: To collaborate with Pima County, the Central Arizona Water Conservation District, and the United State Bureau of Reclamation on the development of the CAP National Recreation Trail. Policy 7: To support Pima County’s efforts to fund and construct a bicycle / pedestrian bridge over Interstate 10 and the Union Pacific Railroad to connect the CAP Trail segments east and west of I-10. Policy 8: To encourage the development of pathways and trails within planned communities and within subdivisions with the planning, construction, operation, and maintenance of such trails being the responsibility of developers, homeowner associations, and/or other private entities. Policy 9: To operate and maintain the Town’s linear park and trail system in a manner that minimizes impacts on the biological, cultural, and scenic resources present. Policy 10: To provide opportunities for safe, legal, and convenient public access to the linear park and trail system. Policy 11: To accommodate all appropriate types of non-motorized trail uses and to exclude motorized vehicles as may be needed to ensure the public safety. 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-5 River Parks and Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail — Key Initiatives Eliminate Gap in Santa Cruz River Park at Arizona Portland Cement Plant The gap in the constructed pathway associated with the Santa Cruz River Park where it extends through the Arizona Portland Cement site isolates those portion of the Santa Cruz River Park in Northeast Marana with those portions in South Marana and the rest of The Loop in Pima County. As of the date of this master plan report, the engineering design of this section of river park is on-going and funding for the construction of the improvements has been secured. Collaborate with Pima County on the western extension of the Santa Cruz River Park It is anticipated that at some time in the future Pima County will construct additional soil cement bank protection along the Santa Cruz River west of its current terminus at Sanders Road. When this flood control work is implemented, it is recommended that the Town of Marana collaborate with Pima County to design and construct linear park improvements as part of the bank protection project. Promote the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail as Tourist Destination The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail is one of just 19 historic trails in the United States and it traces the route of early explorers traversing the American southwest. Other trails in the system follow the routes, both long and short, of other important historic events. They include the Oregon Trail and the Selma to Montgomery Trail. There are many people throughout the country who engage in cultural tourism and will visit and travel along the various National Historic Trails. It is recommended that the Town of Marana continue to collaborate with Pima County and promote the Anza National Historic Trail as a tourist destination. Pima County shares an interest in the Anza Trail as more than 70 miles of this national historic trail are within the County. River Parks and Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail — Recommended Action Items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Construct the Santa Cruz River Park through the Cal-Portland Cement Plant site. Connect the Santa Cruz River Park in northeast Marana with the remainder of the regional river park system Very High 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8-6 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) CAP National Recreation Trail — Key Initiatives Collaborate with Pima County on the construction of the Central Arizona Project (CAP) Trail Pima County has taken the lead in the planning and development of the CAP Trail. This trail has two segments within the Town of Marana, one east of I-10 and north of Tangerine Road and one west of I-10. The two segments are interrupted by a portion of the aqueduct that is in a siphon below the Tangerine Road traffic interchange. The segment north of Tangerine Road will be supported by a trailhead to be developed by the Town of Marana. The trail to the north will be constructed by Pima County and will connect to a trail segment previously constructed by Pinal County. Continued collaboration will be needed to complete the proposed improvements and make the CAP National Recreation Trail available for public use. Support Pima County’s efforts to construct a CAP Trail Bridge over I-10 and the UPRR Pima County has prepared conceptual plans for a bicycle pedestrian bridge that will connect the segments of the CAP Trail east and west of I-10. The plans call for a structure that is similar to a bridge constructed for the CAP Trail over I-17 in north Phoenix. The proposed bridge will be located near the Moore Road alignment. This bridge will not only connect portions of the CAP Trail but will also create a much-needed bicycle and pedestrian connection between northeast and northwest Marana. The Town of Marana’s efforts should focus on obtaining the rights-of-way or easement needed for local trails that connect the bridge to the ends of the CAP siphon and on constructing these local trail segments. National Recreation Trails — Recommended Action items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Construct Tangerine Road / CAP Trailhead Trailhead will provide safe legal access to the CAP Trail east of I-10 Very High Acquire right-of-way required to connect to the proposed bicycle / pedestrian bridge The Pima County bridge will span I-10 but local trails are needed to connect to the bridge Very High Coordinate the construction of connecting trails The trails will be an essential link for the CAP Trail but also address local trail needs. As such trail construction can precede bridge construction High 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-7 Greenways — Key Initiatives Complete the Tangerine Road Greenway The Tangerine Road Greenway will serve as the principal east-west element of the Town of Marana’s linear park and trail system. It will connect residential areas and community facilities in northeast Marana with developed parks, linear parks, and the downtown district located in northwest Marana. As much of this project is integral to planned roadway improvements between Dove Mountain Boulevard and I-10, the schedule for construction of the greenway in this area will be concurrent with the Tangerine Road roadway improvements. Incrementally Construct the Barnett Greenway The Barnett Greenway is intended to be an improvement that addresses both the drainage and recreational needs of the community. It will extend from Interstate 10 to the Santa Cruz River and will include a drainageway, shared-use pathways, landscape plantings and other amenities. As a major infrastructure project, it will likely be constructed in several phases. As each phase of the drainage channel is constructed, the associated pathways and amenities should also be developed. Greenways — Recommended Action items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Complete construction of shared-use path on both sides of Tangerine Rd. east of Dove Mountain Boulevard It is currently necessary to cross the 4-lane roadway to remain on the shared-use pathway within this section Very High Construct greenway elements in conjunction with roadway improvements between Dove Mountain Boulevard and I-10 Without these elements, the greenway will not connect northeast and northwest Marana High Participate in the planning and design of the Barnett Greenway Participating in the planning and design of the greenway corridor will enable the Parks and Recreation Department to define the scope and character of the greenway Moderate 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Utility Corridor Trails — Key Initiatives Identify the Need for Agreements to ensure Public Access to the Utility Corridor Trails The service and maintenance roads associated with overhead and underground utility lines create natural trail corridors and these roads have historically been used as trails. Formal agreements, however, may or may not have been secured to ensure continued public access. A review of each utility line corridor trail to determine the legality of public trail use should be undertaken and, if needed, appropriate agreements prepared. The parties to such agreements may include the Town, the utility company, and the underlying landowner. Require new Utility Lines to allow for Trail Development and Public Use The approval of all new utility transmission lines within the Town should be contingent upon an agreement that the utility company and other interested parties allow for the use of the utility line corridor as a public trail when appropriate. A determination as to whether or not the utility line corridor should also be a public trail should rest with the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department. Utility Corridor Trails — Recommended Action Items Proposed Action Justification Priority Review all utility corridor trails to confirm that they can be legally used as a public trail Preempt potential conflicts that would eliminate or restrict public access to the trail Moderate 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-9 Right-of-Way Trails — Key Initiatives Retain Maintenance Agreements Right-of-way trails are unpaved trails within the public right-of-way associated with streets and roads. They currently exist within the Dove Mountain community along Dove Mountain Boulevard, Secret Springs Drive, and Boulder Bridge Pass. While they are primarily in the public right-of-way, they occasionally extend into common areas associated with the adjacent subdivision. These right-of-way trails are maintained by Homeowner Associations and/or Community Associations and are integral to the overall streetscape improvements. Agreements that require the Homeowner / Community Associations to maintain these trails while also allowing for general public use should be retained. Right-of-Way Trails — Recommended Action Items Proposed Action Justification Priority Review of Agreements related to trails within the public right- of-way To confirm that the public will have access to these trails in perpetuity and that the Town will not be responsible for their maintenance Moderate 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Mountain Park, Preserve, and Tortolita Fan Trails — Key Initiatives Develop Additional Trails within the Marana Portion of Tortolita Mountain Park The trail system within the Tortolita Mountains is very popular with both residents and visitors to the community. The public participation component of this master plan confirmed that there is a keen interest in expanding this trail system. A template for such expansion is included in Pima County’s 2009 “Tortolita Mountain Park Trail System Master Plan.” This plan recommends the expansion of the trail system to the west in and around Cochie Canyon. This expansion will include some trails that are less steep than the existing trails and will create new opportunities for users looking for a less rugged trail experience. Collaborate with other Jurisdictions related to Trail Development in Tortolita Mountain Park Jurisdictions with an interest in the Tortolita Mountain Park trail system include the Town of Marana, the Town of Oro Valley, Pima County, and Pinal County. As such, the Town of Marana will continue its on- going collaboration with these jurisdictions to facilitate the development of an integrated and high- quality trail network. Construct a Trailhead at the Tortolita Preserve The primary point of access to the Tortolita Preserve is a cleared area near the southeast corner of the site. There are no constructed improvements at this location. It is recommended that a formal trailhead be developed in this location. The initial phase of development at the preserve should include a paved parking area and appropriate signage that communicates rules for Preserve use and that interprets the site’s resources. Subsequent development should include a ramada and a restroom. (See also Section 10 - Natural Resource Parks and Preserves). Develop Additional Trails within the Tortolita Preserve The Tortolita Preserve currently has a single loop trail that extends through a distinct and spectacular Sonoran Desert landscape. This trail is used by mountain bicyclists, hikers, runners, and equestrians. It also hosts various events sponsored by the Town. As use of the Preserve trail continues to grow, so too does the potential for conflicts between users. To reduce potential conflicts, it is recommended that two additional loop trails be developed within the Preserve, one on the east and one on the west side of the site. It is also recommended that a short interpretive loop trail be developed in the vicinity of the proposed trailhead. This loop trail will provide information for visitors to the community and can also serve as an outdoor environmental education classroom for students at the nearby Dove Mountain CSTEM K-8 school. 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-11 Develop Trails within the Tortolita Fan The Tortolita Fan encompasses lands that are between the Tortolita Preserve and the developed trail / greenway corridors along Tangerine Road and the Central Arizona Project aqueduct. A limited number of trails that connect the developed urban portions of the community with the preserved natural open space associated with the Tortolita Preserve and Tortolita Mountain Park will be needed. Develop Trails within the El Rio Preserve The long-term configuration, scope, and limits of the El Rio Preserve have been established with Pima County’s recently completed bank protection project along the Santa Cruz River. With these improvements in place, the next step will be to construct birding and wildlife observation trails within and around the perimeter of the Preserve. The scope and alignment of this trail system should be developed in conjunction with wildlife biologists and ornithologists to maximize opportunities for birding and wildlife observation while also protecting the important natural resources. Develop Trails at the Wastewater Reclamation Recharge Basins The Town’s wastewater reclamation recharge basins will create a rare environment within the desert, that being bodies of surface water capable of attracting birds and wildlife. They will also create a recreational opportunity for residents and visitors with an interest in these natural resources. As such it is proposed that trails and observation stations be developed at the recharge basin site. Improve Trail Access Nodes and Trailheads Important elements of a successful trail system are appropriately located trailheads and access nodes. These facilities provide for safe, convenient, and legal access to the community’s trail system. It is recommended that the development of trailheads and access nodes be part of an on-going effort by the Parks and Recreation Department to enhance its linear park and trail system. 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8-12 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Mountain Park, Preserve, and Tortolita Fan Trails — Recommended Action items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Design and construct El Rio Preserve Trails and Viewing Areas Current conditions do not accommodate trail use within the Preserve, a condition that could result in unregulated use and degradation Very High Design and construct new loop trails within the Tortolita Preserve Reduce potential conflicts as trail use increases. Enhance opportunities for Town sponsored events High Construct Trail from CAP Trailhead to Tortolita Preserve Trail will reduce pressure for public access at Preserve Trailhead and will connect the National Recreation Trail with the Preserve High Construct Trail from Tortolita Preserve to Tortolita Mountain Park Will expand opportunities for trail use in this area and connect two important natural resource areas. High Acquire Right-of-Way, Design, and Construct the Cochie Canyon Trailhead per the Tortolita Mountain Park Trail System Master Plan This trailhead will provide for safe and legal access to the expanded trails system in the southwestern portion of the Tortolita Mountain range. Moderate Acquire Right-of-Way, Design, and Construct all or portions of the Cochie Canyon, McKenzie, Twenty-Niner, and Nine-to-Five Trails per Tortolita Mountain Park Trail System Master Plan These trails will expand the scope of the trail system and the range of trail types within the Tortolita Mountains Moderate 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-13 Community Pathways and Trails — Key Initiatives Review of Proposed Specific Plans and other Development Proposals: The expansion of the community pathway and trail system will be concurrent with the planning, design, and construction of new developments within the community. As such, it will be important that the Parks and Recreation Department participate in the review and approval of all new Specific plans and other development proposals. As part of these reviews, the Department will identify opportunities for community pathway and trail development, identify required connections with the municipal trail system, and make recommendations related to items that should be made a condition of plan approval. Community Pathways and Trails — Recommended Action Items Proposed Action Justification Priority On-going participation in the review of all proposed specific plans and other development plans submitted to the Town of approval The Parks and Recreation Department’s input will enable the Town to include appropriate pathway and trail development requirements as conditions of plan approval Very High Linear Park and Trail System Map and List of Trails Provided on the following page is a map of the Town of Marana Trail System. Included on the following pages is a list of trails organized by trail type. 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-15 Figure 8-A Linear Parks and Trails Map (Existing and Planned) 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-17 National Historic Trails Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number NH-1 Juan Bautista de Anza Trail X X X X Nat. Historic Trail RP-005 National Recreation Trails Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number NR-1 CAP Trail Nat. Recreation Trail X X Nat. Recreation Tr. T-005 NR-2 Wild Burro National Recreation Trail X X Nat. Recreation Tr. 036 River Parks Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number RP-1 Santa Cruz River Park - The Loop X X X X River Park RP-005 RP-2 Canada del Oro River Park X X River Park RP-002 RP-3 Rillito River Park - The Loop X X River Park RP-004 Greenways Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number G-1 Tangerine Road Greenway X X X X Greenway G-050 G-2 Barnett Channel Greenway X X Greenway G-011 Shared-Use Pathways Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number SUP-1 Moore Road SUP X X Shared-Use Path 171 SUP-2 Camino de Oeste SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-3 Thornydale Road SUP X X Shared-Use Path 175 SUP-4 Twin Peaks SUP X X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-5 Adonis Road SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-6 CAP Nat. Rec. Trail. Connector SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-7 Avra Valley Road SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-8 Sandario Road SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-9 Sanders Road SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-10 High School Loop SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-11 Lambert Lane SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-12 Linda Vista SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-13 San Lucas SUP X X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-14 Sanders Grove SUP X X Shared-Use Path * SUP-15 Canal West SUP X X Shared-Use Path * 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element 8-18 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Utility Corridor Trails Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number UC-1 Powerline Trail (North) X X Utility Corridor 179 UC-2 Powerline Trail (South) X X Utility Corridor 179 UC-3 Phoneline Trail X X Utility Corridor 392 UC-4 AV Pipeline Trail (East) X X Utility Corridor 383 UC-5 AV Pipeline Trail (West) X X Utility Corridor 383 UC-6 Gas Line Trail X X Utility Corridor 155 Right-of-Way Trails Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number RW-1 Dove Mountain Blvd. Trail X X Right-of-Way Path 387 RW-2 Secret Springs Drive Trail X X Right-of-Way Path * RW-3 Boulder Bridge Pass Trail X X Right-of-Way Path * Mountain Park, Preserve, and Tortolita Fan Trails Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number MPP-1 Wild Burro Trail (North) X X Single Track 6.5 036 MPP-2 Alamo Springs X X Single Track 4.1 437 MPP-3 Alamo Springs Spur X X Single Track 0.5 * MPP-4 Cochie Springs X X Single Track 7.2 442 MPP-5 Hotel Spur Trail X X Single Track 0.3 * MPP-6 Loop Trail X X Single Track 1.7 * MPP-7 Lower Javelina X X Single Track 1.7 447 MPP-8 Ridgeline Trail X X Single Track 3.1 451 MPP-9 Upper Javelina X X Single Track 2.8 457 MPP-10 Wild Mustang Trail X X Single Track 3.8 460 MPP-11 Cochie Canyon Trail X X Single Track * MPP-12 Nine-to-Five Trail X X Single Track * MPP-13 McKenzie Trail - South X X Single Track * MPP-14 Twenty-Niner Trail X X Single Track * MPP-15 Tortolita Preserve Trail X X Single Track 455 MPP-16 Preserve Interpretive Trail X X Single Track * MPP-17 Preserve Inner Loop Trail X X Single Track * MPP-18 Preserve West Loop Trail X X Single Track * MPP-19 Cottonwood Wash Trail X X Single Track 032 MPP-20 CAP to Preserve Trail X X Single Track 408 MPP-21 Tortolita Foothills Trail (West) X X Single Track 167 MPP-22 Preserve to Mountain Park Trail X X Single Track * MPP-23 Cochie Trail (South) X X Single Track 031 MPP-24 Wild Burro Wash Trail (South) X X Single Track 036 MPP-25 Prospect Wash Trail (North) X X Single Track 163 MPP-26 Tortolita Foothills Trail (East) X X Single Track 167 MPP-27 Camino de Manana Trail (North) X X Single Track 158 MPP-28 Vulture Peak Trail X X Single Track * MPP-29 Saguaro Ranch Trail X X Single Track * MPP-30 Unnamed Trail 19 X X Single Track 403 MPP-31 El Rio Preserve Wildlife Observation Trail X X Single Track * MPP-32 Northwest Nature Park Trail X X Single Track * 8 Linear Parks and Trails Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 8-19 Community Pathways and Trails Trail Trail District Status Description Length Pima Regional Number Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number CPT-1 Prospect Wash Trail (South) X X Single Track 164 CPT-2 Pico Vista Trail X X Single Track 163 CPT-3 Scotty's Loop Trail X X Single Track 164 CPT-4 Camino de Manana Wash Trail X X Single Track 158 CPT-5 Cascada Buffer Trail X X Single Track 405 CPT-6 Hardy Wash Trail X X Single Track 160 CPT-7 Potvin Road Trail X X Single Track 172 CPT-8 Linda Vista to Potvin Road Trail X X Single Track 164 CPT-9 Wild Horse Wash Trail X X Single Track 028 CPT-10 Belmont Road Trail X X Single Track 146 CPT-11 Idle Hour Wash Trail (North) X X Single Track 144 CPT-12 Idle Hour Wash Trail (South) X X Single Track 137 CPT-13 Picture Rocks Wash Trail X X Single Track 025 CPT-14 Silverbell Road Path X X Sidewalks 035 CPT-15 Safford Peak Trail X Single Track 133 Trailheads Number Trailhead District Status Description Length Pima Regional Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number TH-1 CAP - Avra Valley Trailhead X X Trailhead N/A TH007 TH-2 CAP - Tangerine Rd. Trailhead X X Trailhead N/A TH008 TH-3 Cochie Canyon Trailhead X X Trailhead N/A TH075 TH-4 Wild Burro Trailhead X X Trailhead N/A TH080 TH-5 Vulture Peak Trailhead X X Trailhead N/A TH079 TH-6 Preserve - Moore Road Trailhead X X Trailhead N/A * Boundary Access Points Number Boundary Access Point District Status Description Length Pima Regional Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number BA-1 Preserve - South X X Gate N/A * BA-2 Preserve - Trail to CAP X X Gate N/A * BA-3 Preserve - Trail to Mtn. Park X X Gate N/A * BA-4 Preserve - West Buckeye X X Gate N/A * Loop Access Points Number Loop Access Point District Status Description Length Pima Regional Name NE NW S Built Proposed Type (Miles) Trail Number LA-1 Sanders Road X X Trailhead N/A TH069 LA-2 Honea Heights Park X X Park N/A * LA-3 Marana Heritage Park X X Park N/A * LA-4 Gladden Farms Park X X Park N/A * LA-5 Bike Park X X Park N/A * LA-6 El Rio Preserve X X Preserve / Park N/A * LA-7 Continental Ranch Park X X Park N/A * LA-8 Wade McLean Park X X Park N/A * LA-9 Crossroads at Silverbell Park X X Park N/A * LA-10 CDO - Thornydale Road X X Trailhead N/A TH005 LA-11 Rillito - Camino de la Tierra X X Trailhead N/A TH044 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element NATURAL RESOURCE PARK & PRESERVE ELEMENT 9 9 Natural Resource Park & Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-1 Preserve Element Introduction The natural resource parks and preserves that are part of the Marana Park system distinguish it from most municipal park systems in the country. They provide recreational opportunities for local residents while also serving to attract visitors to the community from around the world. They support the natural systems that are important to a healthy and sustainable community. As such, they are a valued asset and an integral component of the Town’s park system. Relationship to the General Plan The Make Marana 2040 General Plan acknowledges that open space “contributes to a community’s character and quality of life” and that the Town of Marana “enjoys vast and scenic open spaces, including river corridors, mountains, and pristine desert landscapes.” The expansio n and enhancement of the Town’s natural resource park and preserve system as proposed by this master plan is consistent with the community vision expressed in the General Plan. Types of Natural Resource Parks and Preserves Natural Resource Parks: Natural resource parks are those large tracts of undeveloped and mostly undisturbed lands where public access is allowed for recreational activities such as hiking, birding, and mountain bicycling. Tortolita Mountain Park is an example of a natural resource park. Preserves: Preserves are designated tracts or parcels of land that have been set aside for the protection of the natural and/or cultural resources present. The allowable public uses within a preserve are site specific and are based on resource conservation and protection considerations. The Tortolita Preserve and the El Rio Preserve are examples of preserves within the Town of Marana. Cultural Resource Conservation Areas: Cultural resource conservation areas are publicly owned and managed sites where prehistoric and historical features are present. In some instances, the resources lend themselves to public access and interpretation. In other instances, the nature of the resource requires controlled access to the site. The Los Morteros Conservation Area is an example of a site in Marana where public access is allowed and encouraged. Other Contributing Features: In addition to designated parks and preserves that are managed by the Town of Marana or other jurisdictions, there are other sites and features that contribute to the fabric of the Town’s natural open space. These include river corridors, washes, and alluvial fans. They also include national parks and monuments on the perimeter of the Town’s planning boundary. The Santa Cruz River and the Tortolita Fan are examples of contributing features. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element 9-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Goals for the Natural Resource Park and Preserve System Goals for the expansion and improvement of the natural resource park and preserve system include: • Operate and maintain a natural resource park and preserve system that promotes the protection, conservation, and long-term sustainability of Marana’s distinct natural environment. • Provide opportunities for the appropriate use and enjoyment of the natural resource park and preserve system by residents and visitors to the community. • Expand and enhance the natural resource park and preserve system through collaborative efforts with other jurisdictions and agencies. Policies for the Natural Resource Park and Preserve System As the natural resource park and preserve system is expanded and improved, it is the policy of the Town of Marana to: Policy 1: Develop and manage all natural resource parks and preserves in a manner that protects the important natural, cultural, and scenic resources present. Policy 2: Approach natural resource park and preserve management from a regional perspective and collaborate with other jurisdictions, agencies, and organizations to integrate resource management and conservation efforts. Policy 3: Provide opportunities for appropriate public use and enjoyment of all natural resource parks and preserves. Policy 4: Provide opportunities for disabled individuals to enjoy the Town’s natural resource parks and preserves consistent with Americans with Disabilities (ADA) guidelines. Policy 5: Acknowledge the unique and spectacular qualities of the Town’s natural resource parks and preserves and to use these resources to highlight the Town’s quality of life for prospective residents and businesses. Policy 6: Acknowledge the unique and spectacular qualities of the Town’s natural resource parks and preserves and to use these resources to encourage tourists to visit and enjoy the Town of Marana. Policy 7: Provide for the proper maintenance of trails, trailheads, overlooks, and related facilities using Town of Marana resources and the resources of collaborating jurisdictions and agencies. Policy 8: Partner with local organizations to engage in special projects and programs related to the development, operation, maintenance, and interpretation of the natural resource park and preserve system. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-3 Elements of Natural Resource Park and Preserve System Elements of the Natural Resource Park and Preserve System that are owned, partially owned, managed, and/or maintained by the Town are: • Tortolita Mountain Park • Tortolita Preserve • El Rio Preserve • Marana Water Reclamation Facility Recharge Ponds Cultural resource conservation areas within the Town but managed by others include: • Los Morteros Cultural Resource Conservation Area • Las Capas Cultural Resource Conservation Area Other contributing elements to the natural resource parks and preserve system include: • The Santa Cruz River Corridor • The Tortolita Fan • Saguaro National Park • Ironwood Forest National Monument These elements and strategies for their protection and enhancement are outlined on the following pages. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-5 Figure 9-A Natural Resource Parks, Preserves, and Contributing Elements Map 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-7 Tortolita Mountain Park — Current Conditions Park Status: Tortolita Mountain Park is a park in concept, but not yet a traditional natural resource park with consolidated land ownership, a defined boundary, and a single agency responsible for its management. The working concept for the park is a natural resource park that encompasses the entire Tortolita Mountain range. This concept has been endorsed by Pima County, Pinal County, the Town of Oro Valley, and the Town of Marana but not yet implemented. Pima County’s 1997 conceptual master plan calls for a park that is modeled after Tucson Mountain Park. Tucson Mountain Park is a 37 square mile park that encompasses the southern portion of the Tucson Mountain range and is owned and managed by the Pima County Natural Resources, Parks, and Recreation Department. Land Ownership: The land within the proposed Tortolita Mountain Park has multiple owners. The largest owner is the Arizona State Land Department. The Bureau of Land Management, Pima County, and private entities also own land within the range. The Town of Marana’s ownership is limited to trail corridors that were purchased from the State Land Department for recreational trail development. Park Boundary: The proposed boundary for the park has not been clearly defined, except for locations where it abuts the approved Dove Mountain and Saguaro Ranch Specific Plan limits. Various planning documents prepared by the Town of Marana, Pima County, Pinal County, and the Town of Oro Valley all show similar but different boundaries for the park. Resource Management: Under current conditions, most of the lands within the proposed Tortolita Mountain Park are passively managed. The State Land Department administers grazing leases and other department permitted activities but does not have field staff providing regular monitoring of public use. As a result, wildcat trail development has occurred throughout the range and some of these trails have negatively impacted known cultural resource sites. Others were not designed to be sustainable and erosion has degraded many of the wildcat trail corridors. In contrast with what is occurring in other portions of the Tortolita Mountain Range, the Town of Marana has developed a professionally designed and highly successful trail system within the southwestern portion of the range. Additionally, the Town has hired full-time staff and created a trail crew responsible for maintaining the mountain park trails. Members of this crew perform maintenance activities but also monitor public use in the area and act as ambassadors for the trail system providing information and assistance to the many trail users. Existing Trail System: The Town of Marana has constructed and currently maintains approximately 31.7 miles of single-track trail within the southwestern portion of the Tortolita Mountain range. These trails have been constructed on perpetual rights-of-way acquired by the Town from the State Land Department and on land owned by Pima County. By nature of their presence within the mountain range, many of these trails are rugged and challenging for the experienced hiker and mountain bicyclist. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element 9-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Tortolita Mountain Park — Key Initiatives For Tortolita Mountain Park to become the sustainable biological, cultural, and recreationa l resource envisioned, it is recommended that the Town of Marana pursue three important initiatives. Establishment of a Defined Boundary While the Town of Marana cannot unilaterally establish a boundary for those portions of the park that are within other jurisdictions, it can advance the process by establishing a working mountain park boundary for those lands within Town limits. Figure 9-B illustrates the park boundary proposed by this master plan. Through the adoption of this master plan, the Town will have a defined boundary that will apply not just to park planning but to all municipal planning efforts. It is important to acknowledge that there are Pima County owned and privately owned lands within the proposed mountain park boundary. The presence of privately owned parcels is not unlike private inholdings that occur in national parks and state parks throughout the country. It is the Town’s intent to respect the rights of these private landowners and to work as partners with them to preserve and protect the resources that are valued by all parties. Figure 9-B-Proposed Tortolita Mountain Park Boundary 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-9 Establishment of a Cooperative Management Team Given the geography of the mountain park that spans many jurisdictions, it would be difficult for a single agency to assume responsibility and the financial burden of managing all of Tortolita Mountain Park. With shared interests come shared responsibilities and it is recommended that the Town of Marana work to establish a collaborative management team. Likely members of this team include: the Arizona State Land Department, Pima County, Pinal County, and the Town of Oro Valley. The Bureau of Land Management and the Arizona Game and Fish Department might also choose to participate. The cooperative management team would be responsible for establishing guidelines for public use of the park, for monitoring the condition of the biological and cultural resources present, for the development of trails and other day-use facilities, and for the provision of the staff needed to accomplish these tasks. The costs associated with active management of the area would be shared as would the benefits that would accrue to the participating entities. Construction of Trail and Trailhead Improvements The existing Tortolita Mountain Park Trail system is extremely popular both with local residents and visitors to the community. Trail use continues to grow each year. As such, it is recommended that the trail system be expanded and improved in a sustainable manner. It is recommended that the next phase of trail development be based on Pima County’s 2009 “Tortolita Mountain Park Trail System Master Plan.” This plan provides conceptual trail alignments for new trails in areas near Cochie Canyon, along the western foothills of the mountain range, and to the east in the upper Ruelas Canyon and Canada Aqua Canyon areas. A final alignment for each new trail will need to be identified and mapped and right-of-way acquired before trail construction can begin. It is also recommended that a trail be constructed that connects Tortolita Mountain Park with the Tortolita Preserve. Improvements to existing trailheads and the construction of new trailheads are also an important part of this initiative. Tortolita Mountain Park — Recommended Action Items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Construct trail improvements at the start of Wild Burro Trail Provide better access to trail for trail users and emergency responders Very High Provide additional accessible parking at Wild Burro Trailhead Will allow ramada to be constructed on existing slab for HC parking High Construct ramada at Wild Burro Trailhead Will provide shade for hikers and staging area for events and programs High Improve trailhead at Wild Burro Wash and Dove Mtn. Blvd. Provide alternative / additional access to Wild Burro Trail High Acquire right-of-way for trail that connects to Preserve Trail will cross State Trust Land and right-of-way will be required for construction Medium Construct trail that connects Mtn. Park to Preserve Provide opportunity for trail users to move between Mountain Park and Preserve Medium Acquire rights-of-way for trails within proposed Park boundary and identified in 2009 Tortolita Mtn. Park Trails Master Plan Provide additional opportunities for trail use and greater variety in the level of difficulty associated with trail system High 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-11 Figure 9-B Tortolita Mountain Park Map 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-13 Tortolita Preserve — Current Conditions Land Status The Tortolita Preserve was established in 2000 in conjunction with the development of the Dove Mountain project in northeast Marana. It set aside 2,399.07 acres of Arizona State Trust Land in the Tortolita Fan as a preserve to remain undeveloped for a period of 99 years. The original lease for this set-aside parcel was between the Arizona State Land Department and Vistoso Partners L.L.C. The lease was assigned to the Town of Marana in October of 2001. The land continues to be owned by the State Land Department. The Town of Marana manages the preserve under the provisions of the subject lease. Key Provisions of Lease with Arizona State Land Department With certain restrictions and conditions, the lease allows the Preserve to be used for: • Open space and park purposes • Construction, operation, and maintenance of hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails • Construction of parking facilities, restrooms, and other ancillary facilities All other uses of the Preserve land are prohibited. The lease also prohibits the destruction or removal of native plants except as may be necessary for the approved use of the parcel with removals to be in accordance with the Arizona Native Plant Law. Preserve Boundary Condition Portions of the Preserve’s northern, eastern, and southern boundaries are fenced to identify the limits of the Preserve and to restrict motor vehicle and livestock trespass, but approximately 15,840 linear feet of boundary is open and without a fence. As a result, cattle from adjacent leased lands often move into the Preserve to graze and off-highway-vehicles can be observed operating within the Preserve. Resource Management In accordance with the provisions of the lease, the Town of Marana as the lessee is responsible for the operation and management of the Tortolita Preserve. The Town currently employs staff who maintain the Preserve’s trail system, monitor public use of the site, and perform other functions such as trash removal and disposal. Existing Trail System The current trail system consists of a 9.7-mile-long single-track trail that generally follows the perimeter of the eastern portion of the Preserve. The trail extends through a gently sloping landscape with mature saguaro cacti and other signature species of the Sonoran Desert. A trail along a cleared corridor associated with a sewer line extends through the middle of the site. The primary point of access for the trail system is an informal trailhead located along the Moore Road alignment at the southeast corner of the site. This trailhead consists of a cleared utility corridor that is used for vehicular parking. A small kiosk is present that identifies the Preserve and provides information regarding allowable public use of the site. A walk-in entry located near the West Buckeye roadway alignment on the north side of the Preserve is also present. The single-track trail system is widely used by individual hikers and mountain bicyclists and also receives some equestrian use. The trails are also used for certain mountain bicycling events that are sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element 9-14 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Tortolita Preserve — Key Initiatives Complete the Perimeter Fence To effectively manage and protect the resources of the Preserve completion of the perimeter fence will be given high priority. This will remove any uncertainty regarding the boundary of the Preserve and will serve to reduce intentional or unintentional trespass. Construct a Trailhead The existing trailhead is a cleared corridor where vegetation was previously removed for the installation of underground utility lines along the alignment of Moore Road. Other than a very small sign along the fence line, there are no features that identify this as the primary location for access to the Preserve. It is recommended that a formal trailhead be constructed on a phased basis within the Preserve boundary. The initial phase of development should include a paved parking lot, appropriate fencing and gates, and signage to identify the Preserve and to post notices regarding regulations for public use. A second phase of development should include a restroom and a ramada where users can find shade and where interpretive programs can be conducted. Figure 9-D - Proposed Tortolita Preserve Trailhead 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-15 Construct an Interpretive Trail Users and potential users of the Preserve trail system include not only local residents but also visitors to the Ritz-Carlton Hotel at Dove Mountain and students at the nearby Dove Mountain K-8 CSTEM School. An interpretive trail, approximately one-half mile in length, will provide an opportunity to interpret and describe the unique natural and scenic features of the site. (See Figure 9C). It can also serve as an outdoor classroom where students can learn about the natural Sonoran Desert environment. Expand the Trail System As use of the Preserve Trail system continues to grow, the individual trail user’s experience may begin to diminish, and the heavy use of individual routes will make the Town’s ability to maintain high quality trails more challenging. As such, it is recommended that a second loop trail be constructed within the western portion of the site. This will serve to accommodate more users, reduce potential trail conflicts, prevent overuse of individual trail segments, provide for a greater variety of trail experiences, and better accommodate Town sponsored trail rides and events. Connect the Preserve Trail System to Local and Regional Trails It is recommended that the Preserve’s Trail system be integrated with the regional trail system so that all users do not need to drive to the Moore Road trailhead to access and enjoy the Preserve. The proposed trail that connects to the site with the CAP Trailhead should be constructed. An additional trail that connects the Preserve with the Tortolita Mountain Park trail system should also be developed. Tortolita Preserve — Recommended Action Items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Complete installation of perimeter fence and gates Identify Preserve Boundary and reduce trespass grazing and OHV use Very High Secure right-of-way or easement from State Land Department at Moore Rd. Will be necessary for access to the proposed Preserve trailhead. Very High Design and construct Moore Road Trailhead (Phase 1) with Porta-Potty Restroom Provide for safe and legal access to the Preserve with appropriate access control and signage Very High Develop Memorandum of Understanding regarding West Buckeye entrance Continue to allow pedestrian and bicycle access while preventing issues related to trespass and non-resident parking High Construct Interpretive Trail Provide high quality experience for visitors not using longer-distance trails High Construct Inner Loop Trail Provide additional trail opportunities and reduce potential conflicts between trail users High Construct West Loop Trail Provide additional trail opportunities for general use and Town sponsored events High Construct permanent restroom at Moore Road Trailhead Provide safe / attractive restroom for users and eliminate need for Porta-Potty Medium Acquire right-of-way for new Trailhead near NW corner of Preserve Land ownership in subject area is either private or State Trust Land Medium Construct new trailhead at NW Corner of Preserve Better accommodate trail users residing in Dove Mountain Medium 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-17 Figure 9-E Tortolita Preserve Map 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-19 El Rio Preserve — Current Conditions Component Parts of Preserve The El Rio Preserve consists of several adjacent areas each with a distinct purpose and character. These include the Preserve wetland, the disc golf course, the Loop corridor, and the El Rio Neighborhood Park. The interrelated nature of these components parts requires a comprehensive approach to site planning and development. The Preserve Wetland The Preserve wetland encompasses a backwater area along the Santa Cruz River that is approximately 100 acres in size. A breach in an earthen levee several years ago allowed storm water to flow into the area creating a seasonal wetland that attracted a large number of birds and other animal species. With the construction of a flood control levee in 2020, the potential for the Santa Cruz River to convey water into the wetland was diminished and an alternative water supply, a water line owned by the Cortaro-Marana Irrigation District (CMID) was identified. The CMID water supply line will be made operational in early 2021 and will enable water to be retained in the wetland on a perennial basis. In response to a growing interest in birding and wildlife observation at the Preserve, the Town of Marana constructed a parking lot, accessible walkways, an interpretive ramada, and an observation platform along the south end of the wetland. The parking area was recently expanded to accommodate school buses and other large vehicles. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element 9-20 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) The Disc Golf Course Prior to the breach in the earthen levee, the area that is now the wetland was the site of a disc golf course. With the course no longer playable, the Town worked collaboratively with Pima County to identify an adjacent site where a new disc golf course could be constructed. This site consists of approximately 41 acres and is southeast of the wetland. In 2017 the Town of Marana and Pima County entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement to construct a course in this location. Construction of the course will follow the completion of the bank protection in this area. The Loop A segment of The Loop, the regional shared-use pathway system that extends throughout the Tucson metropolitan area, runs through the El Rio Preserve site. It provides for bicycle and pedestrian access to the site, but also generates bicycle traffic that has the potential to compromise the safety of other Preserve users. From the perspective of The Loop, the Preserve provides a convenient and attractive point of access for individuals who want to use the Loop’s shared-use pathway. El Rio Neighborhood Park The 1.3 acre El Rio Neighborhood Park is much smaller than would typically be accepted as a part of Marana’s municipal park system but in this instance the park functions not just as a small neighborhood recreation area, but as an important node or rest stop along the Loop. When the disc golf course is constructed, it will also serve as a gateway for the disc golf facility. (Specific improvements to the El Rio Neighborhood park are identified in the Developed Park Element of this master plan). 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-21 El Rio Preserve — Key Initiatives Important initiatives that will enhance the public benefits associated with the El Rio Preserve are: Complete Construction of CMID Water Supply Local residents and tourists from around the world come to the El Rio Preserve when there is sufficient water in the wetland to support the presence of aquatic and other bird species. Completion of the CMID water supply will enable the maintenance of a true year-round wetland. Design and Construct Preserve Trail System The existing viewing platform provides opportunities for birding along the south edge of the Preserve. A trail system that extends through and around the wetland will enhance opportunities for bird and wildlife observation. The design and construction of this trail system will allow for greater use and enjoyment of the Preserve. Construct New Parking Lot The existing 28 space parking lot near the wetland overlook will not support the number of visitors who will likely visit the wetland, use the disc golf course, or use the site for access to The Loop. Anticipating this growth, the Town recently acquired a 1.93 acre of land for the purpose of constructing a new parking lot. Building this parking lot and the associated entry drive will be an important step in the development of the overall El Rio Preserve site. Construct Disc Golf Course It has been several years since the original disc golf course was playable. Construction of the new course will reestablish this recreational opportunity for residents and visitors to the Marana community. It is recommended that the course be designed in accordance with Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) guidelines and standards and include a total of 27 holes. It is recommended that 18 of these holes be designed to be rated as a championship course with the remaining 9 holes designed for novice or less skilled players. Make Improvements to the Loop User safety and enjoyment of the section of The Loop extending through the El Rio Preserve site should be given highest priority. Recommended improvements that will enhance user safety include the construction of a second path parallel to the existing paved shared -use pathway, the clear identification of crosswalks, the construction of overlook / gathering areas that will allow pedestrians to congregate off of the paved pathway, and the construction of a pedestrian bridge across an existing drainage channel to reduce congestion on a narrow portion of the shared-use pathway. The installation of trees and other plants along the subject section of The Loop is also recommended to transform a somewhat barren paved pathway into an attractive and comfortable linear park. Make Improvements to El Rio Neighborhood Park The installation of a ramada to serve as a gathering and rest area for users of the park, the Loop, and the disc golf course is recommended for the El Rio Neighborhood Park. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element 9-22 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Continue Collaborations related to Los Morteros Cultural Resource Conservation Area The adjacent Los Morteros Cultural Resource Conservation Area is visited by many individuals who visit the El Rio Preserve. It is recommended that the Town continue to collaborate with Pima County, the owner and manager of the Los Morteros site, to develop programs and facilities that support visitation to both locations. El Rio Preserve — Recommended Action Items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Complete construction and initial operational testing of CMID water supply CMID water will be required to ensure year- round wetland conditions Very High Design and construct trail system within and in the vicinity of the wetland area Provide opportunities for birding / wildlife observation in a controlled and appropriate manner. Very High Construct new parking lot Provide off-street parking for additional visitors to Preserve, the disc golf course, and The Loop High Construct designated crosswalk(s) near new parking lot Enhance safety in area where pedestrians will be crossing shared-use pathway used by higher speed bicyclists. High Design disc golf course Create a high-quality course that meets PDGA standards and that is interesting and safe for course users and for users of The Loop High Construct disc golf course Follow-through on commitment to disc golf users and organizations and complete requirements of IGA between Town and Pima County High Construct new path parallel to The Loop shared-use pathway Enhance safety by providing a corridor for bicycle and a corridor for pedestrians and other users High Construct bicycle / pedestrian bridge at drainage channel Enhance safety at location where the existing shared-use pathway is on narrow bicycle / pedestrian bridge Medium Construct overlook areas along the E-W section of The Loop Enhance safety by providing space for users to view Preserve from vantage point off of the paved shared-use pathway Medium Install planting and irrigation system along E-W and N-S sections of The Loop Enhance visual quality, habitat value, and user comfort by providing native trees for shade Medium Install ramada at El Rio Neighborhood Park Create a rest stop for users of the Loop and a gathering area for users of the disc golf course Medium 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-23 Figure 9-F El Rio Preserve and Disc Golf Course Map 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-25 Northwest Nature Park — Current Conditions Project Status The Northwest Nature Park is associated with the Town’s reclaimed wastewater recharge project. This project was under construction as of the date of this master plan. When completed, the constructed basins will receive A+ treated water from the Town’s wastewater treatment facility (the highest class of reclaimed water as determined by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality). This water will be discharged into the basins and allowed to infiltrate back into the underlying aquifer. As the treated water infiltrates, perennial bodies of surface water will be created. Other planned improvements at the site include the construction of walkway and paths around the recharge basins and the planting of riparian plant species. This combination of water and riparian vegetation will expand the network of ponds and basins that support diverse populations of birds and other wildlife species along the Santa Cruz River. The walkways and paths will allow the public to engage in birding, wildlife observation, and similar recreational activities. Figure 9-G – Northwest Nature Park Conceptual Development Plan Northwest Nature Park — Key Initiatives Collaboration with the Town of Marana Water and Wastewater Department The construction of the recharge basins is being coordinated and funded by the Town’s Water and Wastewater Department. It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Department provide guidance related to the development of habitat features and public use facilities so as to maximize the project’s benefits to both wildlife and future recreational users. Northwest Nature Park — Recommended Action Items Proposed Improvement Justification Priority Complete installation of restoration plantings around recharge basins Plantings will be needed to make the basins attractive to aquatic birds and other wildlife species High Complete construction of visitor parking area Provide safe and attractive location for public access Medium Complete construction of pathways and trails Provide accessible routes for public use and enjoyment of the area Medium 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element 9-26 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Contributing Elements — Current Conditions The Town of Marana natural resource park and preserve system benefits from the presence of other natural resource areas and corridors within the Town and near the Town’s boundaries. To the greatest extent feasible, appropriate efforts should be made to maintain and enhance the natural corridors that connect these areas. Some of the contributing elements are as follows: The Santa Cruz River The Santa Cruz River is the primary watercourse that extends through both the Town of Marana and the Tucson metropolitan area. The riparian habitat present along the corridor is enhanced by the discharge of reclaimed water into the channel from the Ina Road wastewater reclamation facility, south of the Town’s boundary. This water source creates a lush riparian area adjacent to Crossroads at Silverbell Park. Less dense, but important riparian habitats extend the full length of the river corridor within the Town. The Town of Marana was also a participant in the Tres Rios del Norte Environmental Restoration Feasibility Study. The study was undertaken to determine the feasibility of providing habitat restoration along an 18 mile stretch of the Santa Cruz River between Prince Road and Sanders Road. Other participants in this study included the City of Tucson, the Pima County Regional Flood Control District, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The study analyzed the potential to restore native riparian vegetation along the river channel and how to incorporate recreational features along the river. The Tortolita Fan The Tortolita Fan is a biologically diverse alluvial fan area that extends out from the southwest portions of the Tortolita Mountains covering several square miles. Much of the land within the Tortolita Fan is owned by the Arizona State Land Department. The Tortolita Preserve is within this area, but the Tortolita Fan extends beyond the Preserve south to Tangerine Road and west to the Central Arizona Project (CAP) canal. The Make Marana 2040 General Plan acknowledges the sensitivity of this area and calls for rural residential development and low-density residential development in this location. If and when developed, there will be opportunities to protect the braided drainageways, the washes, and the other resources present. Saguaro National Park Tucson Mountain District Saguaro National Park (Tucson Mountain District) is a 24,000-acre unit of the National Park System that encompasses the northern portions of the Tucson Mountains south of the Town of Marana. The Park showcases magnificent stands of Saguaro cacti and attracts visitors from around the world. The National Park Service controls access to the park and manages the site’s resources. Ironwood Forest National Monument The Ironwood National Monument is a 129,000-acre national monument that encompasses portions of the Silverbell, Waterman, and Sawtooth mountain ranges west of the Town of Marana. The monument is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, primitive camping, equestrian trail riding, birding, and wildlife observation. Like the National Park, the Town of Marana does not have a role in the management of the monument but benefits from its presence as it preserves a large expanse of natural open space and important biological resources. 9 Natural Resource Park & Preserve Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 9-27 Los Morteros Cultural Resource Conservation Area The Los Morteros Cultural Resource Conservation Area encompasses approximately 100 acres and is the site of a large Native American village inhabited between about 850 and 1300. The area was named for the many bedrock mortars present on the site. The site is managed by Pima County and public access to the site is allowed. In addition to the cultural resources present, the land will remain as natural open space in perpetuity contributing to the Town’s natural open space system. Las Capas Cultural Resource Conservation Area This cultural resource site is located near the southern boundary of the Town within Pima County’s Ina Road Wastewater Reclamation Facility. It contains the remains of old canals and structures dating to 1,200 to 800 BC and associated with the early agricultural period in the Tucson basin. While not open for general public use, this site will be preserved and retained as undeveloped open space. Contributing Elements — Key Initiatives Key initiatives related to elements that contribute to the Town’s natural resource park and preserve system are as follows: Participate in the Implementation of the Tres Rios del Norte Plan The implementation of the recommendations included in the Tres Rios del Norte Environmental Restoration project will be coordinated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as funding becomes available. It is recommended that the Town of Marana continue to partner with the Corps and other project partners to incrementally improve environmental conditions along the Santa Cruz River corridor. Participate in other Natural Open Space Planning Efforts Over the life of this master plan, it is likely that surrounding jurisdictions will undertake planning efforts related to the preservation and enhancement of natural open space. It is recommended that the Town participate in these efforts whenever appropriate with the goal of enhancing the Town’s natural open space by seeking to integrate it with preserved natural open space designated by others. 10 Recreation Program Element 1 RECREATION PROGRAM ELEMENT 0 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-1 Introduction The Town of Marana offers a wide range of recreation and enrichment programs and these programs are highly valued by the community. Respondents to the on-line survey gave the existing program offerings high marks with 81.5% indicating that they considered the programs to be Good, Very Good, or Excellent. (See Section 3, Public Engagement). While there is high regard for the current program offerings, the public also expressed a keen interest in expanding the scope of the programs available. Expanding the scope of programs in the areas of youth sports, adult sports, outdoor recreation, fitness, fun runs / races, swimming / aquatics, youth programs, and community events were given medium or high priority by more than 75% of the on-line survey respondents. Recreation Program and Services Assessment The following is an assessment and inventory of current recreation programs and services that are offered by the Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department. • The Parks and Recreation Department focuses the majority of its programming efforts on youth, and senior age groups. This is a common demographic emphasis for public parks and recreation agencies. There is less programming available for adults. • The level and variety of recreation programming that is offered is tied to the availability of facilities to support these activities. With limited indoor recreation amenities, programs that require this setting are heavily impacted. • 60% of the programs that are offered are provided by contract service providers utilizing Department facilities or they occur at the contractors’ facility. The contract provider receives 75% of gross and the Town 25%. The average percentage of revenue for recreation agencies nationally is 30%. • Most of the youth team sports are provided by youth sports organizations that are in the community. • Recreation programming is increasing by 17% - 18% a year which is a very high rate of growth. For many recreation agencies having a growth rate of 5% to 10% would be considered aggressive. • Recreation programs and services are planned and delivered through a variety of indoor and outdoor facilities including schools and non-recreation-based Town facilities. • The Department has limited record keeping regarding recreation programs and services. While raw information is gathered through the ActiveNet registration software system, having this data in a summary form for review and comparisons with previous years is needed. This is a critical administrative function that provides valuable data to evaluate programs and services. • There is a listing of Town fees for recreation programs, facilities, services, and rentals but there is not a comprehensive fee policy. • The Town has a use agreement with the Marana Unified School District that allows for utilization of school facilities for recreation purposes. However, the Town is second priority to the schools for use and this restricts the availability of facilities and the ability to provide a consistent level of recreation programming. 10 Recreation Program Element 10-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) • The Department has integrated some social service initiatives into its service offerings, especially for seniors, but this is not a major area of focus currently. Nationally, parks and recreation agencies have become much more active in providing social services to their communities as a form of recreation. Programming Inventory by Classifications The following is a classification of current Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department, recreation programs and services by categories commonly found in parks and recreation agencies nationally and those that fit with the organization of programs by the Department. Programs are listed by general titles based on a review of class and program offerings for calendar year 2019. (Note: Not all programs that are being offered may be represented in this listing). Area Focus Examples of General Programs Sports Youth Tennis Lessons, Golf Lessons, Basketball Clinic, Youth Football Clinic, Pee Wee Soccer, Speed & Agility Clinic, Itty Bitty Open (golf), Mini Me-Sports Edition, Sports Summer Camps, Summer Cheer Camp, Fall Cheer Camp, Lacrosse Camp, Flag Football League, Pee Wee Sports Camp, Volleyball Clinic, Challenger International Soccer Camp Adult Coed Softball League, Tennis Lessons, Pickleball League, Men’s Basketball League, Pickleball Lessons, Cornhole League, Cornhole Tournament Fitness/ Wellness Youth Martial Arts, Speed and Agility Training, Boxing Bootcamp Adult Wellness Seminars, Walking Club, Dance Fit Fun, Yoga in the Park, Yoga, Functional Fitness Cultural Arts Youth Tots & Me Story Art Class, Create with a Beat Art Day Camps, Art & Literacy Club Adult Music Workshops, Paint Nights in the Park, Adult Community Musical Theater, Line Dancing, Art of Photography, How to Use Your Digital Camera, Snapseed for Smartphone Photo Editing, Digital Photography Editing Youth Programs Youth Park & Stroll-Playground Explorer Club, Preschool Camps, STREAM After School Club, Marana Police Kids Academy 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-3 (Programming Inventory by Classifications continued) Area Focus Examples of General Programs Aquatics Youth Swim Lessons, Swim the Cruz: Lap Swim Challenge, American Red Cross: Jr. Lifeguarding, Sensory Splash Adult American Red Cross: Lifeguard Certification Review, Lifeguard Certification, Swim the Cruz: Lap Swim Challenge, CPR/AED/First Aid Special Needs Youth N/A Adult N/A Special Events Egg-Nog Jog, Move Across 2 Ranges Hike Challenge, Cape Chase Adventure Fun Run, Marana Mother’s Day Run, Marana Meltdown: Mountain Bike Time Trial, Taste the Desert, Council Connections, Marana Bluegrass & Acoustic Music Festival, Marana Art Expo, Marana Founder’s Day, Music in Marana Concert Series, Kids to Park Day, Movies in Marana, Marana Splash N’ Dash Aquathon, Doggy Paddle Pool Party, Star Spangled Spectacular, Dirt Dash at the Wild Burro, Turkey Trot, El Tour De Tucson, Marana Fall Festival, Marana Holiday Festival & Christmas Tree Lighting, Winter Waterland Light Show & Cocoa Outdoor Recreation Youth Nature to You-Garden Education Series, Guided Horseback Rides, Guided Hikes in the Tortolitas Trails, Camping Under the Stars, Summer Horse Camp, Fall Horse Camp, Guided Birding Tours, Conversations from the Desert Adult Nature to You-Make & Take Garden Classes, Guided Horseback Rides, Guided Hikes in the Tortolitas Trails, Camping Under the Stars, Headlight Hike, Tree Trimming Education Camp, Guided Birding Tours, Full Moon Wander, Conversations from the Desert, Hike for Hops, Marana Meltdown Mountain Bike Time Trial 10 Recreation Program Element 10-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) (Programming Inventory by Classifications continued) Area Focus Examples of General Programs Seniors Senior Adventure Trips, Bunco, Senior Water Aerobics, Aerobics, Bone Builders, Ping Pong Open Play, Strengthening Our Seniors, Bodies in Motion, Line Dancing, Tai Chi, Yoga, Zumba, Medicare Enrollment Seminar, Bingo, Mah Jong, Chess, Canasta, Mexican Train, Crafting for a Cause, Knit & Crochet with Joy, Hawaiian Quilting, Quilting Club Teens Marana Police Teen Academy, American Red Cross: Babysitter’s Training, Paint Night in the Park, Teen Extreme Day Camp, Fall Horse Camp Self-Directed Youth Open Swim, Open Gym, Splash Pad Open Play Adult Open Gym Volleyball, Open Gym Basketball, Open Gym Pickleball, Open Swim, Lap Swim Program Area Definitions Sports: Team and individual sports including camps, clinics, and tournaments. Also, can include adventure/non-traditional sports. Fitness/Wellness: Group fitness classes, personal training, education, and nutrition. Cultural Arts: Performing arts classes, visual arts classes, music/video production and arts events. Youth Programs: Before and after school programs, summer/school break camps, and preschool, language programs, tutoring, science (STEM) classes and computer coding can also be part of this. Aquatics: Learn to swim classes, aqua exercise classes, competitive swimming/diving, SCUBA, and other programs (synchro, water polo, etc.). Special Needs: Programs for the physically and mentally impaired. Also, inclusion programs. Special Events: Town wide special events that are conducted throughout the year. Outdoor Recreation: Environmental education, hiking, camping, kayaking, and other activities. Seniors: Programs and services that are dedicated to serving the needs of seniors. This can include all of the activity areas noted above (except Youth) plus social service functions. Teens: Programs and services that are focused on serving the needs of teens. This can include all of the activity areas noted above (except seniors). Self-Directed: This includes the opportunities for individuals to recreate on their own. This can include activities such as open gym, tennis, and lap/recreational swimming. Although not an organized program, time and space must be allocated for this purpose. 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-5 Programming Areas by Level of Emphasis Program areas that are the strength of the Department include: • Youth Sports • Special Events-including races • Outdoor Recreation • Seniors Program areas that are a moderate focus for the Department include: • Cultural Arts-focus on adults • Aquatics • Teens • Self-Directed Program areas that are relatively limited in the Department include: • Fitness/Wellness Programs and Services • Youth Programs-before & after school and camps • Special Needs • Adult Sports 10 Recreation Program Element 10-6 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Recreation Programs and Services Challenges Like most public recreation agencies, the Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department faces a significant number of challenges delivering recreation programs and services. The Department has the task of trying to meet an ever-increasing demand for recreation programs and services to a fast-growing population base in a cost effective and efficient manner. The demographics of the Town show a fast-growing community that was nearly 35,000 in 2010 and is now 50,000 in 2020. The estimated population by 2030 is projected to be 65,000 and there is significant land for future growth beyond this. The Town has a significant Hispanic population and household income levels are relatively high, allowing for more disposable income for recreation purposes. The population is slightly older with expectations for continued growth in this age cohort but also in the youth age groups. This all impacts the type and number of programs that will need to be offered in the future. Marana has three distinct geographic areas that each have different demographic characteristics that could impact the types of recreation programs and services that are provided by the Town. Northeast has approximately 11,000 residents, is older with the fewest number of children and the highest median household income levels. The Northwest subarea has the smallest population at 9,800 but could have the greatest population growth in the future. The population is the youngest and has the highest number of children compared to the other two subareas. The household income levels are lower than the other two areas. The South subarea is the most established and has a population of nearly 26,500. The median age is in the middle of the three subareas and so is the income levels. This makes it more difficult for the Department to provide programs and services equitably in all areas. The Department operates a number of recreation facilities that are utilized to deliver recreation services. This includes a small community center, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, athletic field complexes and a variety of trails and preserves. The Town has actually lost indoor space in the last few years with the closure of the small storefront facility in Continental Ranch. • Full-time staff is relatively small for the current number of facilities that are operated and programs that are offered. This is especially true considering the growth in recreation programs over the last few years. • The Department does not have an updated formal program plan to guide future program and service development. A minor assessment and plan were completed in 2016 that resulted in the strong growth in recreation programming in the last four years, with a focus on outdoor recreation and the race series. • Marketing efforts are relatively fragmented and there is not a department level staff position to direct the efforts. There also is not a parks and recreation marketing plan in place. The Department relies on the Town’s Communications Division for major outreach, but this limits other marketing efforts. 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-7 Other Providers of Recreation Programs and Services In addition to the Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department, there are a number of other providers of services. Other Cities and Towns: The Town of Oro Valley provides a number of recreation programs and services that are easily available to residents in Northeast Marana. The City of Tucson also has an extensive parks and recreation system, and this is accessible to South Marana residents. Pima County: The County has a variety of parks and other facilities that are available to residents of Marana including the Wade McLean Pool at Marana High School that has swimming lessons, open swim, lap swim and other programs. They also have the Pima County Sports Park and operate the Wheeler Taft Abbett Library that offers some recreation programs. The County provides a variety of recreation programs in addition to those listed above. Marana Unified School District: The District has a variety of indoor and outdoor facilities that can be utilized for community recreation purposes. The School District also provides the after -school programs at each of their elementary schools. Northwest YMCA: Although not located in Marana proper, this north Tucson YMCA serves the area with a variety of fitness, sports and aquatic programs and services. Youth Sports Organizations: There are a number of youth sports programs that are provided by community organizations and other providers in Marana. Adult Sports Organizations: There are also a few organizations in the greater Marana area that provide adult sports. These are primarily soccer and softball. Homeowner Associations (HOA’s): There are a number of HOA’s in Marana that have a variety of parks and recreation facilities including neighborhood parks, playgrounds, and pools (Continental Ranch HOA recreation center and pool). Very few of these actually offer recreation programs, however. Private Providers: There are a wide range of private recreation, arts, sports and fitness providers in the Marana area including private health clubs, dance and martial studios, arts studios, youth sports training facilities, and other facilities (Ritz Carlton). Faith Based Organizations: A few churches in the area have some recreation programs available to their congregations and the general public. These are limited in nature but still fill a role in the community. The vast majority of the other providers are located in the southern portion of the community with much lower numbers in the northeast and northwest. (Note: This is a representative list of other recreation, sports, cultural arts and fitness program and service providers in Marana. This is not meant to be a total accounting of all providers. Their role in providing these services both now and in the future must be recognized and considered when the Department establishes its future program direction and plan). 10 Recreation Program Element 10-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Future Recreation Program Needs This section examines the future needs for recreation programs and services in the Town of Marana. The future direction of recreation programming is based on the assessment of existing Town recreation programs and services, the presence of other providers, and public input that was gathered as part of the master plan process. The following program areas were identified through public input (primarily the telephone and on-line surveys) as areas of focus, in priority order, in the coming years: • Youth Sports • Youth Programs • Outdoor Recreation • Community/Special Events • Adult Sports/Wellness • Fitness Programs • Aquatics As has been noted, the major focus of recreation programming is currently on youth and seniors. However, increasing programming for other age groups including, adults, teens, as well as the family unit should be a future goal if the Department is going to be more comprehensive in its offerings. The following are specific future recommendations for the major program areas noted above. These recommendations take into consideration the public input priorities, the assessment of existing recreation programs and services and the role of other providers. Youth Sports Even with a number of youth sports organizations in the area taking on the responsibility for many organized youth team sports activities, the Parks and Recreation Department will need to continue to have a strong role in the future. There may also be opportunities to expand youth sports camps and clinics to support sports run by other organizations. The Town also has programming available in individual and lifetime sports such as tennis and golf. However, it will probably be necessary to expand these types of programs in concert with other community organizations that focus on lifetime sports. In addition, the Department may need to increase the focus on the development of adventure sports (skateboarding, climbing, Ultimate Frisbee, BMX, etc.). Providing E- sports opportunities should also be considered. Youth Sports — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will have responsibility for expanding youth sports offerings in the community with a focus on instruction and recreational level of competition. Some of the programming in this area should continue to be offered by other organizations. This is especially true for competitive team sports programs. This effort will require additional athletic fields and gym spaces. 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-9 Adult Sports The Town is a provider of limited adult sports leagues, primarily in basketball, softball, and individual sports such as pickleball and tennis. There may need to be an increased emphasis in this area in the future. Designating certain facilities or time periods for adult sports may be necessary if greater focus is going to be placed on this program area. There may also need to be a greater concentration on developing more individual and adventure sports. Adult Sports — Anticipated Town Role: The Town should focus its future efforts primarily on pickleball, and other individual sports. Most other team sports leagues and tournaments should continue to be the responsibility of other community-based organizations or private providers. Fitness / Wellness Without a doubt, this is one of the greatest areas of growth in public recreation programming. With a society that has an increasing awareness of the benefits of good health and a realization that obesity (especially among children) is a major risk for Americans, there is a much higher demand for programming in this area. The Department currently has very limited fitness programming due to the lack of space dedicated to this function and this area (large group exercise rooms, fitness/yoga studios, teaching kitchens, and weight/cardio areas). If the Department is going to increase this type of programming it will likely require additional space designed for this purpose and/or partnerships with other providers. The Department should emphasize the importance of integrating wellness initiatives into other program areas (seniors, youth, etc.) as well. Fitness / Wellness — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will need to have an active role in providing more fitness/wellness opportunities. It will also be important that other organizations (public and private) provide increased services as well through partnerships with the Town. There should be an emphasis on group exercise classes, wellness education, and functional training opportunities for adults as well as youth and seniors. Cultural Arts This is currently a moderate area of focus for the Department that centers on adults, and it is anticipated that this will continue at the same level into the future. Continuing to emphasize both visual and performing arts will be important. Coordinating efforts with other community organizations that have a focus on the arts could help grow these efforts and provide opportunities for youth. Cultural Arts — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will not have a strong role in expanding cultural arts programs. It should also be anticipated that most new programming will be offered by other organizations. 10 Recreation Program Element 10-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Youth Programs Currently the Department’s focus is primarily in the preschool area and some limited education- based programs for school age youth. After school programming is handled by the School District but there are very few summer camps and school break camps being offered by the Town. It is anticipated that the demand will continue to grow for youth programming in the future. Youth Programs - Anticipated Town Role: The Town should significantly increase its role in youth programming. This should include a focus on specialty summer and school break camps as well as more general special interest activities. It is anticipated that the School District will continue to be the primary provider of after school programs. Aquatics With an existing outdoor pool, the Department will need to continue to stress aquatic programming, especially learn to swim classes for children, as a primary program area. Programming needs to be expanded to include more aqua exercise programs and other aquatic based activities including more non-traditional uses such as triathlon training. However, the existing pool is older and not attractive to most users and uses. A new aquatic center would have much higher program expectations. Aquatics — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will need to continue to expand its offerings of aquatic programs as the operator of an existing pool or new aquatic facility. Some specialized programming (scuba, masters, youth swim teams) should be operated by others with a rental fee paid to the Town. Special Needs The Department does not currently offer special needs programming for youth or adults. It is difficult for most recreation agencies to have a broad special needs program on their own. As a result, many departments in a region will often band together to provide these services in a more cost-effective manner. The Department should consider partnering with other organizations or neighboring communities for special needs programming. Special Needs — Anticipated Town Role: Providing some level of programming in this area will be critical for the future but this should be accomplished through a partnership with other organizations or neighboring communities. 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-11 Special Events The Parks and Recreation Department offers a considerable number of community-wide special events and races and also has some smaller events it provides as well. In addition, the Town permits a number of other special events that are provided by other organizations. Without additional resources, it is not anticipated that the Town will be increasing the number of special events it provides and other community groups should be encouraged to be the primary organizers of as many new community wide events as possible. Special Events — Anticipated Town Role: The Town should limit the number of additional special events and other community groups, or entities should be encouraged to be the organizers of these events. Parks and Recreation staff should also not be expected to be the manpower behind other permitted events taking place in the Town as this takes time away from other programs. Outdoor Recreation There currently is a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation activities based on the presence of the Tortolita Preserve and Mountain Park as well as El Rio Preserve and an extensive trail network. As a result, outdoor recreation will continue to see emphasis in the future but with growth in more broad- based programming in this program area should be anticipated. Outdoor Recreation — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will have an active role in expanding outdoor recreation offerings but partnering with other organizations for more specialized programs and activities should be anticipated as well. 10 Recreation Program Element 10-12 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Seniors The Parks and Recreation Department has an existing senior program that is administered out of the Community Center. As a result, the Department will need to continue to take an active role with this age group. The center has a focus on passive senior pursuits as well as some limited fitness activities. In the future there will need to be an even greater emphasis on active recreation pursuits and appealing to the younger senior market. Seniors — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will need to have a strong role in expanding senior activity offerings. Only a small level of increased programming is anticipated to come from other organizations. Teens There are a number of programs offered in this area. In the future additional services and programs will likely need to be targeted to this age group. It is anticipated that these services will need to be offered by both the Town and other providers with experience with this age group. Teens — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will only have a relatively small role in expanding teen programs and services. Most new programming will be offered by other organizations. Self-Directed Even though these types of activities are not formal programs they do require that the Department provide the opportunities and time in facilities for this to occur. With a community center, pool, and other facilities, self-directed activities will need to remain as a significant program area. Self-Directed — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will need to continue to provide opportunities for self-directed activities to occur and with an expanding population base there will need to be a measurable expansion of these opportunities. 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-13 Social Services This is not currently a service category for the Department and with the generally higher income levels in the community, the need for these types of services in the future may be less. However, the Department will need to be prepared to integrate social services across all program areas when necessary and prudent. Social Services — Anticipated Town Role: The Town will have a very minor role in social service offerings in the future. Any new services should be offered by other organizations. Summary of Future Recreation Programs and Role of the Town Significant Increased Town Role Small Increased Town Role Limited Town Role Youth Sports Adult Sports Special Needs Youth Programs Cultural Arts Social Services Outdoor Recreation Special Events Fitness/Wellness Self-Directed Seniors Teens Aquatics Programming Strategies To ensure that recreation programming reaches its full potential the following strategies should be undertaken: Strategy 1: Provide additional framework for providing recreation programs and services to the citizens of Marana. • Establish a philosophy and plan for the delivery of recreation services to the community for the next 10 years. o Establish a program plan to guide the Department over the next 5-10 years. Identify the priorities for program development, the responsible staff member, and the required resources. o Determine the role of other organizations and recreation providers in the area. o Clearly identify areas of programmatic responsibility to ensure that there is not overlap in resource allocation. • Establish clear staffing and operational budget requirements to support the program plan. • Recommend changes and upgrades to facilities to enable the program plan to flourish. o New community center o New aquatic center o Additional athletic fields • Develop a more comprehensive fee policy to guide the fee setting process for programs as well as facilities. o Tier programs by cost recovery categories o Benchmark fees with other agencies • Increase the percentage paid by contract instructors to the Town from 25% to 30%. 10 Recreation Program Element 10-14 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Strategy 2: Continue to develop a broad range of recreation programs and services to serve the needs of the community. • Develop an implementation plan for the programming changes that have been recommended. The plan should include specific priorities, a timeline for development, the responsible staff and the financial resources that are necessary. • Track program trends on a regional and national basis to ensure that program offerings are current and reflect the opportunities that are available. • Emphasize programming that: o Responds to the three different geographic areas of the community o Has opportunities for each different age group o Has a focus on multigenerational and intergenerational opportunities o Provides culturally diverse programming o Is available on weekends as well as during the week. • Develop basic virtual programs across as many program areas as possible. • Establish and grow partnerships with other organizations and entities to develop and expand recreation programs. o Have a memorandum of understanding or contract to formalize the relationship. Strategy 3: Enhance administrative procedures, record keeping and performance measures for recreation programs and services. • Establish stronger administrative procedures for recreation programming. o Continue the tracking of performance measures by analyzing and summarizing all of the following on an annual basis. ▪ Rates of fill for programs. ▪ Participation numbers by major program area and comparisons to past years/seasons. ▪ Rate of program cancellations. ▪ Financial performance including cost per participant. ▪ Evaluations from participants o Ensure that every new program or service has a program proposal form to determine the direct cost of offering the activity as well as the minimum number of registrants needed to conduct the program. This proposal form should also evaluate the need for the program, its market focus, and the ability to support the program plan and priorities of the Department. o Follow up when each program or service is completed, with a program report that itemizes the exact cost and revenues that were generated by the program and the number of individuals served. This will determine if the program or service met its financial goals and also its service goals. o Continue to conduct a lifecycle analysis for major activities where program registrations by interest area are tracked and reviewed on a seasonal basis. Programs are currently slotted into the following categories: ▪ Green – programs that continue to build in popularity and receive positive review ratings. ▪ Yellow – programs that are dropping in popularity and/or receive negative review ratings. ▪ Red – programs from the Yellow category that are eliminated after two consecutive failing seasons. 10 Recreation Program Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 10-15 o Continue to determine what programs and services should be offered in -house vs. contracted based on the following criteria: ▪ Financial requirements ▪ Resources and expertise available in-house ▪ Town facility availability • Develop a comprehensive marketing plan for the Department with an emphasis on programs and services. o Establish a visionary 5-year plan as well as a very specific yearly plan. ▪ Outline areas of focus ▪ Demographic markets and ethnic groups ▪ Specific marketing tools and tasks ▪ The responsible staff member for implementation ▪ Financial resources that are required ▪ A thorough evaluation process o Be a “clearinghouse” for recreation programs and services provided by others. ▪ Promotion of their activities ▪ Coordinating of some programs ▪ Scheduling of facilities o Check-in with the community on a regular basis to determine satisfaction with current programs and services and provide directions for the future. This could include: ▪ On-line surveys ▪ Social media ▪ Focus groups ▪ User group interviews • Review and update the existing athletic field use policy to a more comprehensive document that outlines eligibility requirements, field scheduling priorities, and fees for use. This should also identify how new sports organizations are accommodated in the future, especially when new fields become available. 11 Department Organization Element https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54cc191ce4b0f886f4762582/1518463928615- 4W7CR4OZO7QADICRHVU1/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kMnHRrpWSlSCB9XabjgyantZw- zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWQUxwkmyExglNqGp0IvTJZUJFbgE- 7XRK3dMEBRBhUpz4FkPJA585QYBg9EjPvRpkIxxB_SdP_xzqtxyFDizV5aadH9FfX0OATazAJGndjd8/166742 10905_9138d1a931_z.jpg?format=750w 1 DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION ELEMENT 1 11 Department Organization Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 11-1 Introduction The effective and efficient delivery of parks and recreation services requires a dedicated group of professionals that are organized to manage the many and diverse responsibilities of the Department. In this section of the Master Plan report, the current organization of the Department is reviewed, and recommendations are provided that will allow the Department to grow with the community over the next decade. Organizational Assessment The following is an assessment of the organization the Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department. Information in this section was gathered through a series of staff interviews, facility and park tours, and a review of information and documents supplied by the Town. The Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for the recreation programs and services that are delivered in the community, the management of recreation facilities, and the maintenance of parks. The Public Works Department handles the maintenance of all indoor facilities as well as right of ways and medians. The existing organizational structure is typical of many parks and recreation agencies in similar sized communities with similar assets. 11 Department Organization Element 11-2 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) General Department Assessment The following are general comments regarding the organization and staffing of the Parks and Recreation Department. • The Department has an effective organizational structure that covers recreation and park maintenance. • There is administrative staff for finance and performance measurements. • The Department does not have the benefit of a dedicated marketing staff. • There is not a park planner or project manager on staff. If parks or facilities are going to be extensively renovated or new amenities developed, the need for this type of position will be more acute. • All job descriptions for full-time and part-time staff should be updated to adequately reflect the actual duties of each position. • Overall, full-time recreation staff is small for the number of facilities and programs that are offered and additional park maintenance staff is necessary if the two shifts o f work are going to be maintained and there is going to be adequate weekend coverage. 11 Department Organization Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 11-3 Specific Division Assessment Administration: The Department is organized into two basic divisions, parks and recreation, as well as a number of other management positions. The management staff consists of the Director, Deputy Director, the Superintendent for Recreation, and the Superintendent for Parks. There is also an Asset Coordinator that handles information and data connected with parks and recreation facilities and their operation and maintenance, and an Executive Assistant that deals with department wide human relations and finance issues, including the budget. Recreation: This division is responsible for recreation programs and services as well as the management of key facilities such as the Community Center and the Marana Pool. There is a Superintendent that oversees Recreation and four Supervisors that divide up responsibilities for different program areas and facilities. There is also a Business Supervisor that handles program registrations, rentals, and other functions. Below this level are a series of Recreation Programmers, and Customer Service Clerks. There are also a substantial number of part -time staff, Recreation Aides, below these positions. One of the key areas in Recreation is in the Outdoor Recreation classification where there are two maintenance staff responsible for trails maintenance at the Tortolita Preserve and at Tortolita Mountain Park. Parks: Parks is responsible for general park maintenance. There is a Superintendent that oversees the division and four Supervisors. Below these positions are a series of Maintenance Associates that handle various maintenance functions throughout the community. This staffing plan is augmented by the use of prison inmate laborers that account for approximately 600 hours of work a week. This requires an extra level of supervision and record keeping and is subject to interruption due to prison lock downs and other factors. General park maintenance is divided somewhat by regions of the community but also by the type of park or facility with specialists for irrigation. Most all work is done by Town staff with very few functions being contracted. There are two maintenance shifts on weekdays (day and afternoon/evening) as well as two reduced staffed shifts on the weekends. This helps to cover on-going maintenance requirements effectively without service gaps. However, staffing is reportedly three Maintenance Associates short to provide the level of service required. The division is also responsible for maintaining Town athletic fields as well as some school district fields but there is not a dedicated athletic fields maintenance crew. Staff also implement some smaller construction and special projects. Indoor facility maintenance is the responsibility of Public Works and most of the custodial functions are contracted out. It is expected that rights of way and medians maintenance will be moved over from Public Works in 2021. This will result in a number of additional maintenance positions being added to Parks as well as a new Supervisor position. 11 Department Organization Element 11-4 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Future Organizational Needs While the Parks and Recreation Department has a strong organizational structure in place, with the expectations for continued growth in programs and services as well as parks and facilities; there will need to be additions of staff and some possible changes to the current structure. Organizational Structure Goals • Create an organizational structure that has the ability to grow with the Department. • Provide strong administration of the Department through resource allocation, performance tracking, and community interface. • Support an increase in the number of recreation programs and services that are offered. • Adequately maintain the existing parks and athletic fields and support the addition of new parks and recreation facilities. It is recommended that the Department be formally organized into three divisions. These would include Administration, Recreation, and Parks. Administration: This division would be responsible for the administration of the department, long range planning, budgeting, data/metrics tracking, and business services. This would include the following existing full-time positions: • Parks and Recreation Director • Deputy Director • Executive Assistant • Assets Coordinator • Business Services Supervisor – from Recreation • Customer Service Clerks – from Recreation Possible Future Positions • Marketing Coordinator • Parks/Project Planner • Administrative Assistant Recreation: This division would continue to be responsible for the provision of recreation programs and services as well as the management of facilities (Community Center, Aquatic Facility, etc.). However, most of the existing business functions would move to Administration. This division would include the following existing full-time positions: • Recreation Superintendent • Recreation Supervisor (4) • Recreation Programmer (3) • Recreation Aides • Maintenance Associates • Head Lifeguard • Part-time staff 11 Department Organization Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 11-5 Possible Future Positions • Community Center Manager – New Community Center • Aquatics Supervisor – New Aquatic Center (Year-round operation) • Head Lifeguard - New Aquatic Center (Year-round operation) • Aquatics Maintenance Associate - New Aquatic Center (Year-round operation) • Fitness/Wellness Programmer – New Community Center • General Activities Programmer – New Community Center • Sports Programmer • Maintenance Associate III – New Community Center • Maintenance Associate (2) – New Community Center • Customer Service Clerk (2) – New Community Center • Youth Camps & Programs Programmer • Natural Resources/Outdoor Recreation Supervisor • Part-time staff for new programs, aquatic center, and recreation center Parks: This division would continue to be responsible for all park maintenance as well as rights-of-way and medians. Rights-of-way and medians should be its own area within the division and if a new sports park and/or event park is constructed, it will require additional staff to maintain these facilities. With the sports field complex, serious consideration should be given to establishing an athletic fields maintenance crew for all fields in the community (including some school district fields). As more parks and facilities are developed there should be three geographic regions established in the community with a Supervisor assigned to each area. Tasks such as irrigation, tree care, chemical spraying, etc. should be completed by Town wide specialty crews. The Town will also need to determine if they want to start a park ranger program and this would need to be a separate area within Parks with a Supervisor and rangers. Parks would include the following existing full -time positions: • Parks Superintendent • Park Maintenance Supervisor (3) • Rights-of-Way / Medians Supervisor • Maintenance Associate III (10) • Maintenance Associate II (2) • Maintenance Associate I (6) • Irrigation Control Technician (2) Possible Future Positions • Maintenance Associate III – New Sport Field Complex • Maintenance Associate I (2) – New Sports Field Complex • Maintenance Associate III (2) – Two new District Parks • Maintenance Associate I (4) –Two new District Parks • Maintenance Associate I (3) – Expanded Parks and Trails • Arborist • Maintenance Mechanic • Park Ranger Supervisor – Start of Park Ranger Program • Park Ranger (2-3) - Start of Park Ranger Program 11 Department Organization Element 11-6 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) When Rights-of-Way and Medians moves over to Parks, there should be the addition of the following positions (transferred from Public Works). • ROW-Medians Supervisor • Maintenance Associate (5) Other Considerations • The Recreation Division has a large number of staff that are Certified Pool Operators (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operators (AFO) for the aquatic center and these certifications should be retained. • There are a limited number of Certified Playground Safety Inspectors (CPSI) in the Parks Division and this should be increased by another two positions if additional parks and playgrounds are developed. • The Parks Department is highly dependent on the use of prison inmate labor and this may not be sustainable over time. Planning for possible utilization of other full-time or seasonal staff may be necessary. • At present, the Parks Department contracts out very few maintenance tasks. In the future it may be important to complete an analysis of what other possible services or tasks might be more cost effective to contract out. 11 Department Organization Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 11-7 Budget & Operations The following is a basic assessment of current budgeting for parks and recreation as well as the operations of the Department. There are also recommendations for the future. Budget The Department currently has a total of six budget accounts that are in the following categories: • Administration • Sports • Parks Maintenance • Special Interest Programming • Aquatics • Outdoor Recreation These accounts cover the major areas of operation within the Department. However, with a commitment to cost center accounting there may need to be additional accounts set-up to track major expenditures and corresponding revenues. This could include: Recreation • Sports Park • Recreation Center • Fitness/Wellness programming • Youth Camps & Programs Parks • Right of Way and Median Maintenance when this moves to Parks • Park Rangers Other Considerations • It will be important to continue to link budget expenditure accounts with revenues so that basic cost recovery calculations are possible. There is a need to update the current fee policy to a more comprehensive document that articulates the actual methodology for determining fees and establishes a continuum for fee setting based on cost recovery goals and the appropriate slotting of programs. There also needs to be a well - established scholarship program in place for those individuals that cannot afford the fees. • Continue to develop 5-year CIP budget with breakdowns for major park and facility areas. • Critical to the long-term success of the Department is a commitment to staff training and certification. Developing a formal annual training program is essential. 11 Department Organization Element 11-8 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) Operations Policies and Procedures The Department generally has acceptable operations policies and procedures in place for most aspects of the operations and maintenance of parks and recreation facilities. Recommendations for the enhancement of these policies and procedures include: Administration • The Department needs to make a commitment to updating the basic policies and procedures of the organization including staff/supervisor policies, financial transactions, customer service and safety and security. • There should be a comprehensive, staff and operations manual for the Department based on general operations requirements of the Town in general. • It is critical that the Department develop a continuity plan that covers possible int erruptions of operations from natural disasters, pandemics, terrorist acts or other conditions. This needs to outline a process for maintaining basic services associated with maintenance and operations of parks, recreation facilities, trails, and natural areas, as well as recreation programs and services. • A comprehensive safety and security plan needs to be in place for the Department as well as an emergency action plan that includes a specific plan for each major park/recreation facility in the Town. • The Department should establish goals and metrics for social equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility for parks, facilities, and recreation programs. These goals must also be integrated into agreements with instructors, associations, and/or other providers. These metrics will need to be monitored to make sure that the goals are being met. • The Department should continue to develop and refine key performance measures for all aspects of operations including recreation programs and services, facility usage, and parks maintenance. • An annual report needs to be completed for all aspects of the Department’s operation. There should be an annual report that succinctly summarizes yearly financial statistics and utilization rates and compares them with previous years. 11 Department Organization Element Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) 11-9 Recreation • The Recreation Division needs to develop a long-range program plan that identifies priorities for recreation programming for the next five years. • There needs to be a specified new recreation program approval process in place to help grow overall program offerings in an organized manner. • The Department needs to continue to establish recreation and facility performance metrics and develop summary documents with comparisons to past seasons and years. o Rates of fill for programs and activities (capacity vs. actual numbers). o Participation numbers and comparisons to past years / seasons. o Rate of program cancellations (should be between 15% and 20%) o Financial performance including cost per participant. o Evaluations from participants. • The existing athletic field use guidelines should be updated to include: o A movement away from block scheduling for user groups to actual field use days and times. o Allocating adequate time for turf renovation / regeneration for each field. o Establishing a consistent fee for use for all organizations. o A methodology for assigning fields for new sports and travel teams. • The development of a marketing plan for programs, services and facilities that includes a more visionary five-year plan and a specific plan for each individual year. Parks • Parks needs to develop a comprehensive maintenance management plan for parks, trails, rights of way, and preserves. This needs to include specific maintenance functions that need to occur, their frequency, method(s) for delivery, required resources, and tracking of work and budget. This plan should also have a specific focus on preventative maintenance and should include not only the growing environment but also parks structures as well. Ideally each major park, trail, preserve or recreation facility should have its own maintenance plan that is specific to that location • The maintenance management plan will need to take into consideration that any additional future parks and facilities will require changes and updates to the plan. • Once the maintenance management plan is in place, the process needs to continue to develop to the next level where actual time and resource allocations are utilized to validate the planning numbers that have been used. This could take several years until enough real-world numbers are available to adjust the existing standards. From this, specific benchmark standards can be determined (cost per acre, per square foot, etc.). This will require utilization of the Cartegraph maintenance management software system. 11 Department Organization Element 11-10 Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2020 – 2030 (DRAFT) • Develop an asset inventory within all Town parks and recreation facilities with provisions for a yearly update. • Consider the establishment of lifecycle cost estimates for all major capital assets in the Division. • Formal park / facility inspections should be completed on a weekly basis. • There is only one main maintenance yard for Parks, and it is undersized and not central to the community and the facilities that need to be maintained. There will also be the need for two other smaller satellite yards in the south and east zones of the community. • Parks maintenance needs to continue to provide calculations on maintenance costs for planned new or renovated facilities. • Staff schedules, maintenance plans, tracking of inventories, facility inspections and actual maintenance time and materials records need to be fully automated with the ability to make entries from the field on tablets or other hand-held devices.