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R09-008 II 1 2 RESOLUTION R09- t}O? 3 4 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE 5 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA, APPROVING 6 AND ADOPTING THE RECREATION AND PARKS 7 DEPARTMENT STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE; AND 8 PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. 9 10 WHEREAS, in April, 2006, the City Commission adopted a strategic plan that will 11 act as a "road map" for the planning and development of parks and recreation facilities for the 12 next ten (10) years; and 13 WHEREAS, this Plan identifies the recreational needs of the citizens of Boynton 14 Beach as indicated in the System Map and the Comp Plan, as well as recommending 15 strategies and actions for meeting those needs; and 16 WHEREAS, the plan is updated annually and presented to the City Commission for 17 adoption. 18 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF 19 THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA, THAT: 20 Section 1. The foregoing "Whereas" clauses are hereby ratified and confirmed as 21 being true and correct and are hereby made a specific part of this Resolution upon adoption. 22 Section 2. The City Commission of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida does hereby 23 approve and adopt the Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Plan Update, a copy of the 24 Plan is attached hereto as Exhibit "A". 25 Section 3. This Resolution will become effective immediately upon passage. :\CA\RESO\Agreements\Parks- Strategic Plan 060308.doc " 1 PASSED AND ADOPTED this ~o day of January, 2009. 2 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 ATTEST: 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 :\CA\RESO\Agreements\Parks- Strategic Plan 060308.doc ... City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department ,.d" Boynton Beach, Florida u C(j Cl) ~ ~ o ........:> ~ ~ o CO tI:) .~ C(j P-. Strategic Plan Recreation and Open Space Element @ 2008-2009 . ........ -+-=> ,....,.., - /.,- leq , "'-v .,> '. ,y-'~, ~ " 'We. Make ,'+"~;,'DD"'~'., '*. " ',to " . , . ! lLru-l\tl 1. 1 U .~ .' .." L,fe Fun!! ',_ ~" i Cl).......' U > I B~ynton 'Beoch \~'t,' > / ,/ ~ Recreat.on and PorI>, Deportment "'':f,~~::.f , Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Strategic Master Plan Table of Contents I. INTRO D U CTI 0 N ...................................... .......................................................... 1 A. Overview....................................................................................................................... .. 1 B. Methodology................................................................................................................... 2 C. Purpose 0 f Plan ............................................................................................................... 4 II. INVENTORY AND ANAL YSIS .........................................................................4 A. Parks Classifications........................................................................................................ 4 B. Inventory .................. ...................... .............................................. ....................... ... .........7 C. Analysis .......................................................................................................................... 9 III. VISION. .......................................... ................................................................ .... 17 IV. PARK STAND ARDS ......................................................................................... 19 A. Overview...................................................................................................................... . 19 B. Descript io n 0 f Standards. . . .. . .. .. . .. .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. .. . .. . . .. . .. .. . . .. . .. . . . .. . . . . ... 1 9 C. Needs Assessment......................................................................................................... 19 D. Level 0 f Standards......................................................................................................... 20 V. MAS TER PLAN................................ ........................ ..... ..... ............................ ... 21 A. Conceptual Parks and Recreation System Map ... .......................................... ................. 21 B. Future Park Improvements............................................................................................. 22 VI. THE IMPLEMENT A TION PLAN ................................................................... 32 A. Capital Improvements Plan.... .., ....... ............... ................................. ............ ............... ... 32 B. Funding Sources............................................................................................................ 32 C. C.omprehensive Plan .... ..................... ................................................................... .......... 35 D. Management and Administrative Recommendations................................. .., ..... .............36 VII. EV AL U A TI 0 N .............................. .................................................................... 44 VII. 1\{,l\'-R...~TIN C PL.l~'.N ....................... ........................................................... ...... 44 VIII. PR OC RA....MMIN C PL.....-'\.N.................... .......................... ....................... ... .......... 44 IX.- PROFESSION~A..L DEVELOPMENT PL~A..N .................................................... 44 X. E" f..L U .t.A... TI 0 N .................................. ........................................................ ........ 44 XI. COMMUNITY REL.....\ TIONS PL.....\N ................................................................ 44 XII. RE\'ENUE PL.....A...N ........ .................... ............................................................. ..... 44 XIII. NEEDS .....A....SSES SMENT ...................... ......................................................... ...... 44 XIV. TE CHN 0 L OC Y PLi....N ...................... ...................................... ............ .... ......... 44 ~ PREVENTA TIVE MAINTENANCE PLAN.................................................... 44 APPEND I CE S .......... ................................... ......................................................... ........ 44 A. Marketing Plan B. Programming Plan C. Community Relations Plan D. Maintenance Management Plan E. Staff Connections F. Comprehensive Plan G. Capital Improvement Plan H. Needs Assessment Summary of Findings City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan Acknowledgements City Commission Recreation and Parks Advisory Board Mayor Jerry Taylor Elizabeth (Betty) Pierce-Roe, Chair Vice Mayor Jose Rodriguez William Orlove, Vice-Chair Commissioner Woodrow Hay John (Jay) Allard Commissioner Marlene Ross Robert Lapin Commissioner Ron Weiland John McVey Janelle Sloane City Staff Kurt Bressner, City Manager Lori La V erriere, Assistant City Manager Wally Majors, Director of Recreation and Parks Jody Rivers, Parks Superintendent Virginia Shea, Senior Recreation Manager Mary DeGraffenreidt, Senior Recreation Manager Tom Balfe, Parks Manager Sherri Claude, Assistant to the Director "" ~O ." ~ '1 \' ~... ...... City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan I. INTRODUCTION A. Overview Throughout time, parks and open spaces have provided a unifYing community structure and an aesthetic identity to our urban environments as well as providing recreational opportunities. While it is difficult to place a precise value on our parks and open space systems, it is clear to all that they provide a variety of benefits that contribute to the "liveability" of our cities, such as: · Accommodate recreational activities, · Attract recreation enthusiasts, · Increase property values, · Provide public access to natural recreation areas and significant sites, · Provide and enhance animal and plant habitats, · Conserve, preserve and protect historic character, · Contribute to the city's identity and marketability, · Enhance aesthetic quality, and · Contribute to clean air and water. Parks and recreation opportunities contribute to the health of residents, provide a variety of recreational and educational activities for all ages, and preserve and enhance the quality and integrity of the natural environment. Parks and recreational opportunities are also significant in attracting visitors to the community and, thus, contribute to local tourism and economic development. When a community has a comprehensive and interrelated system of parks and recreation opportunities that responds to the needs and values of local residents, the residents support their local governments, become involved in their community activities, and reap the benefits of a "quality-of-life" community. Over the past year, the importance of recreation and parks has been even more compelling with the "It Starts in Parks" (ISIP) program initiated by the Florida Recreation and Parks Association and incorporated into the National Recreation and Parks marketing plan. The ISIP campaign is intended to better position parks and recreation in the future to be recognized and supported for the benefits and services provided by the profession. The eight (8) messages of the ISIP campaIgn are: . Personal Achievement . Sense of Community . Conservation of our natural resources . Economic development . Good health . Ties to our heritage . Respect for nature . Florida's future This Master Plan identifies the recreational needs of the citizens of Boynton Beach as indicated in the System Map and the Comp Plan and recommends strategies and actions for meeting those needs. The Master Plan identifies the actions necessary to implement the plan in order to satisfY the expectations of the community. It includes recommendations that give guidance for improving programs and services, creating a financially responsible organization, making land City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 1 acquisitions and protecting open spaces, improving and establishing new facilities and instituting continuous improvement processes. This plan will enable the city to make the necessary changes that will help sustain an attractive and livable city. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Park staff prepared this Master Plan to serve as the strategic planning tool for making parks, open space, facility and recreational program decisions over the next decade. The Master Plan includes recommendations that give guidance for improving programs and services, creating a financially responsible organization, making land acquisitions and protecting open spaces, improving and establishing new facilities and instituting continuous improvement processes. Through these processes, the department will constantly and consistently review community input and pro actively make the necessary changes that will help create an attractive and livable city. The City of Boynton Beach is experiencing a slow down in growth and development. Expectations and demands for expansion and protection of park lands and open spaces are paramount to the protection of recreational lands tor the future. The anticipation of these changes has led to the research and design of this Master Plan in the hopes that everyone of the demands are met, and that the City of Boynton Beach will continue to find itself among the best communities in the country. The City of Boynton Beach is growing and becoming more diverse in its redevelopment. In Boynton Beach, parks and recreation services continue to be an integral part of establishing and sustaining a higher quality of life while highlighting an image and character that is unique to Boynton Beach. To this end, parks and recreation services can affect the city by their ability to: . Provide social benefits by connecting people within the community regardless of income, background and ability. . Provide economic benefits by improving the quality of life in the community and helping to attract businesses and residents to the city. . Provide protection of the environment by establishing greenways, natural areas and open spaces managed by the city. . Provide benefits to individuals and the community by promoting physical fitness and se1f- improvement. The process used to shape this Master Plan included the following tasks: . Evaluating current services and operations of the Recreation and Parks Department. . Evaluating current and future needs for parks, recreation services, recreation facilities, open space and trails. . Creating equity access maps to visualize and determine gaps of services. . Developing recommendations and an implementation plan for the future that will provide the greatest benefits to the residents. B. Methodology In 2001, the City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department commissioned a Needs Assessment, which was prepared by Management Learning Laboratories. The purpose of the assessment was to determine recreation interests, facility usage, and opinion of recreation as City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 2 related to the Boynton Beach system of parks and facilities. After review of the information that resulted from the study, it was determined that a master plan of the park system should be developed that would steer the direction of the acquisition and development of parks and facilities into the future of Boynton Beach. In July 2004, the firm of Glatting Jackson Kercher, Inc. was hired to solicit public input regarding the city's parks, recreation facilities and programs and to prepare the Conceptual Parks and Recreation System Map and make changes to the City's Comprehensive Plan that will allow the recommendations in the System Map to occur. Through a series of meetings with city staff, board members from the Senior Advisory and the Recreation and Parks Boards, and the general public, a system-wide map was developed that indicated existing parks and proposed parks, recreation facilities, greenways, bikeways and open space. Interviews were held with the City Commission, City Manager, Interim Director of Human Resources, the Planning Team and staff to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the department. Complete summaries of these interviews are included in the Appendix of this report. In summary, the participants were asked four (4) questions regarding the "ideal" park system, issues that need to be addressed, funding mechanisms and partnerships. In general, it was felt by most of the participants that the department has a motivated and dedicated staff, the parks inventory needed to be analyzed, departmental organization needed to be analyzed, funding sources need to be identified and partnerships with schoo Is and private developers should be addressed. Using this information, the Recreation and Parks staff analyzed the current and future needs for additional staff and operating resources. Park standards, or Levels of Service, for park land and facilities were determined. Potential funding sources were identified. The Department received accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) in October 2006. As a result of the accreditation application process, the Department began moving toward a more analytical approach in detennining what programs to ofter. This led to the development of a Recreation Programming Plan which outlines a philosophical approach to programming. This plan helps the department determine who it is serving and why and helps set the direction for future planning. Over the past few years, a change in clients has been recognized. There is a greater demand for more senior and child age programs and less for adults. Participation in athletic programs has decreased. This may be because adults are using private recreation opportunities rather than public: however, the City offers high quality, less expensive options. Analysis of trends and needs is an ongoing task so that the Department is assured of meeting the needs of its constituents, In 2008, Recreation and Park staff updated the Strategic Plan to show projects that have been completed since the adoption of the 2007 plan and to match the 2008-2012 Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) as adopted by the City Commission. A telephone survey will be conducted in 2008 to determine the recreational and facility needs of the public. The study will allow the department to analyze its current offerings and detennine if changes are warranted. It will also assist staff in prioritizing recreation programs and facility needs. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 3 C. Purpose of Plan The Master Plan has been prepared to address the following key goals: . Assess current needs for recreation and park facilities for the citizens of Boynton Beach. . Assess the future needs for recreation and park facilities for the citizens of Boynton Beach. . Prepare a long range, phased plan for the provision of current and future park needs. . Preservation of important natural and cultural facilities. . Provide a system of connected greenways and trails for the city. . Provide an effective Parks and Recreation services delivery system for the citizens. . Effective management/ administrative/departmental structure; 0 Effective maintenance system; 0 Land Development Regulations to provide for future park needs; 0 Appropriate funding program for future capital improvements; 0 Creation of appropriate multi-jurisdictional partnerships for the provision of parks and open space services. II. INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS A. Parks Classifications The Recreation and Parks Department, through the Strategic Planning process, has developed different park classifications. Urban Open/Civic Space Urban parks will provide civic open space in the downtown area for the enjoyment of all the residents of the City as well as visitors to Boynton Beach. They serve as elegant public spaces that are designed to complement the urban patterns of downtown Boynton Beach. These parks will serve as urban oases amongst the bustle of downtown activity. Urban parks should be located according to traditional town planning principles and good urban design. The parks will be of two types: (1.) downtown plazas, and (2.) waterfront parks. Additional urban pocket parks will be added to complement the historic urban framework. All of the urban parks should be tied together with a network ofstreetscaped pedestrian walkways and urban trails. The waterfront park system will build upon and enhance the waterfront park network in the downtown. The waterfront park system will create a connected system of urban park amenities along the waterfront and provide direct access to the activities of the downtown. The park facilities and programs of the park spaces should complement the objectives of the Community Redevelopment Agency. The urban park experience should embrace the spirit of Boynton Beach as a quality-of-life destination with a quaint traditional hometown feel. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 4 Community Parks Community parks are typically the largest active parks in the City and serve the largest population base. They are the most comprehensive in terms of recreation activities provided. These parks are the most expensive to build and maintain. The optimum service area for a community park in Boynton Beach should be one (1) mile. Community parks should be serviced by arterial and collector streets and be easily accessible throughout the service area by way of interconnecting trails. While community parks should be strategically located through the community, their locations can be significantly impacted by other types of parks, most notably regional or county parks, which can contain some of the same recreational opportunities provided in community parks. The optimal size of a community park should be based on the land area needed to accommodate the desired uses. Special Use Parks Special use parks are those parks with unique, specialized amenities that cater to a select group of users. In Boynton Beach, special use parks include the cemeteries, the Little League Park and Kids Kingdom. Efforts should be made to include future special uses in neighborhood and community parks rather than segregate them into separate areas. Neie:hborhood Parks Neighborhood parks will be the basic unit of the Boynton Beach park system and serve as the recreational and social focus of each neighborhood. They should be developed for both active and passive activities geared specifically for those living within the neighborhood service area. These parks should accommodate a wide variety of age and user groups, including children, adults, seniors, family groups, and special populations. Creating a sense of place in each park by bringing together the unique character of each site with the social character of the neighborhood will be vital to creating a successful design. Neighborhood parks should be centrally located within each service area, which should encompass a Yz mile distance, and if possible, uninterrupted by non-residential streets or other physical barriers. Each site should be accessible from throughout its service area by way of interconnecting trails, sidewalks or low-volume streets. Ease of access and walking distance are critical factors in locating a neighborhood park. A person's willingness to use a neighborhood park is greatly reduced if they perceive it to be difficult to access or not within a reasonable walking distance. Ease of access, central location and linkage to greenways are the key concerns when selecting a site. The site itself should exhibit the physical characteristics appropriate for both active and passive recreational uses. Since one ofthe primary reasons people go to a park is to experience a pleasant outdoor environment, the site should have some innate aesthetic qualities. "Left- over" parcels of land that are undesirable for development are generally undesirable for neighborhood parks as well and should be avoided. Additionally, it is more cost effective to select a site with inherent aesthetic qualities, rather than trying to create them through City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 5 extensive site development. Given the importance oflocation, neighborhood parks should be selected before a subdivision is platted and acquired as part of the development process. It is recommended that 5 acres be the generally accepted minimum size necessary to provide space for a menu of activities. The site should have well-drainage and suitable soils and level topography. Ideally, it should be connected to other park system components such as natural areas, lakes, ponds, and greenways. Land within a flood plain should only be considered if the facilities are constructed above the appropriate flood elevation. Although a park size of 5 acres is recommended, the actual size should be based on the land area needed to accommodate the desired uses. Since each neighborhood is unique, input from neighborhood residents should be used to determine the development program for the park. The guidelines presented here should be used as a framework to guide program development and ensure consistency with other park system components. They should not be used as an impediment to creative design possibilities. Development of a neighborhood park should seek to achieve a balance between active and passive uses. Active recreational facilities are intended to be used in an informal and unstructured manner. Neighborhood parks are not intended to be used for programmed activities that result in overuse, noise, parking problems and congestion. Neighborhood parks should be the basic unit of the Boynton Beach park system and serve as the recreational and social focus of each neighborhood. Conservation Lands The function of an Open Space Park or Greenbelt is to provide space where people can engage in passive and active recreation, provide preservation and conservation of environmentally sensitive areas and habitat for wildlife, and to serve as corridors to effectively link park system components together to form a continuous park environment. These parks should be located in areas of significant natural resources, aesthetic landscapes, and open space. There are no specific standards for how much conservation land a community should have. Instead, it is dependent on the number and quality 0 f natural and historical resources in the area, the public desire to preserve these valuable sites, and the willingness of the citizens to provide funds for their preservation. Water and Beach Access Parks These parks offer opportunities for access to and interaction with the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. Amenities can include kayaking and canoe launches, fishing areas, observation boardwalks, day docks, boat launching ramps, volleyball courts, picnic areas, restrooms and parking. Generally each park has its own unique features that are defined by the relationship with the water. Neighborhood and community input through the public input process should be the primary determinant of development of any park. The guidelines posted in this document City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 6 should be used as a framework to guide program development and ensure consistency with the other park system components. They should not be used as an impediment to creative and unique design concepts. Recreation Facilities The City has seven (7) recreation centers and a community pool, each offering various and diverse programs and classes for people of all ages. Most centers are open Monday through Saturday from moming through the evening. Certain facilities can be rented for weddings, family reunions, etc. B. Inventory 1. Park Land a. Existing Park System The current park system is made up of 32 parks, cemeteries and open spaces in the following categories: Urban Open/Civic Space Acres Neighborhood Parks Acres Bicentennial Park 0.60 Boynton Lakes Park 8.6 Edward Harmening Arbor 0.46 Civic Center 0.8 Heritage Park 0.24 Forest Hills Park 4.8 Hibiscus Park 0.83 Galaxy Park 3.7 Kiwanis/Sierra Club Park 0.19 Laurel Hill Park 1.26 Veterans' Park 0.3 Meadows Park 7.2 TOTAL 2.60 Knollwood Park 3.3 Pence Park 2.9 Community Parks Acres Pioneer Canal Park 3.2 Congress A venue Park 24.3 Rolling Green School M Ezell Hester Park 23.7 Betty Thomas 2.3 Wilson Park 5.44 TOTAL 42-c.JJ. 38.06 TOTAL 53.44 Conservation Lands Acres Special Use Parks Acres Seacrest Scrub * 53.7 Barton Mem. Park/Cemetery 6.4 Rolling Green Scrub ** 8.0 Boynton Beach Memorial 12.41 Rosemary Scrub * 13.4 Cemetery Little League 12.8 TOTAL 67.10 Kids Kingdom 0.44 Sara Sims Park/Cemetery 6.95 WaterlBeach Access Acres TOTAL 39.00 Boat Club Park 7.9 Intracoastal Park 9.4 GreenwayslBikeways Acres Jaycee Park 5.5 Palmetto Green 2.16 Mangrove Park 10.72 TOTAL 2.16 Oceanfront Park 10.7 TOTAL 44.22 * Owned by Palm Beach County, Maintained by City of Bo)'nton Boach ** Rolling Green acreage including in total acreage for Ezell Hester Park City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 7 This is a citywide total acreage of 251.07 238.58 acres of park, cemetery and open space lands. b. Future Park Sites The following areas are potential future park sites: Site Acres FP&L 7.14 Girl Scout 7.58 Nichols Road 14.74 Nautica Sound/Meadows I 9.8 Quantum 17.39 Winchester 5.0 Woolbright Place 3.62 TOTAL 64.55 Thus, there is a potential for ~2 310.32 acres of park, cemetery and open space lands in the City. 2. Facilities a. Existing Recreation Facilities . Art Center 0 Community Center with Class Rooms . Boat Club Park 0 Meeting Room 0 Play Equipment . City Hall in the Mall 0 Office Space . Carolyn Sims Center 0 Event Room 0 Multipurpose Room 0 Game Room 0 Classroom 0 Kitchen 0 Playground . Civic Center 0 Community Center with Class Rooms 0 Auditorium . Congress A venue Community Park 0 Har- Tru Tennis Courts (17) 0 4 Hard Surface Composite Tennis Courts 0 Pro Shop 0 Locker Rooms/Showers . Ezell Hester Park City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 8 0 Community Center with Activity and Meeting Rooms and Gymnasium 0 Baseball/Softball Field 0 Basketball Courts (3) 0 New and Improved Play Equipment 0 Pavilion 0 Racquetball Court (4) 0 Tennis Court (2) 0 Nature Preserve . Intracoastal Park Clubhouse 0 Classrooms 0 Event Room 0 Catering Kitchens . John H. Denson Pool 0 Play Featurcs 0 Water Slides 0 Dressing Rooms 0 Showers . Madsen Center 0 Program Room 0 Shuffleboard Courts (16) . Senior Center 0 Community Center 0 Meeting Rooms 0 Exercise Room 0 Kitchen 0 Computer Room 0 Arts & Crafts Room 0 Game Room b. Future Recreational Facilities . Intracoastal Park Clubhouse 0 Community Center with Meeting and Program Rooms 0 Carolyn Sims Center and Wilson Park 0 New building will have gymnasium and meeting rooms 0 Picnic Facilities 0 Playground 0 Pool to be replaced 0 Open Play Field 0 Basketball Court C. Analysis 1. Park Land and Facilities a. Existing Parks and Facilities City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 9 . Urban Open/Civic Space 0 Bicentennial Park is a passive park on Federal Highway. The park has little to attract visitors; however, it will be greatly impacted by the downtown redevelopment and will become a critical part of the urban open space of the town center. A memorial to the Veterans was installed in June 2008. Completion of the park was November 2008. 0 Edward F. Harmening Arbor Park is a small passive park located adjacent to the East Water Treatment Plant. It has several species of flowing trees. Its location and lack of parking create an isolated park area with very little visitation. 0 Heritage Park located on Seacrest Boulevard, is a popular gathering space for neighborhood residents. There is a monument dedicated to Boynton Beach African Americans. The monument is frequently vandalized. Recent Beeautification efforts include the removal of the planters and installation of35 palms. 0 Hibiscus Park is a small park located in the Lake Boynton Estates neighborhood. The playground equipment is- scheduled for replacement in FY 2007/08. was replaced in March 2008. 0 Kiwanis/Sierra Club Park is located on Northeast 22nd A venue and is simply a grassy area. 0 Veterans Park is located in the downtown core of the City. At present, it is a passive park with large ficus trees. In the future, the park will become precious green space in the urban downtown center. . Neie:hborhood Parks 0 Boynton Lakes Park is located in the Boynton Lakes neighborhood and contains a playground, a walking trail and a large open grassy area. The play equipment and park furniture was replaced in 2005. 0 Southeast Neighborhood Park is in the process of being developed. It is scheduled fur completion in 2007 and will Betty Thomas Park was completed in 2007 and includes a picnic pavilion, two tennis courts, picnic areas, walking trail, landscaping and a small parking lot. The park is named after Betty Thomas, long term Recreation and Parks Advisory Board Member, member of the Senior Center Board and school principal in Boynton Beach. 0 Civic Center Park is located on Ocean Avenue and has new play equipment and a maze made from shrubs. 0 Forest Hill Park is located in the Forest Hill neighborhood and is bordered on the west side by a sound barrier wall on 1-95. This park was built in 1972 and was showing signs of aging. The park furniture and play equipment was replaced City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Ma~ter Plan 10 in 2006, as was the fence in the front. Plans include replacement of existing and additiona11andscaping in 2007. e- Galaxy Park is one of the oldest parks in the system and is well used. The restroom was renovated in 2005. The fencing around the baseball fields was replaced in 2006. The playground equipment needs to be replaced III 2006/07. was replaced in 2007. e- Laurel Hills Park, located ill the Laurel Hills neighborhood, contains play equipment, a basketball court and an open grassed area. The park was built in 1972 and is in need of renovation. Replacement of the play equipment and park furnishings was completed in 2006. A double rail fence is scheduled tOr installation was installed in 2007. New park entry signage was installed in 2008. 0 Meadows Park is an extremely popular park used by city residents and school groups. While the park was built in 1994, the heavy use has created bare areas around the pavilions and courts. The playground equipment and park furniture were replaced in 2006. Because of the heavy use and enjoyment by park users, this park will require consistent maintenance and upgrades. e- Pence Park is the oldest park in the system. Neighborhood residents heavily use the basketball courts. The fence around the baseball field was replaced in 2005. The restrooms were renovated in recent years. The playground equipment is scheduled tOr replacement in 2006/07. was installed in March 2008. Conversion of the softball field to a multipurpose field is scheduled tor 2009, e- Pioneer Canal Park has the only freshwater boat ramp in the park system, which is widely used. The rump was scheduled tOr renovation in 2001/05 but is on hold pending scheduling of a canal dredging project by the South Florida Water Management District. The tennis courts are also heavily used. The park was not master planned and use of the property is not effective. This park nccds to be completely renovated. The installation of a double rail fence, renovation of the restrooms and resurfacing of the basketball and tennis courts is scheduled tOr 2007. was completed in 2007 and 2008. Replacement of the play equipment was completed in 2008. 0 Rolling Grecn Park is in the rear of Rolling Green Elementary School and was used primarily by soccer players and cricket players. "^' nevI schoo I is under construction and the park area is being used as a staging area. Oncc construction is complete, the park will be restorcd to a multi purpose playing field. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 11 . Special Use Parks 0 Barton Memorial Park is a cemetery that contains early African American resident gravesites dating back to the early 1900's. It is currently closed for burials. 0 Boynton Beach Memorial Park is the primary public cemetery in Boynton Beach. There are several hundred gravesites remaining and the property was rep1atted to identifY over 300 more sites. The trees were heavily damaged by the 2004 hurricanes and were replaced in 2005/06. 0 Kids Kingdom Playground is a "Leathers" designed wooden and concrete play structure that is an extremely popular destination for residents, schools, camps and visitors. The structure was built in 1996 and is beginning to show signs of wear. The structure must be inspected regularly for splinters and damage. Funds are included in the Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) for annual maintenance. 0 Little League Park contains four (4) baseball fields that are used primarily by the Boynton Beach Little League organization. Hurricane Wilma caused considerable damage to the fields and the concession building. Extreme Makeover rebuik Field 2 and portion of Field 3 and the concession building. The City rebuik Field 1 and replaced the lights. Consideration should be given to accessibility ~ The maintenance of the ball fields and areas adjacent to the ball fields has been turned over the East Boynton Beach Little League. 0 Sara Sims Park and Cemetery is an older park that requires constant maintenance due to vandalism. This park is in the eRA district. . Water Beach Access 0 Boat Club Park is located between Federal Highway and the Intracoastal Park and provides boat access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean. This park is heavily used by both boaters and park users. The fishing pier was replaced in 2004. The restrooms inside the community center were renovated in 2004. Playground equipment is scheduled for replacement in 2008/09. The restrooms are scheduled for renovation in FY 20018. The canal \vill be was dredged in November 2007 February 2008. Additionally, Palm Beach County is providing funding for a new or renovated restroom, new picnic pavilions and improvements to the boardwalk. e- Intracoastal Park, the newest park in the system, is located between Federal Highway and the Intracoastal Waterway. It is an extremely popular site that contains picnic shelters and a large, handicapped accessible play structure. A City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Ma~ter Plan 12 clubhouse is under construction and is cxpected to be completed in October 2007. A two story, 7,200 square toot clubhouse was completed in October 2007 and is available for rent for meetings, weddings, recreation programs and activities, etc. e- Jaycee Park is a 5-acre park located between Federal Highway and the Intracoastal Waterway. Currently, there is a bocce ball court and a few picnic tables; however, the park is scheduled fur development is 20067. The park construction was completed in February 2008 and includes a walking path, three pavilions, a restroom, two (2) bocce ball courts, play areas for ages 2 to 12, picnic areas, landscaping and a small parking lot. 0 Knollwood Park is a 3.0 acre park located at Lawrence Road and Meadows Drive. The newest park in the system, Knollwood was built by D. R. Horton Developers as a pub lie/private partnership. In exchange from fill removed from the park site and used for development, the developer paid for the construction of the park. Park amenities include a pond with well planted littoral zones, a walking path, a gazebo and a small parking area. 0 Mangrove Park contains a 1/4 mile aluminum walkway through 10 acres of mangroves on the Intracoastal Waterway and includes educational kiosks and an observation deck. Trash accumulation in the mangroves is an unpreventable problem. e- Oceanfront Park is the City's only beach access. It is heavily used, primarily by residents of Boynton Beach and Ocean Ridge. The boardwalk was scheduled for replacement in 2004; however, the cost of the replacement exceeded the budget. It is now scheduled for replacement in 2008/09. 2007/08. A design firm will be hired in 2006/07 to begin construction drawings. . Greenway IBikeways 0 Palmetto Green Linear Park is located on the south side of the S FWMD C -16 canal. The pathway turns into several overlooks that could serve as fishing piers; however, a great amount of trash and refuse has been tossed off the platforms making fishing difficult. . Conservation Lands 0 Rolling Green Scrub is actually 5 different scrub sites located in and around Ezell Hester Park. 0 Rosemary Scrub is owned by Palm Beach County and is maintained III conjunction with the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department. The scrub is open to the public. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Ma~ter Plan 13 0 Seacrest Scrub is also owned by Palm Beach County, maintained m conjunction with the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department and open to the public. . Community Parks e- Congress Avenue Community Park is home to the city's tennis complex. The fencing and lights on several 0 f the courts were replaced in summer of 2005. A Master Plan was done for future park development that includes a barrier- free park. A fund raising campuign will be .I'" conducted to raise the money necessary to build the park. There IS deep water well installed by the Utilities Department on the southwest side ofthe park. The 2008/09 CIP includes $2.5M for construction of Phase I which will include several play areas, trails, a pICniC pavilion, restrooms, and seating areas that will be completely barrier free. Construction is expected to begin in early 2009. 0 Ezell Hester Park is one of the largest parks in the system and the athletic facilities are heavily used. The sand volleyball courts were replaced with a large play structure in 2005/06. The park also includes basketball courts, raquetball courts, tennis courts, a baseball field, walking trail and picnic pavilions. 0 WU~'OIl Park was completed in February 2008, The park includes the Carolyn Sims Center, a two-story, I 4,000 square toot recreation center that houses a game room, class rooms, multipurpose event room, catering kitchens- and offices. Site amenities include two basketball courts, two play areas, picnic shelters, and multipurpose tield. The John H. Denson Pool, a newly constructed pool includes a triple water slide, water features, lanes for swimming, and dressing rooms. . Recreation Facilities 0 Art Cmter was built in 1992 and includes 3 classrooms, a pottery/kiln room and offices. Currently the building operates at capacity and offers classes in arts and crafts, teen and adult fine art, pottery, painting, afternoon recreation, summer camp, specialty camps, pre-school prob'Tams and classes. 0 Boat Club Clubhouse is a 2,500 square toot building that o fters painting and bridge programs. It is used by community groups and neighborhood associations for meetings and is also used as a rental facility. 0 Carolyn Sims Cmter, a 14,000 square foot two-story building, was completed in February 2008. It includes a multipurpose room, catering kitchens, game room, classroom, meeting room and offices. Prob'Tamming includes pre-school, afterschool, teen recreation, sports City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 14 clinic. social groups. summer camp. specialty camps and the Youth Violence Prevention Program. 0 Civic Center opened in 1962. It includes a 3.800 square foot auditorium with stage. classroom. dance studio. kitchen, lobby and offices. Programming opportunities include youth and adult dance, summer camp, pre-school programs, Jazzercise. language classes, piano and keyboard classes, bridge, music concerts and Outlook Club for the sight impaired. Recent inprovements include refinishing of the stage f1oor, a new sound system. new stage drapes. painting and a chair raiL 0 Ezell He,''ter, Jr. Center was constructed in 1992 and renovated 10 1999. The center includes men's and women's locker rooms. lobby. tot room, meeting room. computer lab. game room, weight room, gymnaSIUm. kitchen. and offices. Programs include sports teams. tournaments. cheerlead ing, gymnastics, after school recreation, summer camp, specialty camps, pre-school programs. fitness programs. sports clinics and special events. 0 John H. Denson Pool was completed in February 2008 and includes a triple water slide, "tumble buckets" water play features. teaching area. deck chairs, large umbrellas and men's and women's dressing rooms. Programs include junior lifeguard training, water fitness, adult swim classes and youth swimming lessons. 0 Senior Center was purchased in 1998 and has undergone a series of three renovations. It includes a cafeteria/activity room. lobby/coffee area, computer lab. multipurpose room, a stage, fitness room, classroom, conference room. arts room, game room, kitchen and offices. Programming includes computer classes, card games, dances, live music, association and group meetings, health screenings, music lessons. lunch program, driving classes, group outings, safety courses and various special events. Local groups that provide a variety of services that include AARP. R.S.V.P, Delray Medical Center, Aker Kasten Community Outreach Program, Shopper Hopper transportation service. Mental Health Association ofPBC and Mae Volen. Recent improvements made possible by a grant from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs include hunicane shutters. air conditioning unit, entrance way awnmgs, automatic handicap door openers for the restrooms. automatic sensor flushers for the restrooms, public address system and video surveillance cameras. 0 Tennis Center was built in three phases and was completed in 1992. There is a pro shop, men's and women's locker rooms. 17 Har-tru courts and 4 composite courts. Programs include junior and adult instruction. men' s and ladies' City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 15 singles and doubles leagues, men's and ladies' team matches, tournaments and special events. b. Future Parks . Urban Civic Open Space 0 Woolbright Place is approximately 3 acres located on SW 8th Place and SW 1 st Court. Trees from other developments in the City will be relocated to this sight. The City Commission has asked fur community input and feedback prior to this project taking place. . Nei2hborhood Parks 0 FP & L Park is located on old Southwest 23rd Avenue directly south of the FP & L Substation and is bordered on the west by the E-4 canal and on the east by the CSX Railroad. This park could be developed so that access to the canal is provided. This 7.68-acre site has not been master planned. 0 Girl Scout Park is located on the east side of the E-4 canal and is heavily treed with mature canopy. This site also could be developed for access to the canal. A master plan has not been done at this time for this 9.73 acre site. 0 Meadows IlNautica Sound Park Site is a 9-acre site that could be developed as a community park since there is no community park in this quadrant of the city; however, it is expected that surrounding neighborhoods would prefer a more passive use. A master plan has not been done for this site. . Community Parks 0 Nickels Property is a 15.4 acre site located on the west side of the Boynton Beach Mall. This site is not within the city boundaries at this time. 0 Quantum Park Site is a IS-acre site located in the Quantum Corporate Park east of the E-4 canal. A master plan was done for this site that included athletic facilities; however, it is anticipated that the use will change from active to passive, nature-oriented as gopher tortoises have been spotted on the site. The property is adjacent to a large conservation area, which could be incorporated into the nature-oriented aspects of the park with the addition of interpretive trails. Additionally, this park could be used for access to the canal for canoes and kayaks as part of the greenwaylblueway. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 16 . Greenwav/Bluewavs 0 Palmetto Green Linear Park is planned for expansion from the existing path west to 1-95, then south to Galaxy School. Funds are allocated in the CIP for land acquisition and construction. 0 Barton Greenway is planned to connect the west terminus of the Palmetto Green Linear Park Extension south through Barton Memorial Park through Barton Scrub to the north side of Galaxy Elementary School. The project is funded by the Florida Department of Transportation and IS expected to be completed in 2009, 0 The Greenway and Bikeway Alaster Plan is nearing oompletion. This plan will show proposed bikev,'ays, greenways and blueways to interconnect the v ario us destination points such as parks, schools, shops, the library and neighborhoods. III. VISION . Ensure Boynton Beach's Recreation and Park Legacy for Future Generations 0 Develop fully programmed, fully operational and well-maintained parks, facilities and programs that meet both current and future park and recreation needs. 0 Keep the public and local leaders informed about the value, benefits, conditions and needs of Boynton Beach's park system. 0 Coordinate the planning, management, development and funding of parks, natural resources, trails and recreation needs and concerns with other Boynton Beach departments and city, county and regional planning efforts. 0 Engage the residents to become stewards of Boynton Beach's recreation and park system to help preserve the legacy for future generations. 0 Continue to plan, organize, host and evaluate high quality program opportunities for a diverse population. 0 Continue to maintain and upgrade recreation facilities to meet the needs of the constituents. . Design, Build and Maintain Excellent Parks and Recreation Facilities 0 Develop a park system that adequately serves the citizens' current and future needs in an efficient and affordable fashion. 0 Develop a set of park design standards that preserve the quality of the recreation and parks system for future generations. 0 Develop each park, natural area and open space to respect the unique attributes of each site and its neighbors and according to its role in the overall recreation and park system. 0 Develop parks and facilities that are accessible and available to all residents. Meet and, where possible, exceed the requirements of Americans with Disabilities Act. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 17 0 Use environmentally friendly, sustainable methods to build and care for parks, natural resources and recreation facilities. Think green. . Create An Interconnected Regional and Local System of Paths. Walkways, Bluevvays and Trailsfor Make Boynton Beach a "Walkable Community" 0 Provide a safe and convenient trails system between parks, natural areas and recreational facilities, and connect them with residential areas, civic institutions and businesses. 0 Coordinate the development of a regional trails system with surrounding municipalities and the county. 0 Integrate the parks, community centers, and trails into the neighborhoods. . Provide equal access to parks and recreation programs for all residents in the City 0 Pursue all opportunities to provide parks and recreation services in new developments throughout the community and in natural areas. 0 Provide developed neighborhood parks and community facilities within a reasonable distance of every resident. 0 Provide a geographic distribution of parks and recreation facilities that offer equal access and opportunity for all residents. 0 Provide a variety of programs that are free or low fee to assure equal access for all economic groups. . Develop Recreation and Parks Facilities that Promote "Community in the City" 0 Build public plazas and "green connections" in neighborhoods and along main streets. 0 Provide unique public spaces that give Boynton Beach a special and attractive identity that reinforces the existing character of the City. 0 Partner with other public agencies, schools and private organizations to maximize parks and recreation opportunities, facilities and programs. 0 Provide a wide variety of arts, culture, historical and civic amenities in the system. . Provide an Appropriate Set of Land Management Regulations to Accomplish the Long Range Needs or the Park System. 0 Develop a long-range strategic plan for the City that enables the City to plan and develop specific future parks sites within the context of a well- orchestrated land development scenario. 0 Review and update the Parks and Recreation Impact Fee structure every three (3) years. 0 Adopt new standards in the Comprehensive Plan that will assure an adequate and appropriate parks, recreation and open space system. 0 Establish regulations that require new developments to provide pedestrian and bicycle access into and through the new developments. . Provide Adequate Park and Recreation Maintenance and Management 0 Establish appropriate maintenance standards to upgrade and enhance the level of maintenance for parks and recreation areas- facilities. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Mmter Plan 18 0 Implement a parks and recreation improvement program, including redevelopment of existing areas, maintenance, improvement and renovation of all public areas and facilities. 0 Maintain, secure and manage existing and future parks, fac i lit ies and open space in a manner that encourages appropriate use. IV. PARK STANDARDS A. Overview Each community is unique. Every City has its own "personality" that differs because of its demographic makeup. Due to differing geographical, cultural, social, economic and environmental characteristics, each community must select a set of standards, which best serves them for the cost of delivering those services. The parks and recreation system ofa given City needs to reflect the needs of the residents of that City by setting standards for appropriate service. The standards are an expression of the essential facilities needed to provide the level of park and recreation services desired by the residents in each community. These standards are typically expressed as ratios such as acres of park per 1,000 residents or numbers of tennis courts per 1000 residents. The ratios are very useful in order to quickly assess the quantities and cost of the projected needs. Standards should be practical and achievable, and provide for equitable allocation of parks and recreation resources throughout the community. B. Description of Standards The City of Boynton Beach currently has a level of service for park acreage of2.5 acres per 1,000 residents. It has been determined that this is an appropriate and satisfactory level of services. Currently, the City owns 215.85 235.77 acres of developed park land which is more than sufficient to meet this level now and in the future. C. Needs Assessment In 2002, the City of Boynton Beach completed a Parks and Recreation Nceds ,'\ssessment v/hich indicated the fullowing facilities 'Here a priority with thosc residents that participated in the survey: . Neighborhood Parks 89% . Nature Trails 81% . Picnic I..reas 80% . Playgrounds in Parks 71% . Fishing Piers 75% . Amphitheater 65% . Jogging Paths 61% . Multipurpose Ficlds 63% . S'Nimming Pools 60% . Passive Recreation Areas 58% City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Ma~ter Plan 19 . Greenways 57% . Senior Center 56% . Tennis Courts 55% . Baseball Fields 53% . Aquatic Facility 52% . Basketball Courts 50% . Teen Center 50% . Skate Park 19% . Football Fields 17% . Boat Ramps 17% . Soccer Fields 11% . Dog Park 11% It is important that a needs assessment be completed every five (5) years to understand trends and demographic changes. This infurmation '.vill assist the Department in determining '.'/hat park facilities and programs are needed and desired by the citizens of Boynton Beach. The City is due fur a re assessment in 2007/08 and a request fur funding will be included in the Department's 2007/08 budget request. A needs assessment was completed in September 2008. A summary of the findings is included as Appendix H. It is important that the Department understand the needs and wants of the residents. This can be made possible by completing a random survey every two years, holding public meetings and using focus groups to help detennine if changes need to be made to facilities and programs. D. Level of Standards The existing Comprehensive Plan includes the fullowing LOS. CURRENT LOS AND NEEDS 65,208 2004 POPULAA TION FACILITY CURRENT EXISTINC NEED PER CURRENT b()S FACILITIES POPUL....aTION NEED Baseball/Softball, Youth 1/15,000 6 4 (} Baseball, Regulation 1/25,000 ;!. ~ + Basketball .w,ooo -lJ. ;g 9 CommUflity Center (1) 1/25,000 ~ ~ (} Fitness Trail (2) 1/30,000 ;!. ;!. (} Football/Soccer 1/40,000 + ;!. + ~ 1::': ~1...l 1/10,000 + '1 6 Racquetball Court 1/10,000 g. '1 (} Picnic .'\rea 1/6,000 U ++ (} Playground 1 /4,000 ++ ++ + Shuffleboard 1 /2,500 M M .w Pool (3) 1/40,000 + ;!. ;!. Tennis Court 1 /2,000 M ~ ;!. Bocce Court NIA ~ NIA NIA Volleyball Court NIA 4 NIA NIA Based on current trends in some recreational activities and on the 2002 Needs Assessment, the following LOS are recommended. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 20 RECOMMENDED LOS AND NEEDS 65,208 - 2004 POPULATION FACILITY CURRENT EXISTING NEED PER CURRENT LOS FACILITIES POPULATION NEED Baseball/Softball, Youth 1/15,000 6 4 0 Baseball, Regulation 1/20,000 ~1 2 ~I Basketball 1/ 4,000 13 16 3 Community Center 1/25,000 ~7 3 0 Fitness Trail 1/30,000 2 2 0 Football~ 1/40,000 1 2 1 Multipurpose Field/Soccer 1/10,000 +~ 7 ~4 -) Racquetball Court 1/10,000 8 7 0 Picnic Area 1 /3,000 U20 26 ~() Playground I /4,000 17 22 5 Shuflleboard 1 /5,000 16 13 0 Pool 1/480,000 1 ~ 1 0 Tennis Court 1/2,000 31 33 2 Bocce Court 1/25,000 ;2 3 Q..! Volleyball Court 1/15,000 4=; 4 ~! Skate Park 1/65,000 0 1 1 v. MASTER PLAN A. Conceptual Parks and Recreation System Map The following is the Conceptual Parks and Recreation System map developed through the strategic planning process by Glatting Jackson. It is a result of the numerous meetings and the input from City staff, elected officials, board members and the public. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 21 r----~--------------- -- ----------- -- - ------- - - _~u______. e-t T-Y-Q-f- BOY N TO N Conceptual Parks and Recreiation ' Hypo/llJlo ltd. ..~- , i I, . I I I I HYPOLL , I !,: I I J I Old 89YII!911rNOb !, 'I I...... ley"t_ ...c~IJVd;."....-_L .1 I I ...---- .....,II'I.~IIf" r--------------------------------- --- ------------ -- - ------- --~----------------,-- - - -- ---- ---- e-- T v A--e B 0 ~w N TO H' B""'''' 'E.r' A'J':'" .ril....,'.111 - , --, -- - \,I r - - -- ( " ," I. .' (i' '\'~ !r~ Conceptual Parks and Recrelation System Map . , ",I, 'I I ! '""I ..... " I 'I IT] Existing Parks -- -- '!, ........ . . " -- .I. : Hypo/"110 ltd.. . . ---.' I - I CD Proposed Parks - -- ..-....... i'lI :7 '1 I " I , ~- - .: rr.= f-) I'" .- r- 0 ~ 'I ' . .&. 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'--"...J P-- t i' '. l L~ lJ" I i I:i I' [8 .. ~ 1==, I w- ~ 111~-!: =;::n ,1'""'- I 6' Cl ~ 'j ~L ....--.-- r.;;:'I" ~--: ~p ~ i ..-- ...I!I I!.. ~'~ ~ If , ~ '~~Jl"" \ 1 'If~., :. , ffi .-, () ~~0~~\ ... ~ (0 <J G' !~ \\ .: [ V 0 d if ~. ~8: ~ DELRAY BEACH ," North \..S1I G 'n:: ------' , , . tiP , MILES o I I I j 0.5 i 1 2 I ' May 2008 I , , , . BoVnton UII<es . Colonial Club _, Historic Boynton Heights . La...rence Oaks . NoM RoJling Hms . Ro~ng Green . Sky Lake . Village Royal CondominIum ____Pill< ...-- -----.BoyntonlJlkesNor1tl . Coquina Cove. I '. Honte..Run . LbsMongos . OteanPiII1<wIyNeighbolhood . Royal Palm Neighbort'<lod . SnugHarborCondomlnlum . ViliajleRoyal Cl!1 The Green . Bay1ree . I Bovnton Terrace . Cfystal Key . Inlet Harbor Club Condo . Mahogany Bay . Palm Beach Leisurville . ~ . Sterlng Village . Wale" Edge . Betl1esda Pari< .1 Casablanca Apts. . Oogwood . Lales of Tara . Mangrove Walk . PellCalt Point Apar1ments . San Savino . Stoneha,en . Wellesley . Borgata . ,. Cedar Ridge . Ilos lDgos . lalulside Garden . Manne" Way . Ptne Point Villas . Sa,alick Place . The Crossings . Westcheste< HelQhlS . Boynton Beach leisurville .: Cllapei HiDs . GoIfview Harbor . lake WoM Mariner VIllage . ' Me~in Luttlflf King Jr NelQhborhood . POII,cian. Hellhts . Sa,anah Lakes . The Gables . Whalers Cove . Boynton Estates . '1 Citrus Glen . Golfstream EsI8!9s . Las Palmes . McOonald Pari< Addition . Qua,i Run . SellClllSt Vilas . T useera . Woodcrest Maoor . Boynton HllIs . Clipper Cove . Hempshire Gerdens . Laurel Hils . Nautica . Quai Run Villes . Seagate of GolIslream . Via Lugano . Yachlmans Co,e -'--BOyntOn ISle, . C1';;"r aOnd ---.-~ Hal ~doS.' . La","nce Grove . Nautica Sound . Ridge Point Woods Vilas . Slleparn Addition . \lenelan Isles . Boynton Lake . Coastal TO'Ml" . Hllh Ridge . Lawrence Laluls . NoM Ridge Estates . Ridge'Mlod . Silver Lakes Estates . \lenetian Terrace B. Future Park Improvements THE VISION: CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH'S RECREA nON AND PARKS SYSTEM The Vision for the City of Boynton Beach's Recreation and Parks System is to create a green infrastructure system of interconnected pleasing, functional, and well-maintained open spaces, parks, greenways, streets, and waterways that will provide the permanent physical qualities of a great city. Implementation of this Vision will enable the City's Recreation and Parks Department to accomplish its mission to "engage Boynton Beach citizens in diverse recreational experiences, and to cultivate parks and open spaces". Working with City staff, members of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, and interested citizens, Glatting Jackson first developed nomenclature for the different components of the City's Park and Recreation System including: . Urban Open / Civic Spaces . Neighborhood Parks . Community Parks . Special Use Facilities . Water / Beach Access . Greenways / Bikeways / Trails . Conservation Lands . Regional Parks . Schools / School Parks . Private Recreational Facilities A long range plan was developed for each component of the System, responding to existing and projected population and demographics, lifestyles and needs. LIFESTYLES Early in the planning process, it was determined that the parks and recreation needs of City residents vary depending upon where they live; therefore, the City conducted a "Lifestyles Workshop" on November 17, 2004 to discuss differences in both existing and proposed lifestyles and recreation needs in the various quadrants. The notes from the Workshop are attached (Meeting Minutes, November 17, 2004). District I. the Southwest Quadrant, is characterized as an area of retirees living in planned communities, most of which have their own private recreational amenities; therefore, the public recreation needs in this quadrant are primarily for large passive parks. It is anticipated that this demographic will change much over the next 15 - 20 years. District II. the Northeast Quadrant, is an older coastal community that is experiencing changes in its demographic mix, with more families and young professional couples moving into the area. This area of the City has more parks and recreation facilities than any other, but many need to be expanded or upgraded to accommodate increasing demands. The community stated that they also needs jogging trails, bike paths, and cultural/arts facilities within walking distance of residents as in other districts in the City. Ci(v of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 22 District Ill, the Southeast Quadrant, is also an area of changing demographics, and is the most likely area to "gentrify" in the coming years. The community's parks system needs to be expanded with more developed open space and recreation facilities to meet the increasing demand. This can be accomplished with the existing inventory. District IV, the Northwest Quadrant, is the highest income area of the City, characterized as "typical suburbia". There are not enough parks and recreation facilities to serve the youth and family-oriented lifestyle of this quadrant, and trails and bike paths are also needed to meet the needs ofthis growing suburban community. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS A Parks and Recreation System Conceptual Master Plan was developed to show the locations of both existing and proposed facilities to meet the needs outlined above. Following is a description of each of the proposed improvements. The proposed improvements are numbered to correspond to the locations shown on Parks and Recreation System Map. Urban Open / Civic Spaces Bicentennial Park . Complete renovation as an urban civic space for the downtown redevelopment. Veterans Park . Complete renovation as an urban civic space for the downtown redevelopment. Neighborhood Parks The City of Boynton Beach has -l--l- 10 Neighborhood Parks in its current Park System. As time and use have taken a toll on some of these facilities, eight (8) parks were identified through workshops and interviews as having a need for retrofitting and/or enhancement. In addition to these renovations, nine (9) parcels owned by the City were identified to be developed as Neighborhood Parks in a phased fashion in order to meet the recreational needs of the City's population as it continues to increase in the years to come. Priority of park development would have to be determined at a later date as funding becomes available. Since the adoption of the 2006 Strategic Plan, two (2) parks have been upgraded and two (2) park sites have been developed. Hibiscus Park . Replacement of play equipment Complete . Landscaping . Park furniture Complete Retrofit Forest Hill Park . Replacement of play equipment Complete . Resurface basketball court Complete . Landscaping Complete City Qf Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 23 Retrofit Galaxy Park . Replacement of perimeter fence . Replacement of play equipment Complete . Renovation of ball field . Picnic shelter . Arboretum . Landscaping Complete Retrofit Pioneer Canal Park . Provide recreational access, i.e. canoe, kayak launch site, to adjacent Canal Waterway . Surface parking lot . Multipurpose field . Landscaping Complete . Park furniture Complete New Neighborhood Park - FP&LI Golf Road Park Site . Develop park to provide recreational access, i.e. canoe, kayak launch site, to adjacent Canal Waterway. New Neighborhood Park - Girl Scout Park . Develop park to provide recreational access, i.e. canoe, kayak launch site, to adjacent Canal Waterway. New Neighborhood Park - Nautica Sound Park Site . Develop park to local residents' needs New Neighborhood Park - Meadows I Park Site . Develop park to local residents' needs New Neighborhood Park - WoolbrightlLeisureville Place Park Site New Neighborhood Park - Quantum Community Eco Park Site . Develop park to meet residents' needs New Neighborhood Park - Winchester Park Site . Develop park to meet residents' needs Depending on future funding through the general fund, the Boynton Beach Community Foundation, grants and other funding mechanisms, these parks will be developed as the opportunity arises. The Strategic Plan currently does not identify when the sites will be developed. That will be determined based on identification of need in the Parks and Recreation System Needs Assessment, future trends, community needs and funding. Community Parks/ Centers Out ofthe four (4) existing Community Parks/ Centers, one (1) was identified as having a need for retrofitting and one (1) site was identified as a potential Community Park site to be developed as the need arises. City q{ Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Ma~ter Plan 24 Carolyn Sims Center and Wilson Park Complete . N e\y cOlTIllRlnity center . Replace pool . Mukipurpose field . Play equipment . Provide recreational access, i.e. canoe, kayak launch site, to adjacent Canal Waterway. . Landscaping . Park furniture (Note: The Wilson Park reno.,'ation is expected to be complete in November 2007) New Community Park - Nichels Road Site . Develop a multi-purpose Community Park to meet residents' needs Retrofit Congress Avenue Community Park . Upgrade the Tennis Center to meet residents' needs (in progress) . Boundless Playground . Boundless Therapeutic Recreation Center . Gardens . Pavilions . Walking trail . Landscaping . Park furniture Special Use Facilities Two Special Use Facilities are proposed to be retrofitted. Cemeteries were historically used as passive and contemplative parks. The City of Boynton Beach has the opportunity to revive this tradition and provide its residents with truly memorable and contemplative "Cemetery Parks." Retrofit Barton Memorial Park . Consider developing Barton Memorial Park as a "Cemetery Park" that includes historical context. . Bikeway IGreenway Retrofit Sara Sims Park . Complete park renovation to include 0 New restrooms 0 Picnic areas with pavilions 0 Play equipment 0 Single rail fence 0 Multipurpose field Water/ Beach Access !ntracoast-al Park . 7,200 square fOot Clubhouse . Replacement l?f Park Furniture City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 25 Oceanfront Park . Replacement of boardwalk . Add 200 story to office . Replace office, concession and changing rooms with 2-story building . Enlarge maintenance building . Single rail fence . Catwalk over the dooe . Additional lighting . Install stairs from lower parking lot . Handicap walking to beach Retrofit Jaycee Park . Provide recreational access to Intracoastal 'N aterway . Develop connection to Woolbright Road . Picnic sheker . Restrooms . Parking area . Play equipment . Walking trail . Interpretive kiosks . Bocce court . Boardwalk . Day docks . Open play space . Landscaping . Park furniture (Note: Jaycee Park is scheduled for dev'elopment in 2007) Greenways/ Bikeways/ Trails In August 2004 the City Commission approved, in concept, the City of Boynton Beach Greenway and Bikeway Master Plan, which establishes an interconnected system of Greenways, Blueways, Bikeways and Trails throughout the City. This System has been incorporated into the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, as follows: Palmetto Greens Expansion . Expand the greenway to 1-95 Barton Greem,my 0 Complete greenway/hikeway ./i"om west terminus of" Palmetto Greemmy Expansion to Gala.Yv School Develop FEC Corridor Greenway . Develop corridor as a "Transit Greenway" that provides for a multi-purpose recreational path, and connects to adjacent cities and park systems. Develop 1-95 Corridor Greenway City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 26 . Work with FDOT and the County to establish this Greenway, including a paved multi- purpose path, shade trees, benches, bicycle stands, and signage. Develop Intracoastal Waterway Boardwalk . Develop a pedestrian, recreational promenadelboardwalk along Intracoastal Waterway connecting Woolbright Road and Jaycee Park. Develop Shaded Bikeways Program . Enhance roadways throughout the City to create a system of tree-lined boulevards, avenues and streets that link neighborhoods, parks, and commercial/employment areas, and safely accommodate motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Develop Recreational Greenways . Develop recreational greenways along Canal R.O.W., Utility Easements, and any available vacant parcels as a means to create citywide "Green Infrastructure Network." Conservation Lands The current Park System provides residents with three conservation sites: Rolling Green Scrub, Rosemary Scrub, and Seacrest Scrub. One (I) additional parcel was identified through the interviews and workshop as potential conservation sites that would provide residents with additional passive and educational recreation experiences: New Conservation Land - Quantum Conservation Site (Private) 0 Acquire site and develop along with Quantum Community Park to create larger and more influential environmental park. Schools/ Religious Institutions Schools and religious institutions provide opportunities fur public/private partnerships to meet community recreation needs. Three potential sites fur partnerships include: 9. Rolling Green Elementary School'! School Park 10. Temple Beth Kodesh 11. l'lev.' Congress ,.A,fiddle School'! School Park Recreation Facilities Art Center . Replacement of the awning is scheduled in FY 2008/09 . Replacement of the roof is scheduled in FY 2012/13 . Certified Backyard Wildlife Habitat completed in 2008 Ezell Hester. Jr. Center . Replacement of the awning is scheduled for FY 2007/08 . The gym tloor is refinished each year City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 27 . The tennis pavilion awning is scheduled for replacement in FY 2008/09 . Replacement ofthe dugouts is scheduled for FY 2010/11 . Thc area will be relandscaped in FY 2008/09 Intracoastal Cluhhouse . The clubhouse is schedulcd f()r painting in FY 2012/13 Tennis Center . Lights on some of the courts will be replaced in FY 2008/09 . Fence repair is scheduled for FY 2008/09 . Resurfacing of the composite courts will be completed in FY 2008-09 Recreation Programming Demographic analysis indicates that there are more families in the Boynton Beach area than in prior years. In the past, about 40% ofthe department's participants were non-residents. As more recreation facilities are developed west of the city and more families move into the city, recreation programming needs are shifting to offer family-oriented opportunities. There has also been a change in the level of programs that are subsidized by the general fund. More revenue based programs and programs that are self supporting are being offered. Private Recreation Facilities Similar to most counties and cities of South Florida, the City of Boynton Beach is comprised of many private and gated Planned Unit Developments (PUD), condominiums, and apartment complexes. Many of these developments provide their residents with recreational facilities and amenities in the form of community pools, playgrounds, sports courts, etc. These facilities, although private, help meet the recreational needs of City residents. Additional Planning, Code Revisions Each of the facilities outlined above require further planning and design in order to be implemented. Additionally, the City needs to adopt its Greenway Plan as part of the City's Comprehensive Plan, and revise the Land Development Codes to require the implementation of greenway segment and/or neighborhood and community parks as part of the development approval process. COMPLETED IMPROVEMENTS The following improvements '.voce made during Fiscal Year 2005 06 and 2006 07 have been made since Fiscal Year 2005-06. Community Parks Congress Avenue Community Park . Landscaping around tennis courts . Removal of exotic plant material City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 28 . Replacement oflandscape buffer . Fencing around courts Ezell Hester Park . Playground equipment . Park furniture . Entryway sign . New roof Carolvn Sims Center and John H. Denson Pool at Wilson Park . New community center . Replacement of pool . Multipurpose field . Play equipment . Basketball courts . Landscaping . Park furniture . Picnic pavilions Intracoastal Park . Completion oftwo story clubhouse . Installation of retaining wall . Landscaping Neighborhood Parks Boynton Lakes Park . Replacement of play equipment . Landscaping . Park furniture Laurel Hills Park . Single rail fence . Replacement of play equipment . Park furniture . Park signage . Resurface basketball court . Replace basketball standards Meadows Park . Replacement of play equipment . Landscaping . Park furniture . Resurfacing oftennis courts . Resurfacing ofbasketball courts Forest Hill Park City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 29 . Replacement of fence . Park furniture . Entryway sign . Landscaping . Replacement of play equipment Galaxy Park . Park furniture . Renovation ofrestroom . Replacement of play equipment . Landscaping . Entryway signage Knollwood Park . Walking trail . Gazebo . Littoral plantings . Parking lot . Landscaping . Irrigation He.I.-' ""^/cighborhood Park Southeast Betty Thomas Park . Picnic shelter . Play equipment . Walking trail . 2 Basketball courts . Parking lot . Landscaping . Irrigation Hihiscw' Park . Replacement of play equipment . Resurfaced basketball court . Park furniture . Entryway signage Pioneer Caned Park . Replacement of play equipment . Double rail fence . Painting of restroom . Resurface tennis courts . Resurface basketball courts . Park furniture . Entryway signage Special Use Facilities City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 30 Boynton Beach Memorial Park . Re-Iandscaping . Replacement ofthe wall with a decorative fence . Entrance gates Little League Park . Renovated irrigation . Replacement of lighting system . Renovation of four (4) fields . Renovation of concession building . Painting of restrooms and dugouts . Landscaping Urban Open/Civic Space Heritage Park . Removal of planters . Installation of 35 palms Water/Beach Access Parks Oceanfront Park . Paint all buildings . Replaced lifeguard towers . Entryway signage . Landscaping Boat C/uh Park . Dredge the channel . Seal parking lot Intracoastal Park . 7,200 square foot Clubhouse Retrofit Jaycee Park . Provide recreational access to Intracoastal Waterway . Picnic shelters . Restrooms . Parking area . Play equipment . Walking trail . Interpretive exhibits . Bocce courts . Open play space . Landscaping . Park turniture . Entryway signage City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 31 VI. THE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN The Implementation Plan is the most important aspect ofthe strategic planning process. This phase of the plan proposes a set of strategies for the City of Boynton Beach to put in place in order to realize the various elements of the plan. The Implementation Plan is divided into four sections: A. Capital Improvements Plan, B. Funding Sources, C. Comprehensive Plan, and D. Management and Administrative Recommendations. A. Capital Improvements Plan The City of Boynton Beach uses a 5-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that is updated on an as needed annual basis. Funding is usually identified fur the first t',';'o years. The Strategic Plan is a ten-year plan and includes a IO-year CIP. Certain assumptions have to be made as to the timing and details of development of parks and facilities. This is a fluid plan that helps steer the department and can change as plans become reality. The Strategic 5-year City CIP is included in Appendix G G. B. Funding Sources A significant challenge for the City of Boynton Beach in meeting public recreation demands IS funding. Significant fmancial investment IS necessary for physical development, land acquisition, maintenance and programming. Implementing the recommendations of the Strategic Plan hinges on the ability to secure funding from multiple sources and responding with effective management of parks and recreation facilities and programs. The major impediment challenge of any te-the implementation of the plan is the lack of adequate dedicated funding sources for both capital and land acquisitions, and for ongoing park management. Currently, significant funding deficiencies exist fur these. The following funding sources are a comprehensive listing of funding options that the City should consider. are available tor consideration. 1. Park Impact Fees The City of Boynton Beach currently assesses new development for park impact fees. The purpose of this is to implement the capital facilities element of the Comprehensive Plan by: a. Ensuring that adequate park, recreation, open space and trail facilities are available to serve new development. b. Maintaining the high quality of life in Boynton Beach by ensuring that adequate facilities are available to serve growth thereby providing for the needs of new growth and maintaining existing service levels for present businesses and residents. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 32 c. Establishing standards and procedures whereby new development pays its proportionate share of the costs of park, recreation, open space and trail facilities. Existing fees are charged as follows: . Single-Family, Detached Unit $1,418.00 Per Unit . Single-Family, Attached Unit $1,045.00 Per Unit . Multi-Family Unit $924.00 Per Unit Consideration is begin given to increasing the impact fees to assure that sufficient funds are collected to cover the costs of adequate park and recreation facilities. 3. eRA Funding It is expected that Potential collaboration and cost sharing initiatives with the CRA fuOO-s will be used to renovate existing and/or build new parks in the CRA district. The following parks are located in the CRA district. Urban Open/Civic Space Bicentennial Park Heritage Park ih A venue Park Veterans Park Neighborhood Parks Galaxy Park Community Parks Ezell Hester Park Special Use Parks Barton Memorial Park Sara Sims Park G reenways/B ikeways/T rails Palmetto Green Water/Beach Access Mangrove Park It is hoped that a stronger relationship between the CRA and the Recreation and Parks Department will be developed which will emphasize the importance that parks have in the success of redevelopment. 3. Grants The following identifies a number of grant sources that are available for land acquisition, park improvements, recreation facilities, greenways and trails, conservation land and programming: City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 33 . . Florida Forever - Florida Communities . Florida Recreation Development and Assistance Program (FRDAP) . Greenways and Trails . Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) . Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) . Palm Beach County Discretionary Funds . Palm Beach County Recreation Assistance Grant (RAP) 4. Debt Financing This method essentially requires a community to sell bonds or otherwise borrow money to be repaid from an annual automatic lien on the general fund. Or a community can pay for its infrastructure in the same way a person borrows money to purchase a home. In both instances, the capital need is immediate and high, the equity appreciation reasonably assured, and the monthly or annual principal and interest payments generally fixed. Like all forms of infrastructure financing, there are some disadvantages and risks. One major risk is voter aversion to approving bond issues, which means an increase in their property taxes. 5. Reserves Reserves are those surplus funds in a local government coffer that are either intentionally built up for a "rainy day" or accrue because the budget requirements were less than the revenues co llected. By having sufficient reserves, a municipality does not have to try to sell bonds or borrow capital improvement funds. Reserves are difficult to project. 6. Advance Acquisition of Park and Open Space Land In this approach, a municipality maps out its future parks, recreation and open space through the comprehensive planning process. It then negotiates with landowners to purchase the property at a fair price, ideally before the land boom prices begin to rise. This approach can work to the advantage of developers and new residents by assuring that the parks and greenways will be there to increase property values and make new subdivisions more attractive to homebuyers. The cost of the property can be repaid back to the city by the developers of the property. 7. Lease-Purchase Contracts These contracts allow a community to begin use of a tract of land without acquiring all ofthe money needed to purchase the property. Sometimes, the lease fee is higher than the interest on bonds; however, it does provide a means to convince citizens that unless the community comes up with the money to purchase the land, the recreation opportunities enjoyed on the land will be foregone. 8. Sale of Park Land The sale ofunderutilized land should be considered. Reduction of acreage would have a direct impact on the cost for maintenance. Ci(y of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 34 9. Real Estate Transfer Fees As cities expand, the need for infrastructure improvements grows. Since parks add value to neighborhoods and communities, some cities have turned to real estate transfer fees to fund parks and recreation needs. Usually transfer fees amount to ~% to ~% on the total sale of the property. 10. Naming Rights Many cities have turned to selling the naming rights for new buildings or the renovation of existing buildings and parks for the cost associated with the improvement. 11. Cell Towers Cell towers in remote park areas or attached to existing light poles on athletic fields is another source of income. 12. Partnerships Partnerships are joint development funding sources or operational funding sources between two separate agencies, such as two governmental entities, a non- profit and the City, or a private entity and the City. The partners develop park and recreation facilities and share risk, operational costs, responsibilities and asset management based on the strengths and weakness of each partner. 13. Special Taxing Districts Taxing districts are established to provide funds for certain types of improvements that benefit a specific group of affected properties. Improvements may include landscaping, park furnishing, public art, supplemental services 14. Boynton Beach Community Trust Foundation The incorporation of the Boynton Beach Community will provide a mechanism through which funds can be raised for City projects. It is anticipated that funding for the Congress Avenue Barrier-Free Community Park and Boundless Playground will be raised through the --+rest Foundation. 15. Program Fees With the economic challenges being faced by the city, it is anticipated that program fees will be evaluated and adjusted to help off set the amount of subsidy received from the general fund. The current fees are in the lower range of comparable cities. It is anticipated that increased fees could lead to a decrease in participation. C. Comprehensive Plan A critical part of the Strategic Plan is the rewriting of the Recreation and Open Space Element of the City's Comprehensive Plan. The Comp Plan will include the City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 35 development elements identified in the Strategic Plan and will allow the City to formalize the Strategic Plan to assure the adherence to the plan. A copy of the Recreation and Open Space Element of the Comprehensive Plan is included in Appendix BF. D. Management and Administrative ReeommeadatioBs Considerations 1. Departmental Organization Current Departmental Organization At the current time, the parks, recreation and transportation divisions make up the Recreation and Parks Department. Traditional departmental organization dictates that these services are usually combined and managed by one director. The following depicts the current structure of the department: The Department is organized in the following manner: DIVISION FULL- TIME PART-TIME FTE'S Recreation 28 21.21 Parks 30 5.22 Transportation 5 .70 Desired Department Organization Staffing Levels Changes need to be made to the existing organizational structure to achieve a balance in duties. A Recreation Superintendent position should be created to supervise the two (2) Senior Recreation Managers to complement the Parks Superintendent position. Future Staffing Requirements Over the past few years, due to budget constraints and through attrition, three (3) several positions have been eliminated. A Recreation Manager position should be created to oversee the Congress A venue BOlHldless Park including the tennis operation. A Tennis Professional should be hired on a contractual basis. While the department has been able to continue to provide programming and maintenance at an acceptable level, the addition of new parks and facilities may require the addition of recreation and parks staff It is anticipated that the following staff or services will be needed as new facilities are developed. The 2007-08 Strategic Plan included additional staff requirements because of the opening of the Intracoastal Clubhouse, the Sims Center and the Denson Pool. The department was able to hire a Pool Supervisor, a part time Lifeguard Senior, three (3) part time Lifeguards and a pmi time Recreation Leader to manage the pool operations. Due to budget constraints, the decision was made to close City Hall in the Mall and to move that staff to Intracoastal Park, eliminating the need to hire an additional full time supervisor and recreation specialist. The Sims Center will City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 36 be managed by eXIstmg statI It was also decided to eliminate the Tennis Professional position and the Recreation Manager position. +fle Madsen Center was closed for recreational purposes with the exception of keeping the external shuffleboard courts in operation and the Recreation Supervisor was relocated. Additionally, due to attrition, a Parks Maintenance Worker position and a Parks Maintenance Worker Senior position were eliminated from the Parks Division personnel. Future Staffing Recommendations and Associated Costs The fullowing indicates the required additional personnel o','er the next ten years. The salaries are based on current entry level salaries with a 5% increase fur each year. Benefits are not included. 2007/2008 Impr-o'.'Cments: !ntracoasffil Clubhouse (IC), Car-olyn Sims Center and Pool at Wilson Park Position (Loeation) Hourly FTE's +6taI Salary "\nnual Q}st R-eereation Supervisor (Ie) ~ -l- ~ Recreation Specialist (Ie) -l--l-,4; -l- ~ Recreation SupermteRaeRt ~ -l- @,&4() Aquatic Supervisor (Pool) -l-+.--S-2 -l- ;>>,44-l- Recreation Leader (Pool) g..,n -l- ~ Office Assistant Sen.ior (Pool) g..,n H ~ TOT ""..L 227,(jll 2008/2009 Improvements: Congress Avenue Boundless Barrier-Free Community Park, and TheMpeutie Center Greenways Position (Location) Hourly FTE's Total Salary Annual Cost Maintenance Specialist ~ I ~ 15.35 31.92R Maintenance Worker -U).,9() 1 ~ 12.54 26.0R3 R-eereation Specialist -l--l-,4; -l- ~ Recreation Super,..isor ~ -l- ~ TOTAL 58,011 City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strates;ic Master Plan 37 2009/2010 Improvements: Girl SC8Ut Park None Position (Location) Hourly FTE's Total Salary Annual Cost None needed TOTAL -0- 2010/2011 Improvements: Replacement of Buildings at Oceanfront Park Position (Location) Hourly FTE's Total Salary Annual Cost Crew Leader -l4-W -l- ~ MainteBaHce Worker ~ -l- ~ TOTAL 56,597 2011/2012 Impr8l'ements: PP&L Park, Gr-eenways Position (Location) Hourly FTE's Total Salary Annual Cost Park Maintenance Specialist -l49-l- -l- ~ Parks Maintenance Worker ~ -l- ~ TOTAL 62, 735 2012/2013 Improvements: - n. ,_ '" ---...rno, ~. ~~...r_J'u Position (Location) Hourly FTE's Total Salary Annual Cost Recreation Sl:lpef'lisor ~ -l- 4-l--;9% RecreatiOB Specialist -l49-l- -l- ~ Park Maintenance Worker ~ -l- ~ TOTAL 107,874 2013/2014 ~ ..., . -, . ... . . 1 '~ PositioR (LoeatioB) Hourly FTE's +6taI Salary ARRual best None Needed City q( Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 38 I TOTAL I -0-1 2014/2015 T . ~ . PositioR (LoeatioR) Hourly FTE's ~ Salary ARRual best Nonc Needed TOTAL -0- 2015/2016 T_ . -"T_" .. D. ._", D. .,~ _unp. . ,~ _'n PositioR (Loeation) Hourly FTE's ~ Salary ABBual best Nonc Needed TOTAL -0- 2016/2017 Improvements: Grec-nwflYs PositioB (Loeation) Hourly FTE's ~ Salary ABBual best None Nceded TOTAL -0- NOTE: Salaries reflect a 5% increase in each out year. Salaries do not include benefits, equipment, etc. 2. Programs The 2002 Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment also determined programming needs. Areas of emphasis in programming indicated that residents of Boynton Beach would like the fullowing: . Festivals and special events . Exercise and fitness programs . Computer classes . Tours of local attractions . .-"'rts and crafts programs . Senior programs . Activities fur pre schoolers City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 39 . Summer camps . Tutoring . Dance and music lessons . 'I isual arts . GED programs . Outdoor volleyball . Boating activities . Special needs programs . Singles events . Cricket 81 % of the respondents indicated that they are willing to pay a user fee f-or neVi recreation opportunities. The addition of ne'.v park facilities and persOIHlel will help pro'iide venues fur these additional activities. The Department will de','elop has developed a Recreation Programming Plan, which will be reviewed annually to assess and address current and future needs. This plan will be incorporated into the Strategic Plan and updated as required. Additionally, the Needs Assessment will be completed every five (5) years. 3. Revenue Generation Increase User Fees for Programs Unfortunately but understandably, 'lIhen budgets have to be cut, parks and recreation is one of the first victims. The Revenue Policy guides the range of fees charged for recreation programs in the City. Since the downturn in the national economy, numerous parks and recreation systems have been forced to reevaluate to consider ralSlng user fees to continue to offer quality- pro gramming opportunities. While this is not initially popular with users, a proper marketing and information effort should help users understand the necessity ofthis strategy. Historically, adult programming has been partially subsidized by the City. It is recommended that Boynton Beach audit the true costs of each program, including maintenance and facility costs, staff costs, advertising costs, etc, Most municipalities believe that children's and teen's programs be partially subsidized, and that reduced cost for participation be given to the financially disad vantaged. The choice of how much the program is subsidized is a philosophical policy decision to be made by the City Commission Boynton Beaefl. It is recommended that Boynton Beach the Department track the true costs for each program and make adjustments so that one program is not subsidized more than another. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 40 . Facility and Athletic Rentals As the new community centers and neighborhood parks are added to the system, a fee plan for rental facilities should be developed. Picnic shelters can be used on a fIrst come-fIrst served basis; however, guaranteed use can be made through a reservation program that includes a rental and clean-up fee. A fee plan for rental facilities is being developed by the department is included in the Revenue Policy Manua. Athletic facilities should also be rented. They are quite costly to maintain so the fees should cover the cost of maintenance and upkeep. Equipment Rental This revenue source is available through the rental of equipment such as tables, chairs, tents, stages, bicycles, roller blades, canoes, kayaks, sports equipment, etc. Special Fundraisers Many park and recreation agencies have special fundraisers on an annual basis to help cover the costs of specifIc programs and/or capital projects. Utility Round-up Programs Some park and recreation agencies have worked with the local utilities on a round-up program whereby a consumer can pay the difference between their bill up to the even dollar amount and they then pay the parks and recreation department the difference. Corporate Sponsorships This revenue- funding source allows corporations to invest in the development or enhancement of additional programs in the City. Sponsorships are also used for special events. Foundations These dollars are raised from tax-exempt, non-profIt organizations established with private donations in promotion of specifIc causes, activities or issues. They offer a variety of means to fund capital projects, gifts, fundraisers, endowments, etc. Advertising This revenue source is for the sale of tasteful and appropriate advertising on park and recreation related items such as the City's program guide, scoreboards, dasher boards, fences or other visible products or services that are consumable or permanent that exposes the product or service to many people. Signage Fees This revenue source charges citizens and businesses with signage fees at key locations with high visibility for short term events. Signage fees typically run from $25.00 per sign up to $200.00 per sign based on the size and location. Scholarship Program City q{ Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 41 This program allows the City to set across-the-board subsidy rates but offer financial assistance to those residents who cannot afford to pay the full amount. In this way, the program subsidy level is maintained and equitable access to the programs is maintained. The scholarship program can be a formal program through which businesses and individuals can donate money specifically to the program. Or the program can be funded with monies from the City, either from the general fund or other designated source. Adopt-A-Park Program The development of a formal Adopt-A-Park program would establish rules and guidelines of responsibilities for the adoptee. It would be recommended that the adoptors be a formal organization such as a neighborhood organization, homeowners association, business, civic group, etc. There is strength in numbers making burn-out less likely. Wish List This method of raising funds or getting materials has proven to be a successful method of augmenting the budget. Each year, the department establishes a "wish list" of items that they need, such as landscaping materials that are wanted, play equipment, art supplies, even vehicles and equipment. The list is published to the public. The downside is that the results can vary greatly from year to year, depending on the economy's performance. It is suggested that the list not contain any items necessary for the day-to-day operation. V olunteer Program The use of volunteers to do clerical work and programming can be a useful tool in augmenting the staffing levels. The City has a volunteer program that is formalized and includes background checks, regular schedules, job descriptions and evaluations to assure the safety of the clientele and the quality of the volunteers. Cost Avoidance The City should take a position of not being everything for everyone. It must be driven by the market and stay with the Department's core business. By shifting its role as direct provider, the City will experience savings by deciding whether or not to provide that facility or program. This is cost avoidance. 4- Administrative and Operational Management Plans As a result of the Accreditation Self Assessment process and strategic planning meetings, the following plans have been identified developed as focus areas fet: to guide the department's future planning. and inclusion They have been included in the annual update of the Strategic Plan. . Training Plan 06/07 . Programming Plan ~ . Marketing Plan ~ . Community Relations Plan ~ . Maintenance Management Plan Ci~v of Boynton Beach Recreation and Park.s Department Strategic Moster Plan 42 . . Needs Assessment ~2008 . Technology Plan 08/09 . Preventative Maintenance Plan (No date set) The purpose ofthe Programming Plan is to guide and assist staff in systematically ottering quality recreation programming to customers and residents who live, learn, work, play in and visit Boynton Beach. The purpose of the Marketing and Communications Plan is to aid the Department and its personnel in identifying the issues facing our community and how to market the Department's natural resources and parks, programs and activities, facilities and services to our clientele. More than ever it is necessary to implement a simple and practical marketing plan that can be used to guide the Department in its quest to satisfy the needs and desires of our diverse community. The Marketing Plan will help the Department increase the value that Recreation and Parks programs and services bring to our citizens and will assist the Department in being effective for our customers. The purpose of the Community Relations Plan is to promote the marketing vision and unIque selling proposition of the Department while developing and strengthening relationships with individuals and communities in and around the City of Boynton Beach. The basic purpose of the plan is to promote the Department as a structured and integral part of the Boynton Beach community through the provision of activity programming, events, facilities and spaces. The Park Maintenance Plan was developed for two reasons. The first reason was to meet the requirements of the Accreditation Process. The second was to assure that the maintenance of parks in Boynton Beach meets certain expectations. A comprehensive Park Maintenance Plan is the backbone of the City's park system. A Park Maintenance Plan addresses routine, regularly scheduled tasks, preventative tasks, scheduled improvements and emergency repairs. The Plan identifies areas of responsibility, types of maintenance and standards for the different types of maintenance. Additionally, it contains a task-based reporting system that will allow the City to identify real time efforts into the difterent areas of responsibility, types of maintenance tasks performed, and time allocated per employee for maintenance task. I t is necessary for the department to keep up with the changing trends in recreation and demographics to assure that the needs of the participants arc being met. A needs assessment should be conducted on an annual basis using different methodologies including written surveys, telephone surveys and focus groups. The Department shall utilize these focus areas in developing annual department and staff goals while continuing to respond to changing conditions, needs and trends, thus ensuring that there is a long range strategy to achieve the Department's mission. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 43 . VII. EVALUATION The Strategic Plan will be evaluated and updated annually for presentation to City Commission in May of each year. The Leadership staff is responsible for determining if the plan is successful and what change need to be included in the updated plan. Additionally, the Programming Plan, Marketing Plan, the Community Relations Plan, and the Maintenance Management Plan will be evaluated on an annual basis. Changes will be as necessary. VII. l\f.ARKETINC PL.<\N To be de'.'eloped in Fiscal Year 06/07 'TIII.PROCR.A....MMINC PL.AN To be developed in Fiscal Year 06/07 IX. PROFESSION.<\L DE'TELOPMENT PLAN To be developed in Fiscal Year 06/07 X. EVAL U.<A....T ION To be developed in Fiscal Year 06/07 XI. COMMUNITY REL.<\TIONS PL.<A....N To be developed in Fiscal Year 06/07 XII. REVENUE PL.<\N To be developed in Fiscal Year 06107 XIII. NEEDS .<A....SSESSMENT To be developed in Fiscal Year 07/08 XI'T. TECHNOLOCY PL.<A....N To be developed in Fiscal Year 08/09 X'T. PRE'TENT.<A....TIVE l\t.<\INTEN.<A....NCE PL.<\N No date set at this time. APPENDICES Appendix A Marketing Plan Append ix B Programming Plan Appendix C Community Relations Plan City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 44 . Append ix 0 Maintenance Management Plan Appendix A E Recommendations from Staff Connections regarding Organizational Structure Appendix B F Revised Comprehensive Plan Appendix G G 5-year Capital Improvement Plan Appendix H Summary of Needs Assessment City Qf Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 45 APPENDIX A City of Boynton Beach r-d" Recreation and Parks Department ~ Boynton Beach, Florida Q.) ~ ~ o ........, s:::: ~ o ~ tI.l .~ aj ~ 08 0 ~ M i PI o . ........ " "'\,--- ""'t'-'" ./ (...~_, ~", , '" " ~-"'---""~'" CD .' .," i I:~~/., '. ,,:',,\\' ~ . " i We Make 1.( Cr\PI~,\.\'! - ~ .'. " , .:' ..." '.', , '': /i U, " , " ',.111 L.fe Fun..,~", ,..,'" / Q) " ,'..' }>, \:1>.' .,' -- / ;' Boynton Beach ',~. /-;;: ;/ t::t::::; Recreation tlnd Porm. cmlXlrtmfCnt ~!t~~/ Plan prepared by: Virginia Shea, Senior Recreation Manager City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department PO Box 310 Boynton Beach, FL 33425-0310 561-742-6236 561-742-6238 recdept@ci.boynton-beach. fl. us www.bovnton-beach.orq TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Guiding Principles.... ........................... ........ ....... ..... .......... ........ .......... ..........1 Proactive vs. Reactive........................................................................................1 Decentralized vs. Centralized............................................................................. 1 I ncl usive vs. Excl usive . .. . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .... . . .. .. . .. . .. . . . .. . .. .. . . . .. .. . .. .. .. . . . . .. .. . . . . .. . .. . . . . . .. . . . .... 1 Consistency vs. Inconsistency.... ...... ......................... ...... .........:....... .......... ........1 Two-Way vs. One-Way Communications...........................................................1 Informed vs. Uniformed Decision Making ...........................................................1 Progressive vs. Traditional............................................................................... ..2 1/. Positioning the Department for Success ....................................................2 Corporate Identity and Demographics ..... ......... ...... ....... ......... ......... .... ........... ....2 Target Audiences. ......... ........... ... .... .... ............ ........ .... ... ....... ........ ... ........... ... ....3 Secondary Target Audiences ... ...... .... ....... ... ...... ....... ........ ...... ......... ......... ..... ....3 Values......................... ........................................................................................4 Department Philosophy...... ... ... .... ........ ... .....".. ..... ...... ... ... .... ...... ... ...... ...... .........4 Department Mission.......................................,.....................................................4 Marketing Vision...........................................".....................................................4 Unique Selling Proposition..................................................................................5 1/1. Marketing Overview............................."..................................................... 5 IV. Benefits Based Marketing and It Starts in Parks Message.....................6 V. Executive Summary. .... ...................... ......... ......... ............................ ....... ...... 7 Market Analysis Strategies................................................................................. 7 Competition Analysis.......................................................................................... 7 Promotion Strategies and Communications Tactics...........................................8 VI. Annual Objectives and Action Plans ......................................................10 VI/. Evaluation and Continuous Improvement .............................................11 VIII. Appendix.... ........ ......... ........ ......... ....... ...... ............. .......... ............ ............. 11 IX. Conclusion .......... ........ ......... ........ ......... ........... ....... ....... ........... ......... ....... 13 I. Guiding Principles The purpose of the Recreation and Parks Department Marketing Plan IS to aid the Department and its personnel in identifying the current methods used to market Department services, natural resources and parks, programs and activities, and facilities to our clientele, More than ever it is necessary to implement a simple and practical marketing plan that can be used to guide the Department in its quest to satisfy the leisure needs and desires of our diverse community. This Marketing Plan will help the Department increase the value that Recreation and Parks programs and services bring to our citizens and will assist the Department in being effective for our customers. This plan is based on the following principles that guide the Department: Proactive vs. Reactive The intent of the Department's marketing efforts is to be proactive in providing information to our citizens. Our responsibility is to plan and execute strategies, which utilize all available marketing and communications outlets to provide up-to-date and accurate information and to anticipate the needs of our growing and changing community, Decentralized vs. Centralized The City of Boynton Beach and the Recreation and Parks Department maintain a policy of decentralized communication that places the responsibility of marketing in the hands of each employee of the Department. The role of the Senior Manager responsible for Department marketing is to provide professional and technical support to the entire staff to ensure that the Department's message is consistent. Inclusive vs. Exclusive Marketing to and communicating with everyone in the community and everyone on staff is vital to the survival of the Department. Soliciting public and staff input into marketing initiatives will help the Department meet its objectives. Consistency vs. Inconsistency Focused and consistent marketing messages present a focused and consistent image to the community. The messages sent out to the public shall revolve around the City's and the Department's vision and mission, Focus and consistency will present a professional image to our constituents. Two-Way vs. One-Way Communications Maintaining an open and honest style of communication will allow information to be shared and will alleviate fears and suspicions commonly associated with governmental agencies. Informed vs. Uniformed Decision Making The Department exists to serve the needs of our community and customers, We are committed to providing accurate information that will allow our constituents to make informed decisions and choices. We are also committed to seeking community and staff input to help determine the future needs and development of parks and recreation for the entire communltv Progressive vs. Traditional While the Department is committed to utilizing effective tools to communicate with our citizens, the development of emerging technologies has provided the Department with new tools for this purpose. It is the Department's goal to be viewed as a progressive organization. II. Positioning the Department for Success Our objective is to have an impact on others, and ultimately the world in which we live, in a positive way. Our humanity - our children's future - depends on the choices we make today. Reaching out to people who care about recreation and parks, and who care about their community, is our job. Everyone can benefit from physical activity, time spent in nature, and revisiting their heritage. We strive to make the importance of recreation and parks more evident to the public by promoting our parks as the center of communities and our facilities as safe havens. Providing and developing enriching programs helps to create healthy communities, reduce crime and vandalism, foster business retention and expansion, and enhance tourism. Recreation and Parks services and programs are proven to be good for the entire community! We have the capability to link citizen volunteers and professionals who support recreation and parks to work together to solve a number of shared problems. We work together to promote the development and the spreading of the body of knowledge that is growing daily. . . about our profession, about how we help our citizens, and about how we effect positive change in our community. The Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department helps to strengthen our community's fabric, health and well being, economic base and security. Through diverse and innovative programming and broad partnerships, the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department plays an important role in creating places for our citizens to create, imagine, play, learn & meet new friends. Corporate Identity and Demographics Located in southeast Florida in Palm Beach County, Boynton Beach is known as the "Gateway to the Gulfstream" and is the third largest city in the county. According to U.S. census statistics, the population of Boynton Beach is an estimated 66,671. The median resident age is 41.8 years. The median household income: $44,299 and the median house value is $192,000. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department maintains and operates 39 sites (including 9 recreation facilities, the beach and 29 parks) for recreational use. At the head of the Department is the Director who reports to the Assistant City Manager. The City Commission appoints a Recreation & Park Board of seven members and two alternates. The Board meets monthly, providing valuable citizen input to the Department's management. Board members are appointed to three-year terms. In 1999, the Department's Leadership Team, with the assistance of all staff, developed a corporate identity for the Department. This began with adapting the Department's mission statement to a new slogan ("We Make Life Fun"; see USP on page 5) and logo. The Department's major marketing tool, "Funfare! Magazine" and slogan were a perfect fit The 2 Department uses the logo on all communications and marketing tools, and IS associated by our constituents with the unique message of the Department The slogan "We Make Life Fun and the title "Funfare! Magazine" are both important parts of our "brand' Target Audiences For the purposes of the Marketing and Communications Plan, the primary target audiences have been identified as: Citizens Citizens of Boynton Beach have been identified as the highest priority target audience, By educating citizens and creating an open dialog, the Department will help to empower citizens to become an integral part of the overall plan by becoming supporters and advocates for the department Top 20% of Program Registrants These are the department's best customers based on the number or dollars spent and the number of registrations logged in the course of a year and who are included on (but not limited to) the "Funfare! Magazine" mailing list This is the direct-mailed, major marketing tool of the department News Media The Department maintains an open and honest dialog with the news media, The news media playa vital role in the overall marketing and communications effort of the Department which significantly influences the perception of the Department by all other target audiences. Employees By improving and expanding upon current internal marketing efforts, the Department can empower employees to deliver the message that "We Make Life Fun" to our constituents, Secondary Target Audiences Unincorporated Boynton Beach residents Other Palm Beach County residents Other local government agencies Local businesses Local corporations The Palm Beach County School District The Palm Beach County Board of Commissioners Local Hospitals Local Homeowners Associations Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau Palm Beach County Sports Commission Palm Beach County Cultural Council 3CMA (City/County Communications and Marketing ,A.ssociation) Florida Recreation and Parks Association Values ~ DIVERSITY - Using the strengths that come from our differences and sharing ideas as we work together towards completion of our goals. ~ INTEGRITY - Providing consistency in action and words grounded in ethical conduct. Having courage to do the right thing and willing to be held accountable for our decisions. ~ STEWARDSHIP - Demonstrating responsible management of public and natural resources entrusted to our care. ~ CREA TIVITY - Encouraging the use of imagination to develop new ideas and to find improvements. Department Philosophy The Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department trusts that active and passive leisure pursuits are significant, essential and relevant to the quality of life for the citizens of Boynton Beach. Recreation and parks management enhances economic and community development and thus, is vital to our community. We are committed to meeting the recreational and social needs of our citizens of various ages, interests, abilities, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds. We promote the benefits of becoming involved with Recreation and Parks activities to our constituents. We work toward increasing the public's awareness that recreation and parks hold environmental, economic and therapeutic benefits to people of all ages, interests and abilities. Our message consistently includes the benefits of being involved with recreation and parks on every level. Department Mission We exist to engage Boynton Beach citizens in diverse recreational experiences and to cultivate parks and open spaces. Marketing Vision We will provide a variety of parks, recreation facilities and program experiences equitably throughout the community. Programs will be developed and maintained to the highest quality, ensuring a safe environment with exceptional service while developing lifetime customers. Services will demonstrate a positive economic investment through partnerships with other service providers, both public and private, ensuring a high quality of life for the citizens of Boynton Beach. We must share the fact that Recreation and Parks services are vital to the health and well- being of our community. We must spread the word that the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Makes Life Fun and is dedicated to: . Strengthening Community Image and Sense of Place. . Supporting Economic Development by improving property values and attracting and retaining businesses and residents. We provide jobs and generate income from the community and local businesses through park development programs. . Strengthening Safety and Security by providing safe environments for play and leisure. . Promoting Health and Wellness to improve physical and emotional health. 4 . Fostering Human Development through social Intellectual, physical and emotional interaction. . Increasing Cultural Unity by creating experiences through programs that celebrate understanding and diversity . Protecting Environmental Resources through acquisition of open space, creating greenways, blueways and bikeways for the enjoyment of our citizens, and providing natural areas for pleasure and education. . Facilitating Community Problem solving through leadership and professionalism of staff applied to interaction with our constituents Raising the level of awareness of the existence of the myriad of different public park and recreation amenities within Boynton Beach is the ultimate purpose of the Department's Marketing Plan, Gaining new insight from registration software and feedback from our customers at all recreation facilities will give the department baseline data which will allow staff to review ways to face new challenges, Further evaluation of our market will allow us to plan for the future. Unique Selling Proposition We endeavor to project the image of a department dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of our constituents, Thus, our Unique Selling Proposition is the same as our Department slogan "We Make Life Fun." III. Marketing Overview In 2001, recognizing the growing importance of overall agency marketing, the Department Director assigned the task of preparing a marketing plan to the Senior Manager responsible for marketing, The first three year marketing plan was approved in late 2002. In evaluating the plan, the Department's Leadership Team determined that a one-year plan would better suit the Department. Since then, the Department updates the plan annually, which is intended to provide direction to all staff to enhance our marketing efforts. This plan outlines the Department's annual objectives. The actual implementation of the plan will be spread out In accordance with the Department's marketing workflow, The City's Public Affairs Director is ultimately responsible for the City's public relations and promotional efforts. The Department, however, has the authority and responsibility to market its programs and services. The Public Affairs office is an excellent resource for assistance, The Public Affairs Director and the Senior Recreation Manager in charge of Department marketing work together throughout the year to promote not just recreation programs and parks, but a myriad of public services that benefit our constituents, The Senior Manger oversees program related marketing. Examples of Senior Manager's responsibilities include updating the Department pages of the City's web site, serving on the policy making decision team for the government access cable television channel, creating and updating seasonal brochures, flyers, program and non-program related press releases, annual guide to city services, pavilion and faciiity guides, and Department regIstration services, The registration services include such marketing efforts as registrations, refunds and transfers. pavilion reservations, program information distribution, among other related activities, "' The Department understands that the responsibility of carrying out this Marketing Plan is the responsibility of every member of the Department. Recreation programming staff - from supervisors to recreation specialists and administrative associates - serve as advocates and communicators for the Department in accordance with the agency mission. The primary responsibilities of the Senior Manager is to assist staff'members in obtaining the necessary knowledge and tools to be effective in their role of communicating with the target audiences. These staff members are responsible in some way for planning and coordinating the marketing for their programs and services. This includes the four p's of Marketing, commonly referred to as the Marketing Mix: . Place (location of where program will be held); . Price (cost and price structure of the program); . Product (program components such as activity, curriculum, times, days and benefits to participants); . Promotion (brochure description, flyer language, flyer distribution, PSAlnews releases, and other promotional efforts), Park staff is involved in marketing every day as they frequently come in personal contact with thousands of customers each year. Park staff can educate the public as to the importance of natural resources, environmental issues and protecting our parkland. A new component of the Marketing Plan in 2007-08 was the development of a Department Marketing Committee. This component focused on the development of marketing strategy. Through this committee, suggestions and recommendations were addressed towards the Department's marketing efforts. The Department Marketing Committee is a continuous improvement team comprised of employees from several divisions from within the Department. The purpose of the committee is to explore marketing opportunities, gather and disseminate information, provide a forum for marketing brainstorming, and help guide the marketing efforts of the Department. The team meets quarterly to discuss marketing issues and give updates on the plan's action items. The marketing budget is primarily funded through self-sustaining program fees, commonly referred to as the Recreation Program Revenue Fund. A percentage of each section/division budget is reserved for the tri-yearly recreation program guide, Funfare! Magazine. The Senior Manager in charge of marketing prepares the remaining marketing line item budget requests during the annual budget process. IV. Benefits Based Marketing and It Starts in Parks Message Benefits-Based Marketing is an underlying theme for all Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department marketing activities. The National Recreation and Park Association adopted the benefits-based approach to marketing as a response to the 1995 Surgeon General's report on the overall health of the nation and completed a strategic plan, vision and mission for the Benefits Movement with input from a variety of NRPA stakeholders. The Department has embraced the movement which communicates the value of recreation and parks as an essential service that impacts the quality of life in our community. Equally, the Department has embraced the It Starts In Parks marketing and branding campaign led by the Florida Recreation and Parks Association. This initiative better positions 6 parks and recreation agencies to be recognized and supported for the important benefits anD services provided by the profession The overall outcome of the initiative IS to Insure that people in the State of Florida know. value and support the profession of parks and recreation We offer high quality, safe and fun activities, programs and events, practice care for open space and plan for the future needs of our constituency, and we focus on making known the benefits that effect people by participating in programs at our facilities We seek to increase the public's awareness that recreation and parks hold environmental, economic and therapeutic benefits to people of all ages, interests and abilities, Our message must consistently include the benefits of being involved with recreation and parks on any level including the ISIP (It Starts in Parks) messages: Respect for NATURE, CONSERVATION of our natural treasures... ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACHIEVEMENT.,. Ties to our HERITAGE "", Florida's FUTURE. , A Sense of COMMUNITY , Good HEALTH, It Starts in Pa rks. v. Executive Summary Market Analysis Marketing is the process by which we come to understand the relationship between our organization's "product" and our customers. We began with the Internal Market Analysis: a self-examination of the organization which involves input from recreation and park staff members. The Leadership Team conducts this marketing audit annually. The 2007-08 analysis was conducted in September 2008 with the results being included in the Annual Marketing Plan Report, which was provided to the Director of Recreation and Parks prior to making annual plan revisions in order to properly identify upcoming annual objectives and action plans and marketing strategies, The Internal Analysis helps in determining the Department's strengths and weaknesses and is accompanied by the Competitive and Environmental Analysis which focuses on competing organizations and the programs they offer that are similar or different from those offered by the Department This allows us to look at trends that affect our community to help us understand which trends can or cannot be addressed by the Department and help us determine how programs compare between organizations. Competition Analysis Major recreation providers in the area include Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department, the Palm Beach County School Board, the local Jewish Community Center, and the local YMCA It should be noted that the Department shares many of the same philosophies and partners on many levels with other service providers in order to satisfy community needs. Shared facilities and collaborative programming facilitate these efforts. The Department has conducted meetings and is seeking to partner with the local YMCA in offering programs to a wider audience. These efforts are mentioned and will be supported but are not part of this year's marketing plan Promotion Strategies and Communications Tactics Media Relations is an important and effective link in the Department's marketing efforts. Continued efforts to maintain open and honest communications with the media and providing timely information in the easiest and clearest way possible is our top priority. The local media have continuously commented to Department staff how clear and concise our media releases are, and that they know when they see our format that it comes from our Department. Communications and Marketing Counseling The Department recognizes the need to support each section/facility in the marketing efforts and will help build the skills of all staff on the appropriate and most effective means of marketing their programs through in-house training. This is a means to maintain an effective decentralized marketing system within the Department. Advertising Media Outlets Television - Television advertising was a part of the Department's marketing efforts for several years. The Department coordinated production and airtime on local cable television for all major special events and on broadcast television advertising on the local CBS affiliate. Due to budgetary constraints, the Department no longer coordinates broadcast or cable advertising. Since the introduction of BBTV to local cable subscribers, the Department is advertising on the City's government access channel to promote its programs and the benefits of recreation and parks to the community. Radio - The Department used radio advertising to promote the benefits of recreation and parks up until December 2007 but discontinued the practice due to budgetary constraints. Print Media - The Department has a strong relationship with the local print media. Not only are we able to call local reporters to have stories written and color photographs taken, but we have also had a long history of successful partnerships with the two largest local newspapers, The Sun-Sentinel and The Palm Beach Post. Public Service Announcements - The Department tracks all news mentions in the local print media via monthly reports and by keeping annual news clip manuals, giving us the data we need to determine the success of our media releases. Printed Materials Funfare! Maoazine - Funfare! Magazine is the premier publication and major marketing tool of the Department. The magazine includes program information for each facility, a parks section, facility listings and a map, and pertinent registration procedures and forms. It has full color (inside and outside) front and back covers featuring photographs depicting recreation activities and parks or nature themes. It is published three times each year and mailed to those participants who have registered for programs the prior two years. The Department evaluates a year's worth of publications annually and discusses changes to the format, covers and descriptions. Fivers and Posters - Flyers and posters have been effective marketing tools. A format was established for the layout and design of these public communications tools. Staff input all pertinent program or event information and all flyers are reviewed for accuracy, content and design standardization. The flyers are sent electronically to an in-house, two color copier, to office laser color printers or are outsourced to local printing firms. Program coordinators distribute flyers as determined in the Department's 8 Communications Tool Kit Eleven-inch by seventeen-Inch posters are redeSigned from the final flyer (for larger events/activities) and printed on office laser color printers or iI'. house color copier, then posted in various facilities, Each center supervisor assigns a staff member to keep flyer/brochure racks up-to-date at the individual facilities so that all information being promoted is current Senior Center Newsletter - The Senior Center Supervisor coordinates the design, production, ad sales and distribution of a bi-monthly newsletter distributed to program participants at the center, This information serves as a supplement to "Funfarel Magazine" and has been found to be useful in providing detailed information about new programs, special activities and trips for the mature population. Improvements to the newsletter are necessary, but are difficult due to the technology (networking) problems that are a daily experience for the center staff. The Department and the ITS Department are coordinating efforts to provide wireless service at the center. Tennis Center Brochure - A special Tennis Center program brochure is designed, printed and placed at various facilities each year, marketing tennis activities lessons. clinics and leagues as a supplement to "Funfarel Magazine", Denson Pool Brochure - A new brochure was designed to marketing aquatic activities including lessons and water aerobic programs as a supplement to "Funfare! Magazine. Special Promotional Printed Materials - The Marketing section is frequently producing special printed and promotional materials Some of these pieces include schedules of events for grand opening or ribbon cutting ceremonies, brochures to advertise programs including the All Star Cheerleading program and the pavilion and facility rental brochures Media Releases - A specific format was developed for Department media releases and all staff now follow that format It is easily recognizable to the media outlets to which we send releases and it presents a consistent Department message, Information on how to develop media releases, along with other pertinent media information, can be found in the Communications Tool Kit distributed in a binder to each section of the Department and on the Share Drive, Siqns, Banners and Marquees - Signs, banners and marquees are used to announce upcoming events City Utilitv Bills - Billing cycles for the City's water utilities run approximately every six weeks, The marketing staff solicits Department staff for information and emails that information to the Utilities Billing division for inclusion on the water bills This method IS used infrequently but is available for special messages, Technology On-Hold Messaqes - The Department uses this tool as an additional method of promoting upcoming programs and events. On-hold messages are recorded weekly and the marketing staff sends information to the Public Affairs Office for inclusion as program information is available, Teleworks - The Department uses this tool to inform program participants if outdoor activities or events are cancelled due to inclement weather or to notify past participants of new activity offerings. BBTV (Bovnton Beach Television - The Webus software program is in use to produce billboard type messages for the City's government cable access channel Messages are posted frequently and focus on park amenities, recreation programming~ and messages pertaining to the benefits of being involved in leisure time activities Website - The Department currently updates information on the website as frequently as needed by three staff members trained and assigned to post to the website. Featured " on the site are static (or standard) messages, including frequently asked questions, facilities and parks information and Department services and messages that change each program season, including event information, media releases and new program listings. Bovnton E-News - This new, web-based subscription program allows internet users to register for various city publications, including Recreation and Park Department specific activity and service information, any time new information becomes available. The City is working towards updating the Intranet. Department information can be included to inform city employees of up-to-date program and event information, which can be printed and posted to bulletin boards for those who do not have access to personal computers. Web-based Proqram Reqistration - During this fiscal year, the Department will move to purchasing web registration software and training staff in its use and then rolling out this on-line benefit to customers by using a variety of the above mentioned tools. VI. Annual Objectives and Action Plans The Marketing Focus for 2008-09 is to position the Department as an essential component of Boynton Beach. To achieve this during the difficult economic times ahead, effort must be placed on increasing current marketing initiatives. Marketing Goals: . Improve our current awareness efforts of the Department's programs and services . Maximize opportunities for staff and customer support To this end, the following Goals and Action Plans highlight each objective and allow the Department to begin to reposition itself and deliver the designated benefits. Goal: Improve current awareness efforts of the Department's programs and services Action Plan: . With input from the Leadership Team and Marketing Committee, update the Department Marketing Plan annually (October 1 through September 30). . Provide written evaluation of the Marketing Plan annually. . Using Effective Strategies (see 2007-08 evaluation of the Marketing Plan), promote Department programs and services. 0 Provide media release & flyer production and web-site reminders to all center supervisors (Ginny Shea) 0 Track number of media releases sent each month and percentage of information that appears in print media (Nicole Cangelosi) 0 Funfare! Magazine & flyers to churches (Brenton Rolle) 0 Funfare! Magazine to parking attendants and to each department with waiting areas (Heather Spillane) 0 Install display cases in several parks to display information and keep current (Vicki Robertson) 0 Track Webus message postings (Ginny Shea & Nicole Cangelosi) . Continue to maintain the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies' standards to meet the public's expectation for quality (Leadership Team and Planning Team - every five years), 10 Goal: Staff and Customer Support Action Plan: . Meet with internal staff yearly to review what worked and what needs Improvement (Parks Superintendent and Senior Manager) . Modify Funfare! Magazine design and layout to be more user friendly (Sherri Claude. Ginny Shea) . Host focus group of best customers for feedback regarding layout. design and content (Sherri Claude) . Conduct yearly trends analysis with various departments (Fire, Police, Neighborhood Services, and Library) to find out what they are doing and what their observations are of trends within the City (Marketing Committee) (Heather Spillane, Brenton Rolle) Alternate Goal: Target Audiences/Market Segments Action Plan: . Determine seven primary market segments through registration software and survey these people to get average demographics of our primary constituents, . Identify potential market niches and program development for new market segments VII. Evaluation and Continuous Improvement The Senior Manager defines goals and objectives through the annual appraisal process and during the budget process, Measurement of the effectiveness of the goals and objectives is measured during the appraisal process. Marketing audits will be conducted on an annual basis. The Senior Manager will provide the Department Director with an evaluation of the Marketing Plan at the end of each fiscal year. VIII. Appendix The benefits to providing recreation and park services to a community are Individual, Community, Environmental and Economic. Statistics are available through NRPA. Individual Recreation and parks creates experiences for living, learning, visiting and playing in Boynton Beach These individual benefits are: . Full and meaningful lives . Balance between work and play . Life satisfaction . Quality of life . Personal development and growth . Self-esteem and self-reliance . Sense of accomplishment . Creativity and adaptability . Problem solving and decision making skills . Physical health . Psychological well-being . Personal appreciation and satisfaction ~ ... . Sense of adventure . Outlets for stimulation Community Recreation and parks provides experiences and opportunities to live and interact with families, neighbors, the business community, surrounding communities and the world. The community benefits of parks and recreation are: . Strong, vital, connected communities . Strong, vital, connected families . Ethnic and cultural understanding . Community pride . Support for youth . Lifelines for seniors . Reduced alienation . Reduced delinquency . Outlets for resolution of conflicts . Social bonding . Understanding and tolerance Environmental Recreation and parks provides and protects open space to enhance the desirability of our city and contributes to the health and safety of our citizens. The environmental benefits are: . Environmental and health protection . Physical health and well-being . Stress reduction . Enhanced property values . Clean air, clean water, clean parks . Preservation of open space . Protection of the ecosystem Economic Recreation and parks is not a mere expenditure, but an investment in the future for the viability of people and places. Recreation and parks provide these economic benefits to our community: . Economic stimulation . Reduced health care costs . Reduced vandalism and crime . Source of added revenue . Increased value of property . Increase in tourism . Productive workforce Benefits Statements . We Make Life Fun! . We Provide Safe Places for Children to Play! . We Help Educate Children and Adults! . We Help You Conquer Boredom! . We Help You Create Memories! . Come to Our Facilities to Meet New Friends! . Recreation Activities Can Make You Happier, Look Better and Feel Great! . Community Involvement Creates and Promotes Sensitivity to Cultural Diversity! . Leisure Pursuits Can Help You Learn New Skills and Reduce Daily Stress! 12 . We Help to Enrich Living and Working Environmentsl . We Help You to Experience Nature's Wondersl . We Provide Support for Cultural and Performing Arts! . We Help Strengthen Families . We Provide Life-Long Learning Skills' . We Promote Physical Fitness' . We Help Foster a Sense of Community' . We Help You Indulge Your Senses! . We Help To Reduce Teen Gang Violence! . We Boost Tourism' . We Help People to Be Self-Reliant in the Water! . We Expose Urban Children to Nature! . We Help Seniors Reduce Loneliness! IX. Conclusion This plan reflects an organization that is successful with its current marketing and wishes to build on this success by keeping abreast of technological and marketing developments. Due to the austere budget times, this plan reflects low cost plans, Should the economy improve or if the Department moves to increasing user fees to recover more costs, the Department may want to consider spending more on marketing initiatives with outside vendors, 13 APPENDIX B City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department ...d" Boynton Beach, Florida u ro CD ~ ~ o ~ ~ o ~ tn r~ co ~ 2007 -2008 ,"""~'"""""'>W':':>, ''''-'''.''fJ'::.f ;,::,'-:' Recreation Programming Plan ~ o " ......... bj ~, /;~~ "'-L,.I' . " ,- , ;r'-' ~"'" ~ ',.., ...,' U We Make l.r CAPRA """1 n, I,,;U ..~,I "'""" . \:, -~~ .',{: ~ BwntonB.o,n '~" /,i',' R.e<r~tlon and ~ortJ~ Deoarrm{l't1! '~.....:. -:..,;;;:...~... - '"" lI-;;;;;"r / - - uuu___" The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan Purpose The purpose of this plan is to guide and assist staff in systematically offering quality recreation programming to customers/residents who live, learn, work, play and visit Boynton Beach. We bring people together from the community, neighboring cities and visitors from out-of-state to enjoy leisure opportunities. We strive to meet the social, educational and recreational needs of our culturally diverse population including children, adults and seniors. Mission We exist to engage Boynton Beach citizens in diverse recreational experiences and to cultivate parks and open spaces. Inventorv Located in Southeast Florida in Palm Beach County, Boynton Beach is known as the "Gateway to the Gulfstream" and is the third largest city in the county. According to U.S. census statistics, the population of Boynton Beach in 2000 was an estimated 60,389. Estimated population in July 2005 was 66,885 (+10.8% change) with 70% white, 23% African-American and 7% Asian, Hispanic or of two or more races. The median resident age is 41.8 years. The median household income is $39,216 and the median house value in 2005 was $215,300. The majority of the households, 60%, are comprised of families with 42% having children under the age of 18. The remaining 40% is comprised of single non-family households with 18% of those being seniors, 65 and over. The Recreation & Parks Department maintains and operates more than 38 sites for recreational use. During FY 05-06, the Department held 446 (registered) programs in art, fitness, dance, music, sports and annual seasonal events servicing almost 6,000 citizens. The Department also offered free events including Senior Holiday Socials, Halloween Spooktacular, and Spring Eggstravaganza that were hosted for hundreds of citizens. The FY 05-06 cancellation rate of programs, due to low enrollment, was 15%. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department offers programs, classes and events by season: Fall, Winter/Spring and Summer. Program planning is currently conducted by staff as a response from wait lists, verbal feedback from participants and parents, surveys, instructor requests and general observations. Department staff follow guidelines set forth by the City, ADA and Department policies. Budgets, both General Fund and Revenue Fund, are submitted annually. The Revenue Fund budget consists of revenue received from program fees, and is used to pay instructors, to purchase supplies and to pay for other contractual services. The Department surveys neighboring cities (West Boynton Beach, Lake Worth, Palm Beach County, Delray Beach) and facilities (YMCA, HOA clubhouses) that offer programs and activities and lists their offerings as reference. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Depanment Recreation Programming Plan 1 J Taraet Audience Citizens of Boynton Beach Secondary TarQet Audiences Unincorporated Boynton Beach residents Other Palm Beach County residents Other local government agencies Local businesses Local corporations The Palm Beach County School District The Palm Beach County Board of Commissioners Local Hospitals Local Homeowners Associations Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau Palm Beach County Sports Commission Palm Beach County Cultural Council Florida Festival and Events Association Florida Recreation and Parks Association Boynton Beach Mall Kiosk Recreation and parks is not a mere expenditure, but an investment in the future for the viability of people and places. Recreation and parks provide these economic and environmental benefits to our community: . Economic stimulation . Reduced health care costs . Reduced vandalism and crime . Source of added revenue . Increased value of property . Increase in tourism . Productive workforce . Environmental and health protection . Physical health and well-being . Stress reduction . Enhanced property values . Clean air, clean water, clean parks . Preservation of open space . Protection of the ecosystem Analysis Recreation and parks programming contributes to the health of residents, provides a variety of recreational and educational activities to people of all ages, and preserves and enhances the quality and integrity of the natural environment. Recreational opportunities are also significant in attracting visitors to the community and contributing to local tourism and economic development. With the increase in development come new issues, expectations and The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan 2 demands for recreational activities. Recreation services continue to be an integral part 01 establishing and sustaining a higher quality of life and affect the community by its ability to: . Provide social benefits by connecting people within our community regardless of income, background and ability. . Provide economic benefits by improving the quality of life in the community and helping attract businesses and residents to the city, . Provide benefits to individuals and the community by promoting physical fitness and self-improvement. This plan addresses several components of each division: . Vision . Program Description (overview) . Fee Based Programs . Free Programs/Events . Issues (general challenges) . Strengths . Weaknesses . Measurement Targets (area of improvement) . Surveys and Evaluations Facilitv Information Art Center - 125 SE 2nd Avenue - (561) 742-6221 Vision: We exist to provide high quality art education programs and creative family events to individuals of all ages. Program Description: The Art Center hosts 19 year-round programs, 11 seasonal (summer) programs and 10 special events. Types of programming include mommy & me classes, preschool classes, art lessons for children and adults, fitness programs, after-school, summer and school break camps and seasonal events. Fee Based Programs: Fees collected from registration are used to pay instructors, purchase supplies and pay for other contractual services (trips and guest artists). Free Programs/Events/Activities: The center offers free events budgeted for in the revenue fund such as Daddy & Daughter Valentine Dance. Issues: . The Art Center is currently operating at capacity in three classrooms and one pottery room. Evening hours, three days a week, have been added and Saturday hours have been extended to cover the demand for programming. Surveys often state that more space is needed to offer additional programming for non-school age children during the day. . Lack of qualified part-time and seasonal staff and instructors to operate programs. . Continuing to provide exceptional customer service and quality programrning with the resources available. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan -' Strengths: . Provides art education to youth who are not exposed in the school system or at home. . Years of experience in developing programs. . On-going communication with participants. . Provides affordable, safe programs and care for the youth in the community. . Provides special family events for the community. . Provides an environment where families can interact. Weaknesses: . Ability to maintain staffing levels at desired ratios. . Limited teen programming other than during the summer. . Lack of space to increase number of programs offered. Measurement Targets: . Hire and retain qualified staff by working with local colleges and high schools. . Continue to develop staff by offering training that is beneficial and holding regular staff meetings to obtain feedback. . Continue to provide safe, educational and enriching environment to the youth by providing safe and clean facilities and offering new program ideas and activities. Civic Center - 128 E. Ocean Avenue - (561) 742..6240 Vision: We exist to provide quality recreation, education and cultural experiences for patrons of all ages. Program Description: The Civic Center hosts 16 year-round programs including youth dance classes, fitness programs, adult dance and rentals (Jazzercise and Castoffs). Fee Based Programs: Fees collected from registration are used to pay instructors, purchase supplies and pay for other contractual services. Free Programs/Events/Activities: The center offers free activities budgeted for in the Revenue Fund such as, Busy Fingers and Knitting. Issues: . The Civic Center is currently operating at 90% capacity. . Lack of qualified instructors to operate programs. . Continuing to provide exceptional customer service and quality programming with the resources available. Strengths: . Provides education, physical activities and cultural events for children and adults. . Years of experience in developing programs. . On-going communication with participants . Provides affordable, safe programs in the community. . Provides an environment where families can interact. Weaknesses: . Lack of teen programming. Measurement Targets: . Continue to develop staff by offering training that is beneficial and holding regular staff meetings to obtain feedback. . Continue to provide safe, educational and enriching environment to the class participants and clean facilities and offering new program ideas and activities. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan 4 Denson Pool - 225 NW 12th Avenue - (561) 742-6645 Vision: We exist to promote, develop and implement the aquatics needs ofr'-)(, general public through drowning prevention, basic water safety and the overall enJoy supervised open swim. Program Description: The aquatics facility will be utilized as a community pool that caters to patrons of all ages. Programming will include basic water safety classes, swim lessons, water fitness, local school swim programs, aquatic programs and open swim. Issues: . Participants will become accustomed to paying a small fee to swim. . The capacity of the pool will limit open swim. . Developing programs that cater to the need of the community. Strengths: . Pool supervisor is a certified instructor and can certify staff when necessary. . The facility serves as a multi-purpose aquatic venue for various programming, party rentals, competitive swim as well as the community pool. . Affordable admission and program fees in comparison to local aquatic facilities. . With the pool in close proximity to a recreation facility; customers will have convenient access to both facilities. Weaknesses: . Staff who lack water safety instruction certification. . Not able to communicate with customers due to language barrier. . Limited pool depths do not provide for programs such as diving, scuba and synchronized swimming. Measurement targets: . Staff will be required to attend mandatory trainings to maintain various certifications and stay current with pool related issues or trends. . Staff will troubleshoot issues and concerns with regards to programming, attendance and customer concerns as they arise and immediately seek rectification in order to move forward. Ezell Hester Jr. Community Center - 1901 N. Seacrest Boulevard - (561) 742-6550 Vision: We exist to provide a safe haven and a positive venue for fellowship for the surrounding community with organized recreational activities, games and sports for individuals as well as families. Program Description: Hester Center hosts four year round programs, 13 seasonal programs, and two special events during the year and offers space for the grant funded Juvenile Transition program and other organizations. Fee Based Programs: Fees collected from registration are used to pay instructors. purchase supplies and pay for other contractual services. Free Programs/Events/Activities: Hester Center offers free activities which are budgeted in the Revenue Fund such as Open Gym, Game Room, Halloween Spooktacular and Egg Stravaganza. Issues: . The Center has severe roof leaks during heavy rain falls. Repairs have been made but there are still leaks. . The weight room is in need of need equipment. Existing equipment is worn and needs to be replaced. The appearance and questionable safety of the room brings down the quality of the Center. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan " Strengths: . Offers a full range of outdoor and indoor activities. . Staff communicates and interacts with surrounding neighborhoods. . Provides a safe haven for the community. . Addresses the physical and leisure needs of youth, teen and adults. . Fosters cohesive relationships and build trust in program participants. . Develops relationships among peers and individuals. . Promotes health and wellness to improve physical and emotional health. Weaknesses: . Deficient in evaluating cancelled programs to determine the possibility of offering replacement programs. . Lack of sponsorship and donations to cover or subsidize program expense. . Monitoring of revenue and general budget expenses to ensure proper use of accounts and accountability. Measurement Targets: . Increase fees to cover the full cost of program expenses. . Continue to develop family oriented activities that cater to the need of the community. . Continue to examine programs resources and needs. . Continue to enroll staff in training that enhances their knowledge of the department's mission which is to provide quality recreational activities. Intracoastal Park Clubhouse - 2240 N Federal Highway - (561) 742.6650 Vision: We exist to benefit our customers by providing assistance with recreation program registration, serve as an information source to citizens and visitors, provide high quality, diverse recreation programming and assist the community by providing an outstanding rental facility. Program Description: As a new facility, Intracoastal Park clubhouse will be utilized as an outstanding rental facility for community use at reasonable fees. Types of programming will initially include art and fitness programs. New program ideas will be developed with input from the community and through various methods of research. Issues: . Developing new programs through research, planning and evaluation by using staffs abilities to create experiences that involve people directly while engaging their psyches in the process to make the right kind of things happen for the customers. Strengths: . Location of the facility on the Intracoastal Waterway, which is unique to Boynton Beach and to surrounding communities. . New facility with state of the art equipment. Weaknesses: . Lack of initial recreation programming. . Lack of available recreation staff to help facilitate programming and facility coverage Measurement Targets: . Use survey feedback in developing programs . Develop and plan for a minimum of ten programs during FY 07-08 The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan 6 Senior Center - 1021 S. Federal Highway - (561) 742-6570 Vision: We exist to provide a variety of services to those in our community who are mature adults, ensure their physical, mental & emotional well being, improve their quality of life and enhance the stability of our community as a whole. Program Description: The Boynton Beach Senior Center hosts 46 year rouna programs, 13 seasonal programs, 15 special events and 13 evening rentals during the year. Fee Based Programs: Fees collected from registration are used to pay Instructors, purchase supplies and pay for other contractual services Free Programs/Events/Activities: The Senior Center offers 50 free programs which are budgeted in the revenue fund. All special events are paid for through sponsorships except the Fashion Show and Heath Fair where there is a fee. Issues: . The Center has severe roof leaks in the new section during heavy rain falls. Repairs have been made but there are still leaks. The roof needs to be replaced Strengths: . Nationally Accredited Senior Center . Offers a full range of indoor activities, day, lunch and overnight trips. . Communicates and interacts with surrounding communities, agencies and organizations. . Provides a safe haven for the senior community. . Addresses the physical, mental, emotional well being and leisure needs of seniors. . Fosters cohesive relationships and builds friendships between program participants. . Develops relationships among peers and individuals. . Promotes health and wellness to improve physical and emotional well being. . Gives seniors a reason to want to live. . Use of volunteers Weaknesses: . Lack of educational/ intellectual programs . Lack of funding to provide transportation for senior health needs (to doctors & dentists) . Lack of paid clerical assistance Measurement Targets: . Continue to develop senior oriented activities that cater to the needs of the community. . Continue to examine programs resources and needs. . Continue to enroll staff in trainings that enhance their knowledge of the department's mission which is to provide quality recreational activities. . Identify three key outcome measures for the center and utilize these to augment the multiple program objectives currently used. Sims Community Center - 225 NW 12th Avenue - (561) 742-6250 The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Depanment Recreation Programming Plan '7 Vision: We exist to provide a safe haven and a positive venue for fellowship for the surrounding community with organized recreational activities, games and community events for individuals as well as families. Program Description: As a new facility, the Sims Center will be utilized as a community focal point for patrons of all ages. Programming will initially include programs for pre-school age children and senior citizens. Sims Center will serve as a premiere rental facility capable of supporting weddings, banquets, and family and community gatherings. New program ideas will be developed with input from the surrounding community and survey research. Issues: . Developing new programs by the evaluation of similar program locations of similar size and amenities. . Being responsive to the growing needs of the community. Weaknesses: . limited staff and opening in the middle of a programming cycle will limit our programming until June 08. . Focusing on evening programs and establishing a relationship with the community as this is a very high profile project. Measurement targets: . Hire and retain qualified staff to begin our after school program for the 08-09 school year . Develop community relations with surrounding neighborhoods to adopt the facility as a special place of positive interaction. . Make a difference in our community by providing an alternative to delinquent and deviant behavior by offering positive programs that will give people of all ages more choices for their leisure time. Tennis Center - 3111 S. Congress Avenue - (561) 742-6575 Vision: We exist to promote tennis as a lifetime sport and a means to sound fitness. Program Description: The Tennis Center offers lessons, league play and tournaments to youth through seniors. Fee Based Programs: Fees collected from registration are used to pay instructors, purchase supplies and pay for other contractual services. Free Programs/Events: Issues: . Number of permit holders has been declining for the past four years . Participation fees are very low Strengths: . Har-tru courts are very popular . Abundance of courts . Great location Weaknesses: . High court maintenance . Low revenue . Staffing (Le. difficult to retain part time employees) The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan 8 Measurement Targets: . Re-organize staffing to reduce provide adequate facility coverage and malntanance . Re-organize staffing to increase maintenance . Increase number of permits sold by 10% each of the next three years . Continue to market the facility, especially at new residential developments along Congress Avenue, Gateway Blvd.. and south Sea crest Blvd, ProQram & Event Development . Resea rch 1. Determine Constituent Needs - Staff shall review: * Participant surveys to determine the community's interests * Review wait lists for classes currently in session * Boynton Beach Atlas to determine demographics, income, ages of residents, etc. * Marketing plan for demographic information and key target audience information * Needs Assessment (conducted every 5 years) Hold Brainstorming sessions to discuss ideas and suggestions Note Verbal Feedback from customers Research Trends 2. Determine Time and date availability of facility 3. Determine Fees by reviewing the Revenue Policy Manual and comparing fess of similar programs being offered 4. Determine the location - use of another facility, use of school board property (limited), parks & fields 5. Find Qualified Instructors by referral or contacting local colleges and schools 6. Review other agencies' offerings - community list on shared drive . Develop 1. Program description (benefit statements) 2. Outcomes - what the participant will learn/do/achieve that are listed on program worksheets and current participant surveys 3. Timeline - dates of class, deadline for supply order, flyers and releases out 6 weeks prior to start of class 4. Contingency Plan - new programs or changes to existing ones to compensate for loss of revenue in the event a program is not held 5. Instructor Agreement - typically valid for one year; states cancellation policy. fees, pay, dates and times of class and supplies needed. 6. Minimum and Maximum Registration - class is cancelled if it does not meet the minimum number of participants required to operate the program; minimum numbers depend on the size of the space and are based on a percentage (approximately 30%) of the maximum number. Ex. Min. 5 Max. 15; Min. 10 Max. 30; Min. 15 Max. 45. 7. interdepartrnental Memo - if necessary when coordinating department or city- wid e events . Budget The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan l) 1. Class Fees - Resident rate is 25% lower than non-resident rate 2. Supplies - typically 15% of total resident fees 3. Instructor pay - 55% for programs when supplies are provided by the department, 70% for when supplies are provided by the instructor or participant 4. City retains 30% (when possible); in some cases (summer camps) do not retain 30% due to expenses 5. Revenue - obtained through Rec Trac reports and entered into Program Evaluation Form at the end of each season 6. Expenses - tracked and entered into the Program Evaluation Form at the end of each season 7. Requests for Payment - created and sent to Recreation Administration for processing, copies kept in budget books and amounts deducted from accounts . Contacts 1. Volunteers - programs for teen & senior volunteers are currently utilized 2. Staff - other department staff if their assistance is needed 3. Press - contact reporter and/or photographer to increase chances of him/her making an appearance 4. Set up requests for involving special events crew/time/availability/scheduling Publicity & Marketina . Staff review the Communication Tool Kit/Marketing Plan located in the Department Administrative Manual (DAM). . Methods used to publicize programs are: 1. Flyers - submitted to and proofed by Art Center staff who will send to copier if more than 100 are needed; review Communications Tool Kit for information on flyer distribution methods 2. Media Release - using template on shared drive; submitted, proofed and released to media by Art Center staff 3. Water Bills - information submitted to Senior Manager 4. Web-site - submit request to Art Center staff 5. Funfare! Magazine - timeline created for each season; information submitted to Art Center Supervisor Financial Strateav . Staff divide programs into the following four categories: 1. Stars - exceed revenue projections (keep the stars!) 2. Cash Cows - maintain steady participation and meet revenue projections (keep the cows!) 3. Problem Children - fluctuate and can not be labeled as a success or failure; one session goes, one is cancelled (work to improve the children!) 4. Dogs' - never come close to meeting projections (dump the dogs!). After program in cancelled three times in a given year, it is the center Supervisor's responsibility to eliminate the dogs and offer something new! This will be verified by Senior Managers at tri-yearly revenue fund program meetings. . "J -;(.,1,.1 ::t' ~it~"'t~":'.""" The City afBa . , ragramming Plan " I , . ""'fr ~--.J ....~ . . Revenue Fund Tracking Reports 1. Facility supervisors report projected and actual revenue (obtained from reports in Rec Trac - registration software) each season on the Revenue Fund Tracking Report; due January 30, June 30, September 30. 2. This report, used to stay on track with revenue predictions and determine the "dogs," includes: Income: How do your overall figures compare to the budget? How do they compare to last season? How reasonable is the coming year's budget projections? Registrations: How did they compare to expectations? How did they compare to last season? Why are they up, down, or the same? What major factors influenced registrations this year? What is the average participants per class (#enrollments+ # of classes held): Did average participants go up or down this year? What will you do to enhance average participants per class? What ca n Marketing do to help? Overall cancellation rate of programs: (divide # of cancelled classes by # offered ): How does your section rate? Is it close to ideal (10-20%); a little high (20-25%) or too high (25% and up)? How does it compare to last year's cancellation rate? What modifications or changes in classes/programs need to be made? Surveys and Evaluations The Department currently surveys all of its participants at the end of each program (or session) and evaluates the program for future use. . Participant Surveys: The Department takes pride in assessing patron satisfaction through participant surveys. Surveys are collected at the end of each session. Results are tallied and entered into the Program Evaluation Form. If survey comments warrant action, supervisor will immediately contact participant. The current survey measures the following: 1. Publicity 2. Instructor 3. Facility 4. Customer Service 5. Reason for choosing the city's program 6. Recommendation of program to others 7. Objective (outcome) achieved . Program Evaluation The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan ] ] The evaluation of recreation programs takes place at the end of the program. Evaluations measure the overall plan, timeline, revenue and expenses and improvements/changes for next year. Evaluations help supervisors/managers to: 1. Determine if funds are wisely spent 2. Conduct services efficiently 3. Learn how to re-direct efforts 4. Reinforce staff efforts and recommend new direction 5. Evidence the strengths of services 6. Helps others anticipate problems in implementing similar programs Goal Our goal is to have an impact on others, and ultimately the world in which we live, in a positive way. Our humanity - our children's future - depends on the choices we make today. Reaching out to people who care about recreation and parks, and who care about their community, is our job. Everyone can benefit from physical activity, time spent in nature, and revisiting their heritage. We strive to make the importance of recreation and parks more evident to the public, by promoting our parks as the center of communities and our facilities as safe havens. Providing and developing enriching programs helps to create healthy communities, reduce crime and vandalism, foster business retention and expansion, and enhance tourism. We are good for the entire community! We have the capability to link citizen volunteers and professionals who support recreation and parks to work together to solve a number of shared problems. We work together to promote the development and the spreading of the body of knowledge that is growing daily. . . about our profession, about how we help our citizens, and about how we effect positive change in our community. The Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department helps to strengthen our community's fabric, health and well being, economic base and security. Through diverse and innovative programming and broad partnerships, the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department plays an important role in creating places for our citizens to create, imagine, play, learn & meet new friends. Plan Obiectives: . Improve efficiency and consistency in planning the department's programs and services . Develop Action Plans annually for the following fiscal year . Lower program cancellation rate from 15% to 11 % . Evaluate Plan annually Goal: Improve efficiency and consistency in planning the department's programs and services Action Plan: . Develop a Recreation Programming Team consisting of Recreation Supervisors and Specialists. Goal: Develop Action Plans annually for the following fiscal year Action Plan: The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan 12 . Team will review plan to ensure it represents the mission of the department in providlnc affordable, diverse recreational experiences that meet the needs and desires of the community, . Team will review Revenue Tracking Reports for meeting or exceeding of revenue projections . Team will continue to examine competitor's programs, resources and fees. Goal: Lower program cancellation rate from 15% to 11 % Action Plan: . Dump the "dogs" . Host brainstorming sessions with Recreation Supervisors and Specialists every three months. . Art Center supervisor will work with Marketing Committee to research trends analysis and share findings with team. Evaluation The Plan will be evaluated annually in September by the Recreation Programming Team, led by the Art Center Supervisor (Team Leader). The annual report will consist of how action plans were met, future action plans and recommended changes to the plan. After the annual report has been compiled, the Team Leader and Senior Recreation Managers will meet to discuss findings and prepare a final report for the department. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department Recreation Programming Plan L~ APPENDIX C City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks .... ~ Department u ro Boynton Beach, Florida Q) ~ h 0 -t-::> ~ :::n 0 CO t.IJ .;j co ~ ,,,,-,!,,~~,,,.~,,.. .~. "'-'''''''*'i ill'_ '<moo 2007-2008 ~ ConlnlunitvRelations Plall 0 . ,......c tv -+-=> ro ,,-.-.-- -,,'- - --- ?~_._-"'~... ~ /' ..'.~~- . ". ~" > /~/ ...~. , We Make i~. 'G\PR~ ' , , , /... r . ", ' 0 life fun!! ,'1' ..' f.! CJ.) I 'LJ .~, 1 Boynton Beach \.~... .\tfVJ~ ,:~, ~ Recreation and Part" Deportm~nt "~~" '/l; ~~~~~"_/ Introduction to the Community Relations Plan Community Relations Statement - There are greater threats to the viability of the Recreation and Parks Department than ever before. These threats include competition from surrounding Parks and Recreation departments, private organizations and an isolationist social culture that tends to shy away from organized activities. The Recreation and Parks Department stands boldly against the tide of such threats and is committed to educating the community on the benefits of recreation and parks and meeting the needs of the community. Further, the Department positions itself with the community to offer programming, facilities and open spaces that the community desires The slogan of the Department is "We Make Life Fun!" These are not merely words but an attitude and a vision. The core goal of the Department is to leverage the talents, abilities and creativity of its employees and volunteers in providing engaging programs, safe accessible facilities and thriving open spaces for the Boynton Beach community to benefit from and enjoy. Purpose of the Community Relations Plan The purpose of the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department's Community Relations Plan is to promote the marketing vision and unique selling proposition of the Department while developing and strengthening relationships with individuals and communities in and around the City of Boynton Beach. The basic purpose of the plan is to promote the Department as a structured and integral part of the Boynton Beach community through the provision of activity programming, events, facilities and open spaces. We strive to develop positive customer relationships which afford us the opportunity to leverage the creativity, discipline, integrity and stewardship of the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department in providing energetic, propitious programs; safe, accessible facilities and open spaces for the community. To meet the outcomes of the Community Relations Plan, the Department must do the following: 1. Identify the communities who are, or should be, served by the Recreation and Parks Department. 2. Provide feedback mechanisms for these communities to communicate ideas. suggestions and concerns. 3. Remove any barriers that may inhibit the Department from cultivating relationships with the communities. 4. Develop a means to evaluate feedback and provide appropriate responses as necessary. City of Boynton Beach Community Relations Plan Pa[.!c 1 uf.; The Department serves the needs of the citizens of Boynton Beach and surrounding communities. The communities include, but are not limited to, West Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Lake Worth, Lantana and communities in Palm Beach County. Our communities consist of youth, adults, families and senior citizens. Programming and the cultivation of parks and open spaces is designed to meet the needs of our growing communities and the diverse cultural and generational participants. The Department endeavors to connect with residents within the city and participants from surrounding communities. The Department, therefore, must make community relations an active and on-going effort to improve the quality of programming, facilities and open spaces. To achieve this goal, the Department must regularly cultivate opportunities to connect with, draw ideas from and garner support from the community. This can be accomplished through the distribution of surveys, participation in civic opportunities such as the Neighborhood Services meetings and Chamber of Commerce meetings, and through an annual presentation that prizes the input of citizens and participa nts. The results of such activities should be seen through increased attendance in programming, increased visitation to city recreation facilities, increased usage of Department maintained parks and open spaces and increased feedback from participants and end users. Customer Service Standards Every person who enters a Department recreation facility, utilizes a Department park or participates in a Department sponsored special event or program is not merely a participant but a valued partner with the Department. We exist to engage Boynton Beach citizens and valued partners from surrounding communities in diverse recreation activities and to cultivate parks and open spaces. The Recreation and Parks Department continually improves internal operations, procedures, policies and functions in order to deliver services effectively and efficiently. The following elements are keys to providing excellent customer service and properly valuing our partners in the success of the Department: 1. We will be consistent in the development of customer service policies and procedures. 2. We will utilize convenient feedback mechanisms to communicate with our customers. 3. We will be prompt in handling customer feedback. 4. We are problem solvers and will attempt to remove barriers in an effort to meet the needs of our customers. 5. We will aggressively train each staff member in properly managing circumstances and in providing excellent customer care. 6. We will continually seek to improve the quality of our customer care. City of Boynton Beach Community Relations Plan Page 2 of 5 7. We will be flexible and provide options for our customers. Our customer service standards are contained within the Department Administrative Manual and are regularly reviewed and updated as necessary and conveyed to each staff member. Community Relations Action Plan One - Community Relations Committee It is important to connect with the communities that we serve in order to garner support and feedback. It is vitally important to demonstrate a response to that feedback. In an effort to fully analyze and utilize the information garnered from meetings with community groups and from the annual presentation, the Recreation and Parks Department will develop a seven member team to serve as the Community Relations Committee with the Senior Center Supervisor and the Customer Relations Supervisor serving as permanent members. The committee will be made up of volunteers, but must include at least one Parks representative and one Department administrative representative. The committee term will coincide with the Department's fiscal year with new volunteers added in October of an odd numbered year. Members of the committee will be volunteers; however, should insufficient number or representation from appropriate sections not volunteer then the Senior Managers, the Parks Superintendent or the Department Director will assign members to the committee as needed. The committee will meet once a month to: . Review and evaluate feedback garnered from community and civic meetings . Review and evaluate survey responses . Create action plans in response to feedback and surveys results . Create and organize an annual report, due no later than December of each year, summarizing meeting feedback and survey results and actions taken in response to the feedback The Community Relations Committee will also be responsible for reviewing the Community Relations Plan on an annual basis. The committee will be responsible for evaluating the completion of goals or action plans contained within the plan and creating new goals and action plans. Once the plan has been reviewed and updates or changes made, the plan will be submitted to the Leadership Team for final review and implementation. Community Relations Action Plan Two - Semi-Annual Presentations In an effort to cultivate community involvement and input, the Department will institute or n,..."rfi.......inl"")+.n. ,~ Qomi ^nr\l,,,,1 Drocont'::ltif"\nc in ,.,hi",h each section within the f-'Ol "'-'If-'O'C; III ,-",vi 1 11-1\1 II IUUI I I "'-''-''....d I\.U\,I\Jllv '" Vlf'IlVII Department will present information pertaining to that section as well as allow participants and concerned citizens within the City and surrounding communities to City of Boynton Beach CommunIty Relations Plan Paf!e ] of ) express ideas, suggestions and concerns. The first presentation will be conducted in conjunction with the Citizen Services Institute in October 2007. The second will be conducted by April 2008. A letter of invitation, distributed at least two weeks in advance, will be distributed to current and previous participants and an open invitation posted in local media one month in advance will announce the day, time and location of the presentation. This presentation will afford the Department an opportunity to promote the benefits of recreation and parks to the various users and potential users. This presentation will also garner for the Department a better understanding of the needs, interests and concerns of its users and potential users to better present programs and better cultivate parks and open spaces as the presentation will encourage attendee feedback. Based on attendance and feedback response, the Community Relations Committee will re-evaluate the success of the annual presentation to better determine if to continue or how to continue such presentations in the future. Community Relations Action Plan - Community Meeting Attendance Community Relations Committee members will regularly attend local community meetings, such as home-owner's association meetings, and civic organization meetings. This interaction will allow the committee, and the department by extension, an opportunity to network with local communities in an effort to generate support for the Department and its mission. Each member will attend at least one meeting each and participate in the annual presentation. The results of such relationships should: . generate a positive image of the Recreation and Parks Department . produce ideas for programming that meet the needs of the community . see an increase in participation in Department programming . generate information from users on how and why they utilize our parks system (we hope to discover reasons for non-use of the park system, as well) . generate suggestions on improvements they would like to see in their neighborhood parks. Each Community Relations Committee member will complete a report summarizing the nature of the meeting attended and any suggestions, concerns or ideas generated. Evaluation of the notes will be conducted per action plan one and any new action plans formulated will be detailed in the annual report. Community Relations Action Plan Four - Where to Turn Guide Providing valuable information on the Recreation and Parks Department is a key ingredient in maintaining a healthy relationship with the communities the Department supports. However, there are times when members of the community require information that may be outside of the Department's normal reserve of information. To meet the needs of our community, the Department offers contact information for a variety of services offered by the city, county and even the state. This list of contacts will be maintained by the Community Relations Committee and updated annually. The Community Relations Committee will work with internal staff in developing the City of Boynton Beach Community Relations Plan Page 4 of 5 Department's own "Where to Turn" guide that will be a resource for all staff In order that we might assist our communities when they need support services outside the realm of the Department. The committee will begin collecting information in October, 2007, with an expected completion date of December, 2007. The "Where to Turn" guide will include agency names and phone numbers and, where possible, specific contact information, Additionally, the committee will endeavor to create relationships with outside agencies in order to best direct our customers to the appropriate agency and in turn have those agencies refer their customers to the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department. Plan Evaluation The Community Relations Committee will meet in August of each year to evaluate each action plan and develop new action plans to be implemented in October. Action plans may roll-over from one year to the next if they successfully garner the Department positive exposure; generate feedback that can effectively improve programming, Department facilities and parks; increase attendance in Department programs or increase usage of parks; and demonstrate relevance or need. Completed action plans that have either no results, negative results or are no longer relevant may require modifications before attempting again or may require removal from the plan for the new evaluation period. Action plans are evaluated on the following: . how well they generated feedback from the community . how well the implementation of the plan established or cultivated relationships with communities or agencies . how well they improved programs and program attendance . how well they improved parks and open spaces and parks usage. Once each action plan has been evaluated new action plans will be created for the new evaluation period. The Community Relations Plan should include at least three action plans, which may consist of new goals or rolled-over goals. The evaluation period will run from October until September. Summary of the Community Relation Plan The Recreation and Parks Department Community Relations Plan will afford the Department an opportunity to build and strengthen relationships with local communities_ These relationships will build lifelong participants in recreations programs, encourage use of Department maintained facilities and parks and develop a reliable feedback mechanism to continually improve. By creating successful feedback mechanisms, improving relationships with local communities and agencies and exceeding the needs of our customers the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department will truly make life fun. City of Boynton Beach Community Relations Plan Page ) ~)r:, APPENDIX D City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department .... Boynton Beach, Florida r-G u co Cl) CO ~ 0 -+-=> ~ :::n 0 CO '.~""~."C .", l'Z) .;j ~ ~ ''''''~'', ","1l"'~/".' 2007 -2008 '~"''';'.L' "v_"".:,,~, ':,'''''-''',- Maintenance Management Plan ,,,,,,,,~,-..,.t. ~ 0 . ,.......( .;....:> co /-r:;;..- , ?--'-~"'trJO '. ,- "v6 Cl) We Make i '1;rC~R ~\\. . ~ U Ufe fun!! . , i_I I !I'\, ... ___,_.~~JfJ' / j CJ) Boynton Beach \,...~\.(:CREf)m;%,/ ~ RecreatIon and Darb, Department '.~.', ~~~/ , '~~~-;'..!'\?>':/ Park Maintenance Plan I. Introduction The Park Maintenance Plan was developed initially for two reasons. The first rcason \vas to meet the requirements of the Accreditation Process. The second \-vas to assure that the maintenance of parks in Boynton Beach meets certain expectations. A comprehensive Park J\.1aintenance Plan is the backbone of the City's park system. A Park Maintenance Plan addresses routine. reg.ularly schedukd tasks, preventative tasks, scheduled improvements and emergenc) repalrs. The Plan identifies areas of responsibility. types of maintenance and standards for the ditTerent types of maintenance. Additionally. It contains a task- based reporting system that will allow the City to identify real time efforts into the different areas of responsibility. types of maintenance tasks performed. and time allocated per employee for maintenance task. II: Objectives The objectives of the Park Maintenance Plan are: . To communicate the conditions of the park system to the Recreation and Park staff, City management staff, elected officials and the general public. . To improve park conditions. . To assure equitable and necessary allocation of resources. III. Benefits The benefits of having a Parks Maintenance Plan are: . Improve consistency and minimize subjectivity when assessing park conditions. . Identify maintenance Issues so that the\- are handled pruperly and efficiently, . Identify routine and future maintenance needs, . Identify needs for major renovations or capital improvements. IV. Overview A. Existing Park System The current park system is made up of 32 parks. cemeteries and open "nact"" in the fol1owinQ cateQories: r - - - - - - - ~' ~' f3o\nton Beach Parks Maintc:nance Manual , , Urban Open/Civic Space Acres Nei!?:hborhood Parks Acres Bicentennial Park 0.60 Boynton Lakes Park 8.6 Edward Harmening Arbor 0.46 Civic Center 0.8 Heritage Park 0.24 Forest Hills Park 4.8 Hibiscus Park 0.83 Galaxy Park 3.7 Kiwanis/Sierra Club Park 0.19 Laurel Hill Park 1.26 Veterans' Park 0.3 Meadows Park 7.2 TOTAL 2.60 Knollwood Park 3.3 Pence Park 2.9 Community Parks Acres Pioneer Canal Park 3.2 Congress A venue Park 24.3 Betty Thomas 2.3 Ezell Hester Park 23.7 TOTAL 38.06 Wilson Park 5.44 TOTAL 53.44 Conservation Lands Acres Seacrest Scrub * 53.7 Special Use Parks Acres Rolling Green Scrub ** 8.0 Balion Mem. Park/Cemetery 6.4 Rosemary Scrub * 13.4 Boynton Beach Memorial 12.41 TOTAL 67.10 Cemetery Little League 12.8 Kids Kingdom 0.44 Water/Beach Access Acres Sara Sims Park/Cemetery 6.95 Boat Club Park 7.9 TOTAL 39.00 Intracoastal Park 9.4 Jaycee Park 5.5 Greenways/Bikeways Acres Mangrove Park ] 0.72 Palmetto Green 2.16 Oceanfront Park 10.7 TOTAL 2.16 TOTAL 44.22 This is a citywide total acreage of 247.45 acres of park, cemetery and open space lands. Additionally, the following areas are potential future park sites: Site Acres Quantum 15.0 Woolbright Place 3.5 FP&L 7.7 Girl Scout 9.7 Nichols Road 15.4 Nautica Sound 3.0 TOTAL 52.3 Thus, there is a potential for 299.75 acres of park, cemetery and open space lands in the City, Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 2 B. Maintenance Responsibilities The Recreation and Parks Department is responsible for the mail1lenance and improvements of the parks in the existing system. The maintenance :1t the Boynton Beach Memorial Park has been contracted: however. the Parks Division is also responsible for burials and entombments at the cemeteries. j'\dditionally. the Department assists in special events and other duties as required, C. Recreation Demands on Parks Most of the parks are heavily used. especially on the weekends. The most popular parks are: . Oceanfront Park . Intracoastal Park . Meadows Park . Hester Park . V/ilson Park . Little League Park . Kids Kingdom . Boat Club Park . Jaycee Park V. Park Management A. Existing Staff : POSITION ---- i NUMBER ~ I Parks Superintendent J 1 i _.~------~- - ---j Parks Manager ] I i Crew Supervisor --- -- .- '7 I ~ I I .~-_..~ ~-- --~---i I Cre\\' Leader I 2 i -~- ---r--_."-~ i Park Maintenance Specialist . 1 Parks Maintenance Worker. S~.l1iOl'_T--2 Park Maintenance Worker I 9 ! --~ '-. -+-----_._--~_.,,- ! Cemetery SextOl'!...___~______ , 1 , .-----.. B. Budget The following sho\vs the budget for parks maintenance and cemeten maintenance for fiscal years :2 007/08: Boynlon Be~ch I'ari-s Mallltcnance Manual ~ 1. Parks FY 07/08 $ 1,822,940 2. Cemetery FY 08/08 364,100 C. Contracting Versus In-House Maintenance 1. In-house Crews The advantages of having in-house crews include having people available to do anything and everything that needs to be done while meeting the City's quality standards. The City also has an identity or personality that is reflected in the maintenance of its parks and this identity can easily be improved by using in-house crews. Quality control is better with in-house crews because they must live with their mistakes and can be proud of their accomplishments. The crews are able to respond to emergencies quickly and the workforce is generally more stable. No administrative time is required to write and monitor contracts. In-house crews can also become specialized. In most situations, the decision to use contracting, in-house staff or a combination of both is usually made on the basis of cost, quality of service required and past practice. 2. Contracted Services Typical contracted services include preparing park maintenance programs and reports, planting, pruning, turf care, flower growing and maintenance, general maintenance, trash removal, and management consulting for writing and overseeing contracts, preparing all types of documents, and conforming to all regulations. Some examples of the advantages of contracted park work include the following: . Costs can be lower depending on how the costs are calculated. . The contractor provides employees with supervision and training . There is no pay for any work that does not meet specified quality . Contractors are motivated by profit. . Quality can be obtained with well written contracts and hiring conscientious contractors. Regardless of whether the work is done by park employees or by contracted labor, it is important that everyone takes pride in his or her work. When a project is done, it should look nice and meet the standards Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 4 required by the cit), Whik \\(lrkers 1113) 11l\1 t)e Il1terested iI1 (l<lIn>; projects that seem very insignilicam or will not be seen b) the publ1c. '.he) need to kno\\ the project \\ill make future m3intenance caSler (1; mUll efficient or that there is some other reason fur doing it, \\or\':crs should know the maintenance level that is accept'-lble They should be taken tu the job site and shO\vn \'v'hat is acceptable and what is no1. The) must develop respect for the parks. for the eil). and for themsehc~, The) should be inspected at least once a day 10 re\ie\\ their performance and 10 lind ()ut if they have any suggestions for making the job easier or bener or more productive. VI. Maintenance Plan The Maintenance Plan contains several elements. The fi rst Item IS the maintenance goals and objecti \ies. The second item IS the Maintenance Standards. which provide detailed description of acceptable levels ()j maintenance. They are separated into different types of facilities and are task specific. The third element is the list of Tasks to be performed in each type of facility based on the Standards. The fourth element is the Code Listing, \vhich designates a numerical code for each park. each task category and each position. The fifth element is the Daily Report Form, which is the recording and reporting vehicle for the maintenance task. This information is entered into a computer program. which will be used to determine real-time maintenance requirements, The last element is the monthly inspection forms. The maintenance tasks are analyzed on the monthly basis for each park. A checklist is used to determine vv'hich tasks are up to standards. /\ percentage of those tasks up to standards is determined. Each park is given an overall percentage of the tasks up ](I standards, A. Maintenance Standards The Maintenance Standards is a detailed description of acceptable and expected level of maintenance in different facilities in parks. Each type of general facility is assigned a numerical designator to be used for data entry. Categories include: . o I. Athletic Facilities . 02. Playgrounds . 03. Pavilion/Shelter Facilities . 04. Tennis Courts . 05. Basketball Courts . 06. Sand Vollevball Courts . 07. Ponds/Waterways . 08. Parks - General Standards . 09. Cemeter\' !-l(l\ !liOn Beach Parks \1amtenance Manual '1 The Maintenance Standards are used by the parks maintenance crews as guidelines to appropriate park maintenance. The standards are as follows: MAINTENANCE STANDARDS FOR PARKS AND FACILITIES 01. ATHLETIC FACILITIES: COMPETETIVE FIELDS A. Turf 1. Turf has a healthy dense stand of grass and coverage is no less than 95% of playable area. 2. Appropriate grass for warm seasons is Common Bermuda or Hybrid Bermuda and for cool seasons is Perennial Rye Grass ifrequired. 3. Play area has a uniform surface and well drained. 4. Turf is mowed at the appropriate height for the type of grass used, the time of the season, and the type of field use. 5. Turf is free of any litter or debris. B. Skinned Infields 1. Infields have a uniform surface and is free of lips, holes and trip hazards. ') Infields are well drained with no standing water areas. "-. 3. Infields have proper soil consistency for intended usage. 4. Infields are free of weeds and grass. 5. Infields are free of rocks, dirt clods, and debris per Little League and other leagues rules and specifications, 6. Bases and plates are properly installed, level, and are at the proper distances and anchored in accordance to manufacturer's specifications and league requirements. C. Soccer Goals 1. Goals are made of lightweight aluminum. 2. Goals are properly installed and anchored. 3. Goal frames show no excessive bending. 4. Nets are in good condition and free of holes, tears, and fraying, which would allow a soccer ball to pass. D. Bleachers 1. Hardware is intact. 2. Bracing is tightly connected. 3. Seating surface is clean, smooth, free of protrusions, and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed corners. 4. Bleacher areas have clean trash receptacles present and are in good condition. E. LiQ:hts 1. Electrical systems and components are operational and in compliance with appropriate building codes. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 6 ^) 90u [I l1f lamps for each field are operatlUnal. _. - No ekctrical conducting wires arc exposed, .' , 4. Ballast boxes and components are properly installed and secured. '\ Lights provide uniform coverage on facilities and fixtures are adjusted lu eliminate dark or blind areas. F. Fencing 1. Fencing material is galvanized or plastic coated chain link and is the appropriate gauge wire for specified use. .., Fencing material is properly secured to support rails. -, ., Support rails are properly connected and straight. ,~ . 4, Fencing is free of holes and protrusions. 5. Fabric is straight and free of bending or sagging. 6. Gates and latches are operational. G. Restrooms 1. Restrooms are clean. sanitary. and properly stocked with paper products. ") Lights and ventilation systems are operational. _. ., Toilets. water faucets. stall doors. and hand air dryers are operational. -) . 4. Restrooms are free of graffiti. 5. Restroom doors are properly marked according to gender. 6, Restrooms have clean trash receptacles. 7, Restroom doors and locks are operational. R, Restrooms are in compliance with the requirements of the Americans \-\'ith Disabilities Act. 02. PLAYGROUNDS A. Play Equipment 1. Play equipment and surrounding play areas meet :\STM and National Playground Safety Institute standards. ) PIa) equipment and hardware is intact. -, 3. Play equipment is free of graffiti, 4. Age appropriateness for the play equipment is noted with proper signage, 5. Shade structure is secure and free from tears, B. Surfacim: 1. Fal] surface is clean. leveL and free of litter and debris. ) Fa]] surface meets ASTM and National Playground Safety Institute standards. -, ., Fall surface is well drained. -' , 4. Rubber cushion surfaces are free of holes and tears, 5. Rubber cushion surfaces are secure to the base material and curbing. [-lo\nton Bcach Parks Maintcnance Manual C. Borders 1. Playground borders are well defined and intact. 2. Playground borders meet ASTM and National Playground Safety Institute standards. D. Decks 1. Planks are intact, smooth, structurally sound, free of splinters, and have no cracks greater than l;4 inch. 2. Nails, bolts, or screws are flush with the surface. 3. Planks are level with no excessive warping. E. Benches 1. Slats are smooth and structurally sound. 2. Hardware is intact and structurally sound. 3. Nails, bolts, or screws are flush with the surface. 4. Seats and backing are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed corners. 03. PAVILION/SHELTER FACILITIES A. Pavilions 1. Pavilions comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. 2. Pavilions are clean, sanitary, and free of graffiti. 3. Electrical plugs, lights, appliances, fans, and hot water heaters are operational and in good condition and comply with current building codes. 4. Pavilions are structurally sound, cleanly painted with no rotten lumber or rusted metal and no loose siding or loose shingles. 5. Pavilions are relatively pest and rodent free and regularly treated for ants, wasps, termites and mice. 6. Interior kitchens are equipped with an operational fire extinguisher. 7. Doors, windows, screens, and locks are operational. 8. Water fountains, water faucets, exhaust vent fans, and hose bib connections are operational. 9. Signage with reservation and rules information and emergency telephone numbers is in a noticeable location. 10. Pavilion grounds are mowed and trimmed and free of litter, debris and hazards. 11. Vegetation around pavilions is trimmed back to reduce hazards and does not impede entry and regress. B. Shelters 1. Shelters comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. 2. Shelters are clean, sanitary, and free of graffiti. 3. Lights and electrical plugs are operational and comply with current building codes. 4. Shelters are structurally sound, cleanly painted with no rotten lumber or rusted metal and no loose siding or loose shingles. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 8 -:: \i\ atcr fULlntains and hose bibs are operatlonai , ' (-1, Signage \\ith reservation and rules information and cmergenc) telephone numher:-, is in a noticeable location, -, Grounds around shelters are mowed and trimmed and free of litter. debns. and , . hazards. 8. Vegetation around shelters is trimmed back to reduce hazards and does nut impede entry and regress. C. Tables 1. Tables are clean, free of rust. milde\v. and graffiti. ') Table hardware is intact. _. 3. Table frames are intact and slats are properly secured. 4. Table seats and tops are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed corners. D. Grills 1. Grills are operational and free of rust and metal deterioration, ') Grills are clean and free of grease build-up. "' Grill racks are operational and secure to main body. .). 4. Grills are properly anchored to reduce hazards and theft. 5. Underbrush. low limbs. and debris are cleared away from grill area to reduce possible fire hazard. E. Restrooms 1. Restrooms are clean. sanitary, and properly stocked with paper products. 2, Lights and ventilation systems are operational. "' Toilets. water faucets, stall doors. and hand air dryers are operational. -' , 4. Restrooms are free of graffiti. 5, Restroom doors are properly marked according to gender. 6, Rcstrooms have clean trash receptacles. 7, Restroom doors and locks are operational. 8. Restrooms are in compliance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. 04. TENNIS COURTS A. SurfacinQ 1. Surface is smooth. level. and well drained with no standing \vater. '"\ Surface is free of large cracks. holes. and trip hazards. -. 3. Surface is painted and striped in accordance with the t'nited States Tennis Association court specifications. 4, \\' om painted surfaces do not exceed 200/0 of total court surface. 5. Surface is free of litter, debris. gravel and graffiti. B. Nets 1. Nets are free from tears and frays, Buyntun Flea,'1l Parks Maintenance Manual ~ / 2. Nets are properly installed and secured to support poles. 3. Nets have center straps installed at the regulated height and are anchored to the court. 4. Support poles have hardware intact, properly anchored, and installed. C. Li ghts 1. Electrical systems and components are operational and in compliance with appropriate building codes. 2. 90% of lamps for each court are operational. ., Timers are properly set for specific hours of operation. -'. 4. No electrical conducting wires are exposed. 5. Ballast boxes and components are properly installed and secured. 6. Lighting controls with operation instructions and information are conveniently located for easy access. 7. Lights to give unifonn coverage on facilities and fixtures are adjusted to eliminate dark or blind spots, D. Fencing 1. Fencing material is galvanized chain link and is the appropriate gauge wire for specified use. 2. Fencing material is properly secured to support rails. 3. Support rails are properly connected and straight. 4. Fencing is free of holes, protrusions, and catch points. 5. Fabric is straight and free of bending or sagging. 6. Gates and latches are operational. 7. Windscreens are tightly secured to the fencing and are free of tears and holes. 5. BASKETBALL COURTS A. Surfacing 1. Surface is smooth, level, and well drained with no standing water. 2. Surface is free of large cracks, holes, and trip hazards. 3. Surface is painted and striped per court specifications. 4. Worn painted surfaces do not exceed 20% of total court surface. 5. Surface is free of litter, debris, gravel, and graffiti. B. Goals and Backboards 1. Goals and backboards are level with hardware intact. 2. Goals and backboards are painted. ., Nylon nets are properly hung and are not tom or tattered. -'. 4. Support poles are secure in the ground and straight. C. Li ghts 1. Electrical systems and components are operational and in compliance with appropriate building codes. 2. 90% of lamps for each court are operational. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 10 , limers are properly set for specific hours 11111peratiun 4. No electrical conducting \vires are exposed, ). Bal1 ast boxes and components arc pro perl :- 1I1stal led and secured. 6. Ligbting controls with operation instructions and 1I1formmion is eonvenient!:- located for easy access. 7. Ligbts to provide uniform coverage on facilities and fixtures are adjusted to eliminate dark or blind areas. 06. SAND VOLLEYBALL COURTS A. Nets 1. .\'elS are fi'ee ii'om holes and are not torn or lat/ereel 2. Nets are hung tightly at the specified height. ., Nets are securely attached to the support poles. .), 4. Support poles to have hardware intact. properly anchored and installed. B. Surface 1. Court surface is loose sand. I Surface is smooth with good drainage and no standing water. ., Surface is free of weeds, grass, litter. and debris. -) , C. Borders 1. Borders are well defined and intact. I Borders meet ASTM and National Playground Safety Institute standards, -. 07. PONDS/WATERWAYS A. 'Nater 1. Aerators are operationaL } Pond surface is at least 90~o clear of vegetation. -. ., Water area is free of trash and debris. .), 4. Bank areas are smooth and free of wash outs and erosion, B. Fishing Piers/Decks 1. Planks are intact. smooth, structurally sound, free of splinters. and have no cracks greater than 1/4 inch. ., Nails. bolts. or screws are flush with the surface. -. ., Planks are level with no excessive warping. .). 4_ Handrails are present and structurally sound. s. Piers and decks comply \vith the Americans with Disabilities Act. C. Benches 1. Slats are smooth and structurally sound. .., Hardware is intact and structurally sound. -. ., Nails. bolts. or screws are tlush with the surface, .), Boynton Beach Pari-o Maintenance Manual ] ] 4. Seats and backing are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed comers. 08. PARKS: GENERAL STANDARDS A. Grounds 1. Grounds are mowed and trimmed. 2. Park is free of litter, debris, and hazards. 3. Parking lots are clean and striped (if applicable). B. Drinking Fountains 1. Fountains are accessible and operational. 2. Fountains are in appropriate locations. 3. Fountains are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. 4. Fountains are installed on solid surfaces and free of standing water and debris. C. S i gnage 1. Park identification signs are secure and properly installed in a noticeable location. 2. Handicap parking signs are secure, visible, and to code. 3. Park Rules signs are secure and in a noticeable location. 4. Restroom signs are secure and visible. 5. Signs are clean, painted, and free of protrusions. D. Ornamental Plants 1. Plants are healthy. 2. Plant beds are free of litter, debris, and weeds. 3. Plant selection is appropriate for season and area usage. E. Walkwavs 1. Walkways have a uniform surface and are level with the ground and free of trip hazards. 2. Walkways are free of litter and debris. 3. Walkways meet the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. 4. Walkways have unobstructed accessibility, i.e. free from low and protruding limbs, guide wires, etc. 5. Walkways are neatly edged. 6. Walkways are clear of weeds and grass growth in cracks and expansion joints. F. Trash Receptacles (random) l. Receptacles are clean. 2. Wood receptacles are painted and free of damage or missing parts. 3. Hardware for wood receptacles is intact. 4. Concrete receptacles are intact and free of cracks or damage. 5. Roll-off containers and dumpsters are screened and placed in less intrusive areas. 6. Area around trash receptacles is clean and free of trash and debris. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 12 -; .-\rcCl around roll-oil containers and dumpsters is clean and hce l,j trash Clnd debris C. Ornamental Steel Fencing ] . Hardware is intact. , Fences are properly installed and anchored, -, ~ Support rails are proper]) connected and straight. -~ . 4. Bolts or screY\S are flush \vith the surface with no exposed sharp points. =" Fencing is free of rust and properly painted. 6, Fence is straight with no excessive bends. 7 (Jates and latches are operational. H, Chain Link Fencing l. Fencing material is galvanized chain link and is the appropriate gauge wire for specified use. ! Hardware is intact. ~ Fences are properly installed and anchored. -'. 4. Support rails are properly connected and straight. ). Bolts or screws are flush with the surface with no exposed sharp points. 6. Fencing is free of holes and protrusions. 7, Fabric is straight and free of bending or sagging. I. \Vood Fencing 1. Fences are intact, structurally sound. and tree of deterioration. ., \iails. bolts. or scre\\'s are flush with the surface \\ith no exposed sharp points, _. ~ Fences have no excessive cracks or splintering. -' , J. Lights: Security and Exterior Facilitv Lights l. 900/0 of security and facility lights are operational. J No electrical conducting wires are exposed. 3. Lights comply with current building codes. 4. Electrical components are operational. properly installed. and secured. K. Bridges I. Bridges have a uniform surface and are free of trip hazards. , Lumber is structurally sound, free of cracking. deterioration, and splintering. -. ~ Bridges comply with the Americans \vith Disabilities Act requirements. -~ . 4. Bridges have handrails intact and is properly installed and anchored. " Bridges are free of litter and debris. L. Open Fields 1. Athletic practice areas are free of litter and debris. ..., Areas are mowed at the appropriate height and are trimmed_ -' j, Area has a uniform surl[tce and well drained. 4, Areas have clean trash receptacles present that are in good condition. Boynton Beach Park, Maintenance rVlan\lal 1.::' M. Irrigation 1. Irrigation system is fully operational with complete uniform coverage. 2. System is free of leaks. .., Heads are installed according to intended use. .). 4. Heads are properly adjusted with rotations and arcs set to reduce water run off. 5. Systems are set to run at specific times to minimized water evaporation and waste. N. Picnic Units 1. Tables are clean, free of rust, mildew, and graffiti. 2. Table hardware is intact. .., Table frames are intact and slats are properly secured. -'. 4. Table seats and top are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed corners. 5. Grills are operational and free of rust and metal deterioration. 6. Grills are clean and free of grease build-up. 7. Grill racks are operational and secure to main body. 8. Grills are properly anchored to reduce hazards and theft. 9. Underbrush, low limbs, and debris are cleaned away from grill area to reduce possible fire hazard. 10. Trash receptacles are clean. I I. Wood trash receptacles are painted and free of damaged or missing parts. 12. Hardware for wood receptacles is intact. O. Benches 1. Hardware is intact and structurally sound. ..., Nails, bolts, or screws are flush with the surface. 3. Seats and backing are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed corners. 09. CEMETERY 1. Burial or entombment is done according to procedures 2. Disinterment or disentombment is done according to procedures 3. Other B. Tasks to Be Performed The third element of the Maintenance Plan is the List of Tasks that to be performed at each facility. This list includes the task itself, the number of like type of facilities and the frequency that the task needs to be done. The List is as follows: TASKS Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 14 -- ~-_._.._-_._-_.- CODE TASK DESCRIPTIO!\ # OF FREQl'ENC) l'!\ITS _ ~ ~H'_________ ___ _ .----.--- -- ~-- 01 ATHELETIC FIELDS -- ~-----_._,--~ --_.----------- * The foll(J1--rinu tor Litlle Leazuc _________ ~___ _ b < ~ ~____'_'__________ _~_______~______ ~___________ ------------ , Mow fields -+ As needed -~-~.__. --------.., - ----.--.--.-----.-...-....- ~ .---.-----!------------..-------...--..----------- ! Rake clay and add clay _ __ <_________~_______i__ As needed __ Fertilize~ u___________ ------=!...._ ::: times per month , ' Pesticide application -+ As needed I.. - -------~- Aerif\ ____~____~_ 4 times per year Topdress infields with sand 4 4 times per year_ Cut out base lines and add clay __ ____~____ 4] time per year ___ _~____ Regrade ~_~~u________~____~__ __~_~~ Eyer~ 4 \ear~_u____ Sod 4 /-\s needed .---..--..... -.- -- --------_.__.._-~------~-- --.- -.. __~__~~ck ilTigation ________ _ ___ _____ ~~, 3 times E~_]~~\'eek - --~-'--- ~__ _..: Inspect irrigation pump_ __ u_________ _ u__ __~__ paih_____ _____ Inspect ilTigation clock 4 3 times per week ----- Check backstops and fencing-------=~=_~:=_~~ {-\\'eckly~ __~___=_- · Check bleachers and benches _____ ___~____ 4:' times per week Drag, line and rake infields _________ --'____--=!__ :' times per_~veek _ I Check bases and plates < _______~____________~4 __Qaily _ _~_~ ______L Check lights ___________________ _ _____..3__~y~ekJ~____~ , _____~_('heck restrooms ____ _ _______4 Daily I f-~-----,----- _ ----------~------ --- m___________ ------ i * i For all oTher Athletic Fields :, --- ---+---- -------- -- -------------- ~----,-------~-- -------~--~--------- ~__=~-__~1ow fields ______ ______ _ ~ ~)___ As r~eede!._ ____~Rake clay and add clay _____ __________ __j__ As neede~___ _ . Fertilize 6 As needed ~.~_~__ .__________ ~.,__ ____..._____.._.... __'0 _____________ ~._._ --...-..-----..-- _ : Pesticide application______ ________..J1__ :: times pe.1:_..!~lon~~_ .______ Aerify _ _ __________ ____~~_ j times per year Topdress infields with sand __________ _~_____n_~4 times per year __ Cut out base lines and add clay____~__ ___~ +JJimes pe]~~a~-_ ___ . . Regrade __________~__,_ --~l E~~~y 4 y~ar~_____ Sod (1 , /\s needed .__~._~.-- ____. ._____.._.___ _ ~_,..,__.._~._____._._.-----<_ __.".____.-t ..... , Check irrigation __ _____ _._____~ __~\.ee~~ i ~heck bases and plates____ _ ____ 6 _h~~~kh -_._~.._-~ - ___._C~he~k Jigh~~~___ _ ________ _____6 Weekly , :-02-----!>LAYGROUNDS --- .--~- -------- - - '(A1I\,';~ikIY) ~.- --.....-------- - ----_.--------_._,~- .....---------.... ---,,-------- i Clear anv debris or litter ] 7 - -~-I"; ------- - ._,--_..~--_._.,--- -------------. __ I Check for damage or needed repairs _____ _+___-----.17 _ . __ . , i Check for inadequate protective surfaces ] 7 r------.--.---i --, "'.. -~ ~.:; ! . Check mulch and sand for undeSIrable objects 1 ! !-- - ! Check heavy use areas (slides and s\\'ings) for .-- ~---r--- ... _n______ I i surface compaction_ .._+ _____ ~_~___ _____ ~_=~_____.fheck equipment for deterioratiol1 (rot. rust _ __1.2 .____u Buyntun Beach Parks rvlamtenance "-1anual 1 -:- cracks, splinters, corrosion at ground contact) Check for unstable anchoring of equipment 17 Check for any loose or worn connections, 17 covering or fastening hardware Check all moving parts 17 Check for obstacles in equipment use zones 17 Check for drainage problems 17 Check for sharp points, protrusions, 17 projections Check for tripping hazards 17 Check for insects 17 03 SHEL TERS/P A VILIONS Blow, sweep or wash floor 34 As needed Empty trash container and rebag 34 As needed Clean grills and surrounding area 34 As needed 04 TENNIS COURTS Clear court of debris or loose material 29 Weekly Check fencing, windscreens and nets 29 Weekly Check lights 29 Weekly Remove weeds from around court 29 As needed 05 BASKETBALL COURTS Clear court of debris or loose material 13 Weekly Check fencing and nets 13 Weekly Check lights 13 Weekly Remove weeds from around court 13 As needed 06 VOLLEYBALL COURTS Clear courts of debris or loose material 6 W eekl y Check nets 6 Weekly Replace sand 6 As needed Remove weeds 6 As needed 07 PIERS Check for trash and damage 2 Weekly Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 16 ! 08---: PARKS - GENERAL STANDARDS-- ---- --~--- --~ -~--<-----~.- Mow weekly (Mar - Nov I ~8 \Veekh -~-'---~iM-;~\ biweeklv (Dee - Fel:;-)-- -- -.--- d'28 ( Biweekh ' '---~-----------r "' _ __.~.___.__,_.___ ______ _.__,_ __,_ . w ,_. ."_ 'rrim shrubs \vith nevv' grow1h reaches 4" 28 ! As needed ---._-~.,--~----,--,---. ----" Fe11ilize sod ____~___ ______________._ 28' 2 times per year Fertilize shrubs 28 i 2 times per year i Fertilize palms and trees-_~~~=-:------ __;8-W-Ji2.11es P~:~:.~~..1:____ I Iv1ulch to a minimum depth of 4" 28 I Yearly 1 Line trim -- ------------- -- ~8 . \Vhen m~~~~ed-.------ ;___ ___ ____,____._.~...__ __~ ___ I .____ , Edge 28 V/hen mowed i Blow hard surfaced areas--~---------~-- -' - -28\\'hen mowed- --- i Check bocci and horseshoe courts----------- 28 r \\/eekh------ I Check walking trails \veekly for tripping ------'------~\Veekl; -- ----- I : hazards. erosion and debris i I Check for damage to facilities. graffiti.--- ----'i8\\;-~~ki~ - ---------- I vandalism. broken or missing handrails or I guardrails. damage to fences or signs I --.------ --------- ----------- - -- I Check for needed repairs to benches. lights. ~8 Weekly trash receptacles. bike racks. tables. grills. . \vater fountains -----~ .~~.- -----.-.-.----- -_... :---------.J_g~an fishing line collection receptacles~____ _____~1L__~\-' eekl) __ ___ , : 09 I CEMETERIES -- -~---~-. As Scheduled ,~- -------,-------- - ------ --~-----.- I : Burials ' As Scheduled r___~~1.~m bments_~__=~- _-_ -~_ =-__----___~_-_-===------ -- -- , i "- -- -------- ! 10 I MISCELLANEOUS MAINTENANCE._ _ __. ___ i_______~ ________________,_ ___ ______ ________,__ ____ C. Code Listing The fourth element is the Code Listing. Numerical codes are assigned the each type of position. each separate task to be performed and to each park site. This information \vill be entered into a database and will be used tu determine the length of time a particular task takes at a specific site. hem much time a particular employee spend in a particular site or at a certain task. how much time it takes to maintain a type of facility or a specific park site, This information will be used to assure that resources are allocated effectively. to determine additional manpo\\er needs. and lu justify additional manpower needs. Boynton Beach ParKS Maintenance )V!anual 1 - D. Daily Report Form E. The fifth element of the Maintenance Plan is the Daily Report Form. This form will be the recording and reporting vehicle used by each employee to record the work. The form contains entry areas for the employee name, employee personnel number, location, task code, length of time to perform the task, the labor or position code and an area for non-standard work description. It is as follows: DAIL Y REPORT FORM Employee Number Location Primary Hours Labor Non-Standard Work Description Task Worked Code Code TOTAL F. Monthly Inspection Report The maintenance tasks are analyzed on the monthly basis for each park. A checklist is used to determine which tasks are up to standards. A percentage of those tasks up to standards is determined. Each park is given an overall percentage of the tasks up to standards. An example follows: PARK MAINTENANCE STANDARDS SURVEY Park Inspected: Date Inspected: Inspected By: District: Overall Percentage of Standards Met: _ Quarter: _ Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 18 Place a "'\". in the space if the item meets standards. Place an "N" in the spuc:.: it the item does not meet standards. l. ATHLETIC FACILITIES: COMPETETIVE FIELDS l~) of standards met: A. Turf 1. Turf has a healthy dense stand of grass and coverage is no less than 9500 of -- playable area. I Appropriate grass for warm seasons is Common Bermuda or Hybrid Bermuda _.~- -, and for cool season is Perennial Rye Grass if required. 3. Play area has a uniform surface and well drained. 4. Turf is mowed at the appropriate height for the type of grass used. the time of --- the season, and the type of field use. 5. Turf is free of any litter or debris. -- B. Skinned Infields 1. Infields have a uniform surface and are free of lips, holes and trip hazards. -- "') Intlelds are well drained vvith no standing water areas. - ..., Intlelds have proper soil consistency for intended usage, _1, ---- 4. Infields are free of weeds and grass. -~ " Injields arc free of rocks. dirt clods. and debris as per Little League and Amateur Softball Association rules and specifications. 6. Bases and plates are properly installed. level. and are at the proper distances and anchored in accordance to manufacturer's specitications and league requirements. C. Soccer Goals 1. Goals are made of lightweight aluminum. - I Goals are properly installed and anchored. --- ..., Goal frames show no excessive bending. _1. 4, Nets are in good condition and free of holes. tears, and fraying which would - allovv' a soccer ball to pass. D. Bleachers 1 . I-Iardware is intact. ~--- ! Seating surface is clean, smooth, and free of protrusions and catch points. -. 3. Bleachers are secured to concrete pads or firmly anchored to the ground. - 4. Bleacher areas have trash receptacles present and are in good condition, - -- E. Liuhts I. Electrical systems and components are operational and in compliance vvith --- appropriate building codes. ") 900'0 of lamps for each field are operational. -, 3. No electrical conducting wires are exposed. 8o\'nton 8each I'ark~ Maintenance rvlanual ] L1 . 4. Ballast boxes and components are properly installed and secured. - 5. Lights provide uniform coverage on facilities and fixtures are adjusted to - eliminate dark or blind areas. F. Fencing 1. Fencing material is galvanized chain link and is the appropriate gauge wire for - specified use. J Fencing material is properly secured to support rails. 3. Support rails are properly connected and straight. - 4. Fencing is free of holes and protrusions. - 5. Fabric is straight and free of bending or sagging. - 6. Gates and latches are operational. - G. Restrooms 1. Restrooms are clean, sanitary, and properly stocked with paper products. - 2. Lights and ventilation systems are operational. - 3. Toilets, water faucets, stall doors, and hand air dryers are operational. - 4. Restrooms are free of graffiti. 5. Restroom doors are properly marked according to gender. - 6. Restrooms have clean trash receptacles. 7. Restroom doors and locks are operational. - 8. Restrooms are in compliance with the requirements of the Americans with - Disabilities Act. II. PLAYGROUND % of standards met: A. Plav Equipment 1. Play equipment and surrounding play areas meet ASTM and National - Playground Safety Institute standards. 2. Play equipment and hardware is intact. - 3. Play equipment is free of graffiti. - 4. Age appropriateness for the play equipment is noted with proper signage. 5. Shade structure is secure and free from tears. - B. Surfacing 1. Fall surface is clean, level, and free of litter and debris. - 2. Fall surface meets ASTM and National Playground Safety Institute standards. - 3. Fall surface is well drained. 4. Rubber cushion surfaces are free of holes and tears. 5. Rubber cushion surfaces are secure to the base material and curbing. - C. Borders 1. Playground borders are well defined and intact. - 2. Playground borders meet ASTM and National Playground Safety Institute - standards. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 20 D. Decks 1 Planks are intact. smooth. structurally sound. free of splinters. and han: "W ,. cracks greater than I" inch. ., Nails. bolts. or screv-,s are flush 'vvith the surract.:' -. '"\ Planks are level with no excessive warping. _1. E. Benches l. Slats are smooth and structurally sound. - ) I-lardware is intact and structurally sound. -..- -, '"\ Nails. bolts. or screws are flush with the surface. .), -~- 4. Seats and backing are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp -- edges or pointed corners. III. PICNIC FACILITIES ('AI of standards met: A. Pavilions l. Pavilions comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. - 'I Pavilions are clean, sanitary, and free of graffiti. - -. '"\ Electrical plugs, lights, appliances, fans, and hot water heaters are operational _1. -- and in good condition and comply with current building codes. 4. Pavilions are structurally sound. cleanly painted with no rotten lumber or -- rusted metal and no loose siding or loose shingles. ). Pa\'ilions are relatively pest and rodent free and regularly treated for ants. \vasps. termites and mice. 6. Interior kitchens are equipped with an operational fire extinguisher. -.~~ 7. Doors, windows, screens, and locks are operational. -- 8. \\"ater fountains. water faucets. exhaust vent fans. and hose bib connections -- are operational. 9. Signage v,"ith reservation and rules information and emergency telephone -- numbers is in a noticeable location. 10. Pavilion grounds are mowed and trimmed and free of litter. debris and hazards. _11. Vegetation around pavilions is trimmed back to reduce hazards and does not impede entry and regress. B. Shelters 1. Shelters comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, -- 'I Shelters are clean. sanitary. and free of graffiti. -. 3. Lights and electrical plugs are operational and comply with current building --- codes, 4. Shelters are structurally SOUl1d" cleanly painted \\'ith no rotten lumber or rusted metal and no loose siding or loose shingles, 5. Water fountains and hose bibs are operational. Boynton Heae/I Purf;S Maintenance Manual " _1 6. Signage with reservation and rules information and emergency telephone - numbers is in a noticeable location. 7. Grounds around shelters are mowed and trimmed and free of litter, debris, and - hazards. 8. Vegetation around shelters is trimmed back to reduce hazards and does not - impede entry and regress. C. Tables 1. Tables are clean, free of rust, mildew, and graffiti. - 2. Table hardware is intact. - 3. Table frames are intact and slats are properly secured. - 4. Table seats and tops are smooth and free of protrusions and have no exposed - sharp edges or pointed comers. D. Grills 1. Grills are operational and free of rust and metal deterioration. - 2. Grills are clean and free of grease build-up. - '" Grill racks are operational and secure to main body. j. - 4. Grills are properly anchored to reduce hazards and theft. 5. Underbrush, low limbs, and debris are cleared away from grill area to reduce - possible fire hazard. E. Trash Receptacles 1. Receptacles are clean. - 2. Wood receptacles are painted and free of damaged or missing parts. - '" Hardware for wood receptacles is intact. j. 4. Concrete receptacles are intact and free of cracks or damage. 5. Area around trash receptacles is clean and free of trash and debris. - F. Restrooms 1. Restrooms are clean, sanitary, and properly stocked with paper products. - 2. Lights and ventilation systems are operational. - 3. Toilets, water faucets, stall doors, and hand air dryers are operational. - 4. Restrooms are free of graffiti. - 5. Restroom doors are properly marked according to gender. - 6. Restrooms have clean trash receptacles. - 7. Restroom doors and locks are operational. - 8. Restrooms are in compliance with the requirements of the Americans with - Disabilities Act. IV. TENNIS COURTS % of standards met: A. Surfacing 1. Surface is smooth, level, and well drained with no standing water. - 2, Surface is free of large cracks, holes, and trip hazards. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 22 "' Surface is painted and stnpc'd III accurJanc<.: \\ 11h the i. ni1ed "'ta1\:" I :::lllll.' -' , Association court specifications 4. v., om painted surfaces do not exceed 2()O,'o of tot a] court surface, -.--. ., Surface is free of litter. debris. gravel and graffiti -- B. Nets ] . Nets are free from tears and frays, .u..~ ") J\ets are properly installed and secured to support poles, -----~ -, ~ Nets have center straps installed at the regulated height and are anchored tu -' , the court, 4. Support poles have hardware intact properly anchored. and installed -- C. Lights 1. Electrical systems and components are operational and in compliance with --_.- appropriate building codes. ") 900iO of lamps for each court are operational. -- -. .., Timers are properly set for specific hours of operation. _1. ~---- 4. No electrical conducting wires are exposed. --- ::-. Ballast boxes and components are properly installed and secured. --- 6. Lighting controls with operation instructions and information are conveniently located for easy access. 7. Lights to give uniform coverage on facilities and fixtures are Cldjusted t() -~ eliminate dark or blind spots. D. Fencing 1. Fencing material is galvanized chain link and is the appropriate gauge vvire for --- specified use. "') Fencing material is properly secured to support rails. -- -. .., Support rails are properly connected and straight. -' , 4. Fencing is free of holes. protrusions. and catch points. ::-. Fabric is straight and free of bending or sagging. 6. Gates and latches are operational. 7. \Vindscreens are tightly secured to the fencing and are free of tears and holes. ~_.- V. BASKETBALL COURTS (Y<) of standards met: A. Surfacing 1. Surface is smooth. level. and well drained with no standing water. ") Surface is free of large cracks. holes. and trip hazards. ---~ -. .., Surface is painted and striped as per court specifications. J. ~ 4. Wom painted surfaces do not exceed 20%) of total cOUl1 surface, .:; Surface is free of litter. debris. gravel. and graffiti. B. Goals and Backboards 1. Goals and backboards are level with hardware intact, - --- Kovnton Beach Park, Maintenance Manual 2: 2. Goals and backboards are painted. - "l Nylon nets are properly hung and are not tom or tattered. ,). - 4. Support poles are secure in the ground and straight. - C. Lights 1. Electrical systems and components are operational and in compliance with - appropriate building codes. 2. 90% of lamps for each court are operational. - "l Timers are properly set for specific hours of operation. ,). - 4. No electrical conducting wires are exposed. - 5. Ballast boxes and components are properly installed and secured. - 6. Lighting controls with operation instructions and information is conveniently - located for easy access. 7. Lights to provide uniform coverage on facilities and fixtures are adjusted to - eliminate dark or blind areas. VI. SAND VOLLEYBALL COURTS % of standards met: A. Nets 1. Nets are .Fee fi'om holes and are not torn or tattered - 2. Nets are hung tightly at the specified height. - 3. Nets are securely attached to the support poles. - 4. Support poles to have hardware intact, properly anchored and installed. - B. Surface 1. Court surface is loose sand. - 2. Surface is smooth with good drainage and no standing water. - 3. Surface is free of weeds, grass, litter, and debris. - C. Borders 1. Borders are well defined and intact. - ') Borders meet ASTM and National Playground Safety Institute standards. - "--. VII. PONDS % of standards met: A. Water 1. Aerators are operational. - 2. Pond surface is at least 90% clear of vegetation. - 3. Water area is free of trash and debris. - 4. Bank areas are smooth and free of wash outs and erosion. - 5. Ponds are stocked with appropriate species of fish. - 6. Ponds are dyed to enhance appearance and assist in reduction of unwanted - vegetation when applicable. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 24 -- hll1di\~aterways J\1:magement plan IS develuped and fikd \\ Jlh The l'?\,b Parks and Wildlife Department as required B. Fishinu Piers/Decks 1. Planks are intact. smooth. structurally sound. hee of splinters. and have lW cracks greater than 1.4 inch, "") Nails. bolts. or screws are flush v;ith the surface. -, "' Planks are level \vith no excessi\'e \\arping, -' . --~ 4. Handrails are present. -- ). Piers and decks comply with the Americans \vith Disabilities Act, -- C. Benches 1. Slats are smooth and structurally sound, ~ I Hard\vare is intact and structurally sound. ~ "' Nails. bolts. or scre\vs are flush \vith the surface. -'. --- 4. Seats and backing are smooth \vith no protrusions and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed corners, VIII. PARKS: GENERAL STANDARDS IYo of standards met: A. Grounds 1. Grounds are mowed and trimmed. ---.- I Park is free of litter. debris. and hazards. 3. Parking lots are clean and striped. (if applicable) --- B. Drinking, Fountains 1. Fountains are accessible and operational. ~- , Fountains are in appropriate locations. --- _. ~ Fountains are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. _"l. --- 4. Fountains are installed on solid surfaces and free of standing water and debris, -- C. SiQ:nag,e I. Park identification signs are secure and properly installed in a noticeable -- location. "") Ilandicap parking signs are secure. visible. and to code. ~ -. 3. Park Rules signs are secure and in a noticeable location. ~ 4. Restroom signs are secure and visible. ---- 5. Signs arc clean. painted. and free of protrusions. D Ornamental Plants I. Plants are healthv. , Plant beds are free of litter. debris, and v\eeds. ~_.- -. ~ Plant selection is appropriate for season and area usage. -' , Boynton Be3ch Parks t\13intcnancc M3111JaI "")- ...:) E. Walkwavs 1. Walkways have a uniform surface and are level with the ground and free of - trip hazards. 2 Walkways are free oflitter and debris. - 3. Walkways meet the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. - 4. Walkways have unobstructed accessibility, i.e. free from low and protruding - limbs, guide wires, etc. 5. Walkways are neatly edged. - 6. Walkways are clear of weeds and grass growth in cracks and expansion joints. - F. Trash Receptacles (random) 1. Receptacles are clean. - 2. Wood receptacles are painted and free of damage or missing parts. - 3. Hardware for wood receptacles is intact. - 4. Concrete receptacles are intact and free of cracks or damage. - 5. Roll-off containers and dumpsters are screened or hidden and placed in less - intrusive areas. 6. Area around trash receptacles is clean and free of trash and debris. - 7. Area around roll-off containers and dumpsters is clean and free of trash and - debris. G. Ornamental Steel Fencing 1. Hardware is intact. - 2. Fences are properly installed and anchored. - 3. Support rails are properly connected and straight. - 4. Bolts or screws are flush with surface with no exposed sharp points. - 5. Fence is straight with no excessive bends. - 6. Gates and latches are operational. - H. Chain Link Fencing 1. Fencing material is galvanized chain link and is the appropriate gauge wire for - the specified use. 2. Hardware is intact. - 3. Fences are properly installed and anchored. - 4. Support rails are properly installed and straight. - 5. Bolts or screws are flush with the surface with no exposed sharp points. - 6. Fencing is free of holes and protrusions. - 7. Fabric is straight and free of bending or sagging. - I. Wood Fencing 1. Fences are intact, structurally sound, and free of deterioration. - 2. Nails, bolts, or screws are flush with the surface with no exposed sharp points. - 3. Fences have no excessive cracks or splintering. - Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 26 J, Liuhts: Security and exterior Facil1t\ Lll.dltS , 9000 of security and facility lights are operatlOnaJ. I, -~-_._- " No electrical conducting wires arc exposed, -~-".._.- -, ~ Lights comply 'v\ith current building codes. J. --- 4. Electrical components are operational. properly installed. and secured. ~--- K. Bridges 1. Bridges have a uniform surface and are free of trip hazards. "') Lumber is structurally sound. free of cracking. deterioration. and splintering. -. 3. Bridges comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. ~ 4, Bridges have handrails intact and are properly installed and anchored, -..--- "'\ Bridges are free of litter and debris. ----- L. Athletic Practice Areas 1. Athletic practice areas are free of litter and debris. -- "') Areas are mowed at the appropriate height and trimmed. ---- -, -) . Area has a uniform surface and is well drained. --- 4. Areas have trash receptacles present that are in good condition. ~ 5, Soccer goals are properly installed and anchored. 6. Soccer goals are made of lightweight aluminum. 7. Soccer goal frames show no excessive bending. S, Soccer nets are in good condition and free of holes. tears. and fraying v,:hich would allow a soccer ball to pass. 9, Baseball backstops are properly installed. anchored, and in good sound condition. ~___ I U. Support poles and railings are straight and properly connected. ~_11. Backstop fencing is galvanized chain link and is the appropriate gauge vvire. ~ 12. Backstop fencing is properly installed to support rails and is free of bending and sagging. ~ 13. Backstop fencing is free of holes. protrusions. and catch points. 14. Bleacher hardware is intact. _15, Bleacher bracing is tightly connected. __16. Bleacher seating surface is clean. smooth. and free of protrusions and have no exposed sharp edges or pointed corners. M, Irriuation (turf) 1. Irrigation system is fully operational with complete coverage. -, System is free of leaks. -. " l-leads are installed according to intended use. J, 4. Heads are properly adjusted with rotations and arcs set to reduce water run _._- off. 5. Systems are set to run at specific times to minimize \vater evaporation and -- \vaste. N. Irri 12:ation ( landscape) 1. Irrigation system is fully operational with complete uniform coverage. -- Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 27 2. System is free of leaks. - 3. Heads are installed according to intended use. - 4. Heads are properly adjusted with rotations and arcs set to reduce water run off. 5. Systems are set to run at specific times to minimized water evaporation and - waste. O. Picnic Units 1. Tables are clean, free of rust, mildew, and graffiti. - 2. Table hardware is intact. - .., Table frames are intact and slats are properly secured. -'. 4. Table seats and top are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp - edges or pointed comers. 5. Grills are operational and free of rust and metal deterioration. 6. Grills are clean and free of grease build-up. - 7. Grill racks are operational and secure to main body. - 8. Grills are properly anchored to reduce hazards and theft. - 9. Underbrush, low limbs, and debris are cleaned away from grill area to reduce - possible fire hazard. _10. Trash receptacles are clean. _ I I. Wood trash receptacles are painted and free of damaged or missing parts. _ 12. Hardware for wood receptacles is intact. P. Metal Benches 1. Hardv,:are is intact and structurally sound. - ") Nails, bolts, or screws are flush with the surface. 3. Seats and backing are smooth with no protrusions and have no exposed sharp - edges or pointed comers. VII. Evaluation The information and data collected through this process will be used to assure that resources are allocated effectively, to determine additional manpower needs, and to justify additional manpower needs. The data will be checked at three month intervals and necessary adjustment be made or recommended. Using the Maintenance Standards, the parks are numerically rated on a monthly basis to determine the percentage of standards that are met. Over a period of time, the monthly standards are evaluated for trends, decrease or increase in met standards and consistently low scores. Conclusions are made regarding how to improve a park's overall score whether through maintenance practices, upgrades, renovations or other methods. The following Parks Maintenance Standards Survey is used. Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 28 Maintenance Standards Monthly Summary FY 2008-09 .... .... .... >- >- ..t: >- Q,) >- .... .... Q,) Q,) Q,) .... .... u ';:: n:l ::: :; III (J) ..c ..c ..c n:l n:l .... Q. 2 ::::l ::::l ..c 0 E E ::::l ::::l n:l <t , Cl .... ::: .... 2 , E u (J) (J) ..c :::l (J) n:l <t 0 > u , (J) Q. 0 (J) u.. Z 0 (J) PARK (/') Barton Memonal Park 45 63 57 75 General Standards 45 63 57 75 Betty Thomas 99 83 100 ### ### ### ### ### ### #If:#- ### #:#=# Playground 100 100 100 Picnic Facilities 100 52 100 General Standards 97 96 100 Bicentennial 90 93 90 General Standards 90 93 90 Boat Club 77 81 95 85 ### ### ### ### ### #If:#- ### #:#=# Playground 60 60 90 80 Picnic Facilities 67 65 91 69 Ponds 89 100 100 100 General Standards 91 97 98 92 Boynton Lakes 86 77 97 85 ### ### ### ### ### #If:#- ##It ##It Playground 82 71 100 70 General Standards 90 83 93 100 Congress Ave. Community 90 97 95 87 ##It ### ### ### ### ### ### #:#=# Picnic Facilities 100 100 100 100 Tennis Courts 92 100 100 100 General Standards 78 91 85 89 Ezell Hester 85 86 91 92 ##It ### ### ### ##It ### #:#=# ### Athletic Fields 79 76 78 79 Playground 81 100 94 100 Picnic Facilities 89 80 87 90 Tennis Courts 91 87 96 94 Basketball Court 100 100 100 100 General Standards 72 75 92 87 Forest Hills 80 87 88 86 ### ### ### ### ### ### ##It ### Playground 93 93 86 90 Picnic Facilities 50 82 70 66 Basketball Courts 89 89 100 100 General Standards 89 84 97 89 Galaxy 87 ### 76 96 ### ##It ### ### ### ### ### ### Athletic Facilities 79 84 94 Playground 100 79 100 Buy nton Beach Pad,s Maintenance Manual 2l) Picnic Facilities 78 39 84 Tennis Courts 91 91 100 General Standards 86 88 100 Heritage 56 70 22 General Standards 56 70 22 Hibiscus 59 81 66 63 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 31 57 50 0 Basketball Courts 60 100 56 100 General Standards 85 86 92 88 Intracoastal ### 87 83 72 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 82 73 73 Picnic Facilities 86 86 75 General Standards 92 90 69 Jaycee ### Playground Picnic Facilities Kids Kingdom 78 94 99 83 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 60 89 98 70 General Standards 95 98 100 95 Kiwanis Sierra General Standards Knollwood 99 99 98 100 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Picnic Shelter 100 100 95 100 Pond 100 100 100 General Standards 96 98 100 100 Laurel Hills 89 94 90 94 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 80 89 93 86 Picnic Facilities 100 100 100 100 Basketball Courts 100 100 89 100 General Standards 77 87 78 90 Little League 91 98 93 98 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Athletic Fields 100 97 97 100 Picnic Facilities 87 100 87 97 General Standards 87 96 95 96 Mangrove 96 93 ### 92 ### ### . ### ### ### ### ### ### Ponds 100 92 93 General Standards 92 94 90 Meadows 79 95 95 88 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 30 Playground 53 86 38 Picnic Facilities 80 90 ~ . -'r, '-,......1 '. Tennis Courts 85 95 9~J 95 Basketball Courts 93 100 10C) 100 Volleyball Court 67 -inn 100 89 IV\.) General Standards 85 96 96 94 Oceanfront 85 84 93 84 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 69 69 80 64 Picnic Facilities 93 88 100 93 General Standards 93 94 98 96 Palmetto Greens 78 74 80 82 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 79 79 87 79 Picnic Facilities 80 72 75 78 Pond 60 60 88 General Standards 76 84 98 83 Pence 62 61 65 72 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Athletic Fields 85 85 80 91 Playground 0 7 33 25 Basketball Court 69 63 75 82 General Standards 95 88 72 90 Pioneer Canal 68 66 84 66 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 67 33 70 0 Picnic Facilities 59 48 56 48 Tennis Courts 73 95 100 100 Basketball Court 50 66 100 100 Volleyball Court 78 88 89 80 Pond 60 38 78 40 General Standards 89 93 94 93 Sara Sims 63 63 ### 58 ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### Playground 10 30 40 Picnic Facilities 83 84 63 Tennis Courts 52 39 13 Basketball Court 100 94 100 General Standards 70 70 75 Veterans 87 86 94 88 General Standards 87 86 94 88 Wilson B()ynton Beach Parf;s Maintenance f\'1anual , Boynton Beach Parks Maintenance Manual 32 APPENDIX E ~ ~ Staff Connections, LLC Organization and Employee Development ; City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Planning Initiative Organizational Structure Purpose The purpose of the Organizational Structure analysis and recommendations for the City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department is to develop a structure that helps the Department reach its vision of better serving the recreation and parks needs of City residents. In addition, the recommended structure has been developed as an integral part of the Department's visioning and strategic planning initiative, and the update to the City's Comprehensive Plan Recreation and Parks Element. ~ Background The City Commission and senior managers recognized the importance of providing a vision and strategic plan for the City's Recreation and Parks Department. In addition, the City has chosen to update their Comprehensive Plan Recreation and Parks Element. The City chose the progressive path of preparing an organizational structure for the Department at the same tim e. To better serve the recreation and parks needs of their residents, the City chose to simultaneously undertake three initiatives: 1. Develop a Recreation and Parks Strategic Plan; 2. Update the City's Comprehensive Plan Recreation and Parks Element; and 3. Develop a Department Organizational Structure. Development of a new organizational structure for the Department is an integral component of the strategic and comprehensive planning initiatives. In fact, the organizational structure is one uf three primary components of successfully implementing the vision and strategy of any organization, Graphic 1 represents the integrated way that structure, skills and systems City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 39 . all :nterrelate tu successfully implement th:: \]S](,:j SU::lle~' i kpartrnern \\ , , culture. The structure plays a key role in the success of the Uepartmel~t Graphic 1 - Elements of Organizational Success Elements of Organizational Success City of Boynton Beach, Recreation and Parks Depanment I I I J I I I I I Methodology An extensive data collection process was followed including 0 Interviews; 0 Collection and review of reports and documents: and 0 Attendance at staff and planning meetings. A detailed report on the process and information gathered as part of the data collection effol1 is included in this report as Appendix A. In summary, the following interviews took place: Ciry of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Deparrmcl1i Strategic J\1aster Plan 40 ::J Kurt Bressner, City Manager and Wilfred Hawkins, Assistant City Manager - !i October 21,2004; 0 John Jordan, Interim Human Resources Director - October 21,2004; 0 Recreation and Parks Department managers: Wally Majors, Sharon Vicki, John Bebensee, Jody Rivers, Virginia Shea, Sherri Claude, Mary Degraffenreidt and Tom Balfe - November 10,2004; 0 Bess deFarber, professional facilitator for several Departmental meetings in 2004 - November 16,2004; and 0 Recreation and Parks Department Planning Team - November 17, 2004 (a summary of this discussion is included as Appendix B). These interviews played a significant role in the establislunent of an understanding of past activities and desired outcomes related to the organizational structure for the City's Recreation and Parks Department. A consistent set of questions was asked of each member/group to provide standardized results. t Participants were very cooperative and open with their responses. They appreciated being asked the questions and being involved in the process of developing a new organizational structure for the Department. Extensive notes were taken, summaries prepared and the participants were asked to review the summaries to ensure that their responses were accurately represented. Several of the visioning and strategic planning meetings were attended to better understand the future direction of the Department. It is important to closely link organizational changes with the desired future changes in the delivery and operations of the City's recreation and parks facilities and services. In addition to the interviews and planning meetings, numerous documents were collected and reviewed. The Department supplied the documents including: 0 History and Tour of Parks, John Wildner, Deputy Director of Recreation and Parks, Documented August 26,2004 by Virginia H. Shea; 0 Final Report, City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Staff Planning Sessions, February 11 and 13, 2004, 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Venue: United Way of Palm Beach County, ASK Associates, Inc. dated February 19,2004; City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 41 ::J City Bovnton Beach. Recreatie:r Parks [)epar11J-:en1 Cl~:;~l=--lizatl('r ~," '~'~J '- 1 U~- ,~' for FY 2003-04 and FY 2004-115 :J City of Boynton Beach. Personrlel Policy Manual. reYlsed dace: (1801 ': :md ::J City of Boynton Beach. Recreation and Parks Department. Boynton Beach. Florida. Marketing and Communications Plan 2003-2005. These documents provided an excellent background on the Department and the progressin work being done by the City. The City and Department have taken many steps to follov-, it process of continuous improvement in the provision of recreational seryices and parks facilities for Boynton Beach and this is apparent in the documents. Results and Recommendations This report focuses on the recommended organizational structure and related actions that should take place to successfullv implement the nevI" structure. In presenting the organizational structure, insight and recommendations developed as part of this project related to the systems and skills of the Department \vill also be covered. However, the primary purpose of this project was to focus on the organizational structure and related actions. Appendix C presents the recommended high-level organizational structure for the City's Recreation and Parks Department. In the establisll.L~ent and implementation of the recommended organizational structure for the Recreation and Parks Department. management and staff should continue to implement the following principles: 0 MeaninQ:ful Participation - in order for any organizational structure to be successful the people being organized must be a part of the process. The staff was consulted and participated ll1 the development of the recommended organizational structure. However, that is not enough. If the Department is to be successful in achieying it~ V1SlOn staff must continue to play an acti\'e and meaningful role In lilt: implementation of the structure. :J Flexibilitv - once the basic framework of the structure is established it should remain static for a period of time for it to succeed. However, the managers and staff should be flexible in its implementation. If the staff is to play a meaningful role in 11S City of Boynton Beach Recreation and PQ,'ks Departmcl1i Strategic A1aster Plan ..+2 implementation as recommended above, minor changes and adjustments to the structure should periodically take place. D Communication - the most important part of any organization is its people and the City's Recreation and Parks Department is no different. Managers and staff have a responsibility to honestly and respectfully communicate up and down the organizational structure as well as across organizational lines. If the Department is to be successful in achieving its vision and strategy its managers must continuously create an environment for the honest exchange of current events, concerns, and ideas for improvements with their staff. Implementation Actions For any organizational structure to be successful it must be understood and supported by the staff. It should also be considered a "living" structure in the sense that it will need to be revised and updated from time to time. The City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department has established some positive l,! and progressive management measures that should be continued. In addition, several other initiatives were identified as part of this organizational structure proj ect that could help make the Department even more successful and supportive of staff. The Implementation Actions listed below include both existing organizational activities currently being implemented within the Department that should continue and new initiatives identified as part of this study that should be considered by management. Implementation Actions Implement an organizational structure with two professional level Superintendent positions: 1 0 Superintendent Parks (existing position), and X 0 Superintendent Recreation Programs (new position). Note: It is anticipated that this changes can be made without I adding any additional Full Time Equivalent (FTE) positions in City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic !l1aster Plan 43 ~-------- the Depanment .._.~~_.__.,._-_.__...,------~-~_._-------._-,.- ! .tvlanagement should pres em the. ()rganizati or;a] S'mctur~' represented in Appendix C to staff and ask for input on ho\y 1h2 ! lower levels of the organization should be structured. TJ1e intem X is to 2et their buy-in on how they wanl 10 be OTflan:zed usim: the '-' '" 0-' _ "- high-level structure gl ven m Appendix C as the basic I framework, I ..., I Investigate reclassifying the Recreation Supervisor position X ,) I (Grade 13) to better reflect the current and expected levels of i responsibilities. 5 Designate a person to monitor and tfack the X implementation actions. i ! Continue to integrate the City's Cafe Values into the - i i Department's manaQ:ement philosoph\' and dav-to-day actions i I by: ~ - - . 16 X I I ::J reinforcement during employee recognition, and . I I D recognizing specific cases of real life application of the I Core Values by staff. I I Identify management and administrative competencies as key 17 ! criteria for the performance reviews of the new Superintendent X i I R . P .. i ecreatlOn rograills pos1tlOn. , The two Superintendents should meet at least weekly to ensure I I 8 X I ! close coordination and communication between the two units. --, I i Maintain the existence and use of the Department Planning I I Team: 9 :J continue rotating the membership among statT and X ::J use the Planning Team to provide honest and open , feedback to management I , 110 I Hold periodic communication meetings between the Recreation ! and Parks Director and Director of Public Works to coordinate X arks maintenance. II Strive to fill Departmental vacancies within 30-60 days to I minimize overloading existing staff. .---- i : Continually communicate to staff that the evaluation criteria on i 1 ") i their performance reviews can be changed to reflect their X ! ~ i I specific situation. I n-'l"t""~"""rT f1--.,,:), ......c:t.....-f"".,-..-,...,r:l,.....,.....A ,...cr..,P~'O'''H0 ~<:),.,o::;rrp,..C' chfllllrl fnrnc: (In ------ i 13 ! ~.;;.l;l~ha~Uth/;~;l~"~;;;'-C;l; i~;~~y;"~~d~~~~e~"d~~"~ .~_~u ,.. _~_____ I 14 I Complete the Department's Administrative Policy \lanual " '" I .~ ~~-'-- ., -- --~-------_..._- -_.~,-, --'-~----_.- City of Boymon Beach Recreation and P :irks l>-;epurnn,:nr Strategic A1aslcr Pian 44 (APM). I i f' Clarify Department policy and union rules for time spent during \ X 15 facility rentals and related events. I The following programs currently being implemented by the Department should be continued: 16 0 Walk-A-Mile-In-My-Shoes Initiative, X 0 Get-To-Know-You Questionnaire, and 0 Employee Recognition Program. Improve effectiveness of manager meetings, staff meetings and Planning Team meetings by: 0 rotating the facilitation of the meetings among staff/managers, 17 0 sur;eying st~ff on what they want to hear during the I X varIOUS meetmgs, 0 putting more administrative items in e-mails to staff instead of covering them during meetings, and -~ 0 minimizing lecture time and promoting more time spent on active artici ation. A training needs assessment should be conducted for managers, 18 supervisors and staff to develop a training and development X I program to be implemented at all levels. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 45 City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Planning Initiative Organizational Structure Data Collection Summary This report summarizes data collected by StaffCOlmections, LLC as part of :he City ,~'I Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Planning Initiative. The infonnation collected as part of this effort is related to the Department's organizational improvement efforts. Sources of Information Interviews were conducted using a set of standard questions with the following people: . Kurt Bressner, City Manager and Wilfred Hawkins. Assistant City Manager October 21,2004 . John Jordan, Interim Human Resources Director - October 21. 2004 . Recreation and Parks Department managers: \\'ally Majors, Sharon \'icki. John Bebensee. Jody Rivers, Virginia Shea, Sherri Claude, Mary Degraffenreidt and Tom Balfe - November 10, 2004 . Bess deFarber, professional facilitator for several Departmental meetings in 2004 November 16, 2004 . Recreation and Parks Department Planning Team - November 17, 2004 Written comments were also received from Debbie Majors, Sherri Claude, Virginia Shea and Mary Degraffenreidt. The City's Technical Advisory Committee established as part of this strategic planning initiative was consulted and informally questioned on August 24,2004. The following documents from the City of Boynton Beach were reviewed: . History and Tour of Parks, John Wildner, Deputy Director of Recreation and Parks. Documented August 26, 2004 by Virginia H. Shea . Final Report, City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Staff Planning Sessions. February 11 and 13, 2004, 11 :30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. Venue: 'United V/ay of Palm Beach County, ASK Associates, Inc. dated February 1 CJ. 2004 . City of Boynton Beach, Recreation and Parks Department organizational structures for FY 2003-04 and FY 2004-05 . City of Boynton Beach, Personnel Policy Manual. reyised date: 08iO 1/03 . City of Boynton Beach, Recreation and Parks Department, Boynton Beach. Florida. :\1arkeling and Communications Plan 2003-2005 City of Boynton Beach Recreation and PQl'ks Department Strategic A1aster l'IQn 1 . -to Data Summary The summary of the data and information collected for the City of Boynton .l:)each KecreatlOn and Parks Department is divided into five categories: . Department Strategy - the stated direction for the Department in the delivery of parks and recreation services and existing or anticipated impacts to that strategy; . Organizational Structure - the existing organizational structure and information that relates to the structure; . Systems - systems that pertain only to the organization of the Department; . Skills - the existing and anticipated skill sets to help the staff be successful; and . Culture - a collection of information related to the shared attitudes, values and beliefs of the Department staff. Department Strategy The overall strategy for the City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department can be summarized by the Department's slogan, "We Make Life Fun". The Mission Statement for the Department is: We exist to engage Boynton Beach citizens in diverse recreational experiences and to cultivate parks and open spaces. The Department staff is focused on providing meaningful, desired and cost-effective recreational services and parks to City residents and visitors. This came out consistently in interviews with City and Department managers. Representative comments were: . The Department has a motivated and engaged staff; . Wally has provided excellent leadership of the Department staff; . The Department provides broad-based support to all age groups in the City; ~1 . The expansion of the Heart of Boynton Beach and Capital Improvement Plans show a positive effort toward the growth of our department; and . The Accreditation Team is addressing many of the Administrative Policy Manual (APM) policies that are in place and will be able to suggest needed changes to become a more efficient department. The accreditation process that the Department is undergoing is almost universally seen to be a positive action and should be continued and supported. The accreditation process for the Department is thought by staff and managers to be helping set direction and strategy for the Department. It is also thought that the accreditation will maintain and expand the professional delivery of services to residents. Ideas were also recognized for ways of clarifying and improving the Department's strategy: . Eventually address some of the "bouquet" programs offered by the City; . Actively participate in the strategic planning and Accreditation processes to update and clarify the strategic direction for the Department; . The Marketing Plan offers an excellent tool to facilitate the outreach and rollout of existing and new programs; . Special events need to be addressed related to the use of City equipment and staff; . Eventually deal with the use of City parks by the Little Leagu. Organizational Structure City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 47 The primary ISsue identiIJed witl-: ,1)': L\rgan:,:C:llll, ~~.lru....lU~"'~ \ ~~ ~ -~ n :,-' r~' L r..: :l'~ ,. '- c: to integrate the parks staff \vith the recreation slaT" Staff rc,'~'C\L:::1il~d ~ 2.::1-\ :::-int2~t' and challenges with this integration: . Gening the parks and recreation staff back togetller \\2.S seen as 3 vet-Y Closit;v_ actIOn: . The Plarming Team established in 2004 has been a very positive additlOD and sboulC: be maintained with rotating membership among staff: . Use the Planning Team to provide management with honest and open feedback: . It \vas recommended that John Bebensee be given the full responsibility cf managing the pool at \Vilson Park in line with his job title: . Investigate reclassifying the recreation supervisor (current grade 131 to better reflect the current level and expected levels of responsibility: . The creation of the n\'o Senior Recreation Manager positions, which are essentially superintendents, has divided staff and created an "us YS. them" attitude that needs to be dealt \vith; . The day-to-day functions of the superintendent jobs should be focused more on administrative and management functions instead of running daily operations and programs; . There should be balance between recreation and parks \vith a recreation superintendent; . The two superintendent positions should be established and the two people in those positions should work closely together as a team to ensure that the \vork is \\'e1: coordinated and communicated: . City Hall in the Mall organization and superyision should be looked at. Systems The Department has a full contingent of systems used to support work being done. Several of the systems were recognized as important and useful worthy of being maintained. Some new systems were identified that could improve efficiencies and improvement of existing systems were also recognized: . The Department's Walk A Mile In My Shoes employee shadowing initiative was perceived as very positive and should be maintained: . The Get To Know You questionnaire used to collect and communicate job related and non-job related facts about the staff was also seen as a very positive tool to use and communicate with staff; . The Department's Employee Recognition Program is very well received and sbould not only be continued but also used more aggressively by managers and stail: . The Department Administrative Policy 1\.lanual (APMl is currently being developed and should be completed which will be very useful to all Depart------. .~, _ "._ 1 _ _ .~ . One area for improvement is to address the \va)' employees are spent during facility rentals and related events: . The Department needs better monitoring and communication concerning emergenl\ procedures and equipment: . Ensure a smooth transition in J olm' s departure: City of Boynton Beach Recreation and l'arb Strategic !llaster Plan 48 . Use the accreditation process as a way to integrate more consistent decision-making and standard processes; . Make sure that operations are consistent with the "rulebook" and the City's Core Values; . Develop better clarity on guidelines of operations; . May need to restructure work schedules to meet changing demands; . Periodically meet with Public Works (Jeff) to coordinate right of way maintenance and parks maintenance; . Develop a process for periodic review to make sure the Department is meeting the internal needs of the City and the external needs of the residents; . While communication channels do exist between management and staff, such as the Planning Team, manager's meetings and staff meetings, these venues could be used more effectively to ensure that staff is kept aware of important activities in the Department; . One suggestion was to survey the staff on what they want to hear at staff meetings; . Another suggestion was to put the more administrative items in email instead of spending excessive amounts of time on these items during staff meetings. Skills The technical and safety skills of the Department staff were reco gnized as very good and should be maintained. Several skill areas were identified as needing improvement in the areas of supervision and communication: ,~ Recognition of the importance of having the beach staff certified through the U.S. . . Life Saving Association; . Provide training and development opportunities on running efficient meetings. . The need to continue to require that all fulltime supervisory employees attain professional certification; . The area of management and supervisory basic skills development was recognized as being important; . Upper level staff should be encouraged to attend out of state training without any travel restrictions. Culture The culture of the Department was generally recognized as a positive and supportive place to work with a solid work ethic. There were also areas identified that could be addressed to make the work environment more positive. These included: . Increasing effective communications between management and staff; . Better integrating the cultures of the recreation, parks and transportation staff; and . Better using staffs time during the numerous meetings that take place. The following comments were received related to culture of the Department: . The Department has a motivated and engaged staff; . There is good cohesiveness of the Department staff; City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 49 . Ensure that the Department integrates Ule Cit\" 2 CI.'re Y ::-LU:~5 '11 tb::~a~. ..t,. operations or staff: . Recognize specific case studies of real life situations how the Yalues are Dein:... applied by the Depanment staff: . Continue to hold the various Departmental meetings but have a \'ariet~ (If star'; facilitate the meetings, minimize lecture and promote more active participation. and ensure that they are held when they are scheduled: . It is not necessary for the Director to attend the staff meetings: others can facilitale those meetings. City of Boynton Beach Recreation Jnd ['ark.s Deraril71cnl Strategic 1e1aster Plan :;0 Recreation and Parks Strategic Plan Organizational Structure Interview Summary with Planning Team November 17, 2004 2:00pm-3:00pm 1. What aspects of the City's Recreation and Parks Department are working well and should be maintained? . Communication in the tennis area . The meeting in February of this year was good . Employee of the Month - Star Players . Humorous recognition of staff . Getting a new Parks Superintendent and some new procedures may need to be implemented . The scope/mission of the Department in providing services to the citizens of the City; the number and variety of programs offered 2. What specific actions can be taken to ensure that these behaviors/practices are continued? . See notes above 3. Are there any issues in the Recreation and Parks Department that you want addressed or improved, possibly related to and, if so, how can they be improved? 0 Span of control 0 Employee development/training 0 Supervision 0 Communication 0 Organizational structure . The organizational structure . No room for promotion . Part time workers do not receive the same pay increases as full time employees; there are approximately 40 part timers and 60 full timers . City is pushing Core Values on all employees . Part time employees don't receive the same benefits as full time employees . Always a battle at the larger scale City-wide; employees vs. the City; sometimes related to the Union . Some of the things affecting the Department are external and not under the control of the Department . Recreation Specialist positions do not get overtime . Department gets the least amount of overtime compared \vi th other departments . Department philosophy is to minimize overtime to save money . There is a need to plan for staffing needs when planning new facilities . Attrition has resulted in vacancies that never get filled 4. Does the Recreation and Parks Department have systems, processes or equipment that needs improvement to help them do their jobs better? City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 51 . ;-'1C: perforl11::mcc J.a:1LI:-} ':\ SL~:r; 11,C(:J.~ .:.;()nl~ 't . E\eryone get the same raises - 11" rc~:' :c.,r Irrn-inc~ . Lnion and City disagreed and cU:lmr(,miseJ Li,' gJ\':'; same increases . The top t\\'O levels are unanainabk . Honest reviews are revised to meet predetermineJ scales . Set amount of money for the Department for increases- the validic: of tl-:.i ~ statement should be imestigated . HR is changing the Dfocess and there is some concern that it might not be :iL improvement . The Department standards are too complex and detailed -- bard for everyone t'J understand; simplify the system . Some wanted to get rid of the entire system . Some wanted a standard cost of living increase with no relationship to tbe naluations . Some felt it was not the criteria but the v,ay they were being applied \vas the problem . The evaluations should focus on how the employees are to improve and how to improve communication between the supervisor and employee . Some people felt that the money part should be a part of the evaluation process - pay for performance - get more of a raise for doing a bener job removed from the evaluation process . T raining should be provided to the supervisors to help them know how to giyc feedback to employees . It was recognized that the employees can change the evaluation criteria used in the Depanment evaluations 5. Is there anything else you would like to tell me about the organization of the Recreation and Parks Department that can help them become even more successful? . The chain of command and organization works well ovcrllll . They felt as though they had a great Department . The also felt that they provide great service to the City City of Boynton Bcach Recreation and Par;:,S DeTar/men! Strategic A1astcr Pion .:;, APPENDIX F City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Open Space Element Goals, Objectives and Policies Goal 5 To create and maintain an interconnected system of aesthetically pleasing, functional, and well-maintained parks, pedestrian/ bikeways, greenways, blueways and natural areas that will adequately serve the needs of the current and future residents of the City of Boynton Beach, including seasonal visitors, and special groups such as the elderly and handicapped. The City shall also continue to provide a variety of high quality parks and recreation related programs for all residents. Objective 5.1 ESTABLISHING THE PARKS AND RECREATION SYSTEM The City shall provide a system of park sites with a variety of both user- oriented and resource based facilities and recreational programs to serve the needs of current and future City residents consistent with the Strategic Plan, dated September 2005 as defined in the Technical Support Documentation. Elements of the system shall include: . Urban Open / Civic Spaces . Neighborhood Parks . Community Parks . Special use Facilities . Water / Beach Access . Greenways / Bikeways / Trails . Conservation Lands . Regional Parks . Schools / School Parks . Private Recreational Facilities . Art in Parks and other Public Spaces Policy S.l.l Park Adequacy The City shall continue to assess park adequacy, future facility needs, and user preferences and willingness to pay through, at a minimum, the following methods: A. Input from the City's Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, special interest groups, and public meetings, solicited biannually; and B. Park surveys conducted on a five-year basis. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 53 hllic\ ~ CilY Progriilllc Tho Cit\. ~hall 0c,n.;nue j" ~\r'l\l;" ,. '~q'i;~" """,'J'l,,,-,r,,c"e,'.'," "- "-' .,;) \...lL... ,~\._:~_,L '-..lL......\......_I."...:(_~~_L-o...."-.._r..../..ll'-~,L'-ll,.-'~..,L, programs for its residents, lDcluding the City') baSetXl,:, ~C1l1bJl. ~n~:::;\\CCt:i programs, and other programs for tennis. racquetball. ;,mo '.\the:' 3cti\lli es d~ needed. Policy 5.1.3 Art in Public Spaces The City shall endeavor to incorporate art in all parks and public spaces throughout the City in order to implement the /\rt in Public Spaces program Objective 5.2 ACCESSIBILITY The City shall ensure adequate and safe public access to all existing and future City parks, recreational facilities, and local watef\vays. This effort shall include vehicular, pedestrian, trail, bicycle, and handicapped access and shall continue to improve and increase access to parks and recreational facilities, where available space exists, by providing adequate automobile parking, bike rack facilities, and handicap access to all existing and planned. neighborhood and district parks operated by the City. Policy 5.2.1 Automobile Parking and Bike Rack Facilities for Parks The City shall continue to provide bike rack facilities within all parks developed after the adoption of this Plan. Policy 5.2.2 Automobile Parking and Bike Rack Facilities for Existing Parks The City shall continue to provide bike rack facilities \vithin all existing neighborhood and district parks. Facilities shall be monitored as part of the on-going maintenance effort and deficiencies corrected within 18 months of the plan adoption. Private sponsorship of bike racks will be explored if Cit:- funding is inadequate. Policy 5.2.3 Barrier-Free Access in Neighborhood aIld District Parks The City shall continue to examine the extent of barrier-free access within neighborhood and district parks, and deficiencies will be addressed in a Strategic Plan that sets the phasing and funding. Policy 5.2.4 Retrofit of Barrier-Free Design The City shall adopt the land development regulations to require that all future parks, and applicable facilities, include barrier-free design for the handicapped to be retrofitted, if funds are available, at a rate of three parks per year. Policy 5.2.5 Shuttle Service The City shall continue to provide, contingent upon assistanceor support from County and/or the Community Redevelopment Agency. a shuttle service for patrons of beach front parks. Policy 5.2.7 Park Access The City shall ensure that future park sites and facility improvements provide for accessibility of park sites and recreational facilities to City of BO}'nlOn Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 54 handicapped users and shall ensure the adequate provision of vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian access ways. Policy 5.2.8 Parks System lnterconnectivity Through the development of the City Greenway and Bikeway Master Plan, approved in August 2004, the City shall promote safe, interconnected pedestrian linkages for its parks and recreation network through provision of greenways, trails, sidewalks, bike paths and bike lanes, where appropriate, to connect each of the City's individual parks and facilities with schools, where feasible, to provide residents with access to the City's parks and schools systems. Policy 5.2.9 Recreation Newsletter/Brochure The City shall continue to produce and distribute informational newsletters and periodic brochures that describe the City's park and recreation facilities and pro grams. Policy 5.2.10 Lighting The City shall increase access to parks and recreation facilities by providing lighting, or plan for the provision of lighting through project phasing, for all future active-recreation facilities. The lighting design shall minimize impact on adjacent residents and shall be compatible with adjacent property owners. Objective 5.3 LEVEL OF SERVICE STANDARDS The City shall establish and enforce standards and programs to ensure the , acquisition and development of park sites and recreational facilities . ! sufficient to meet current and future demands. The City shall also ensure additional public access to recreation sites by providing parks and recreation facilities using, in part, current population data and projections, and implementing the improvements outlined in Exhibit 2, Proposed Improvements to the Parks and Recreation System, included in the Technical Support Documentation Policy 5.3.1 Levels of Service: Park Acreage The City shall adopt and maintain a level of service of 2.5 acres of developed parkland per 1,000 residents. Policy 5.3.2 Advisory Levels of Service: Recreation facilities The following are advisory level of service standards for the recreation facilities: . Baseball/Soft, Youth- 1 per 15,000 persons, . Baseball, Reg. - 1 per 25,000 persons, . Basketball Courts - 1 per 4,000 persons, . Community Center (1) - 1 per 25,000 persons, . Fitness Trail (2) - 1 per 30,000 persons, . FootballiSoccer Fields - I per 40,000 persons, . Multipurpose Field - 1 per 10,000 persons, . Racqetball Court - 1 per 10,000 persons, . Picnic Areas - 1 per 3,000 persons, City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 55 . i~laygrCJuncis per ) Der~l.)r5. . Shuffleboard ,>'u: - l-:" ::-:" :: :1 er~,(~ n . Pool 1:3 ! - ; per 40,000 persons. . Tennis Court- 1 per 2.000 persons. . Bocce Court - 1 per 25,000 persons, . Volleyball Court -- 1 per 15,000 persons, and . Skate Park - 1 per 65.000 persons. Policy 5.3.3 Advisory Service Standards The City shall establish" Service Standards" to provide a framework of ideal standards and classification for its Parks and Recreation System. These standards are not part of the City's adopted level of service and are utilized only as a guide for land acquisition and facility provision. They are established as part of the City's goal for setting service standards for an "Ideal City Parks System" to meet residents' parks and recreation needs. Elements of the system include: A. Developed Active Parks and Open Space (Measured by LOS): GOAL: Neighborhood! School Parks - ~ - 1 mile from every resident GOAL: Community Parks - 25 - 40 acres, 25 % preserved for open space, 3 miles from every resident GOAL: Community Centers - minimum of 10,000 square feet; 3 miles from every resident GOAL: Special Use Facilities (dog parks, sports , complexes, etc), 3 miles from every resident } B. Undeveloped Parks, Passive Parks and Open Space In addition, the City shall set the following nomenclature for undeveloped/passive parks and open space: Urban Open/Civic Spaces; Water/Beach Access; Greenways/Bikeways/Trails; Regional Parks; Historical Sites; and Conservation Lands as identified on the Future Parks and Recreation System Map in the Strategic Plan. Policy 5.3.4 Level of Service for Annexation Areas For areas to be annexed, which are platted, developed, under development, or have approved development plans in Palm Beach County, the level of service at time of annexation shall be assumed to be that created by existing park facilities serving the area. Policy 5.3.5 Development of New Facilities The City shall pursue the development of facilities consistent with Exhibit 1. Future Parks and Recreation System Map, and Exhibit 2, Proposed Parks and Recreation System Improvements, included in the Strategic Plan,which shall be updated bien..'1ially. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan Sf> Objective 5.4 COORDINATION OF FACILITY PROVISON BY PUBLIC AND PRIVATE ENTITIES The City shall maximize the use of public and private resources in the provision of recreational facilities to meet current and future demands. Policy 5.4.1 The City shall require the provision of recreation facilities and open space by public agencies and private developers Policy 5.4.2 City shall ensure that future private, as well as dedicated areas, are developed to meet identified needs ofresidents and address geographic deficiencies. Policy 5.4.3 School Facility Joint-Use The City shall continue, through its interlocal agreement, to evaluate the opportunities for the joint use of existing public' school and City recreational facilities and, as new public schools are planned, shall coordinate with the Palm Beach County School Board on the location and design of future joint use recreational sites. Policy 5.4.4 Private Facility Use The City shall continue to permit agreements and cooperate with private recreational organizations for use of City parks and facilities in order to provide a variety of recreational programs. Policy 5.4.5 PrivatelNon-Profit Facility Use The City shall continue to make parks and recreation facilities available to private and non-profit groups for cultural programs, special events and festivals, which serve the public interest. Objective 5.6 TRAIL PROVISION The City shall implement the approved Greenway and Bikeway Master Plan (August 2004) to ensure safe access to park sites and shall evaluate available opportunities for the acquisition and development ofbikeltrail networks which will link park sites (including pedestrian and bicycle trails). Policy 5.6.1 Public Access Trail Provision The City shall consider the construction of a network of pedestrian, bicycle, recreational, and equestrian public access trails that connects to the County's trail system. The intent of the network shall be to interconnect existing parks and facilities and additional recreational facilities for pedestrian activities. The City shall coordinate with the Metropolitan Planning Organization, Florida Department of Transportation, Palm Beach County and other appropriate agencies to study and implement options for coordinated provision of an interconnected trail network. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 57 Policy' 5.0.2 Recreational l'rail De\elupmem The City shall apply for grants and other funds for 1.rail de\ e1C1pment:~om the Florida Department 01 Environmental Protection. Nhe; sc'urces 2(\"\'e:11ment and private grants, and possibly vl'ter-based referenda. Policy 5.6.3 Road/Bike Lane Provision The City shall continue to evaluate and amend, if necessary, the Land Development regulations and public road design standards for bike Daths and/or lanes in conjunction with roadway design and improvements. Policy 5.6.4 Florida Trail/Rails to Trails The City shall coordinate with the Florida Trail Association, the Rails to Trails Conservancy, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Office of Greenways and Trails and other organizations involved in the acquisition and development of trail systems within Palm Beach County. Objective 5.7 FUNDING OF THE ACQUISITION AND DEVELOPMENT OF PARKS AND OPEN SPACE The City shall continue to fund the acquisition and development of parks, open space and recreational facilities through the use of a variety of funding sources such as the general fund, developer commitments, grants, bonds, user fees, and impact fees. Policy 5.7.1 Recreational Impact Fees The City shall review the City's Recreation Impact Fee regulations biannually in order to assure that new development contributes its proportional share of the cost to expand recreation facilities. Policy 5.7.2 Endangered and Recreation Lands Fund The City shall continue to submit to the County Conservation Land Acquisition Selection Committee (CLASC) areas to be acquired through the County's conservation land acquisition program. Policy 5.7.3 Recreation Grants The City shall continue to pursue State and Federal Grants for the acquisition and development of recreational and open space lands and facilities. Policy 5.7.4 Donation/Matching Funding The City shall continue to pursue donations of land and matching funds to secure grants for the acquisition and development of park sites and facilities. Policy 5.7.5 User Fees The City shall continue to apply the concept of user fees to offset the cost of certain facilities where appropriate. D~l;~.. ::: '7 t:: D ~~ r1 D ~+~~o~ ,..1,,~ 1 U 11 \,.. Y _'. I . U .LJVIIU l'\.......dl"....,lvllUUlll The City shall evaluate a bond issue to generate additional parkland, trails, and open space funds to meet needs, if approved by a public referendum. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 58 Policy 5.7.7 Notwithstanding rules and regulations governing the use of lands acquired through dedication or other means, city-owned parkland or property dedicated for recreational/park use should only be sold or converted for alternative use if supported by current needs and demand analysis, is not listed for future development in the Strategic Plan or Capital Improvements Program, and if deemed necessary to further other goals or objectives as supported by current action ofthe City Commission. Objective 5.8 OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION The City shall develop a system of open spaces through the preservation and/or acquisition of significant lands, native habitat, and habitat of endangered, threatened and species of special concern. Policy 5.8.1 Natural/Environmental Land Preservation Natural areas shall be preservedto the extent possible in accordance with preservation policies in the Conservation Element and Support Document. Policy 5.8.2 Natural/Environmental Land Acquisition Programs The City shall coordinate with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and all other appropriate agencies to establish and revise regulations and programs for the acquisition of natural/environmental lands. Policy 5.8.3 Passive Recreation Space The City shall incorporate natural open space, especially wetlands and areas unsuitable for development into neighborhood and community parks, as passive recreation space. Policy 5.8.4 Open Space in New, Non-Residential Projects The City shall encourage the incorporation of open space into all new non- residential projects, in addition to any environmentally sensitive areas preserved. Policy 5.8.5 Agency Coordination The City shall work in conjunction with the State of Florida, the South Florida Water Management District, the Nature Conservancy, the Trust for Public Lands, and other appropriate agencies involved in conservation lands to create a citywide open space system and a greenways/trails/blueways system. City of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department Strategic Master Plan 59 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH CAPITAL IMPR( \'lENT PROGRAM APPENDIX G 2008/2009 BUDGET REVENUE SUMMARY 2007/2008 2007/2008 2009/2010 2010/2011 201l/2012 2012/2013 REVENUES Bud et Estimated Plan Plan Plan Plan Funding General City Projects Transfer from Public S~~ice Tax D~t~nd**___ ~ 1,803,_~!4 $ 1,803,114 $ ___-=-$__~2~,~0~ _$_~J8,742 $ 807,771 J__900,090 Transfer from General Fund** ------- ----- ~ ....-- --~ Transfer from Pal'l<:~~~e_c Faciliti_e~ (Fulld 141) 1,220,000 1,220,000 540,000 2,000,000__ ____~___.. Interest Income - 425,.000 425,000 425,0.00 250,000 __250,.0.00 __ ~?O,OOO __ 2.50,000 Qrants*__~ 10,384,152 }_J85,~~L 1,494,.000 ~~ _ -- - 5,700,000 Local Opti~,!_Gasl:.ax ___~_ 800,0.00 800,000 65.0,.000 650,000650,00_0_ __~_O,OOO _ __--.-!i50,O.oO ~oynton Beach Memorial Park Fund __ ___~ _ 22.0,000 _____ Bond Pro~eeds - 2008 PS TAX ISSUE _ ~5.oO,00Q____~!9_9~QOQ... Oceans 95 Cost Share - 115,000 Total Funding for General City Projects $ 14,632,266 $ 7,548,447 $ 9,829,.000 $ 21,325,6.05 $ 3,498,742 $ 1,7.07,771 $ 7,50.0,000 GRANTS !!oat Club Park Renovation (PBC) u______~}8O"'OOO _____ 380,00.0_ ____ ___ Boynton 1~let_~tu~y (~FW_t\.1g1_ _n 130,000 130,000 ______ ___ _ ______ City Hall Willd Retrofit-HMGP GraJ1~_______ _.______ 137,336 ___ Congress Ave. Community Park[)~~elop_ment(~B[)) __ ___J,7_90,-00.o _____________ _______ 5,700,.000 Greenwll~.!!Lke\\'l.lYJ1'-211..-- Palmetto 440,00.0 440,0.09 ___ _ ______ _ __ GreenwaylBikeway (T-21) - Barton 112,900 112,900 ~ _~_ _~__ Jaycee Park [)~~.l:lop!llen~_~FIZDA~L__________ __---.100,000 200,000 _____ Jaycee Park Boardwalk (L WCF) ___~ 200,000 200,000 _ _ _ _______ Galaxy P.'l".k (FD~CS)____m ________ ___~~3,60.o_____ _ _~__~__ Library Planning grant _(Stat~_______ _ ___ _ __ _-.-100,000 _~ 200,00.0 RollingGreen~afety - Fed Allocation _______ _}94,00.o ____ __ ___ FEMA - Hardening of Station #5@OC _ __u_____ _ _~___'__'_Z21,252 300,099_______-',_900,00.0 _ __ ______~ Sc::.~iorc::ent~r ImprovelIlentsjyggt\2 71 ,497~__m_ _____ ~I.s.o'!. Cen~ (CountyL-_~onstructi~n____ _ _ _____ __--'-~OO,OOO 1,000,000 _~____ Wilson Project (FRDAP) 200,000 200,000 TOTAL GRANTS $ 10,384,152 $ 3,185,333 $ 1,494,000 $ - $ - $ - $ 5,700,000 S:\CIP Programs\CIP FY0809\ \ CIP 2008-2009 Adopted \ Summary Revenues Page 2 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT EXPENDITURES 2008/2009 BUDGET PARKS AND RECREATION 2007/2008 2007/2008 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 PROJECT NAME Budget Estimated AdoDted Bud!!et Plan Plan Plan Plan Art Or Design fees - 2nd floor addition --- - Art Or - 2nd floor addition --- i\rt Ctr - Replace Roof ':;0.000 - Art Or - Storage shed A.rt etr - Replacement awning ----- --- - - f- 7,000 Bicentennial Park - Park Renovation 180,000 180.000 - Boat Club Park - Seal Parking Lot 25,000 25,000 ~ Boat Club Park - Renovations 417.500 417,500 - .- ---- Boat Club Park - Bait Shop Repairs 50.0no -- I--~-- -- Boat Club Park - Dredge Canal 65,000 65.000 -- '\ 5.00n --.-. -- ~oat_~lll~X1ll'~....!'la)'~~und Replacement 45,000 -.-- ~~netel)'~~e.~~~~usol~u~_ _ 20.000 Congress Ave. - Boundless Park Development 8.70n.OOO 2.900.000 ':;.iWO.I)OO Forest Hill-Single Rail Fence 20.000 --- .. .--- - - - - Forest Hill-Resurface Basketball Court 1 (l.OOO 10.000 - FPL Park Development - __u___ Future / Mise small scale parks projects 50.000 29.330 65,000 (,5.000 65.000 70,000 71).000 - ---- ---- Ilester Awning 0 3.700 --- _. Pence Restr()_om_l~yilcling 0 6.375 Mangrove Park Renovations 0 3.595 m Civic Center Fence 0 7.000 Galaxy P~rk - Renovate Ballfield (delete FY09) 50.000 0 - Girl Scout Park - New Park - ----.- -----. - Green/Bikeway - Purchase of Land 300.000 300,00Q 100,000 I 00.000 Green/Bikeway - Barton 116,070 116,070 -- Green/_~i~eway - Palmetto Greens (Phase I) 440.000 440.000 GreenlBikeway - l'altl1_e.l!.O Greens (Phase II) 400,000 flesterCtr- IIVACSmalllJnits 18,000 29.365 18,000 7.7501 - -".--- Hester Or - Gym Floor Refinl~hiI~~ 7.000 0 26.000 7.500 7.750 '-50 ~ ___0_- Hester Or - Painting of Metal Ronfs 20.000 9.830 - ----- I Hesler ell' - Playground Fence 5,000 Hester Ctr - Replace Dugouts 20,000 Hester Ctr - Repave Concession Are;i 20.000 20.000 lie~~:~~- land~~\ping: 1~~"\f'~(l\.~Jl~enl~ 50.000 I I I if-' P'I.':o::lra'" ~ 'JCJrJtP(] :j! ~ CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH CAPlT AL IMPROVI NT EXPENDITURES 2008/2009 BUDGET PARKS AND RECREA nON 2007/2008 2007/2008 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 PROJECT NAME Budl!:et Estimated Adopted Budl!:et Plan Plan Plan Plan I1ibisc~s-Playground Imp~o\l~ments -------- ----- ___u_ ----- 30,000 30,000 ---- _ _ --- -- -- - --------..-- Intracoastal Park - Clubhouse Construction 300,000 4,972 ~- ._-"~ - ---~-~-------~- I--- un, - - ~- - --- --- _Architect / Engineer 0 _____8,600 -~--- ~---- -------- ----- Erosion Stabilization 0 55,770 ---------- --------..-- -- --~,....- -- --- ------- ~ ------- -~-_..- ~- Furnishings 60,000 60,000 1-------- - -~-- ------.---------- . -~ - --.---...---- --..- - ---,-- -- -----...------ Intracoa~~~rk - Clubhouse Painting ~. --------- 45,000 - Intracoastal Park-Playground Equipment 10,000 10,000 1----- _____c_ -~- ~_._-_._--- - - ---....- - - - !l1tracoastal Park-Pavillion P~il1ting -- I - ---- n 20,000 ______ ___ ___n_ 0_ _ u___~___ -- -- ----- - ---- Ja~ee P~rk -lmpro\le-'!len~ -'-- ~----- -- 1,560,000 _ _ 1,569,000 -- - - -- -------- Kids Kingdom Park - Painting and Sealing 20,000 25,000 ---------- ----- - ..-- ___,_...___ _n ____nO - -- Kids Kingdom Park - Playground Eq~pmen~__________ 10,000 --- 10,000 -- -_._-~---_._- ----- -.------ -- Laurel Hills-Sing,!e_~~il Fence --- --------- 30,000 .---... - ~--,-~ .c_ ---- Lallre!...Hills-Parking Area -- 20,000 --------- ----- ------ Laurell:J.~lls-~~2.ave Basketball Court -- - u__._ ------ ~--~. Laurel Hills-Replace Basketball Standards --- 1--___ __~u -- - - -- -- ----~~-- ------ ------------ -- - ----- - LL Park - Storage BuildiIl~ --------- - - - -- ----- - --- - - ------- - ~ ~--- -.------- - LL Park - Sod Renovation 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 -------------------- ------ -- ----- ---- LL Park - Video Surveillance __. _0- ____~__________ _____ ------- - - .----------- -- -- -- Madsen Ctr - Resurface Shuffleboard Courts 15,000 ___.~___oo___~ _ _ - -- ------- ---- ---.----- -. ---- ----~--- -- Meadows P~rk - Irrigation and ~a_ndscaP.ing ....-...------- .- ---------- ~ 14,000 m ______ - --- ----~- --- Meadows I / Nautica Sound Park - New Park 60,000 0 0 600,000 _~_.o_ _~....______ _~.. ____0 - -- --.-.---. Mangrove Walk at the Marina Benches and Can.s__ ------- ------ 30,000 - .- --------_..--~ Nichols Property-Construct Park _u _____ n -------- -- -- Oceanfront - Boardwalk 2,100,000 2,350,000 - ~- ------- -- ~------ --- Oce_anfront - Seal Parkil1~_!:-o! __~ _ ---- - --- --- 25,OQQ --- -- ___n --- --- Qceanfr~l1t - Automated Parking System 300,000 300,000 --_.._--~- " --- - - ------- - 0- ___________ Qceanfl'ont-Enlarge J\::1<lintenanc~~ld~:____ - n. ------- -- -- -- 30,000 ~------ Ocean.!tont-Sin~e R~~lJ:.~nce ------- ----- ------- -~_.- 10,000 ----- -- ---" ------- Qc.~n!!'~!lt-Insta!! Stairs Btw Parking Areas ------- 40,000 _ 40,000 ------- --- -- - - Oceanfront-Handicap Walkway n_ ------ 40,000 40,000 - - -- -- ---- 9ccanfr~mt-PlaYg;:~un~ Eqllipl11en~ "--- --------- ~___o --- - ---- 40,000 - -- ... -.- - Oceanfront Park Building Replacement --------- 500,000 2,000,000 ~- O"___~___~______ Parks-Furnishings (Cans, benches, picnic tables, etc) 50,000 50,000 - 50,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 _._----~ ------ ----- c-- Parks-Landscaping (Remove & Replace) 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 S:ICIP ProgramslCIP FY08091 I CIP 2008-2009 Adopted I Parks and Ree Page 7 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT EXPENDITURES 2008/2009 BUDGET PARKS AND RECREATION 200712008 2007/2008 2008/2009 2009/2010 2010/2011 2011/2012 2012/2013 PROJECT NAME Budl!:et Estimated Adopted Budl!:et Plan Plan Plan Plan Parks-Signage 90,000 90.000 30.000 30,000 -- -- Palmetto Green-Resurface Path 20.000 - Palmetto Green-Playground Equipment 30,000 P~~ce Parl<-~_~~':9und EqtIipl11ent 40.000 40JJOO -- ~ence Park-Replace Ballfield Lights 50,000 200.000 - !'ence Park - Field Reconfiguration 50,000 200.000 - - I>i()~eeT Canal P<ll'k - Replace Boat Ramp - -- l'ioneer Ca!laJ~llr1<. - Pave Par~ing Area 30,000 Pioneer Canal Park - Renovate Restrooms 75.000 (1.616 --- I2o~eer:....~~l1al Park - Playground Replacement 30,000 30.000 ~ioneer Ca~a.IPark - Multipurpose Field 40.000 Quantum Park - New Park Sara Sims Park - R(:novate Entire Park - ~ra Sims Park -- Purchase Property Cemetery 200.000 Sara Sims Park - Seal Coat Parkil1~ Lot 24.1100 Senior Ctr - Misc. Projec~s..(!I~AC, Security, etc) () 71.497 ~~nior Ctr - Roof Replacement 0 13S.400 Tennis Or - Pro_~I~op A/C 5,000 4.745 -- - Tennis Ctr - Court Resurfacing 7.900 7.900 8,900 4.000 24.000 '1.000 li.l)()O Tennis Ctr Lights 10,000 Tennis Ctr Fence 6.500 ---- Wi~s()ll__~e~ter Replacement - Eng. Fees Wilson Center Replacement - Const. 1'<)59,000 1,489.000 ~ilson Center - Furnishings 200,000 200.000 -- Wilson Park -- Tot Lot (Playground) 36.500 36_500 Wilson Park - Basketball Courts 17,920 17.920 - Wilson Park - EquJpment (Uazebo. pathways. tl)untains) 15.600 15.600 - Wilson Park - Site Work (Demo. Electrical. Lmdscape) lOO.OOO 300.000 ~ilson Pool - Replacement J 14.000 J 14.000 Winchester Park -- Woolbright/Leisureville Park 7th ^ venue Open Space -- -----_.---- - ------- --- ---- --.------ n_ _ _________ .-------...- --- .~._,,---- ..-- -.- - --,-- - - . - -- --- TOTAL PARKS AND RECREATION S i 7 I X4,4<)O '5 II.X64.2X5 '5 1.346.400 $ 2%.500 'i, X4:,.7:'O '5 _-'.1 i 1.7~() '5 7 1711.7~11 ._----~_..- '---- -- '''' . ---=~=--=~- - ---~=--~=,--=,.-. '.=="_='OC--- --.=~=_ _ ___.=-==. =_..=_~: ____.=__..-- ...---..---- -,--~-~._. . .. - ..-..---'->- Pi ~'':'" ams I'. ':\:ji.\f}ter.l .. . . . (rn .~' " ~ ,1-.," ,'( . ~ - -, ! ~_" . \_c" :',,,,\ '. ;. [ ..::- . . SEPTEMBER 2008 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH / PARKS AND RECREA TION SYSTEM I NEEDS ASSESSMENT , ' J .. ~~" *J , . ,'. _. ~ ." . . ,,,',;..:~. Uri:" ""'. ;' . If'" , ~. ,'j:: ' "._ ...... I '..,..,. . t. / - -- -- tit J / - \ . I IV. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS I. CITYWIDE Taken together, the findings from 2004 Strategic Plan. the Telephone Survey, and the Level of Service (LOS) Analysis illustrate a number of recreation and parks needs in Boynton Beach today. The primat-y recreation and parks needs are: . A high quality, large civic gathering space . Improved connectivity between park sites and their neighborhoods. . More parks acreage to compete with other cities in Palm Beach County . More bicycling, boat ramps, fishing, hiking, baseball/softball. football/soccer/rugby. golf, shuffleboard, swimming, tennis, and volleyball facilities, but need to develop these in strategic locations (see Quadrants section, below) . Neighborhood parks. . Upgrades to older park sites to equal quality of newer park sites . Improving the functionality of the smaller, I-acre or less sites by re-designing or acquiring adjacent land . Better distribution of programming Some of the needs noted in the 2004 Strategic Plan are still in evidence today. For example the Strategic Plan noted that there is a lack of large civic gathering spaces and no amphitheater for civic events. This is still true today: the existing civic spaces are small, underused sites. The lack of a large. central gathering place not only hampers the ability of the Recreation staff to put on large-scale events, but also reflects that lack of an overall sense of community in Boynton Beach-there is no "there" there. The Strategic Plan also noted that there is a lack of neighborhood parks and community parks west of 1-95. While the Access Analysis shows that this is still the case in comparison to the numbers of facilities east of 1-95, recent investments have been concentrated in the west such as the construction of Pioneer Canal Park, and the upcoming construction of Congress Avenue Community Park. Results from the Telephone Survey highlighted some of the differences between the younger and older age groups-such as preferred times of week for programming-but overall there was agreement on many aspects of the City's recreation and parks system. For Boynton Beach residents, the most important factors in their parks and recreation preferences are convenience and familiarity. Throughout the survey responses, four parks continually cropped up as being the most popular. convenient, and familiar: Oceanfront Park, Intracoastal Park, the Art and Civic Centers, and the Senior Center. Three of these parks also happen to be some of the most heavily used facilities in terms of departmental programming, which indicates the department is scheduling their programs at the preferred facilities and/or that the programs themselves make the facilities popular and familiar. The five types Level of Service Analysis (LOS) shed light on different issues of equal access. In terms of acreage, the City generally has enough total parkland to meet its Comprehensive Plan standards until 2020, but the standard itself is low and inadequate if Boynton Beach wishes to keep pace with Delray Beach and Boca Raton. In order to maintain a high quality of life, more parks acreage needs to be Page 56 acquired and developed within the next ten years. Acquiring parkland to the west of 1-95, however, may not be a primary need because of the large number of private recreation facilities that are intended to serve individual communities. Not including private recreation facilities, there is a deficiency of bicycling, camping, boat ramps, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, baseball/softball, football/soccer/rugby, golf, shuffledboard, swimming, tennis, and volleyball facilities. The City is, however, providing adequate amounts of multi-purpose fields, basketball courts, picnicking pavilions, and racquetball courts. In developing new facilities to meet these needs, Boynton Beach needs to be strategic, and consider the lifestyles in different neighborhoods and matching these with the most appropriate facilities. The lack of acreage and facilities is reflected in the Access LOS analysis. Using the City's standards from its Comprehensive Plan, residents east of 1-95 have better access to Neighborhood Parks than those west of 1-95-but neighborhood parks are needed almost everywhere, particularly in the "extremities " of the city. Despite only having two functional Community Park facilities, most residents in Boynton already have access to a Community Park; once Congress Avenue Community Park and the Quantum site are developed, access will almost be universal with the exception of the far southeast of the city. This small section of Boynton Beach can obtain Community Park access by improving network access to Caloosa Park. One potential equalizer of the inequitable parks acreage distribution is park quality: newer parks tend to be of higher quality than older parks, which are concentrated in the eastern quadrants of town. Parks west of 1-95 average a B+ grade, while those on the east side of interstate average only a B-. Combined, the City of Boynton Beach has a "B" system-it's above average, but there are challenges that prevent it from being excellent. The primary stumbling block in becoming an "A" system is increasing park connectivity within the neighborhoods, particularly with adjacent properties. Comfort and Image, however, are very strong and the City continues to improve the quality of its facilities and pay attention to the comfort of its users. The large number of small, one- or two-acre parks that serve no function in the system bring down the overall quality of the system. Another way in which the City is attentive to its users is via its extensive programming. Over 175 programs a year offer recreational opportunities to all age groups. The distribution of these programs throughout the City is unequal, and the vast majority of programs occur at Intracoastal Park, Ezell Hester Jr. Park, the Sims Center, the Arts and Civic Centers, and the Senior Center-all facilities located to the east of 1-95. There only programs in parks west of 1-95 are tennis-related, or held at non- City park sites such as Congress Middle School. There is very little difference in the distribution of programs by age group, with the exception of a concentration of senior programs at the Senior Center. One major need in the Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks system is to address imbalances between different areas of the city. The following section details the needs by each quadrant, and suggests key areas of focus. Page I 57 2. QUADRANTS - EQUAL OPPORTUNITY A. NORTHEAST QUADRANT I Existing Parks: Barton Memorial Park. Bicentennial I j Par-k. Boat Club Park, Ezell Hester Jr. Park/Center, I --- l, .- Galaxy Park. Intracoastal Park, Kiwanis Sierra Park. L-- ~ - Mangrove Park, Oceanfront Park, Palmetto Greens . I - Linear Park, Rosemary Scrub. Sara Sims Park. Wilson 0 I~ -- Park/Sims Center i 1990 - 2000 Growth: 5.65% Il ! ---.+ Estimated 2008 Population: 15,784 t( Projected 20 I 3 Population: 16,417' % of Households with Children: 36.6% l.... c' '.' Median Age: 36 t co Predominant Lifestyles: American Classics. "- Suburban Pioneers. Old Glories Equal Opportunity: Acreage: 95.8 acres of parkland; LOS of 5.8 1m 0 acres/ 1.000 residents Bof- Access: including planned future parks, about 40% of residents will have access to a Neighborhood Park and 100% will have access to a Community Park Pink and purple areas indicate places with neighborhood parks Quality: C + Average coverage. Orange lines represent barriers to connectivity Colored Programs: 65 (37% of total City offerings) dots indicate the presence ofprogroms. Key Areas for Improvement/Action Items: . Improved quality of under-performing parks by investing in new facilities . Increase connectivity to Oceanfront Park . Reduce barrier of Federal Highway by adding crosswalks . Develop more neighborhood parks, especially north of Gateway Boulevard . Develop football/soccer/rugby fields and baseball/softball fields and consider relocating racquetball/handball facilities. . Improve utilization and functionality of one- and two-acre park sites Page 58 SOUTHEAST QUADRANT Existing Parks: Arbor Memorial Park, Art Center, ~,r , : I .,~ ~ "'~."'~~.. ....y..... ...!'IIOU.... .~r Betty Thomas Park, Civic Center, Forest Hill Park, ,;;~f.f.,~.a; ~. C...'I """, ~ : ~ll1t ill Jaycee Park, Kids Kingdom, Little League Park, Pence .~ ~ .i L.... .' il f --' Park, Seacrest Scrub, Senior Center, Veteran's Park, ~ ~ IiI'. :::, ;," III :. :: '-~ "~', =;jl;. ,I 1990 - 2000 Growth: 12.05% \ " 21~;~, i :, \ ,:~ ':;', : :';:~ ,I, ---- ,/ Estimated 2008 Population: 14,935 ~ Y ...., i i/{::, - 7';. ' , -'_'0":.1'.:.,_. ":"" '~-:-'i,", -," L Projected 20 13 Population: 15,658 Oi,,~.. 7' , ~m ~ 'Ill ,'i,"') I~ .~- . I . "," ,_.;..,,:..' .' '. '~., ,< j !)'"'.\ . % of Households with Children: 22.9% " ~- - "".>,..-, Ib= .' " ,,1, I,e Median Age: 44 .. I ., ~;! I '~j~}~ · ;t{] Predominant Lifestyles: American Classics, t. '~'c.'..<1:.. ,. .....,J Suburban Pioneers, Suburban Sprawl ,~l' _1'j~t -- ('~ ,; i' '" :."1 I' / "" 7 ~' .1' Equal Opportunity: / 'i ' ~~i I / l\,' !./ r:1 Acreage: 47.1 acres of parkland; LOS of 3.0 I i \ II . \ J==, .I"'I I :; \"~O\'i~, " J__~FU acres! I ,000 residents I :r \';~Ii~'),: I;:::' Access: including planned future parks, roughly 25% \ :!. \,f="" L I l :' ? :;,1 ir- -- ---r;::, I \ . ..,. j_i>oJ II of residents will have access to a Neighborhood Park '/....!! ,.-" I ~i " i\ 'C" ,,) / ~ I l' I~ ~ (.. , /' ~ / and about 70% will have access to a Community Park 4'i ~,-~ ,," i ! ., _.... I I :j ---- ii Quality: B average ._1:1 / / I! 1\ Programs: 88 (50% of total City offerings) Brown circles indicate areas without community parks coverage; pink and purple areas indicate places with neighborhood parks coverage. Orange lines represent barriers to connectivity. Colored dots indicate the presence of programs. Key Areas for Improvement/Action Items: . Better linkages need to be established with Caloosa Park, or a new Community Park site needs to be acquired and developed . Reduce barrier of Federal Highway by adding more crosswalks . Improve utilization of smaller park sites such Arbor Memorial Park and Veteran's Park . Develop more neighborhood parks, particularly in the areas west of Seacrest Boulevard . Develop more tennis courts and golf courses. . Develop more water-based facilities, such as fishing piers and boat ramps, are also a need. . Improve connectivity within the civic complex of the Library, Art Center, Civic Center, and Kids Kingdom Page I 59 SOUTHWEST QUADRANT __f"l ; Existing Parks: Caloosa park (County), Congress /...............~....~.J....._;....._...i:... Avenue Tennis Center, Hibiscus Park 1_, b _ 8. ~ I fl~' ~ , u.- L-. 'f&7 1990 - 2000 Growth: 19.14% r-~--~--- . ; Estimated 2008 Population: 16,345 ' Projected 2013 Population: 17.341 !-~ . ..-,,_~~~' % of Households with Children: 13.9% ~ "'1" . " Median Age: 62 ! . Predominant Lifestyles: American Classics, Home L - '. . _.___- .' . I="c= - \"',. Sweet Home. Upper Crust I 'c~ -.0_ -T~~ ./ I, t:~.~ ,I ~. ~} . -,.:, .~--~-~,=- \./ Equal Opportunity: __..l_ ~; , '.' _I :- r -----..,. '--, "- ~...-:. '.. ~1 ~,' <.:t-:F ~ ) .. : Acreage: 36.~ acres of parkland. LOS of 2.1 1 . _ "",,-O.B :~i:~D/ acres/ I ,000 reSidents I -"" 8: ~r- :' I J" I .. Access: including planned future parks. roughly 10% 1'_7 ._.r c'... 7,~/ _ _,-- I '." ;r;,-y. I of residents will have access to a Neighborhood Park! ' r;".,i!'~;": /:} ~l.\~,;" ,.( and 100% will have access to a Community Park.! ' ';" :' 5~"'/ ., . J Q I't B I ...-:' ua I y: average -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -~ ~ Programs: 23 (13% of total City offerings) Pink and purple areas indicate places with neighborhood porks coverage. Orange lines represent barriers to connectivity. Colored dots indicate the presence of programs. Key Areas for Improvement/Action Items: . Acquire more parks acreage . Develop more neighborhood parks throughout quadrant . Develop more passive recreation facilities such as fishing piers, boat ramps, hiking. and multi- purpose open space. . Improve connectivity to/from Caloosa Park . Reduce barrier of Congress Avenue by making the entire corridor more pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly . Evaluate interest in more diverse programming Page I 60 NORTHWEST Existing Parks: Boynton Lakes Park, . ----------;-::;;. r!-1470'~'~ Knollwood Park, Laurel Hills Park, Meadows J '.~" ..,~""'" \......~...r.......,......'..:......i:...~.....'.......;...'..-...'..'.'.....;.~.'~..L.. .' ;;:] k ,~,,".'r Park Pioneer Canal Park r J n ',l.o. ~ '. /'!~~ ~"" I r ,-"-1",- ...., -J / -\1 / '/.~'" ,,"'.':~.t.'~"" 1 r!;:" I ''""CD -- .:1" I ~'i '''1>- " I I~.I , I 'l" I .~ J ,: . ;;;~{~:~;:S~ ,;',~:~ I c~....-I ::,; - 1990 - 2000 Growth: 75.64% I ""'" ,':::,,:J r !.i.~.".~.,-.i~...,..~:.')i.. L";' ..~ - I :1 II/ '"''',, ':"'"",: ~ Estimated 2008 Population: 21.540 ,...t(~..\ ----I - '-=-i/l' ;;S'; '~J~f~.d I I _,' _.+-. I "i ~:if'",;,~ Projected 2013 Population: 24,344 ~ ~" __J . '~..~'IL---'t~D'~I.~.,lid , 0" 'i" 2 ^ ,".>.lI"~"-'.' % of ,Households with Children: 28.6% 'h ,Iilf.:, i-I ~~:[ ~"_' /~""\~~"'.'" ,.~;fi;ij~~.,j,~.~~! Median Age' 39 '" :::JI ',....11.. J.....'f'f..:<I.,'....'.'...,.......,'...""..... . r- -- - D ,-- I C- Ii. 11';;E.~'J.'? ".3=~-1 I -= I l, , ". " <'~#ii.' ~"'., ,...- Predominant Lifestyles: Home Sweet Home, ..." ~ I ~:;g~;"';~\W:1:i:- ~'I1.~1I0i;!i+.::;:'f.. . / ' 0 ? .J -- - I .!. >~:f . .,..~,' </'<J;'1'if · Suburban Sprawl, Domestic Duos I I L ~...'" J."._"';;'l"; -", ,. ,- :"C,.) " I',":'{'..'- " I r--F~ l'"i!}tl ' " i.,," 'I I I I J ";;;Ii '. ~-'; O ' , I __I, , ( '''.'.,,: Equal pportumty: '-~ I )' zrjjj: i Acreage: 66.7 acres of parkland; LOS of 2.7 I ". · acres/ 1,000 residents Access: including planned future parks, about 50% of residents will have access to a Neighborhood Park and 95% will have access to a Community Park _ Quality: B+ average Brown circles indicate areas without community parks coverage; Programs: 0 (0%) pink and purple areas indicate places with neighborhood parks coverage. Orange lines represent barriers to connectivity. Colored dots indicate the presence of programs. Keys Areas for Improvement: . Establish programs in the parks . Develop more of all facility types . Create a sub-system plan for the quadrant in response to the fast growth . Decrease barriers along Congress Avenue by making roadway more pedestrian- and bicycle- friendly . Improve connectivity in far western neighborhoods to provide Community Park Access . Develop more Neighborhood Parks Page I 6 I