City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department
2020 Annual Report
THE YEAR OF COVID-19
Community Foundation Switchyard Plaza Spray Pad
Message
from the Mayor 2020 was a year unlike any other. The pandemic took away so many and so much, and turned our lives upside down. But as life closed down around us last March, many of us in Bloomington found refuge in the same way: the plentiful parks, trails, and programs brought to us by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. Our city’s acres of parkland, miles of trails, facilities and programs offered the option for safe recreation, exercise, and social connection to stay physically and mentally healthy and nurture community. Through it all, our dedicated Parks staff found creative ways to maintain parks properties and offer programs that adhered to public health mandates while giving folks an essential outlet. Here are just a few of the ways our hard-working Parks professionals adapted to allow our community to enjoy the Parks programs they rely on even in the midst of a pandemic: Mayor John Hamilton officially opens the spray pad at the • Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market was Community Foundation Switchyard Plaza in Switchyard Park transformed into a drive-through/online ordering on June 30, 2020. market, an in-person pick up/online ordering market and a physically distanced market with limited vendors and limited attendance regulations. The Market was able to operate for the entire April - November season, with Tuesday Market at Switchyard Park. • For two months, a Parks facility—the Allison-Jukebox Community Center—hosted the mask-making and distribution operations of the Bloomington Mask Drive, which has, within a year, created and distributed almost 60,000 masks free of charge to Bloomingtonians. • Our beloved Kid City Camp adjusted to CDC and Monroe County Health Department guidelines to run nine weeks of summer camp, serving 48 total campers. • Twenty free outdoor fitness classes were offered at Switchyard Park from April through October with more than 225 participants. • Twin Lakes Recreation Center’s HVAC system was overhauled to provide more fresh air more efficiently. Together with these adaptations, Parks staff continued to deliver the excellent parks management that yielded still more recognition and accomplishments: the Gold Leaf Award from the Indiana Arborist Association for the trees planted in Switchyard Park; the National Recreation and Park Association’s Nutrition Hub grant award that will connect underserved residents to nutrition services and healthful foods at the Banneker Community Center; a partnership with the Banneker Community Center Advisory Council to install the Black Lives Matter mural on Elm Street next to Banneker. Our Bloomington City parks, trails and facilities have always been a treasure and a refuge. During 2020, they were a lifesaver, quite literally. As we head into better times, parks will continue to enhance quality of life for everyone in our city, providing a way to recharge our batteries, enhance our health, and reconnect with nature and each other.
John Hamilton, Mayor City of Bloomington
M
essage from the Administrator
“You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt 2020 will certainly be a highlight in the history of the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department. For a Department that manages through the seasons with predictable operational tasks, programming for the thousands, preparing for each new project and following the structure of annual goals to achieve…2020 toppled all our best-laid plans. In reflection, while there were certainly challenges and devastating times related to the pandemic, there were also many moments of realizing a deeper purpose in the work we do for the community we serve. • Witnessing the vital role parks and recreation plays in the health and wellbeing of the community; • Being a source of physical activity for those seeking a chance to breathe fresh air and move; Parks and Recreation Department • Providing mental health relief through music at concerts, a shady tree to Administrator Paula McDevitt sit by or the sound of water while kayaking at Griffy Lake; recognizes business partners at the • Opening facilities for mask-making efforts and delivery of food to children Twin Lakes Sports Park sign learning virtually from home; dedication on Oct. 21, 2020. • Supporting Department team members through personal and family member COVID-19 diagnoses, working through the disappointments of canceled events, adjusting ongoing health regulations, and understanding the importance of virtual communication. Department staff, while separated through remote working and observing strict protocols as essential service providers, worked together every day to keep participants safe and parks open. Master Plan Finding our way forward during the pandemic came through the 2021-2025 Master Plan process which occurred despite the everyday challenges. Through an extensive physical and social inventory and analysis process that included research into best practices, stakeholder and focus group meetings and a record-breaking community interest survey response, the Department has indeed found a way forward. Emerging from the planning process are four major goals which include: • Maintain and enhance the assets and natural resources of the Department • Reinforce activities and programs to positively impact public health, sustainability and climate action • Prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion • Develop administrative and staffing capacity The Master Plan goals will guide our work through achievable strategies and action steps as we emerge from the challenges of COVID-19...setting our standards higher than ever before!
Paula McDevitt Administrator
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 1
City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation
P
rogram
P
articipation
Participation is defined as the number of people times the number of visits/activity to a specific program or service. The numbers below do not include any estimate of the number of visits to City parks or trails.
Twin Lakes Recreation Center . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .121,543 Golf Services. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 48,433 Community Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47,446 Adult Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,000 Frank Southern Ice Arena. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19,849 Natural Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12,541 Youth Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10,441 Banneker Community Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,789
Youth Programs/Inclusion . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 3,415 Health & Wellness . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 317 Aquatics . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .0 2020 Total Participations . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 301,774
Program Participation Percentage by Program Area
TLRC
Twin Lakes Recreation Center 40.3%
GS
Golf Services 16%
CE
Community Events 15.7%
AS
Adult Sports 10%
FSC
Frank Southern Ice Arena 6.6%
NR
The remainder of programs account for less than 3% each of total program participation.
Natural Resources 4.1%
YS
Youth Sports 3.5%
0
10
20
2 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
30
40
50
C
City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation
ondensed
F
inancial
S
ummary
for the year ended December 31, 2019 2020 Revenue
Tax Proceeds & Miscellaneous Subtotal—Tax & Miscellaneous Revenue
2020 Expenditures
$7,175,966 $7,175,966
Administration $16,437 $768,218 Adult Sports $53,151 $264,228 Aquatics—Bryan Park Pool $1,597 $75,002 Aquatics—Mills Pool $600 $46,054 Aquatics—Health and Safety $495 $660 Banneker Community Center $25,550 $328,839 City Childcare Program $0 $1,399 Community Events $52,588 $455,849 Community Events–Farmers’ Market $41,929 $148,712 Community Relations $8,089 $390,124 Frank Southern Ice Arena $178,343 $413,910 Golf Services $843,488 $894,382 Health & Wellness $23,763 $105,778 Landscaping/Cemeteries/Urban Forestry $56,400 $1,075,007 Natural Resources $61,655 $380,199 Operations $38,791 $1,825,521 Recover Forward $50,000 $50,000 Twin Lakes Recreation Center Reserve $90,082 $0 Switchyard Park $27,491 $242,594 Twin Lakes Recreation Center $361,086 $1,215,521 Youth Programs $116,867 $262,101 Youth Sports $12,171 $284,294 TOTAL Program Revenue/Expenses $9,264,657 $9,228,403 Grants $340,172 $309,318 Capital Related/Capital Expenditures $276,749 TOTAL Revenue/Expenses $9,604,829 $9,814,470 *unaudited financial data
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 3
Operations & Development
The Operations Division is responsible for maintenance, security, sanitation, capital improvements, planning, construction, and development of all City parks and natural areas, facilities, trails, and greenways. It is also responsible for beautification of parks and public areas, including landscaping, the administration and maintenance of Rose Hill and White Oak Cemeteries, and urban forestry. This Division is responsible for the establishment, management, and enhancement of City–owned natural resources properties including Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, Wapehani Mountain Bike Park and Leonard Springs Nature Park. Natural resources staff offer outdoor recreational, educational, and volunteer opportunities. • Installed 8,100 sq ft of pavers in front of performance stage at Waldron, • • • • • • • • • • • •
Hill and Buskirk Park to replace heavily impacted turf; replaced pole lights and pillar lights, planted trees and shrubs Installed ADA-compliant ramps and railings at Allison-Jukebox Community Center Demolished former superintendent’s house at Cascades Golf Course Demolished former monastery building at Lower Cascades Park Rebuilt wooden footbridge at Rev. Butler Park, following damage caused by a vehicle driving over the bridge. Installed required road closure signs and Type III barricades in preparation for the Lower Cascades Pilot Road Conversion Complete replacement of existing play equipment at Crestmont Park Removed split rail fencing along Howe Street at Building Trades Park; installed black vinyl chain link fencing Posted COVID-19 related safety signage in all park picnic shelters Tilled and refurbished engineered wood fiber (EWF) playground surfacing at Building Trades, Butler, Highland Village, Park Ridge East, and Southeast Parks Installed historical marker at Peoples Park Erosion and drainage improvement at RCA Community Park, Jackson Creek Trail, and B-Line Trail Repaired and/or replaced shade canopies at Lower Cascades Park, Broadview Park, and B-Line Trail
C
emeteries
• Demolished existing concrete and limestone fountain structure at Rose Hill Cemetery
Operations 2020 Program Activity Shelter Rentals Bryan Park–Henderson 27 Bryan Park–North 22 Bryan Park–Woodlawn 24 Building Trades 2 Sycamore–Lower Cascades 34 Waterfall–Lower Cascades 23 Young Pavilion–Olcott 26 Lions Den–Upper Cascades 27 RCA Community Park -Small Shelter 5 RCA Community Park - Group Shelter 11 Switchyard Park 41 Winslow Woods 14 Total 2020 Rentals 980 There was a 26.9% decrease in the number of shelter rentals from 2019 to 2020 (1,341 to 980), despite the addition of the Switchyard Park shelter.
Program Revenue General Fund $85 Non-Reverting $38,706 Total 2020 Revenue $38,791 Program Expenses General Fund $1,803,530 Non-Reverting $21,991 Total 2020 Expenses $1,825,521
• Ongoing invasive plant removal and planting of native trees and shrubs at Rose Hill and White Oak Cemeteries
• Headstone restoration work on stones in old existing sections of White Oak Cemetery
• Renovation of the Pioneer Memorial Garden at White Oak Cemetery with the installation of a native pollinator garden
• Headstone restoration and installation of section markers at Rose Hill Cemetery
• Planted 175 native roses at Rose Hill Cemetery
4 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
Thirty-five headstones at White Oak Cemetery were restored with assistance from community volunteers.
U
rban Forestry
• • • •
Planted 119 trees and pruned 680 trees in city parks and along city streets. Removed 225 hazardous trees from city parks and streets. Treated city-owned ash trees for the seventh consecutive year for protection against the emerald ash borer. Urban Forester Erin Hatch and Urban Forestry staff Kevin Prince and Haskell Smith attended the Indiana Arborist Association’s annual meeting in Indianapolis. Urban Forester Erin Hatch earned Certified Arborist designation through the International Society of Arboriculture. Planted a total of seven memorial trees in Bryan Park, Lower Cascades Park, RCA Community Park, The Waldron, Hill and Buskirk Park, and Twin Lakes Sports Park. Bloomington was named a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation for the 35th consecutive year. Annual Arbor Day tree planting ceremony was cancelled due to COVID-19.
• • • •
L
andscaping
• Contracted with Eco Logic to manage invasive plants and install native plantings at Miller-Showers Park. • Utilized tractor-mounted mulching equipment to remove 29.25 acres of woody invasive plants at Olcott Park, the Renwick Trail, Clear Creek Trail, B-Line Trail, and the Skate Park at Upper Cascades.
• Planted 290 native trees and shrubs at Olcott Park, 264 at Park Ridge East Park, 467 at Schmalz Farm Park, and 111 • • • • •
at Southeast Park. Assumed landscape maintenance responsibilities for 114,000 square feet of native landscaping at Switchyard Park. Expanded native pollinator garden at Park Ridge East Park by adding 300 native plants Renovated landscape medians at Twin Lakes Sports Park by adding trees, shrubs and perennials. Installed more than 7,755 native plants, sowed 15 acres with native seed, planted 5,125 native bare-root tree saplings, and 1,404 containerized native trees and shrubs at various city parks and city-managed landscape areas. Composted 500 cubic yards of organic yard waste
Urban Forestry/Landscaping/Cemeteries 2020 Program Activity Rose Hill Cemetery Lot Sales (cremation ground lots) 5 Mausoleum niche sales 1 Interments 14 Inurnments 11 Disinterments 0 Plot Surveys 1 White Oak Cemetery Lot Sales 20 Interments 16 Inurnments 0 Disinterments 0
Program Revenue General Fund-Cemeteries $47,750 General Fund-Landscaping/UF $0 Non-Reverting $8,650 Total 2020 Revenue $56,400 Program Expenses General Fund $1,074,067 Non-Reverting $940 Total 2020 Expenses $1,075,007
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 5
N
atural Resources
• Leonard Springs Nature Days and Griffy Lake Nature Days cancelled due to concerns related to the spread of COVID-19. • New metal roof installed at Griffy Lake Boathouse, and 10’ x 10’ wooden platform installed on Nature Trail at Griffy Lake, for use in environmental education programs.
• Successfully completed a 7.7-acre prescribed burn on the north shore of Griffy Lake in April The burn will allow more sunlight to reach the forest floor to create better conditions for regeneration of oak and hickory trees.
• Griffy Lake Boathouse, originally scheduled to open weekends beginning in April, delayed its opening until Memorial Day weekend 2020 due to concerns related to the spread of COVID-19.
• Provided 744 take-home nature activity kits in June and July for Banneker Camp program participants. • Initiated permit process for construction of Griffy Loop Trail and Griffy Lake accessible fishing pier. • Forty deer were removed from Griffy Lake Nature Preserve through the Community Hunting Access Program (CHAP) over three weekends in November.
Adopt-A Programs Adopt-A-Stream 8 volunteers contributed 96.25 hours Adopt-A-Trail 10 volunteers contributed 90.45 hours Adopt-An-Acre 6 volunteers contributed 128.75 hours
Natural Resources 2020 Program Activity Griffy Lake Annual Boat Launch Permits 136 Boat Rentals 4,246 10-Rental Pass/Misc. Rentals 53 Rental Hours 5,753 Daily Launch Permits 1,047 Afterschool Nature Days 91 Banneker Nature Days 744 Environmental Resources Ad Council 50 Great Outdoors 292 Griffy Lake Nature Day 0 Group Visits 5 Hoosier Riverwatch 108 Leonard Springs Nature Day 0 Naturalist at the Market 0 Roving Naturalist 4 Volunteers 11 Total 2020 Participations 12,540
Program Revenue General Fund $0 Non-Reverting $61,655 Total 2020 Revenue $61,655 Program Expenses General Fund $356,217 Non-Reverting $23,981 Total 2020 Expenses $380,199
There was a 41% decrease in the number of natural resources participations (21,269 to 12,540). and a 13% decrease in revenue ($71,161 to $61,655) from 2019 to 2020.
Observation platform at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, built in 2020 for Griffy Lake Nature Days.
A
dult Sports The Bloomington Parks Foundation and Board of Park Commissioners on Oct. 21 gathered at Twin Lakes Sports Park to recognize donors CFC Properties and Duke Energy for their contributions that funded a new sign and landscaping improvements at Twin Lakes Sports Park. Pictured, L-R: Les Coyne, Board of Park Commissioners; Mick Renneisen, Deputy Mayor; Paula McDevitt, Parks and Recreation Department Administrator; and Jim Murphy, President, CFC Properties.
6 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
Sports
The Sports Division is responsible for providing formal and informal sports programs and services for the adults and youth of our community. These activities are provided at Department facilities such as Cascades Golf Course, Frank Southern Ice Arena, Twin Lakes Sports Park, Winslow Sports Complex, and a variety of other Department-owned and operated facilities.
A
quatics
The Aquatics program plans, coordinates, and facilitates recreational swimming, formal lessons, private rentals, special group use, and advanced aquatic and personal safety training for the Bloomington community and its visitors.
Aquatics 2020 Program Activity Bryan Park Pool Admissions 0 Aqua Yoga 0 Passes 0 Pool Rental Attendance 0 Swim Lessons 0 Mills Pool Admissions 0 Aqua Yoga 0 Passes 0 Pool Rental Attendance 0 Swim Lessons 0 Health & Safety First Aid/CPR/AED 0 Lifeguarding 0 Water Safety Instructor 0 Total 2020 Participations
0
Bryan Park Pool Program Revenue General Fund $0 Non-Reverting $1,597 Total 2020 Revenue $1,597 Program Expenses General Fund $27,109 Non-Reverting $47,893 Total 2020 Expenses $75,002 Mills Pool Program Revenue General Fund $0 Non-Reverting $600 Total 2020 Revenue $600 Program Expenses General Fund $14,688 Non-Reverting $31,365 Total 2020 Expenses $46,053
Bryan Park Pool and Mills Pool did not open for public swimming in 2020, but had been prepared to do so with the pre-season purchase of pool chemicals, a pool vacuum, new shade canopies, and water. Expenses also reflect a payment of $24,000 toward the solar panels at Bryan Park Pool. Revenue recorded in 2020 is from the sale of advertising at the pools.
There was a 100% decrease in the number of Aquatics participations (44,746 at Bryan Park Pool and 13,044 at Mills Pool to 0), and a 99% decrease in revenue ($246,432 to $1,597 at Bryan Park Pool and $35,352 to $600 at Mills Pool) from 2019 to 2020
A
dult Sports
Adult Sports plans, coordinates, and facilitates adult sports for the Bloomington community at Twin Lakes Sports Park and local tennis courts.
Adult Sports 2020 Program Activity
Softball 7,554 Softball Tournaments 623 Rentals 21,823 Tennis Lessons 0 Total 2020 Participations 64,510
Program Revenue General Fund $13,562 Non-Reverting $39,589 Total 2020 Revenue $53,151 Program Expenses General Fund $191,953 Non-Reverting $72,274 Total 2020 Expenses $264,227
There was a 53% decrease in adult sports participations (64,510 to 30,000) and a 70% decrease in revenue ($181,260 to $53,151) from 2019 to 2020.
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 7
Youth Sports plans, coordinates, and facilitates operations for Winslow Sports Complex, Frank Southern Ice Arena, and Rev. Butler and Bryan Park ball diamonds. These facilities host Bloomington Junior League Baseball, Monroe County Senior League Baseball, and MCCSC baseball and softball events.
Y
outh Sports
• The USA Softball
Girls Class B 14-Under Fastpitch Northern National Tournament, scheduled to be held in Bloomington in August 2020, was cancelled due to COVID-19.
Youth Sports 2020 Program Activity Youth Sports Bloomington Youth Basketball Recorded in Twin Lakes Recreation Center BJLBA Youth Baseball 2,983 Cutters Soccer-Olcott Park 0 Girls Fastpitch Softball 2,387 Jackson Creek MS Sports 1,839 Monroe Co. Sr. League Baseball 1,013 Rentals (Olcott Park) 1,281 Rentals (Winslow Sports Complex) 938 Tennis 0 Youth Softball Tournament 0 Total 2020 Participations
F
Program Revenue General Fund $10,827 Non-Reverting $1,344 Total 2020 Revenue $12,171 Program Expenses General Fund $229,702 Non-Reverting $54,592 Total 2020 Expenses $284,294
10,441
There was a 64% decrease in the number of youth sports participations (29,113 to 10,441), and a 75% decrease in youth sports revenue ($48,971 to $12,171) from 2019 to 2020.
rank Southern Ice Arena
Frank Southern Ice Arena provides recreational and organized ice skating to ice enthusiasts from Bloomington and surrounding communities.
Frank Southern Ice Arena 2020 Program Activity Adult Hockey League Blades Hockey Bloomington Figure Skating Club Hockey Initiation Holiday Public Skating Ice Show IU Figure Skating IU Hockey IU Learn to Skate The Skating School Private Rentals Public Skating Admissions Special Events Youth Hockey Total 2020 Participations
749 1,758 745 195 563 0 142 1,186 499 2,170 858 6,755 1,298 2,931 19,849
Program Revenue General Fund $123,311 Non-Reverting $55,031 Total 2020 Revenue $322,008 Program Expenses General Fund $313,225 Non-Reverting $100,685 Total 2020 Expenses $413,910
There was a 54% decrease in the number of Frank Southern Ice Arena participations (43,690 to 19,849), and a 44% decrease in revenue ($322,008 to $178,343) from 2019 to 2020.
8 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
Twin Lakes Recreation Center
• The facility was closed from March 17 through June 18 in • • • •
• • • •
2
The Twin Lakes Recreation Center, a 100,000 ft compliance with local health department guidelines related to indoor sports, recreation, and fitness facility, was slowing the spread of COVID-19. Held a Winter 2020 season and an abbreviated Fall 2020 purchased by the department in 2009. Amenities season of Bloomington Youth Basketball for 191 players. include five basketball courts, a turf field, a fitness Followed protocols for safe court rental operations upon area with strength equipment and free weights, a reopening in June, and achieved an all-time record of cardio studio, a mirrored exercise studio, 1/5-mile $168,000 in revenue generated through facility rental. indoor track, and meeting rooms. The department Remained consistent in the generation of membership revenue with $279,000 collected in this category.. offers programs, through the TLRC and other Renovated facility’s HVAC system with the replacement facilities, that help make Bloomington a healthy, of five air handlers with new energy-efficient units and active community. installed three, 20’ diameter ceiling fans for effective air distribution within the building for $338,884 (Park Bond funds). Refurbished front desk reception area with new cabinetry and ADA-compliant countertops for $43,000 (Park Bond funds) Launched new Twin Lakes Recreation Center website at twinlakesrecreation.com. The site was designed to be userfriendly, search engine optimized, attractive and functional to drive revenue-generating traffic to the Twin Lakes Recreation Center. Developed 20 virtual group exercise classes within one week of closing the facility in March due to COVID-19. Virtual classes were available free of charge. The TLRC moved 20 group exercise classes to a blended virtual and inperson format in fall 2020. Partnered with Silver&Fit insurance-based fitness program to host free virtual fitness classes for seniors.
Twin Lakes Recreation Center 2020 Program Activity TLRC Programs 50+ Activities 172 Aerial Silks 336 Bloomington Youth Basketball 2,129 Courts 54,721 Events/Tournaments 14,428 Party Room Rentals 541 Members 33,172 Other Room Rentals 37 Turf 16,007 Tournaments 0 Total 2020 Participations 121,543
Program Revenue General Fund $0 Non-Reverting $361,086 Total 2020 Revenue $361,086 Program Expenses General Fund $286,734 Non-Reverting $929,787 Total 2020 Expenses $1,215,521
There was a 44% decrease in the number of Twin Lakes Recreation Center participations (219,174 to 121,543), and a 42% decrease in revenue ($630,693 to $361,086) from 2019 to 2020.
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 9
Golf Services 2020 Program Activity Rounds Played Adult Season Pass Family Season Pass Senior Season Pass Youth Season Pass Student Season Pass Range Ball Buckets First Tee of Bloomington Junior Golf Total 2020 Participations
28,988 47 3 109 34 17 19,107 128 0 48,433
Program Revenue General Fund $682,689 Non-Reverting $160,798 Total 2020 Revenue $843,488 Program Expenses General Fund $752,233 Non-Reverting $142,148 Total 2020 Expenses $894,382
There was a 34% increase in the number of Cascades Golf Course participations (35,912 to 48,433), and a 22% increase in revenue ($686,780 to $843,488) from 2019 to 2020.
• Cascades Golf Course recorded 28,988 18-hole rounds, a • •
33% increase over the past five-year average of 21,809 18hole rounds. Cascades Golf Course clubhouse was rented 23 times in 2020. Cascades Golf Course has, since 2018, undergone a fairway improvement project to replace its Kentucky Bluegrass/ rye fairways with Meyer Zoysia. The Ridge Course was the first, with 37,000 square yards of fairway replaced with Zoysia in 2018, followed by an additional 37,500 square yards on the Quarry Course in 2019 and 46,920 square yards on the Pine Course in 2020 to finish the project.
10 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
Cascades Golf Course has the objective of maximizing public play with a balance of leagues, tournaments, youth programs, and golf outings. Youth programs include the First Tee of Bloomington and the PGA Junior League.
Recreation
The Recreation Division is responsible for programs, events, and services specially designed for preschoolers, youth, teens, adults, senior adults, and participants with varying degrees of ability. These activities are held at Department facilities such as the Allison-Jukebox Community Center, Banneker Community Center, Switchyard Park, and Showers Common. A number of programs are facilitated through partnership agreements with other community organizations.
Y
outh Programs
All areas within Youth Programs saw impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic in both reduced capacity for programs and buildings, and in the loss of revenue.
Youth Programs is responsible for programs and services designed for youth. These activities take place at the Allison-Jukebox Community Center and satellite sites. Youth Programs also includes the Inclusive Recreation area. The Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department is committed to an inclusive approach to recreation.
Rentals at the Allison-Jukebox Community Center took place only through early March 2020. Kid City Spring Break Days were cancelled, and Kid City Summer Camp registration was limited to a small percentage of its usual capacity. Kid City Break Days in the fall and winter seasons also operated under reduced program capacity. Inclusion services were also reduced, in compliance with Centers for Disease Control physical distancing guidelines, to protect the health and safety of participants and staff Youth Programs • The Allison-Jukebox Community Center hosted the Bloomington Mask Drive in April and May. • Kid City adopted Centers for Disease Control guidelines for child care, and held nine weeks of a modified and safe summer day camp that served 48 unique campers. • Kid City Break Days also followed Centers for Disease Control guidelines, and operated six sessions serving 24 unique campers -Inclusion Recreation Services served four campers in Kid City programs. • Staff created Kid City Recess, a weekday education, recreation and social program for eLearners in grades K through 7. Kid City Recess was held during the fall season at the Allison-Jukebox Community Center. Inclusive Recreation • Served four campers in Kid City Summer Camp and Break Days.
Youth Programs/Inclusion 2020 Program Activity Adult/Family Sailing 133 Ballroom Dancing 82 Break Days 159 Break Days—Inclusion 4 Community Events—Inclusion 4 Kid City Camps—Inclusion 48 Kid City Camps—Total 885 Kid City Recess 112 Rentals 848 Youth Sailing Camp 1,140 Total 2019 Participations 14,565
Program Revenue General Fund $0 Non-Reverting $116,867 Total 2020 Revenue $116,867 Program Expenses General Fund $162,864 Non-Reverting $99,237 Total 2020 Expenses $262,101
There was a 78% decrease in Youth Programs participations (14,565 to 3,415), and a 53% decrease in revenue ($248,728 to $116,867) from 2019 to 2020.
ORIGINAL 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 11
C
ommunity Events
The Community Events area provides an eclectic mix of cultural and outdoor activities and year-round events to provide enjoyment, education, and a sense of community for the diversity of people who make Bloomington their home. Special events and programs, art fairs, Performing Arts Series, Movies in the Park, Farmers’ Market, Community Gardens, and the Holiday Market are examples of the diversity in programming and projects Community Events offers to the Bloomington community. COVID-19 and the restrictions on gathering sizes significantly impacted all community events scheduled in 2020. Staff focused on public safety and the provision of services, and developed an online Farmers’ Market that served farm vendors and customers during the April through November Market season, while an in-person, physically distanced, no-contact Market operated at Showers Common from June through November. The Performing Arts Series of free concerts in city parks was abbreviated, but was able to occur safely with a reservation system to limit crowd sizes, and with face covering and physical distancing requirements in place. Movies in the Parks and other events were held with the same protocols.
• • • • • • • • •
The annual Touch A Truck was transformed into a virtual event with 15 videos made with 19 participant groups posted every half hour on the Parks and Recreation Facebook page. The video can be viewed on the Parks & Recreation YouTube channel. A safe alternative to the annul Trick or Treat Trail, the Kids Halloween Party in the Park was held in Switchyard Park and included a take-home craft/activity bag, a Halloween movie and costumed characters. A total of 215 people attended. The Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market created an online Market with drive-through pick up, and a safe and physically distanced in-person Market with limited numbers of vendors and attendees. The Tuesday Market moved successfully to Switchyard Park and followed the same no-contact and physical distancing guidelines. The Community Garden program opened a new site at Switchyard Park featuring 39 raised garden beds. All available plots at all three garden locations were rented, allowing 198 unique gardeners to tend to 245 rented plots. Sponsorship revenue doubled (from $12,000 to $24,000) for the Performing Arts Series in 2020 thanks to support from local businesses. The increase allowed for diverse, quality performances at Switchyard Park and expansion of the Performing Arts Series. Five Movies in the Parks and 18 concerts were offered with new safety procedures such as online pre-registration for contact tracing, marked seating circles, and microphone sanitization guidelines. Community Events partnered with Code and Key Escape Room to run a successful outdoor escape room with a “Stranger Things” theme. The program sold out, and a total of 52 groups participated. The Glow in the Dark Scavenger Hunt was created to provide recreation opportunities that met COVID-19 safety protocols. One hundred forty participants searched Switchyard Park for letters made from glow sticks, and used the letters to spell out phrases. The Bloomington Pumpkin Launch held two separate launch sessions to limit crowd sizes and adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols.
Kids Halloween Party in the Park Main Stage and Performance Lawn at Switchyard Park
12 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
Bloomington Pumpkin Launch Monroe County Fairgrounds
Community Events 2020 Program Activity 50+ Expo CANCELLED 0 A Fair of the Arts CANCELLED 0 Bloomington Street Fair CANCELLED 0 Cemetery Tours 108 Children’s Expo CANCELLED 0 Coffee & Canvas CANCELLED 0 Drool in the Pool CANCELLED 0 Farmers’ Market—Saturday 38,569 Farmers’ Market—Saturday Vendors 1,348 Farmers’ Market—Tuesday 1,282 Farmers’ Market—Tuesday Vendors 115 Festival of Ghost Stories 132 Flurry Scurry Pajama Run 12 Fourth of July Parade CANCELLED 0 Garden Classes 25 Glow in the Dark Scavenger Hunt 140 Holiday Market 1,188 Homegrown Indiana Farm Tours 0 Howl at the Moon Dog Walk 65 Junk in the Trunk 603 Messy Mania 56 Mobile Stage Rentals 0 Movies in the Park 1,447 Nature Sounds 59 Outdoor Escape Room 260 Peoples Park Concerts 627 Pop-Up Programs 84 Performing Arts Series 995 Pumpkin Launch 327 Seusspicious Behavior 150 Slip ‘N Foam CANCELLED 0 Spring Fling CANCELLED 0 Summer Kickoff Celebration CANCELLED 0 Touch a Truck (held virtually) 0 Kids Halloween Party in the Park 210 Winter Palooza 204 Yappy Hours CANCELLED 0 Total 2020 Participations 47,446
Program Revenue—Community Events General Fund $914 Non-Reverting $51,674 Total 2020 Revenue $52,588 Program Expenses—Community Events General Fund $408,125 Non-Reverting $47,723 Total 2020 Expenses $455,849
Program Revenue—Farmers’ Market General Fund $0 Non-Reverting $41,929 Total 2019 Revenue $41,929 Program Expenses—Farmers’ Market General Fund $8,420 Non-Reverting $140,291 Total 2020 Expenses $148,712
There was a 73% decrease in the number of Community Events participations (180,968 to 47,446), and a 56% decrease in revenue ($119,527 to $52,588) from 2019 to 2020. There was a 66% decrease in the number of Farmers’ Market participations (122,944 to 41,314), and a 58% decrease in revenue ($100,456 to $41,929) from 2019 to 2020.
Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market Showers Common
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 13
The Banneker Community Center is a Bloomington Parks and Recreation facility that is dedicated to inspiring youth to maximize their potential through safe and effective programming, and to provide programs and activities that connect the Bloomington community through a cultural and nutritional hub.
B
anneker Community Center
• Facility renovations funded by the $243,600 Regional Opportunities Initiative grant received in 2019 included all new • • • •
furniture, updated kitchen, library shelves and benches, iPads, a projector, screen, and speakers for the gym, epoxy flooring in gym hallway, and a new 14-passenger minibus. Banneker was one of 15 agencies in the country to receive a National Recreation and Park Association Nutrition Hub grant in 2019. The grant award totals $80,000 over two years, and focuses on a community health needs assessment and programming to connect underserved residents to nutrition-based services and healthy foods at Banneker. The summer Banneker Camp adapted to deliver breakfast and dinner to more than 85 children each day. In addition to nutritious food, Banneker staff also delivered recreational activity packets and supplies. A record 10,288 meals were delivered to households, 86% included children who qualify for free or reduced school meals. The Banneker Community Center Advisory Council, a resident-led board that serves as a connection to the broader Bloomington community, proposed and developed the City’s first Black Lives Matter mural. The mural was painted October 24 on Elm Street beside the Banneker Community Center by a team of 83 community volunteers. Banneker acquired a total of $18,934 in donations in 2020
Banneker Community Center 2020 Program Activity After-School Programs 3,254 Break Days 12 Gym Drop-ins 238 Drop-ins 791 Family Resource Center 434 Food Service Program 10,552 IU School of Nursing 80 LEARN Homeschool 240 Monroe Co. Comm. School Corp. 30 Other Events 20 Paid Rentals 2,063 Preschool Programs 209 Special Olympics/Life Designs 100 Teen Night Owls/Mentoring 12 Waived Rentals 245 Total 2020 Participations 18,326
Program Revenue General Fund $6,026 Non-Reverting $19,524 Total 2020 Revenue $25,550 Program Expenses General Fund $309,347 Non-Reverting $19,492 Total 2020 Expenses $328,839
There was a 36% decrease in the number of Banneker Community Center participations (28,681 to 18,326), and a 7% decrease in revenue ($27,609 to $25,550) from 2019 to 2020.
Banneker’s ROI grants funded the purchase of all-new furniture for the facility’s third-floor Family Resource Center.
14 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
B
uskirk-Chumley Theater Buskirk-Chumley Theater 2020 Program Activity Days of Use Rentals 35 BCT Presents 21 Participations 2020 attendance BCT Presents attendance Rental attendance
4,701 4,974 Photo courtesy of Indiana Public Media.
There was a 83% decrease in Buskirk-Chumley Theater attendance (58,287 to 9,675) from 2019 to 2020.
H
ealth and Wellness The Health and Wellness area provides opportunities through programs, events and partnerships to encourage physical activity, to communicate the benefits of healthy choices and to promote Department resources that support healthy lifestyles.
• The Board of Park Commissioners and Monroe County Health Department entered a partnership agreement in February • • • • •
for a year-long pilot program to install sharps containers in Seminary Park, Rev. Ernest D. Butler Park, and Building Trades Park to increase safe disposal options for used hypodermic needles. Offered 20 free, outdoor fitness classes at Switchyard Park from May through October with more than 225 participations. Assisted in the development of the Parks and Recreation Department’s COVID-19 reopening plans, used by each program area to outline steps to safely resume operations and adapt to changing pandemic preparation guidelines. Collaborated with partner IU Health to adapt the Get Onboard Active Living (GOAL) program to a virtual format, and successfully implemented the virtual, six-week program for five children and their families. Partnered with IU Health Bloomington, the Monroe County Health Department, and Centerstone of Indiana to launch the “Public Health in Parks” initiative to provide harm reduction, public health services, and connections to social services for people who spend their days in city parks. Six hourly park use permits were approved for four unique applicants in 2020.
Health and Wellness 2020 Program Activity Active Living Coalition 7 Veterans Day 5K Run/Ruck (virtual) 5 Bryan Park Kids Triathlon (virtual) 5 Employee Health Fair 0 Get Onboard Active Living (G.O.A.L.) 74 Jazzercise & Switchyard Park Fitness 226 Rigamajig & Imagination Playground 0 Tai Chi 0 Walking Club CANCELLED 0 Well Checks CANCELLED 0 Total 2020 Participations 317
Program Revenue General Fund $0 Non-Reverting $228 Bloomington Police Department Downtown Outreach Grant $18,021 Total 2020 Revenue $18,249 Program Expenses General Fund $87,485 Non-Reverting $18,292 Total 2020 Expenses $105,778
There was a 89% decrease in the number of Health and Wellness program participations (3,107 to 317), and a 90% decrease in revenue ($2,350 to $228) from 2019 to 2020.
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 15
S
witchyard Park
Switchyard Park, a 65-acre former railroad switchyard on the city’s south side, was imagined over decades and developed over years as a destination park. Officially opened in 2019, the park includes amenities that appeal to a variety of active and passive park users, and features landscaping and facilities that focus on green initiatives.
COVID-19 impacts on Switchyard Park were felt primarily through restrictions on crowd sizes that forced the cancellation of weddings, trade shows, musical performances and corporate events scheduled in Switchyard Park and its 11,000 ft2 Pavilion.
• • • • • •
The final pieces of play equipment and poured-in-place safety surfacing were installed at the Switchyard Park playground in February. The playground was closed during the installation, and remained closed through June 12 as a safety precaution to limit the spread of COVID-19. The Switchyard Park Pavilion boasts a ‘green roof ’ (a portion of the roof is covered with vegetation) consisting of non-native, low-growing sedums planted in a special soil blend approximately four inches deep. The green roof is dependent on rainwater. Green roofs help cool buildings, and absorb rainwater. All 39 raised garden beds at the Switchyard Park Community Gardens were rented for the 2020 growing season. The spray pad at the Community Foundation Switchyard Plaza opened June 30. The spray pad is a system of nearly 90 nozzles and misters that spray water into the air. The spray pad is an accessible facility that gives visitors of all abilities an opportunity to interact with the water, which is treated in a closed, chlorinated system. The Switchyard Park dog park opened August 28, with two fenced areas separated for large and small dogs. The large dog area is approximately 3.5 acres; the small dog area is about 2.5 acres. The Bloomington Symphony Orchestra presented the very first concert to be held on the main performance stage in the heart of the park with a concert on August 23.
16 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
B
ond Projects
The Bloomington City Council and the Board of Park Commissioners authorized the issuance of five Park District Bonds in 2016, and three Park District Bonds (“Bicentennial Bonds”) in 2018, intended to improve City Parks by upgrading infrastructure, developing multi-use trails, and planting trees.
Cascades Golf Course 2016 Park District Bonds • $243,314 • Install Zoysia turf on Pine Course, completed in 2020 2020 Projects Crestmont Park • $303,056 • Construct new playground, completed in 2020 Twin Lakes Sports Park • $77,900 • Resurface parking lot Griffy Lake Nature Preserve • $294,000 • Design and develop accessible fishing pier Bryan Park • $25,895 • Resurface tennis courts, completed in 2020. Bryan Park Pool • $18,681.25 • Install fiberglass liner, completed in 2020
Concept drawing of the accessible fishing pier across Headley Road from the Griffy Lake boathouse.
2018 Bicentennial “Trees & Trails” Bonds
Griffy Lake Nature Preserve • $107,810 • Design three-mile Griffy Loop Hiking Trail Cascades Park Trail • $2,100,000 • Pilot project converting .6 mile of Old State Road 37 North through Lower Cascades Park into a bicycle/pedestrian only trail began March 2020. Duke Energy Trail • $1,400,000 • 1.35 miles • Paved, accessible trail from west side of Rogers Street to east side of Weimer Road using Duke power line easement. Street Tree Planting • $800,000 • Tree planting locations to be determined by tree canopy analysis data.
The Duke Energy Trail will connect trails at Switchyard Park and RCA Community Park 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 17
A dministration
The Administration Division implements policy as set forth by the Board of Park Commissioners.
• Contracted with Troyer Group, Inc. from South
• • • •
•
Bend, Ind. for $72,500 to develop the 2021-25 Parks and Recreation Department Master Plan. Administration organized 17 different online stakeholder meetings to help gather public input for the plan. Four staff members were provided monthly on-line training through Vermont System’s RecChat. Fifteen Park Board Packets were distributed to the Board of Park Commissioners, containing 147 contracts and partnerships for review and approval. Additional online program registration opportunities were added to protect the health and safety of customer service staff and customers. Office staffing was reduced to one staff member per day to provide in-person customer service while maintaining safety protocols. Remaining staff was available to provide remote support. Processed 889 COVID-19 related program refunds totaling $77,506.83.
C
Administration 2020 Program Activity
There was a 56% decrease in Administration Division revenue ($37,890 to $16,437) from 2019 to 2020.
Program Revenue General Fund $22 Non-Reverting $16,415 Total 2020 Revenue $16,437 Program Expenses General Fund $754,942 Non-Reverting $13,276 Total 2020 Expenses $768,218
The Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department lost a dear friend and community treasure in 2020. Joan Olcott 1929-2020
Community Relations coordinates graphic design, promotions,
ommunity Relationsmarketing, sponsors, and volunteers.
• Designed and completed 370 print and digital marketing
• • •
•
pieces, of a total 531 design projects scheduled; 160 projects were cancelled due to COVID-19-related program cancellations. Increased Facebook followers by 9% (9,004 to 9,829 followers) in 2020. Organized a Virtual Programming Team in response to demand for online programming. The team created more than 400 YouTube videos for social media. Obtained $37,730 in monetary sponsorships and facility advertising sales from 48 different businesses and individuals for Parks and Recreation programs and events, a 42% decrease in sponsorship revenue from 2019. Managed 1,369 volunteers who contributed a total of 7,103 hours of service to the Department.
Cub Scouts volunteer to mulch garden plots for the winter at Willie Streeter Community Gardens.
Park Partner Award for outstanding partnerships IU School of Optometry, for support of the annual Children’s Expo Dick’s Sporting Goods, for support of Bloomington Youth Basketball and tee ball leagues IU Credit Union, for long-term support of various programs
18 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
Bravo Award-presented to outstanding volunteers Eunice Pak & Seojin Kwon, ongoing assistance with Community Events Cathy Meyer, Monroe County Parks and Recreation, for assistance with natural resources programming
Partnerships The Parks and Recreation Department entered into 23 partnership and cooperative service agreements to maximize available resources and avoid duplication of services. The Department is proud to partner and collaborate with these organizations in 2020: • Area 10 Agency on Aging • BCT Management, Inc. • Bloomington Blades High School Hockey • Bloomington Blades Youth Hockey • Bloomington Community Orchard • Bloomington Figure Skating Club • Bloomington Football Club • Boys and Girls Club • Buskirk-Chumley Theater Management Co. • Centerstone • David Prall/Bloomington Soccer LLC • Hilltop Gardens at Indiana University • IU Health Bloomington • Monroe County Health Department • Monroe County History Center • Monroe County-Identify and Reduce Invasive Species (MC-IRIS) • Monroe County Public Library • MC Tennis • Middle Way House • Ryder Magazine & Film Series • Sassafras Audubon Soceity • Summer Star Foundation for Nature Art and Humanity Inc. • The Code and Key Escape Rooms
Grants and Awards The Department actively pursues grant opportunities to supplement funding received through other sources. Regional Opportunity Initiatives .. . .. ... . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . $243,600 Banneker Community Center National Recreation and Park Association Parks as Community Nutrition Hubs: Expanding Access to Healthy Foods Grant . .. . .. ... . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . .. . .. ... . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . .. . .. ... . .$80,000 Banneker Community Center Bloomington Health Foundation. .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . $79,976 Grant to triple Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program benefits for Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) participants at the Bloomington Farmers’ Market Monroe County Community School Corporation 21st Century Community Learning Center (2020-21 school year) .. . .. .$43,000 Banneker Community Center Anonymous Donation for 14-passenger Minibus. .. .. . ... . $39,995 Banneker Community Center U.S. Department of Agriculture Summer Food Service Program. .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. .$33,345 Banneker Community Center Indiana Department of Natural Resources Community Hunting Access Program (CHAP) . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. $25,000 Natural Resources Indiana Department of Natural Resources Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) Grant .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . .. . $11,600 Griffy Lake Aquatic Vegetation Management Plan Summer Star Foundation for Nature Art and Humanity Inc. .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. .. .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. .$4,239 Griffy Lake Nature Days Summer Star Foundation for Nature Art and Humanity Inc. .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. .. .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . ..$3,659 Banneker Summer Nature Days Indiana Department of Natural Resources Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) Grant .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . .. . ..$3,583 Invasive Aquatic Vegetation Management IAA Gold Leaf Award—Indiana Arborist Association in partnership with the Indiana Society of Arboriculture National Arbor Day Foundation Tree City USA Designation— 36th consecutive year
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 19
Staff
Parks and Recreation Department Staff photo taken February 2020 The Department has a professional and connected staff of long-standing members of our community dedicated to providing quality parks, recreation and sports services.
Administration Paula McDevitt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Administrator Ellen Campbell. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Graphic Designer Kim Clapp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Office Manager Missy Grabowski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Customer Service Representative Tiffany Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Customer Service Representative Brenda McGlothlin. . . . . . . . . . . . Customer Service Representative Sarah Owen. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Community Relations Coordinator Ethan Philbeck . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Customer Service Representative Julie Ramey. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Community Relations Manager Operations & Natural Resources Dave Williams. . . . . . . . . . . . Operations and Development Director John Barnes. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . Master MEO Marie Becker. .. .. .. .. .. Urban Greenspace Working Foreperson Jon Behrman. . . . . . . . . . . Natural Resources Working Foreperson Steve Cotter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Natural Resources Manager Barb Dunbar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Operations Division Coordinator Don Foddrill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Facilities Working Foreperson Dave Fox. . . . . . . . . Sanitation and Grounds Working Foreperson Curtis Gilstrap..Cemeteries/Landscaping Working Foreperson Erin Hatch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Urban Forester Mike Hollingsworth. .. .. .. .. .. Facilities Maintenance Mechanic Mark Marotz . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . Operations Superintendent Kevin Prince. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Urban Forestry Working Foreperson Phil Paris. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Laborer II Anthony Robertson. . . . . . . . . . Equipment Maintenance Mechanic Dennis Robertson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Master MEO Jim Salisbury. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..Laborer II Haskell Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Urban Forestry Laborer II Joanna Sparks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . City Landscaper Rebecca Swift. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Natural Resources Coordinator Rob Turpin . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Operations Crew Leader 20 2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report
Recreation Becky Higgins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Recreation Services Director Leslie Brinson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Community Events Manager Cory Hawkins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Program Specialist Jess Klein. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health & Wellness Coordinator Sarah Mullin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Program Specialist Erik Pearson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Program Specialist Bill Ream. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Program/Facility Coordinator Crystal Ritter. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .Community Events Coordinator Amy Shrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inclusive Recreation Coordinator Ashley Spurgeon. .. .. .. .Community Events Program Specialist Marcia Veldman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Program/Facility Coordinator Sports John Turnbull. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sports Division Director Aaron Craig . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Golf Facilities Manager Daren Eads . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .Program/Facility Coordinator James Kelb. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Golf Course Superintendent Dan Kluesner. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Sports Laborer Chris Lamb . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Athletic Fields Working Foreperson Hsiung Marler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General Manager Switchyard Park Scott Pedersen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Youth Sports Coordinator James Richardson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MEO Jason Sims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Golf Programs Coordinator Megan Stark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Membership Coordinator Mark Sterner . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Sports Area Manager Maggie Tull. . . . . . . . . . . . . Switchyard Park Working Foreperson Dee Tuttle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sports Facility/Programs Manager Long-time Parks & Recreation employees Marcia Veldman (L) and Dave Williams retired from public service in 2020.
M
essage from the Board of Park Commissioners It was late winter, almost spring when COVID-19 came to Bloomington. All of us were suddenly thrown into a world we had never known before. Most of the activities we regularly engaged in were closed. But there was a bright spot. As the weeks wore on, and the weather improved, people throughout Bloomington began to flock to the city’s parks in greater numbers than ever. Whether it was bicycling on the B-Line trail, hiking around Griffy Lake, playing Frisbee at Bryan Park, or getting in a few sets of tennis at RCA Community Park, outdoor spaces became a vital respite from the restrictions of pandemic life. This past year also meant that the Parks and Recreation Department had to cancel or modify many of the more than 300 programs it presents in a year. The department worked quickly to offer as many recreation opportunities as safely as possible. The pandemic made it more clear than ever that it’s in our green and growing parks, and along our tree-lined streets and trails, that our community comes together.
Board of Park Commissioners President Kathleen Mills (center) helps cut the ribbon to open the new playground at Crestmont Park on Nov. 9, 2020.
We continue to be grateful to our friends at the Bloomington Parks Foundation who distribute tens of thousands of dollars each year to ensure children in Bloomington have the opportunity to learn to swim, take part in ice skating lessons, or have an activity-filled week at Kid City Summer Camp. Youth that experience city parks and trails from a young age are the adults of tomorrow who will continue to advocate for Parks and Recreation properties and programs. In 2021, we renew our commitment to affordable parks opportunities for all local residents. The Board of Park Commissioners is grateful, too, to long-time Board member Les Coyne. Coyne stepped down from his seat on the Board of Park Commissioners after four decades. During his years of service, Coyne made significant positive impacts to the Parks and Recreation Department and in so many areas of the community.
We hope that Bloomington’s parks and recreation opportunities have helped you through this troubling past year. As the pandemic starts to recede, we look forward to once again offering you a full slate of lessons, camps, outdoor films, and fun activities for all ages and lifestyles. Please enjoy all that Bloomington’s 2,342 acres of parks land has to offer. Kathleen Mills, President Board of Park Commissioners
M ission Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department will provide essential services, facilities and programs necessary for the positive development and well-being of the community through the provision of parks, greenways, trails and recreational facilities while working in cooperation with other service providers in the community in order to maximize all available resources.
Vision
We strive to provide the highest quality parks, recreation services and greenspace to enhance the quality of life for our community.
Values
diversity l service l respect l stewardship l quality l accountability l progressive l responsive
Mayor
John Hamilton
Administrator Paula McDevitt
Board of Park Commissioners Les Coyne Israel Herrera Kathleen Mills Ellen Rodkey Lisa Thatcher
Bloomington Parks Foundation 2020 Board of Directors Jim Murphy, President Doug Bruce Sally Baird John Carter Les Coyne Ted Ferguson Chris Hawk John Hurlow Debbie Lemon Erin Martoglio Aaron Mobley Tony Mobley Ben Niehoff Valerie Pena Chris Quackenbush Tony Rastall Ellen Rodkey Gary Scott David Skirvin Karin St. John Jon Tichenor Travis Vencel
Emeritus Members Frank Barnhart Doris Brineman Steve Ferguson Art Lotz Pat Mulholland Joan Olcott Gayle Stuebe
RCA Community Park Trail
