Idea Transcript
CHAPTER 5 PARK AND OPEN SPACE SITES AND NEEDS ANALYSIS Existing Conditions: Park Sites In order to determine the need for park and open space sites for the City of Waukesha, an inventory of parks and open space sites was conducted. As of January 2007, there were 49 park and open space sites located within the City of Waukesha. These 49 sites encompass a total of 1591.19 acres or 10.4 percent of the total area of the City. Of this total, 46 sites with 1055.19 acres are owned by the City, and the remaining 3 sites include Moor Downs Golf Course (63 acres), Minooka Park (580 acres, 211 of which are in the City), and Fox River Park (262 acres) are owned by Waukesha County. These sites are shown on Map 2 (p. 20) and the City sites are classified in Table 6 (p. 22).
PARK, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE & GREENWAY GUIDELINES Based upon the regional park and open space plan developed by NRPA in 1995, these sites were classified into different types: community, neighborhood, natural resource area, mini-park, greenways, sport complexes and school park sites. Community park sites typically range in size from 25 to 99 acres and attract users on a citywide basis. These should be provided within 2 miles of each resident of an urban area having a population greater than 7,500 persons. There are a total of 12 community parks existing within the City, two of which are County parks (Fox River and Minooka Parks) and 10 are City parks, which are listed in Table 6 (p. 22). It should be noted that there are neighborhood parks within the City that serve community-wide needs, such as Buchner and Horeb Springs Parks. Neighborhood park sites are generally less than 25 acres in area. The service radii for these parks are 0.50 miles. There are a total of 27 neighborhood parks existing within the City and listed in Table 6 (p. 22). Both types of parks generally attract users from a small service area and are provided primarily to meet the outdoor recreation demand of residential areas. Several of these parks combine with school sites in order to meet the outdoor recreation needs of not only the neighborhood, but also the adjacent school as well. It should also be noted that there are neighborhood parks that may serve other purposes within the park system. Sentinel Park Playground The third major classification is natural resource area sites. Natural resource area sites include lands that are preserved in an essentially natural open state for research, conservation or recreation purposes. There are a total of 13 natural resource area sites in the City of Waukesha, which includes two greenways and are listed in Table 6 (p. 22).
Other park classifications within the city include mini-parks, sports complexes, and other undesignated green space. In addition, there are several park sites whose use has not yet been determined. Table 6 (p. 22) also notes parks of historical significance throughout the City.
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TABLE 6 Parkland Classification Inventory
Note the following secondary designations in addition to the primary park classification (in bold) *Park contains acreage in more than one classification. (S) School-Park These parks combine with school sites and can fulfill the space requirements for other classes of parks, such as neighborhood, community, sports complex and special use. (H) Historical Significance Community Parks (C) (245.64 acres) This type of park serves a broader purpose with a focus on meeting community-based recreation needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces. Buchner (N) (7.52 acres) Cutler (N) (H) (5.77 acres) Fox River Sanctuary* (NR) (14.38 acres) Frame (N) (H) (34.50 acres) Heyer* (N) (SC) (S) (49.60 acres) Horeb Springs (N) (H) (10.01 acres)
Lowell (N) (S) (50.88 acres) Meadowview* (N) (TBD) (22.00 acres) Mindiola (N) (26.21 acres) Oliver, WR Youth Sports Complex (N) (SC) (24.77 acres)
Neighborhood Parks (N) (175.57 acres) This type of park serves as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. The focus is on informal active and passive recreation. Banting (S) (9.19 acres) Bethesda (H) (21.83 acres) David’s (4.90 acres) Dopp (6.74 acres) Fox River Parkway North* (G) (7.60 acres) Fox River Parkway South* (G) (6.90 acres) Grandview (7.72 acres) Heritage Hills (2.79 acres) Merrill Crest (S) (25.18 acres)
Moorewood* (NR) (1.00 acres) Pebble Valley* (NR) (27.03 acres) Prairie (S) (13.62 acres) Priedeman (4.94 acres) Rivers Crossing* (NR) (8.40 acres) River Valley* (NR) (13.69 acres) Roberta (3.69 acres) Waukesha Springs (H) (4.95 acres) Woodfield* (NR) (5.40 acres)
Natural Resource Areas (NR) (473.02 acres) Parks are categorized here that have lands set-aside for preservation of significant natural resources, remnant landscapes, open space and visual aesthetic/buffering. Glacial Cone (25.09 acres) Fox River Sanctuary (C) (81.14 acres) Kisdon Hill (13.02 acres) Moorewood* (N) (21.38 acres) Pari (16.35 acres) Pebble Brook (68.12 acres)
Pebble Creek (62.65 acres) Pebble Valley* (N) (11.59 acres) Rivers Crossing* (N) (80.78 acres) River Valley* (N) (20.64 acres) Timber Ridge (18.28 acres) Woodfield* (N) (53.98 acres)
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Mini-Parks (M) (6.16 acres) This type of park is used to address limited, isolated or unique recreational needs. Grede (3.32 acres) Greenway Terrace (1.21 acres) Phoneix Heights (0.47 acre)
Sentinel (0.47 acre) Veterans (0.45 acre) Youmans (0.24 acre)
Greenways (G) (119.46 acres) Effectively tie park system components together to form a continuous park environment. Fox River Parkway North* (N) (60.46 acres) Fox River Parkway South* (N) (56.00 acres)
Riverwalk Corridor (3.00 acres)
Sports Complex (SC) (14.50 acres) Parks of this type typically consolidate heavily programmed athletic fields and associated facilities to larger and fewer sites strategically located throughout the community. Heyer* (C) (N) (S) Oliver, WR Youth Sports Complex* (C) (N)
Saratoga (S) (14.50 acres)
To Be Determined (TBD) (18.47 acres) This category is for parks whose purpose has not yet been determined through a Park Master Plan. Hillcrest (18.47 acres)
Meadowview (C) (N)
Other Undesignated Greenspace (Undesignated) (2.37 acres) This type of park category is open space that can not be categorized elsewhere due to the special nature of the area. Brickson (1.81 acres) Niagara (0.36 acres)
Parkview (0.20 acres)
Total Park Acreage to date: 1,055.19 acres
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INVENTORY OF EXISTING PARK AND OPEN SPACE SITES NOTE: The following descriptions also include proposed improvements, and potential acquisitions to the existing parks. 1.
BANTING PARK (N) (S) (9.19 acres) - This recreation site adjoining Banting Elementary School and Horning Middle School is located in the northeast section of the City. This school park contains a baseball diamond, a softball diamond, tennis courts with lights (3), park shelter, ice skating rink with lights, an open play field and a parking lot. The park compliments the recreational area for both of the schools. The site is basically flat and open. Potential Improvements include: 1. Baseball/Softball diamond improvements (i.e. new fencing and safety netting, etc.). 2. Sand volleyball court. 3. Splash pad. 4. Playground equipment resurfacing.
2.
Banting Park Playground
BETHESDA SPRING PARK (N) (H) (21.83 acres) This site adjoins the west side of the downtown area and is located along the Fox River. The site is partially located in the 100-year floodplain. The park contains a recreational-use tennis court, open play field, large picnic shelter with separate restroom facility, playground equipment, Fox River Recreational Trail, and park lights. A pedestrian bridge over the Fox River links with Grede Park. The octagonal Spring House is a relic from Waukesha’s Historic Springs-Era. This is also the site of the historic Dunbar Oak. Historic Dunbar Oak, Bethesda Park
Potential Improvements include: 1. Protective measures needed for stabilization of the Fox River shoreline. 2. Upgrade historical signage (i.e. Hobo Springs at Frame Park). 3. Sand/grass volleyball court. 4. Renovate/add park amenities (i.e. benches & lights). 5. Splash pad. 6. New tennis court fencing. Bethesda Park Playground
3.
BRICKSON PARK (Undesignated) (1.81 acres) – a minor area serving primarily as a green space in the north central section south of Moreland Boulevard, between North Street and Pewaukee Road. Note: The Parks, Recreation and Forestry Board has taken action to pursue selling the property. 24
4.
BUCHNER PARK (C) (N) (7.52 acres) - This is one of the most intensely developed parks on Waukesha’s eastside. Its principle attraction is a large outdoor pool and support facility. In addition, the park contains tennis courts with lights (6) and a softball diamond/football field with lights, a sand volleyball court, playground equipment, a park shelter, ice skating rink with lights, park lights, and interior paths. Potential improvements include: 1. Reconstruct pool based upon Aquatic Feasibility Study of 2003. 2. Renovate/add park amenities (ex: benches and lights). 3. Evaluate the potential acquisition of vacant land located in the vicinity of Oakland Avenue and Ellis Street.
5.
CUTLER PARK (C) (N) (H) (5.77 acres) This park, oldest in the system, Buchner Park Pool located adjacent to the Downtown Business District has the feel of a Town Square. The principle facilities are the Waukesha Public Library, parking lot, the Les Paul Performance Center (used for summer concerts), a grouping of historic Indian mounds, interior sidewalks and playground equipment. The park serves as an open space for primarily passive recreational activities. The large trees on this site create an exceptionally attractive venue in the heart of the City.
Historic Cutler Park Cannon
Potential improvements include, but are contingent upon Library renovations: 1. Renovate/add park amenities (i.e. benches and lights). 2. Upgrade flagpole and lighting. 3. Improvements to the Les Paul Performance Center.
6.
DAVID’S PARK (N) (4.90 acres) - This neighborhood park is located on the south side of the City. The relatively flat site contains playground equipment, park shelter, a .3 mile recreational trail, ball diamond backstop, an urban tree evaluation area and an open play field. Potential improvements include: 1. Add park amenities (i.e. benches and lights). 2. Splash pad. 3. Baseball diamond improvements (i.e. create skinned infield).
David’s Park Playground
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7.
DOPP PARK (N) (6.74 acres) –
Half of this neighborhood park contains a presettlement grove of mature Bur Oak trees. It serves primarily the west central section of the City and has softball diamonds (2), basketball court, open play field, playground equipment and a park shelter. No identified improvements at this time.
Dopp Park Shelter
8.
FOX RIVER PARKWAY NORTH (N) (G) (68.06 acres) – This park is located along the east bank of the Fox River, bounded on the north by Sunset Drive, on the east by Fox River Parkway Drive and on the south and the west by the corporate limits of Highway 59. The primary environmental corridor on the west side of the Fox River is preserved in conjunction with Waukesha County. At the present time, a significant area is natural with development at the north end of the park. Included in the development are a park shelter, basketball court, playground equipment, open play field. A canoe launch and a small parking lot are located just north of Hwy 59. A segment of the Fox River Recreation Trail winds through mature oaks and hickories as it passes from Sunset Drive to the Highway 59 trail underpass. Numerous trees are located in the park, which lends itself to picnicking. In addition, a majority of the parkway is shown as a wetland on the Wisconsin Wetland Inventory Map.
Fox River Trail 59 Underpass
No identified improvements at this time. 9.
FOX RIVER PARKWAY SOUTH (N) (G) (62.90 acres) - This park is located south of Highway 59, east of the Fox River, west of Fox River Parkway Drive and immediately north of Fox River County Park. Development in this park consists of the Fox River Recreation Trail, restroom building, open play field, ice skating rinks, a gazebo picnic shelter, softball diamond, playground equipment, landscaping, and three retention ponds. Potential improvements include: 1. Potential for prairie development. Fox River at Fox River Parkway South
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10.
FOX RIVER SANCTUARY (C) (NR) (95.52 acres) - This open space along the Fox River on the southwest side of the City contains mature trees, open meadows, prairie grasses, ponds, boardwalk, observation platform, arboretum, and designated lowland areas. The majority of it has been identified as a shoreline-wetland area in the State Wetland Inventory. In addition, a large portion of the sanctuary lies within the 100-year flood plain for the City. The sanctuary is bounded on the south by Sunset Drive and on the north by Prairie Avenue. The E.B. Shurts Environmental Education Center was constructed as a joint partnership between the City of Waukesha, Department of Natural Resources, Waukesha Women’s Club, the School District of Waukesha and the Fox River Development Board. The Center features classroom/storage areas, a meeting room, kitchen, an outdoor deck area, animal and plant life exhibits, a butterfly garden and a parking lot. Some of these facilities may be rented by outside groups for various functions. The School District of Waukesha uses the Center to program their Environmental Education curriculum and the City of Waukesha uses it for programs and recreational activities. EB Shurts Environmental Education Center Deck
The City of Waukesha Fox River Recreation Trail head is located at the E.B. Shurts Building. Trail segments extend both north and south from this location. In addition to parking at E.B. Shurts, there is a small parking lot off of Sunset Drive adjacent to the Boardwalk. The Glacial Drumlin State Trail enters the park on the west side under St. Paul Avenue and leaves the park at the intersection of Prairie and College Avenues. From this location the bicycle trail utilizes city streets before its connection to the New Berlin Trail at Lincoln Avenue extended. The Glacial Drumlin State Trail begins in Cottage Grove, near Madison.
Fox River Sanctuary Trail Boardwalk
Potential improvements include: 1. Continuing development of conservation and study area. 2. Natural Amphitheater. 3. An interactive display board in EB Shurts building. 4. Additional boardwalk. 5. Improved trail signage. Fox River Sanctuary Trail Boardwalk Pond
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11.
FRAME PARK (C) (N) (H) (34.50 acres) – This linear park site lies along both banks of the Fox River between Barstow Street and Moreland Boulevard. Portions of the park are located within the 100-year floodplain for the City. A small portion of the park is also located on the north side of Moreland Boulevard. The Schuetze Recreation Center and Rotary Building are both located within the park and are used for recreational programs and community rentals. Additional park facilities include a fenced baseball diamond with lights, playground equipment areas (2), picnic shelter, formal garden area, separate paths for walking and biking, restrooms (3), park lights, and parking lots. In addition, a boat ramp on the south end of the park provides limited access to the Fox River. A multitude of improvements have been added to the park over the last several years. This includes both hardscape and landscape features. A pair of paved pathways winds in a 1.7-mile serpentine loop throughout the park. These paths are separate and accommodate both walkers and bikers. Frame Park has been extensively landscaped. The Fox River divides the park’s landscapes into two distinct areas. The east side of the park is very formal with intensively planted perennial and shrub beds. Individual specimen trees can also be found here. The west side of the park emphasizes a more natural river edge landscape, which also utilizes beds and individual trees. Rotary Building
Large open areas suitable for community festivals have been created. Facilities on the festival grounds include vendor areas. An outdoor performance amphitheater has been constructed near the festival grounds. The amphitheater is suitable for music groups, theatrical presentations, as well as festival events. Floating piers accommodate fishing, canoeing, paddleboat and ski show activities. A large playground area has been constructed near Moreland Boulevard. Sand volleyball courts (3) are located near the picnic shelter. A storage/concession building compliments park related activities. The Barstow Plaza is located adjacent to the Lee Sherman Dreyfus State Office Building. The key feature is a large lagoon area with tiered concrete seating. There is a small information kiosk, a paved area for small gatherings. The dam has been redesigned and lighted to enhance the aesthetics of the waterfall. The Plaza provides ample seating areas for informal use.
Frame Park Playground
Potential improvements include: 1. Construction of a conservatory. 2. Acquisition of 2 lots between White Rock School and existing City lot for parking purposes. 3. Evaluation of existing baseball diamond use and facilities. 4. Potentially redevelop lawn game area. 5. Consider reconstructing playground area adjacent to Schuetze Recreation Center into a splash pad or new playground structure. 6. Renovate/upgrade Moreland playground area (i.e. surfacing). 7. Replacement of floating piers. 28
12.
GLACIER CONE PARK (NR) (25.09 acres) - This park is a natural open space located on the west side of the City, south of Madison Street and east of Comanche Lane. It is surrounded on three sides by residential areas. This park is a geologic remnant of the Ice Age. The cone shaped kame is the result of glacial deposit activity. Entirely undeveloped, except for City sidewalk along Madison Street and Comanche Lane, this natural area consists of an oak opening and prairie grasses. The park will be maintained as a natural area site.
Glacial Cone Waukesha View
13.
Potential improvements include: 1. Control invasive plant species (i.e. Buckthorn, Honeysuckle). 2. Add park amenities (i.e. benches and tables).
GRANDVIEW PARK (N) (7.72 acres) - This neighborhood park located in the northwest part of the City, has a level terrain and numerous trees. Park facilities include a softball diamond, baseball diamond with bleachers, park shelter, open play field, playground equipment, and basketball courts (2) and tennis courts (2). Potential improvements include: 1. Paved recreation trail on WE Energies R.O.W. 2. Renovate/upgrade playground area (i.e. playground surfacing). 3. Replacement of perimeter fencing. 4. Develop small parking lot.
14.
GREDE PARK (M) (3.32 acres) - This mini-park is located along the west bank of the Fox River at the western edge of the Central Business District. Portions of the park are located within the 100-year floodplain. The site was dedicated to the City by Grede Foundry and contains an existing service drive, the Fox River Recreation Trail, a canoe landing, along with many mature trees. A pedestrian bridge crosses the Fox River linking with Bethesda Spring Park. This park serves as a transition from the Downtown Riverwalk to neighborhood parks. Potential improvements include: 1. Add park amenities (i.e. bench and tables). 2. Complete recreation trail improvements.
15.
Bridge from Grede Park to Bethesda Park
GREENWAY TERRACE PARK (M) (1.21 acres) - This mini-park is located in the northeastern portion of the City, north of Greenway Terrace and west of Cardinal Drive. It is a relatively flat site with a few trees. Park facilities include an open play field and playground equipment. No identified improvements at this time.
16.
HERITAGE HILLS PARK (N) (2.79 acres) – This park is located south of Summit Avenue and west of Merrill Hills Road on the City’s west side. It slopes from a partially wooded hillside into an open area where a potential playground will be located. Due to the adjacency to an environmental corridor, this park will provide a linkage for a future trail segment that will connect the Me adowbrook Trail with Waukesha County’s Retzer Nature Center. 29
Potential improvements include: 1. Construct playground facility. 2. Add additional landscaping and park amenities (i.e. benches & tables). 3. Acquire additional parcel(s) to construct a trail segment along the environmental corridor. 4. Consider construction of an open-air shelter/gazebo. 17.
HEYER PARK (C) (N) (SC) (S) (49.60 acres) - This is the City’s second largest school-park site. This natural wetland environmental community, with compatible plantings, is located on the City’s southeast side. The park contains ponds (2) that have been part of the Department of Natural Resources Urban Fishing Program. Park facilities include tennis courts (16) as part of the Woyahn Tennis Complex, an open play field, playground equipment, soccer/football fields, park shelter, paved pathways, and mowed trails to the ponds and wildlife. Potential improvements include: 1. Continue to renovate and maintain Woyahn Tennis Complex. Woyahn Tennis Complex Heyer Park 2. Add park amenities (i.e. benches and tables). 3. Evaluate property on Grambling Drive and Sunset for park purposes. 4. Evaluate best use of old Playground Equipment/Area.
18.
HILLCREST PARK (TBD) (18.47 acres) - This undesignated use park site is located in the northeastern portion of the City, south of Davidson Road. The original 15.35 acre site was acquired in 1972 under the Legacy of Parks Program. An additional 3.0 wooded acres was added to the park in 2000. This site is a combination of flat open space areas with steep slopes and fenced perimeter. The park contains a 5 million-gallon underground water reservoir, a storage building, a parking lot and service drive. Included on the premises is an indoor rifle range that is leased to the Waukesha Rifle and Pistol Club. Potential improvements include: 1. Implement park master plan developed in 2006.
19.
HOREB SPRINGS PARK (C) (N) (H) (10.01 acres) - Centrally located, the main attraction is the outdoor aquatic center as recommended by Comprehensive Aquatic Facilities Plan of 2003, which serves many residents of the City. The park also contains a uniquely landscaped historical outdoor amphitheater. The wooded hillsides offer a miniforested oasis with a variety of mature trees. Other facilities include a large park shelter, skatepark, playground equipment, open play field, and upper and lower parking lots. Potential improvements include: 1. Consider additional skatepark equipment to complete design plan. 2. Evaluate outdoor amphitheater. 3. Consider repaving lower pathway.
Horeb Springs Park Aquatic Center
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KISDON HILL PARK (NR) (13.02 acres) - Located on the west side of the City, on Merrill Hills Road, this rolling terrain contains many natural features and is suitable for hiking, cross country skiing, and wildlife observation. Mowed pathways provide additional access from WRO Youth Sports Complex and Comanche Lane. The park will be maintained as a natural area. No identified improvements at this time.
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LOWELL PARK (C) (N) (S) (50.88 acres) - This is a large community/school park. The park is located in the western portion of the City. The site features numerous slopes that are conducive to winter sports activities. Open play field areas are extensive. A portion of the park’s hilltop is a natural wooded area. Existing facilities include tennis courts (10) with lights (8), park shelter (also serves as a warming house), a softball diamond, parking lots, wooden toboggan runs (2), soccer fields, sledding/snowboarding hills, and ice skating rink. Landscape planting was completed on the hillside to create designated sledding areas. Potential improvements include: 1. Evaluate winter use of northern slope, in particular the former ski run area. 2. Bury overhead electrical wires.
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Lowell Park Toboggan Run
MEADOWVIEW PARK (C) (N) (TBD) (22 acres) - This park is located in northwestern Waukesha. Most of the site is flat, undeveloped agricultural land, with a tree line on the east border. Potential improvements include: 1. Develop park master plan. 2. Acquire adjacent 5 acre parcel immediately to the west (Pewaukee Fire Station). 3. Potential development of an aquatic based recreation center as per the Comprehensive Aquatic Facilities Plan of 2003. Meadowview Park View
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MERRILL CREST PARK (N) (S) (25.18 acres) - This park is located on the City’s west side adjacent to Bethesda Elementary School. Minot Lane divides the park into two distinct areas. The northern portion is rectangular with many trees and open grassy areas. The southern portion contains a park shelter, playground equipment, sand volleyball court, soccer fields and a softball diamond. The park also contains a small heavily wooded natural area. Potential improvements include: 1. Replace softball backstop. 2. Splash pad. 3. Renovate turf areas associated with soccer fields. Merrill Crest Playground Program
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24.
MINDIOLA, JOHN, SR COMMUNITY PARK (C) (N) (26.21 acres) - This park is located in the south central portion of the City north of Sunset Drive. This site is bisected by Hoover Avenue with each section containing a parking lot. The site has been graded and seeded into a relatively flat grassy field over a former landfill reclamation area. Potential improvements include: 1. Continued development of a soccer complex. 2. Recreation building with police substation and adjacent parking lot. 3. Skatepark development. 4. Construct basketball courts. 5. Develop playground area. 6. Consider development of a youth football field. 7. Development of several open air shelters. 8. Add park amenities (i.e. benches and tables). 9. Develop landscape plan.
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Mindiola Park Dedication
MOOREWOOD PARK (N) (NR) (22.38 acres) – This park is located in southeastern Waukesha. It is a heavily wooded natural area containing numerous pre-settlement trees and two wetland areas. Potential improvements include: 1. Develop playground area (nature themed). 2. Consider construction of a small open air shelter/gazebo. 3. Develop a rustic trail system. 4. Install sidewalk along Rempe Drive.
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NIAG ARA PARK (Undesignated) (0.36 acre) – a minor area serving primarily as a green space, is located at the intersection of Niagara Street and Cleveland Avenue. Potential improvements include: 1. Where appropriate consider addition of park amenities (i.e. trash receptacles, park benches). 2. Evaluate the viability and potential sale of property.
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OLIVER, WILLIAM R. YOUTH SPORTS COMPLEX (C) (N) (SC) (24.77 acres) – This site is located on the west side adjacent to Kisdon Hill Park. It includes an enclosed 4-diamond youth softball/baseball complex with bleachers, a centrally located support building with restrooms, umpire room, concession stand and equipment/storage room. The park also includes a large parking lot, soccer fields (2), playground equipment and a small picnic area. A paved path connects Comanche Drive to the Meadowbrook Trail.
Youth Baseball at WRO
Potential improvements include: 1. Evaluate impact of proposed Fire Station. 2. Park shelter. 3. Flagpole with lights. 4. Consider development of city tree nursery. 5. Basketball courts. 6. Skatepark development. 7. Lighting of paved trail. 8. Improve complex entrance area off parking lot. 32
28.
PARI PARK (NR) (16.35 acres) – This is predominately wetland located on the southeast side of Waukesha at the intersection of S.T.H. 59/164 and Sunset Drive. The park contains a park sign and no other improvements. Potential improvements include: 1. Pursue acquisition of adjacent wetland areas.
29.
PARKVIEW (Undesignated) (0.20 acre) – A minor area serving primarily as greenspace located at the intersection of Madison and Randall Streets. This site offers a picturesque view of the downtown area. Potential improvements include: 1. Where appropriate consider addition of park amenities (i.e. trash receptacles, park benches). 2. Evaluate the viability and potential sale of property.
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View of Downtown from Parkview Park PEBBLE BROOK PARK (NR) (68.12 acres) – This park is located on the south side of the City, (south of S.T.H. 59) and adjacent to the railroad tracks. It is located entirely within the 100-year floodplain and identified as a wetland and medium-value wildlife habitat area. It is also part of the primary environmental corridor. This area is valuable as a storm water detention area. The park is currently undeveloped and it should remain in its natural conservancy state. There are no future plans to develop this natural area.
Potential improvements include: 1. Pursue acquisition of adjacent wooded upland area. 31.
PEBBLE CREEK PARK (NR) (62.65 acres) – This park is located on the west side of Waukesha, immediately north of Sunset Drive. Pebble Creek, a Class II Trout Stream, runs through the middle of the park. The park has been identified as a high value wildlife habitat area and wetland, as well as being in the 100-year floodplain. The area is valuable as a storm water detention area. It is also part of the primary environmental corridor. The park is currently undeveloped and it should remain in its natural conservancy state. There are no plans to develop this natural area. Potential improvements include: 1. Develop trail system plan.
Pebble Creek at Pebble Creek Park
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32.
PEBBLE VALLEY PARK (N) (NR) (38.62 acres) – This park is located in northwestern Waukesha. A portion of the park has been identified as a wetland that serves as a storm water detention area and is within the primary environmental corridor. The remaining park area contains playground equipment, a softball diamond, a basketball court, park shelter, park lights and an open play field. Additional wetland exists south of Pebble Valley Road. Potential improvements include: 1. Develop paved recreation trail on WE Energies R.O.W. 2. Splash pad. 3. Disposition/renovation of existing baseball diamond. Pebble Valley Park Playground
33.
PHOENIX HEIGHTS (M) (0.47 acre) – This mini-park was established as part of the Phoenix Heights Brownfield Reclamation Project and is accessible from The Strand and Phoenix Heights Drive. It includes playground equipment, interior path, park lighting and landscaping. Potential improvements include: 1. Add park amenities (i.e. bike rack and trash receptacles). 2. Add perimeter fencing (4 feet high).
34.
PRAIRIE PARK (N) (S) (13.62 acres) – This park site is located immediately adjacent to Prairie Elementary School at the intersection of Center Road and School Drive. Existing facilities include football field with lights, open play field, parking lot, baseball diamond, softball diamond, park shelter, tennis courts with lights (4) and shared school playground equipment. Potential improvements include: 1. Pursue acquisition of adjacent wetland area. 2. Baseball diamond improvements (i.e. fences, lighting, etc.). 3. Renovate open play field turf.
35.
PRIEDEMAN PARK (N) (4.94 acres) – This park is located in northeast Waukesha at the intersection of Saratoga Road and Melody Lane. Existing facilities include a softball diamond, playground equipment, basketball court, park lights and a park shelter. No identified improvements at this time.
Priedeman Park Shelter
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36.
RIVER VALLEY (N) (NR) (34.33 acres) – This site is located on the southwest side (west of the Fox River, south of Hwy. 59) of the City. A majority of the park is part of the Fox River Environmental Corridor and will remain undeveloped. There are approximately 7 acres available for development as a neighborhood park. The park currently contains a playground, shelter, mowed trails and basketball court. Potential improvements include: 1. Playfields (i.e. softball diamond, soccer). 2. Additional landscaping and tree planting. 3. Other amenities as identified in the park master plan. 4. Construct overlook/fishing pier. River Valley Playground & Shelter 5. Evaluate feasibility to construct a bridge over the Fox River to connect with Fox River Parkway South and existing recreation trail.
37.
RIVERS CROSSING (N) (NR) (89.18 acres) – This park is located in far southwestern portion of the City, east and west of the Fox River. The majority of the land is part of the Fox River Environmental Corridor. Approximately 12 acres are appropriate for development as a neighborhood park, with the remaining wetland acreage to remain natural. The park currently contains a playground, park shelter, and first phase of paved recreation trail off River Road. Potential improvements include: 1. Additional landscaping and tree planting. 2. Parking lot. 3. Basketball courts. 4. Playfields (i.e. softball diamond, soccer). 5. Splash pad. 6. Continued development of the recreation trail (paved/mowed/boardwalk). 7. Other amenities as discussed in the park master plan. Rivers Crossing Natural Area
38.
RIVERWALK CORRIDOR (G) (3.00 acres) – The Riverwalk Corridor extends along the Fox River from Barstow Plaza to Veterans Park. It is comprised of two distinct segments that are linked by a system of paved pathways that offer access to river overlooks and the river’s edge. Unification of these segments is provided by an extensive landscape that features a myriad of trees, shrubs, groundcovers and perennials. In addition, numerous hardscape features, pedestrian bridges, fountains, a flag court, clock tower, bear sculptures and Spring House replica enhance the corridor. The Riverwalk Corridor has become a vital component in the revitalization of Downtown Waukesha. Potential improvements include: 1. Continue high level maintenance of the Riverwalk Corridor. 2. Continue to be open to opportunities to enhance and/or expand the Riverwalk Corridor.
Riverwalk at Frame Park
35
39.
ROBERTA PARK (N) (3.69 acres) – This small highly utilized park is located on the near south side. The park contains a park shelter, playground equipment, softball diamonds (2), a basketball court and small open play field. Potential improvements include: 1. Consider removal of basketball court area in conjunction with development of the John Mindiola Sr. Community Park site. 2. Replacement of perimeter fencing.
40.
SARATOGA PARK (SC) (S) (14.50 acres) – This site is located adjacent to Saratoga Elementary School and the School District of Waukesha Maintenance Facility. Existing facilities include a fourdiamond softball complex with lights and bleachers. A two-story building houses restrooms, a concession stand, scorekeeping loft, and storage area. The park also includes 2 parking lots, small maintenance building and ADA pathways. Potential improvements include: 1. Reconstruct south parking lot. 2. Replace 4 scoreboards. 3. Add a landscaped flagpole with lights. 4. Consider landscape screening material for outfield fencing.
41.
Saratoga Sports Complex Adult Softball
SENTINEL PARK (M) (0.47 acre) – This highly utilized mini-park is located on the south side of the City serving as a small neighborhood tot lot. It contains playground equipment with benches. Potential improvements include: 1. Work with Waukesha Youth Collaborative to determine additional park amenities. 2. Construct small open air shelter/gazebo.
42.
TIMBER RIDGE (NR) (18.28 acres) – Timber Ridge Park is located south of State Hwy. 59 and east of Center Road. A pre-settlement upland woods dominate a major portion of the park. Numerous large oaks and maples are interspersed among elm, cherry and hickory trees. This wooded area contains a rustic figure-eight shaped trail. The trail provides hikers a marvelous opportunity to observe plants and wildlife while in very serene surroundings. A narrow strip of land, west of the woods, provides access to a predominately wetland area that ultimately rises to a street access adjacent to Center Road. Linkage to this area is provided by a condominium development trail system. This park site is well suited for those who seek a nature-based experience. Timber Ridge Trail
Potential improvements include: 1. Continue rustic trail system development (includes creek crossing). 2. Consider small open-air shelter/gazebo. 3. Evaluate need for off-street parking. 4. Consider need for wetland boardwalk component. 5. Add park amenities (i.e. benches, tables, signage, etc.). 36
43.
VETERANS PARK (M) (0.45 acre) – This aesthetically pleasing mini-park anchors the southern end of the Fox River Corridor Riverwalk on the western edge of the downtown. It is dedicated to honor and recognize those who have served in the Armed Forces. It contains a Sundial sculpture, information kiosk and river overlooks. The Fox River Trail runs adjacent to the park. No identified improvements at this time.
44.
WAUKESHA SPRINGS PARK (N) (H) (4.95 acres) –
Veterans Park
This park is located in the east central portion of the City. Existing facilities include playground equipment, a softball diamond, a park shelter, interior walkways, park lights, an open play field and the refurbished Silurian Springhouse. The park is basically flat with a mix of tree species.
Silurian Springhouse at Waukesha Springs
45.
Potential improvements include: 1. Continued improvements to Springhouse through Landmarks Commission, (i.e. historical signage). 2. Determine disposition of capped spring near playground area. 3. Implement improvements per TIF 16.
WOODFIELD PARK (N) (NR) (59.38 acres) – This park is located in the west central portion of the City and consists of separate northern and southern sections. The northern section includes 2 ponds, one of which is periodically stocked by the DNR Urban Fishing Program, playground equipment, a park shelter and open play field. The southern section includes a pond, a parking lot accessing Harris Highland Drive and playground equipment near Minaka Drive. One of the topographical features is a glacial ridge top meadow that provides a superb view. This site has been identified as a wetland and wildlife habitat in the City’s wetland preservation plan. It is also part of the Fox River primary environmental corridor. It contains plant and animal communities that are representative of wetlands, woodland and upland. A stream connects the ponds within the park. It is valuable as an educational site and recreation area.
Woodfield Park Pond & Dam
Potential improvements include: 1. Development of a park master plan in order to determine best suitable use for park site. 2. All season park pavilion-southern section. 3. Develop an ADA accessible pathway system (including fishing access). 4. Evaluation of dam structure at south pond. 37
46.
YOUMANS PARK (M) (H) (0.24 acre) – This mini-park was originally called Triangle Park and was reconstructed and renamed in 1983. The park was slightly modified in 2003 with the development of Avalon Square. This park serves as a landscaped plaza area at the eastern edge of downtown, it includes the Neumann Lighted Water Dome, a replica of a historic lighted water dome, interior walkways, a small adjacent parking lot, park lights and amenities. No identified improvements at this time.
“DOG RUN” – This is a City owned property (non-park) maintained by the Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department Neumann Lighted Water Dome at Youmans Park and located on MacArthur Road, near Comanche Lane. This wooded area has rustic trails intended specifically for off leash exercising. This area is maintained with assistance from “dog run” users and local community groups. Potential improvements include: 1. Consider addition of park amenities such as “doggie disposal bags”. 2. Pursue acquisition of adjacent natural areas. 3. Pursue fencing of perimeter.
MacArthur Dog Run
PARK FACILITIES A detailed inventory of existing park and open space facilities was completed for the City of Waukesha. The quantity of various outdoor recreation facilities provided at the park sites in the City is presented in Table 7 (p. 39). Please see maps 3 through 7 (pp. 41 – 45) indicating current service areas for selected primary facilities.
38
TABLE 7
/1
X X
X 4
X 4
2
1*/
X
X
P
X
1/1
Heyer Hillcrest (UD) Horeb Springs Kisdon Hill
X
X
X
X/S
S
/1
3
X
X
S
X
/1
2
2
P P
27
Lowell Meadowview (UD) Merrill Crest Mindiola, John Sr. Community Park Moorewood Niagara Oliver, William R. Youth Complex
28
Pari
29
Parkview Pebble Brook
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26
30
9.19 21.83 1.81 7.52 5.77 4.90 6.74
X/ X/ X/
X
X
X/ X/
/1 /2
X X
X/
X
X/
X/
X/
X/2
3
/X
X/X X/
68.06 62.90
2/
X/3
/X X/X
X
2 X/
1.21
X P X
S
2
1
16
X/X
2 X
X
2
X
X
X/
2.79
X/2**
49.60
X/
18.47
X/
10.01 13.02
X /X
8/2*
X/
50.88
X/X P
P P
P
X
X
X
95.52 34.50 25.09 7.72 3.32
X/ 2
Acreage
X
X
Rec Center/Comm. Bldg.
X
6*
Ice Rink/Sledding
X
9
/1*
Natural Area/Ponds
X
8
X X X X
Formal Gardens
X
P
Bike / Nature Trails
X
3* 1
Band Shell/ Amphitheater
X X
X X X X
1/1
Outdoor Pool
X
S X
Skatepark
X
Park Name 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Basketball Courts
X X
Sand Volleyball
X X
Tennis Courts
Parking Lot
Soccer Fields
Restrooms
Banting Bethesda Brickson Buchner Cutler David's Dopp Fox River Pkwy North Fox River Pkwy South Fox River Sanctuary Frame Glacier Cone Grandview Grede Greenway Terrace Heritage Hills
Playground Equipment
Picnic Area & Shelter
Baseball/Softball Fields
Park & Facility Inventory
5
X
X/
P
P
P X/
4/
2
22.00 25.18
26.21 22.38 0.36
24.77
X/ X/
16.35 0.20
X/
68.12 39
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46
Pebble Creek Pebble Valley Phoenix Heights Prairie Priedeman River Valley Rivers Crossing Riverwalk Corridor Roberta Saratoga Sentinel Timber Ridge (UD) Veterans Waukesha Springs Woodfield Youmans
Totals
* Lighted
X
X
X X X
X X X
S
X
X
X
/1
X S X X
1/1 /1 P
P
X
P
2
X S X
/2 /4*
X X
P
X
X
X
X
2
22
29
19
26
38.62
X X
/X
X/
P
P/P
X/
89.18 3.00 3.69 14.50 0.47
X
18.28 0.45
X/
4.95
/1 X/3* *
8/19
Acreage
Rec Center/Comm. Bldg.
Ice Rink/Sledding
Natural Area/Ponds X/
X/
X/P
**Fishing Allowed
62.65
0.47 13.62 4.94 34.33
/X
X
X/
4*
P
X
Formal Gardens
X
X X
Bike / Nature Trails
Band Shell/ Amphitheater
Outdoor Pool
Skatepark
Basketball Courts
Sand Volleyball
Tennis Courts
Soccer Fields
Baseball/Softball Fields
Playground Equipment
Parking Lot
Restrooms
Picnic Area & Shelter
Park Name
13
42
P - Proposed
5
7
1
2
1/1
UD - Undeveloped Park Site
10/5
1
20/10
59.38 0.24 5
1/3
1055.19
S - School
Park/open space acquired/developed from 1980 - 1999 Park/open space acquired/developed since 2000
40
MAP 3 Outdoor Basketball Court Service Areas
32 22 15
13
16
3
27 20 23
11
19 29
21 12
45
1
38 46 1443 5
7
18
26 33
44
2
10
35
4
40
25 24
31
39
8 34 36
9
42
17 6
28
41
30
37
/ 0
2,500
5,000
Outdoor Basketball Court Service Areas City owned park sites Area within 1/2 mile of City Basketball Courts 10,000 Feet
Community Development Department - January 2007
Other Outdoor Recreation and Open Space Sites Area within 1/2 mile of School Basketball Courts City of Waukesha (January 2007)
41
MAP 4 Playground Service Areas
32 22 15
13
16
3
27 20 23
11
19 29
21 12
45
1
38 46 1443 5
7
18
26 33
44
2
10
35
4
40
25 24
31
39
8
6
34 36
9
17 28
41
42
30
37
/ 0
2,500
5,000
Playground Service Areas City owned park sites Area within 1/2 mile of City Playgrounds 10,000 Feet
Community Development Department - January 2007
Other Outdoor Recreation and Open Space Sites Area within 1/2 mile of School Playgrounds City of Waukesha (January 2007)
42
MAP 5 Soccer Field Service Areas
32 22 15
13
16
3
27 20 23
11
19 29
21 12
45
1
38 46 1443 5
7
18
26 33
44
2
10
35
4
40
25 24
31
39
8 34 36
9
42
17 6
28
41
30
37
/ 0
2,500
5,000
Soccer Field Service Areas City owned park sites 1 mile service area of City Soccer Fields 10,000 Feet
Community Development Department - January 2007
Other Outdoor Recreation and Open Space Sites 1 mile service area of School Soccer Fields City of Waukesha (January 2007)
43
MAP 6 Softball/Baseball Field Service Areas
32 22 15
13
16
3
27 20 23
11
19 29
21 12
45
1
38 46 1443 5
7
18
26 33
44
2
10
4
40
25 24
31
39
8 34 36
9
42
35
41
17 6
28
30
37
Softball/Baseball Field Service Areas
/ 0
2,500
5,000
City owned park sites Area within 1/2 mile of City Softball/Baseball Field 10,000 Feet
Community Development Department - January 2007
Other Outdoor Recreation and Open Space Sites Area within 1/2 mile of School Softball/Baseball Field 44 City of Waukesha (January 2007)
MAP 7 Tennis Court Service Areas
32 22 15
13
16
3
27 20 23
11
19 29
21 12
45
1
38 46 1443 5
7
18
26 33
44
2
10
35
4
40
25 24
31
39
8 34 36
9
42
17 6
28
41
30
37
0
/
2,500
5,000
Tennis Court Service Areas City owned park sites Area within 1/2 mile of City Tennis Courts 10,000 Feet
Community Development Department - January 2007
Other Outdoor Recreation and Open Space Sites Area within 1/2 mile of School Tennis Courts City of Waukesha (January 2007)
45
PRESENT ADEQUACY AND FUTURE NEEDS The need for outdoor recreation sites and facilities is defined as the shortfall in number and location of such sites, and in the number and type of such facilities as determined by comparing the existing supply of such sites and facilities with the existing and anticipated future demands. The existing supply of outdoor recreation sites and facilities have been described in the previous section of this chapter. The existing and anticipated future demand for recreation sites and facilities is determined by applying the standards set forth in Chapter 4 to the existing and probable future population levels for the City of Waukesha. This demand when compared to the existing supply of outdoor recreation sites and facilities yields an estimate of existing and probable future needs. The existing population used in this report was based upon the Wisconsin Department of Administration estimate. For 2006, the City of Waukesha estimated population was 67,750 persons. The Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission prepared the probable future population projection. The Commission has prepared population forecasts to the year 2010 for regional planning programs as well as local or community planning purposes. For the purposes of this report, it is anticipated that the year 2010 population for the City Urban Service Area would be about 86,340 persons based upon the intermediate decentralized forecast. These estimates for existing and future population levels for the City’s Urban Service Area provide the basis for the application of recreation site and facility standards. These demands were then compared to the existing supply of recreation sites and/or facilities to provide estimates of existing and probable future outdoor recreation site and facility needs. Greenway Terrace Park Playground
URBAN OUTDOOR RECREATION SITE NEEDS The first park and open space objective calls for providing an integrated system of public parks and related open space areas which offer the resident population adequate opportunity to participate in a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities. As shown in Table 3 (p. 15), the minimum per capita standards for Community and Neighborhood parks are combined to establish a standard of 6.4 acres per 1,000 persons. For 2006, the acreage requirement of about 434 acres is exceeded by the existing quantity of parks meeting the minimum standard for per capita acreage and no additional per capita acres is needed at this time. Table 4 (p. 15) also shows that the per capita acreage requirement for park sites for the year 2010 for the City’s urban service area has been determined to be about 553 acres. The existing acreage is above the minimum standard for per capita acreage, therefore, additional per capita acreage is not needed except for location reasons. The standard used in the per capita analysis is intended for intensively developed park areas in the City, that is, usable parklands. This analysis does not show the need for the development of additional usable parklands in the future except for location. This should be noted especially when the City accepts land dedications from developers in the future in new growth areas. The need for adequate spatial distribution of parks to provide sufficient access for residents of the City was also analyzed. The location criteria standards are shown in Table 4 (p.15). The appropriate service areas were delineated around the existing park sites in order to determine which portions of the City lack 46
adequate access to urban parks. The location criteria analysis was conducted only for City of Waukesha community and neighborhood parks and two County Parks, Minooka and Fox River Parks, which due to their location also have the ability to serve as community parks for the residents of Waukesha. Based upon the location criteria standards prescribed under Chapter 4, the majority of the City is adequately served by City owned outdoor recreation sites. This means that the City’s community parks are generally provided within 2 miles of each resident within the City. In addition, the City’s neighborhood parks are generally provided within a 0.5 mile service radius of each resident within the City. Within the City of Waukesha, ten City parks and two County parks were included in the community park location criteria analysis. As shown in Map 9 (p. 50), Fox River County Park community parks adequately serve almost all residential areas of the City. There is a small area of residential land on the northeast side of the City along Springdale Road, which falls just beyond a service area. This is a high-density area consisting of two major apartment complexes, which to some degree provide selected recreational facilities to their residents. These facilities may meet the needs of the residents. The other small portions of the City to the north and northeast not adequately served by a community park are commercial and industrial areas not intended to be served by such facilities. Within the City of Waukesha, 27 parks were included in the neighborhood park location criteria analysis. It should be noted that a community park also meets the need for a neighborhood park. As indicated in Map 9 (p. 50), the analysis concerning neighborhood parks showed that neighborhood parks adequately serve the vast majority of residential lands in the City. There are however, several pockets of residential land in the City, mostly on the outskirts, which are not adequately served by a neighborhood park. These areas include:
Prairie Park Playground & Shelter
•
The western half of the Windings Subdivision and other residential lands off of Meadowbrook Road in the northwest corner of the City. The future development of Meadowview Park will serve to meet the needs in this area.
•
The western portion of the City north of Summit Avenue and west of Meadowbrook Road.
•
Brighton Crest subdivision on the southside of MacArthur Road.
•
The River Hills Estates subdivision and the Timber Ridge development, off of Center Road south of Les Paul Parkway.
•
Deer Path subdivision off of Guthrie Road and Spring Brook subdivision along Rempe Drive both on the southeast side of the City.
47
•
The high-density area along Springdale Road consisting of two major apartment complexes, which to some degree already provides selected recreational facilities to their residents.
The remaining areas in the City not served by neighborhood parks, mainly in the north and east sections of the City, are industrial and commercial areas without a need for such parks. Based upon the analysis, portions of the plan year 2010 urban service area also would not be served by the existing distribution of community parks or neighborhood parks. In summary, park and open space needs have been determined for the future growth of the City of Waukesha. It should be noted that future park sites will be needed to serve the existing portions of the City currently not provided and would also serve lands in the urban service area envisioned to become part of the City.
NOTES
48
MAP 8 Community Parks
Meadowview Park
Frame Park
Oliver Youth Complex
Horeb Park
Lowell Park
Cutler Park Buchner Park E.B. Schurts/ Fox River Parkway Mindiola Park
Heyer Park Minooka County Park
Fox River County Park
Community Park Service Areas Community Park Sites Community Park Service Area - 2 miles Other Outdoor Recreation and Open Space Sites
/ 0
3,250
6,500
Lands within the City not adequately served by a Community Park City of Waukesha (January 2007) 13,000 Feet
Proposed Urban Service Area Community Development Department - January 2007
49
MAP 9 Neighborhood Parks
Pebble Valley Park Meadowview Park Banting Park Grandview Park Frame Park Oliver, William Youth Sports Complex Horeb Spring Park Heritage Hills Park Lowell Park Dopp PlaygroundWaukesha Springs Park Bethesda Spring Park Merrill Crest Park Buchner Park E. B. Schurts Moorewood Park Roberta Playground Charles Heyer Park Mindiola Park
Fox River Parkway Park
David's Park Prairie Park
River Valley Fox River Parkway South Park
Rivers Crossing
Neighborhood Park Service Areas Neighborhood Park Sites Neighborhood Park Service Area - 1/2 mile Other Outdoor Recreation and Open Space Sites
/ 0
3,100
Lands within the City not adequately served by a Neighborhood Park City of Waukesha (January 2007) 6,200
12,400 Feet
Proposed Urban Service Area Community Development Department - January 2007
50
URBAN OUTDOOR RECREATION FACILITY NEEDS The second park and open space objective calls for providing sufficient outdoor recreation facilities to allow the residents of the City adequate opportunity to participate in a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities. The analysis for existing recreation facilities within the City was undertaken using the standards set forth in Chapter 4 for selected outdoor recreation facilities. This includes basketball, playgrounds, soccer fields, softball and baseball diamonds and tennis courts as analyzed in maps 3 through 7 (pgs. 41 – 45). Aquatic facility needs are addressed in the recent Comprehensive Aquatic Facilities Plan for the City of Waukesha completed by Bonestroo and Associates. Other facilities may be found throughout the City of Waukesha park system, however the indicated facilities were considered primary and analyzed in this report. These facilities are located largely within the community and neighborhood parks sites and serve residents of those areas. The 1998 POSP based its proposed facility recommendations on per capita standards, resulting in recommendations for large numbers of facilities, all of which may not be needed to adequately serve the City (i.e. 11 additional ice skating rinks or 34 additional softball diamonds). This plan focuses on spatial distribution standards instead of the per capita standards of previous plans. Thus, where the previous plan addressed deficiencies with a high number of proposed facilities based on numbers, this plan will have an equitable spatial distribution of facilities to offer sufficient access by all residents. As indicated in Chapter 4, there is a need to analyze the spatial distribution of such facilities so that the residents of the City have sufficient access to these facilities. The maximum service radius shown in Table 5 (p. 17) indicates the maximum distance a participant should have to travel from their place of residence to participate in a given outdoor recreation activity. This information was used to determine which residential areas were lacking in certain outdoor recreation facilities. To summarize the analysis, the areas not adequately served by neighborhood parks, also were not adequately served with the selected facilities. Finally, other City park and facility needs have been identified by staff, including the need for rehabilitation of existing park facilities, and the need for additional parks and facilities into the Urban Service Area. Some of these needs repeat what the location criteria analysis identified. There are also several potential future facility needs recognized by the staff, but currently lack any standards or means for analysis. These facilities include: • • • • • • • • •
Skatepark/ BMX bike park facilities Disc golf Dog parks Upgrades to shelters for year round use A interpretive river trail A large community park for major citywide events, i.e. fireworks A large adult softball complex Rustic trails for hiking and mountain biking Winter recreation trails for skiing and snowshoeing
It is recognized that this is a working list. Other facilities Grandview Park may be added or deleted as recreation trends continue to evolve and change. As part of this plan, staff will collaborate with the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Board in assessing needs, and creating standards for such facilities to adequately serve the residents of the City of Waukesha. The City will also partner with Waukesha County, neighboring communities and the State whenever feasible, to efficiently provide recreational opportunities for the residents of the City.
51
OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION NEEDS The third objective presented in this plan is the preservation of sufficient high quality open space for the enhancement of the social and economic well being and environmental quality of the City of Waukesha. This objective can be met by maintaining the existing primary and secondary environmental corridors and isolated natural resource features. The corridors were described in Chapter 3 and shown on Map 1 (p. 12). The preservation of these lands is important in order to maintain a high level of environmental quality, protect the natural scenic beauty and provide valuable recreation opportunities in the City. It is important to note that the achievement of this objective is independent of any population level and relates directly to the location, character and extent of the various elements of the natural resources base. Certain parks, such as Glacial Cone Park or Pebble Brook Park are open, natural areas and cannot be intensively developed due to topography, location, wetlands, etc. The preservation of these open space lands, in essentially natural, open uses, serves to maintain a high level of environmental quality and protect the natural aesthetics of the City while providing recreational opportunities for residents. While the park system is part of the foundation for the preservation of environmentally significant lands in natural, open space uses; there are other reasons for preserving these lands. The City also receives the benefit of reduced flood damage, soil erosion, as well as opportunities for storm water management, ground water recharge, air cleansing, protection of wildlife habitat, and the enhancement of educational and scientific areas. These items extend beyond the POSP and reflect other City, County, and State planning Riverwalk at Frame Park goals and objectives. This leads to increased property values, subdivision amenities, and enhances the overall quality of life in the City of Waukesha. The City will continue to partner with Waukesha County and the State Department of Natural Resources to preserve the environmentally significant lands within the City and the Urban Service Area.
52