Rockwall Master Plan 2010 - 2020 by City of Rockwall

2010 - 2020 APRIL 2010

Prepared By:

PLANNING & DESIGN, LLC

Tyler, TX 903.597.6606

City of Rockwall, Texas Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Table of Contents I.

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

II.

Methodology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

III.

Community Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

IV.

Goals & Objectives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Parks, Open Spaces & Trail Classifications & Standards. . . . . . . . . 13

VI.

Inventory of Areas & Facilities.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

VII. Needs Assessment & Identification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 VIII. Plan Implementation & Prioritization of Needs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 IX.

Implementation - Existing & Available Mechanisms. . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Conclusions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Appendix - Northshore Park Conceptual Site Plan - Caruth Lake Conceptual Site Plan - Lakeside Park Conceptual Site Plan - Aerial Photos of: Myers Park Shores Neighborhood Park Highway 66 Boat Ramp The Park at Foxchase Emerald Bay Park Hickory Ridge Park

INTRODUCTION The purpose of this plan is to provide an information base to guide the City of Rockwall in decisions related to parks, recreation, and open space within the study area, to assist in the implementation of those decisions, and to set guidelines for future park and open space development that are feasible for Rockwall in accordance with the desires of its citizens.

The following pages contain goals and objectives for the city's park and open space system, the methodology used to develop the plan and an inventory of existing facilities which make up the local park network. Also included is an analysis of local needs, a list of parks, recreation, and open space priorities, and an implementation program developed to guide the City in accomplishing the proposed projects within the plan’s time frame.

Although the plan covers the ten year time frame of 2010-2020, some of the recommendations and graphics apply to the ultimate system of parks, trails, and open spaces. In many instances, the near term recommendations make more sense when the long range vision is understood.

The Parks and Open Space Master Plan was developed in concert with the Home Town 2000 Comprehensive Plan and the 2007 plan update to ensure compatible long range planning for all of the components that ultimately shape the City of Rockwall.

II. METHODOLOGY

This Parks and Open Space Master Plan is a continuation of the park planning process started with the 1986 plan. In 1997 and again in 2002, new Parks and Recreation Master Plans were developed and adopted. The 1997 plan included extensive citizen surveys which helped establish the desires and needs for various recreational facilities. For this plan, the results from the 2008 Rockwall Citizen Survey were used, in conjunction with a series of meetings with neighborhood groups held throughout the city, and input from the professional staff of the city.

Additionally, the analysis of needs for this plan used data gathered during the development of the Home Town 2000 Plan - a Comprehensive Plan for Rockwall. The planning area used for the Parks and Open Space Master Plan is consistent with the planning area used for the Home Town 2000 Comprehensive Plan, Thoroughfare Plan and Future Land Use Plan. In this manner, the city can proactively plan for parks and open space in residential areas currently outside of the city limits that is consistent with the other development plans mentioned above. The planning area encompasses land anticipated to be within the corporate city limits of Rockwall in the foreseeable future. Rockwall County’s northern boundary serves as the planning area boundary to the north while the City of Heath’s ETJ serves as the planning area boundary to the south. Lake Ray Hubbard is the western boundary of the planning area and the City of Fate’s ETJ is the eastern boundary of the planning area.

The initial step in evaluating the parks and open space system in Rockwall was to update the inventory of existing parks, open space and recreational resources within the planning area. This inventory not only included existing City parks, but also included other recreational opportunities available to the public, such as public school campuses and private park facilities that function as a public facility. The developed park acreage was compared to the existing population in order to establish the current level of service. The existing parks were evaluated against the publication Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Guidelines published by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) to allow for an objective review of the park system.

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Since Rockwall is a unique community, the success of the plan hinged on obtaining information from the citizens themselves. To obtain this data, public hearings and neighborhood input meetings were held. A citizen’s survey - The 2008 Rockwall Citizen Attitude Survey - was conducted citywide to gauge the desires of the residents on local issues, including Parks and Open Space. Finally, interviews were conducted with the Mayor and each member of the City Council to further identify needs in the areas of parks, sports and open space. The meetings, public hearings, interviews, and citizen survey provided an overview of the needs and priorities for park facilities as identified by the citizens of Rockwall. The Parks Board ranked desired recreational facilities in order of importance.

A list of potential park projects was developed that included new parks, trail projects, and natural open spaces. Once the master project list was developed and refined, each project was scheduled, preliminary budget estimates were generated, and possible funding sources were identified.

It should be noted that the professional staff of the City of Rockwall was constantly involved through the "citizen based" planning process to insure the plan resulted in a feasible and balanced park program for the city, that once implemented will fully serve the active and passive recreational needs of the community.

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III. COMMUNITY PROFILE

Rockwall's Sub-Regional Location Rockwall County's land area of 128.7 square miles classifies it as the smallest county in the State. Population in the County has increased by 68.25% from a 1990 Census population of 25,604 to the Census 2000 population of 43,080. Similarly, the City of Rockwall saw a 75% population increase from a 1990 Census estimate of 10,486 to a Census 2000 estimate of 17,976. According to the Rockwall Planning Department the current population is estimated to be 35,000. The virtual doubling of the population within the last nine years is due to rapid development and the annexation of developments previously outside of the city limits of Rockwall. The projected 2020 population is expected to be 47,500 according to the North Central Texas Council of Governments. The ultimate population of Rockwall is expected to be 66,200.

The City of Rockwall is the county seat and its location on the eastern shore of Lake Ray Hubbard and either side of Interstate Highway 30 has made it an attractive area for both residential and nonresidential development. This latter growth is occurring in a corridor along the Interstate and will likely continue to be an area of major employment and business in the subregional area.

The City of Rockwall is the largest of four cities in Rockwall County. The other cities in the County include Heath, Fate and Royse City, which lies in Rockwall, Collin and Hunt Counties. The region can expect the Interstate Highway's influence on access into the metroplex area and the quality of life found in each community to continue similar future annual rates of growth. Eventually, this growth will dissipate into lesser developed areas of the County.

Immigration of people into the Rockwall area will continue to impact local recreational facilities and programs. Recreational facilities throughout the county, both public and private, have sensed the pressure for additional spaces. The 2008 Citizens Survey conducted by Turco & Associates illustrated a need and support for additional recreational facilities to accommodate Rockwall’s escalating population.

The continued evaluation of the local park system and recreational trends will ensure the provision of needed recreational facilities for all of Rockwall’s residents.

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Characteristics of the Present and Future Population The City of Rockwall's population has increased an overwhelming 97 percent over the past nine years. As population increases, the demand for recreational facilities can also be expected to increase. An awareness of the growth being experienced by the City is two-fold; (1) the need to plan for new facilities and programs, and (2) the continuing need to fiscally plan for financing these facilities.

The 2008 Survey of Citizen Attitudes About Rockwall identifies suggestions for new services or facilities. These comments are helpful in planning facilities and programs. Likewise, Census data can provide some input to the planning process.

Existing Population Characteristics The following age, income and ethnic characteristics for Rockwall were taken from Census 2000. Although this data was gathered nine years ago, it is useful in examining a part of the community's population profile which can provide some guidance for determining the types and extent of facilities now and in the short term future. 1. Age Distribution - The City of Rockwall generally had a younger population in 1990. <

Median age has risen from 35 years old in 1990 to 36.6 years old in 2000 compared to the State median of 32.3 years,

The 1,739 persons over age 65 represented 9.7 percent of the population,

Approximately one-third of the population was in the family formation years of 25-44,

About 30 percent of the population is under the age of 20.

The above values are very comparable to those throughout the State. The age distribution does not particularly place recreational planning emphasis on one age group.

2. Income - Household income is a means of evaluating the financial well being in a community and assist to understand the types of recreational facilities or programs which may be needed more than others. <

The median household income in 2000 was $65,411, up from $44,130 in 1990.

The state median household income for 2000 was $39,927.

Census 2000 results show 6.8 percent of households in Rockwall earn less than $15,000.

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3. Ethnic Breakdown - Census 2000 indicates Rockwall to have a diverse population. The ethnic breakdown for the City of Rockwall is 88% Caucasian, 6% Hispanic, 3% African American, 1% Native American, 1% Asian, and 1% Other.

Future Population There are two features of the City's future population which are of interest to developing the park system; (1) the ultimate population in the planning area, and (2) the growth rate or forecasts for specific periods in the future. Both features have been developed within the text of the Future Land Use Plan and are used herein:

1. Population holding capacity is the term used to describe an area when fully developed. This value may be difficult to reach since it implies residential land to be fully developed, which does not often occur. But the value does provide a maximum number of people which may require recreational service. The forecast for ultimate population is obtained by adding to the present population the future population projection anticipated based on the number of acres of vacant land times a residential acreage density factor. The holding capacity of 66,184 persons for the City's future value could be attained within the planning area, but is not tied to a period in time.

2. The future growth which can be reasonably forecasted is important for planning space and facilities. The expected recreational demands from this growth and that which may currently exist but not met can be addressed through physical and capital planning programs. Once demands are identified, the process can begin to accomplish the task of furnishing services to meet the demand.

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Planning area population projections for this plan are set forth below in Table 1 for 2010 through 2020: TABLE 1 PLANNING AREA POPULATION PROJECTIONS Year

Projection

Five Year Change

2010

35,000 (estimate)

2014

40,600

5,600

2020

47,500

6,900

Source: City of Rockwall & NCTCOG Estimates are for the City of Rockwall

The desirability of Rockwall as a place to reside and the convenience of access into the metroplex will continue to impact population growth in the foreseeable future.

Elements Influencing Planning For Parks

The purpose of the park system is to furnish recreational space and facilities to the citizens residing in the community. This close tie to citizens implies the system should be responsive to their needs for space, facilities and programs. Satisfying the recreational spacial needs is often influenced by various elements, both man-made and natural. These elements tend to shape how the urban area is developed over time and where it becomes populated. Therefore, since park space should be closely oriented to the users, or citizens, the effect of these elements on the City's short- and long-range recreational services should be identified.

The elements affecting the development of a park system are usually similar among cities, but how they impact the planning for the local system is important to be understood. As an example, understanding the locations and characteristics of a flood prone area can be a positive for the system, if the desire, or need, is for open space and trails within the system.

Elements of Community Development Influencing The Park Plan

Identified are several existing elements or proposals for the future which have varying degrees of importance to the planning for Rockwall's system. Their relationship and characteristics help to structure the urban area

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where people will reside and where park space will likely be required to provide opportunities for quality recreation.

Existing features have and can be expected to have a continuing influence on the City's urban structure. !

Lake Ray Hubbard - The Lake forms the City's western boundary and as a result, the predominant direction for development to occur is in an easterly direction, both north and south of the central core, concentrating the need of recreational space primarily in only two quadrants of the City. The Lake adds the water dimension to local recreational opportunities.

Corporate Boundary - The city limit is a changing boundary within which the responsibility for recreational services occur.

Plan Jurisdiction - This boundary is defined since it identifies what is now perceived to be the limits within which the City's ultimate area will be contained, and likewise, the planning area for future recreational space. The boundary is tied to the future planning area set forth by the Future Land Use Plan.

Developed Area - The pattern of present development is shown on the Park Districts Map as residential and nonresidential. The distribution and location of present residential dwellings is important to be recognized in the early development of the park system. These are the areas where recreational needs are generated and where recreation space and facilities should be located to provide good service to existing users. The north-south elongation of development along the eastern shore of the Lake diminishes the ability of the City to have a compact development character, thus decreasing the opportunity to have fewer and larger recreational spaces to service the present population.

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Topography and Soil Conservation Lakes - Topography within the planning area north of I.H. 30 slopes west to the Lake, except in the far northeast corner where the land slopes north. South of the Interstate, land generally falls south to Buffalo Creek. These slopes have resulted in the various creek alignments and the numerous Soil Conservation Service Lakes throughout the city. Both elements, some of which have flood prone areas, can become important in the park plan as aesthetic features and linkages for pedestrian trails between park spaces.

Highway System - Three principal highways in the planning area are Interstate Highway 30 and State Highways 66 and 205. I.H. 30 provides excellent access into the metropolitan area and is a positive feature for the City's growth, thus increasing the demand for park space and facilities. However, portions of the interstate acts as a pedestrian barrier, bisecting the city into two separate halves. S.H. 66 also has linkage across the Lake. State Highway 205's tie to S.H. 78 just north of the City creates a route for traffic having an origin or destination in southern sections of Collin County or to U.S. Highway 75 in Plano. S.H. 276, FM 549 and John King Blvd. will impact residential and nonresidential growth in and around Rockwall, which will continue to affect the planning of future recreational opportunities.

The Parks and Open Space Master Plan is one of several plans which help guide the City regarding future development in Rockwall.

Therefore, the plan must be coordinated with the other

development plans, such as the Thoroughfare plan and the Future Land Use Plan, to provide a comprehensive set of guidelines for future development. Two important elements of the Plan and of major importance to the park system are discussed below. !

Thoroughfare Plan - The community's thoroughfare or major street plan defines the existing and future traffic arteries and delineates neighborhood areas. The residential neighborhood is generally considered to be a service unit requiring recreational space and facilities. Most neighborhoods are bounded by major thoroughfares and contain a population base sufficient to warrant the expenditure for land and facilities to serve the surrounding residential area. Occasionally, because of the configuration of the thoroughfare system, more than one smaller area is combined with an area of similar size or larger to form one neighborhood unit. The neighborhoods, as formed by the thoroughfares, will be discussed further in the Plan.

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The Future Land Use Plan - The City's adopted Future Land Use Plan indicates what is now perceived to be the best future use of land throughout the planning area by utilizing several land use categories. The Land Use Plan has been slightly modified by combining categories to indicate only two major types of land use; residential and nonresidential, as can be seen on the Park Districts Map. Areas are also set forth on the Future Land Use Plan for future parks, open spaces and schools.

The criteria used for determining the need and location for future parks to serve residential areas developed within this Park Plan are to a level of detail considerably greater than that used for the Future Land Use Plan, and therefore, any differences between the two Plans should be governed by those set forth in the Parks and Open Space Master Plan.

An important characteristic illustrated on the Park Districts Map is the nonresidential corridor along Interstate Highway 30. The extent and width of the corridor tends to create defined northern and southern sections of the City. The corridor can be expected to have a positive impact on the future tax base. It also creates separate areas north and south of the freeway having similar needs for future parks which provide recreational services above or beyond those furnished by the neighborhood park.

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IV. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The following Goals and Objectives are provided to give direction for future community decisions regarding parks, recreation, and open space. These goals and objectives were established based on the Home Town 2000 Comprehensive Plan, representative group interviews, community meetings, and a citizen survey. GENERAL GOAL Rockwall’s most significant outdoor features–its floodplains, woodlots, shorelands, sensitive habitats and rare ecosystems–should be woven with existing and future parks, greens and commons into a city-wide, comprehensive parks and open space system designed to serve the wide range of ages, abilities and interests of Rockwall’s current and future citizenry. This parks and open space system should reflect a level of character, quality and care that communicates responsible stewardship and pride of place. OBJECTIVES C

Encourage the creation of small, private greens and commons in new neighborhoods to enhance their character, desirability and the quality of social interaction within them.

Ensure preservation of the Wallace Preserve, a rare remnant of native Blackland Prairies, as an important natural and historical landscape feature.

Ensure that ultimately every Rockwall resident lives within 1/4 mile of a public or private park, greenway or common for their use.

LAKE RAY HUBBARD GOAL Actively explore the potential for public waterfront use of the Lake Ray Hubbard shorelands and preserve those areas for use by the public.

OBJECTIVES C

Preserve areas identified in this plan for public use and enjoyment.

Develop a lakeside park to provide a broad array of recreational opportunities along the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard.

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Explore potential for parks and passive greenway trails at appropriate locations along the shoreline.

Explore potential for future private waterfront development that could include a public access component.

GREENWAYS GOAL Incorporate floodplains into an interconnected greenway network that preserves their natural flood water storage functions while providing trails, open space and conservation of natural areas.

OBJECTIVES C

Allow no significant filling of the 100-year floodplain.

Incorporate other significant natural areas, such as steep slopes and sensitive habitats, into the greenway network.

Develop parks containing quality natural open spaces sensitively with the preservation of natural environment as a high priority.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT GOAL Design parks and open space improvements as first-class facilities, as they represent the public face, or “front yard,” of Rockwall.

OBJECTIVES C

Ensure that park development reflects a high level of quality and a strong design ethic.

Design park improvements for durability, long life and low maintenance requirements.

Maintain high maintenance standards for development and maintenance of all Rockwall public land.

Environmental stewardship measures including the use of energy conserving components, the use of green building materials, preservation of existing habitat and vegetation, and the use of native plant material should be included into the parks and open space network at every opportunity.

Park design should consider and provide handicapped accessibility to park spaces and ensure meaningful usefulness of park facilities for user groups with varying degrees of abilities.

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V. PARKS, OPEN SPACE & TRAIL CLASSIFICATIONS/STANDARDS To deliver a variety of recreational features in an efficient manner, some type of relationship defining use should be established among those spaces used for recreation. Guidelines and standards recommended by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) have been followed by Cities for many years to define a hierarchy for their park systems. The Association made major revisions to their 1983 recommendations for delivering park and recreation services in the publication, Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Guidelines, published by the Association in December 1995. In the 2007 update to the Hometown 2000 Comprehensive Plan, emphasis was placed on improving the diversity and uniqueness of future neighborhoods. The City will encourage future developments to contain a mixture of uses, unit types and lot sizes to create sustainable neighborhoods. To compliment these neighborhoods, a new park type was created - NeighborhoodOriented Parks.

With the addition of the neighborhood-oriented park, the Rockwall park

classifications system contains 12 park types. The following identifies the classification of parks, their description, location criteria within the community and a criteria for size. Once established, these guidelines are then applicable for structuring the park system in an orderly manner responsive to the recreational demands being generated by the present and future population. Park & Open Space Classifications 1.

Mini-park - A mini-park is a small area used for a children's playground or for use as a passive or aesthetic area by senior citizens. Windmill Ridge, Lofland and Southside are examples of this type of park facility. •

The location for this type of park would be appropriate in an area of concentrated population, an isolated area, or a small space having unique recreational opportunities, such as an overlook. Location should be within one-quarter mile of those being served.

•

Size shall not be less than one acre.

•

If used, the primary function should be to provide recreational space for preschool children and elementary school age children near their residence.

•

Where substantial development of high density apartments or townhouse dwellings are proposed, it is appropriate that the mini-parks be provided as an integral part of the housing development.

•

Because of maintenance costs which are required to maintain a mini-park, the future development of any park of this type should be closely evaluated before committing or constructing this facility.

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Neighborhood-Oriented Park - These parks are primarily landscaped, and serve as a visual amenity and gathering place for socializing with neighbors. Unlike a mini-park, they are generally developed and maintained by a neighborhood association, although they may also be dedicated to the City. In areas with residences that are marketed to families with children, neighborhood-oriented parks may contain a playgrounds. In addition, neighborhood-oriented parks: •

Are intended to serve densely developed residential areas with lots under 12,000 square feet.

•

Serve residences within 1/4 mile radius

•

Should be centrally placed to create a neighborhood focus, whether utilizing drainage and flood plain areas, topography or vegetative features.

•

Should be provided at a ratio of at least one acre for every 20 residential lots less than 12,000 sq. ft. in size

• 3.

Should be located in a manner to compliment the larger neighborhood park in the general area.

Neighborhood Park - The neighborhood park is considered to be one of the most important features of a park system and is often considered to be one of the major cohesive elements in neighborhood design. Its primary function is the provision of recreational space for the residents of the park district in which it is located. Space in the neighborhood park should be distributed between active and passive uses.

When it is possible to combine an elementary school with this type of park, the two features further enhance the identity of the neighborhood by providing a central location for recreation and education and a significant open space feature within the neighborhood.

The neighborhood park should be located near the center of a neighborhood area and should be located to have a service radius of approximately one-quarter mile to one-half mile.

The size should be related to the service area population and the menu of activities chosen for placement in the park. For Rockwall, a minimum of eleven acres is established for neighborhood parks.

Safe and convenient pedestrian access is considered important to a neighborhood park location. Generally, the location should not be adjacent to a heavily traveled major or minor thoroughfare. Facilities normally provided at a neighborhood park consist of: •

playground equipment for children of all ages

•

a multiple purpose surfaced play area

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•

space for court games, such as basketball, tennis, volleyball and shuffleboard

•

play field space for non-organized competitive games such as baseball, football, and soccer

•

passive space for possibly a pavilion for picnics with tables and grills, restrooms, drinking fountains and sitting areas

•

Off-street parking is a consideration, if users are beyond an acceptable walking distance to the park

•

It is not desirable to light athletic facilities in a neighborhood environment since lighting is often objectionable to nearby residents. However, some lighting for security purposes should be in the park.

•

The allocation of space in the neighborhood park should be approximately 50 percent passive area and 50 percent active area. The above facilities are those generally considered for active space. The passive space should be used to develop the character of the park by creating an open setting, landscaped and with trails, sitting area, natural areas, and picnic space. This park becomes an integral part of the neighborhood.

Park/School - Parameters used for locating elementary and middle schools are similar to those used for locating neighborhood and community parks. Generally, the school site is selected well in advance of the park site. However, when there is a working agreement between the city and school district, joint sites can be simultaneously purchased and developed. This approach represents a saving to the community for original capital investment and allows reciprocal uses of facilities which might not otherwise be affordable if developed on separate sites.

Following are guidelines for parks when placed in joint use with a school: •

Location of park will be determined by school service area.

•

Size of park space should generally follow criteria for a neighborhood park when used with an elementary school and a community park when used with a middle or high school.

•

Criteria established for the neighborhood or community park should be used in developing the site and integrated into the school site design to have a functional recreational space for the school.

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•

Joint-use agreement between the City and School District should be agreed to by the entities to assure there is understanding for acquisition, development, maintenance, liability, use and programming of facilities.

Community Park - A community park is larger in size than a neighborhood park and provides service to several neighborhoods or specific sections of the community. The community park is oriented primarily to providing recreational opportunities not feasible in a neighborhood park. This type of park should be developed for both active and passive use. Specific features of the community park are: •

A community park serves several neighborhood areas, should be conveniently accessible by automobile and include provisions for off-street parking.

•

The recommended size for the community park is 50 acres. This size is based on its intended use and the demand and population residing in the intended service area. Natural features such as terrain, tree cover, flood prone areas, and water features are all factors to be used in selecting this type of park.

•

Activities provided should include both active and passive space

•

Active space for activities found in the neighborhood park for field and court games

•

Facilities for cultural activities such as plays or concerts possibly provided by an amphitheater

•

Support facilities including parking lots and restrooms.

Regional Park - This type of park serves a broader function than the community park and is used when community and neighborhood parks are not adequate to serve the needs of the community, or for preserving a unique landscape or open space area. Active and passive features in this type of park would be similar to those recommended for the community park. A minimum of 130 acres is established for this park with the contemplation that it can ultimately be expanded to this acreage to form a large-central park for the City. Within the park are expected to be expanded water features, some expansion of play activities now found, a possible location for a community building, trails with linkages to other open spaces, wooded and preserved areas.

Natural Resource Areas - These areas are generally found in their natural state and void of any man-made development.

Their use would be predominantly for passive activities and the

preservation of the resource. In Rockwall, two areas are characteristic of this type of park; the Lake

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Ray Hubbard flood prone area north of F.M. 552 and the pristine area adjacent to F.M. 3097. There is no size or development criteria suggested for this park classification.

Greenways - This classification applies to types of land which have characteristics either identifying them as undevelopable land or suitable for use as a component linking other park areas. •

These spaces are generally natural corridors along creeks/flood prone areas, or along easements containing a man-made feature.

•

Design standards for Greenways are relatively loose in order to allow the maximum use of the natural environment in the design. Greenway corridor widths are often determined by the existing topography, severity of flooding, and other unique natural features. Greenway corridors of less than fifty (50) "useable" feet should be avoided and narrow corridor sections kept to a minimum. One-hundred foot corridor widths and wider give flexibility in design and are encouraged wherever possible.

Sports Complex - This classification is applicable to a facility used for programmed activities which have high usage by participants and visitors and generally have lighted facilities. Tuttle Park is an excellent example of a sports complex. •

The planning and construction of a sports complex for baseball, soccer, football, or possibly tennis, brings together at a single site those facilities which are expected to meet the community demands, or needs.

•

A sports complex removes from the residential environment, traffic, noise, and lights which are associated with activities handled by the sports complex.

•

Based on the use, accessibility and other characteristics, the complex should be located in a nonresidential area served by the major street system.

•

Sites are not to be less than 40 acres with the optimal site ranging upward to 80-150 acres, if demand is present.

•

Although sports complexes are designed primarily for competitive play by both young people and adults, other features should be included in the complex. Among these are play apparatus, court game space, and trails.

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•

Support facilities in a complex include restrooms and multi-purpose building(s).

•

Parking is a major consideration for the sports complex and should be designed to accommodate those participating, those leaving and those waiting to participate.

10.

Special Use Park - These parks, or recreational spaces, are identified by a single use, and fall into three categories: •

Historical/cultural/social sites which offer recreational opportunities because of their unique characteristics; as an example, the downtown square. Others might include ornamental gardens, or special use structures.

•

Recreational facilities - single purpose facilities such as a senior center, community center, golf course, or marina.

•

Outdoor recreational facilities - uses such as a tennis center, stadium, or possibly a special type of sports complex designed specifically for a single sport.

11.

Private Park/Recreational Facility - A variety of uses are in this classification which provide private recreational opportunities. These often are associated with a housing development, or a forprofit enterprise such as a water park or health club.

These facilities provide opportunities for specific sectors of the population and which are not generally affordable to be committed as a use to be built and maintained by public funds. However, they would adhere to the same standards as public parks.

12.

Trails & Pathways - NRPA has not previously designated pathways as a park classification, but three types of pathways for trails are now identified in their recent publication; Park Trail, Connector Trails and On-street Bikeways. These three types of pathways are intended to accommodate walkers, bicyclists and in-line skaters. In the description for the park and connector trail, there is further explanation for types as related to their use.

Park Trail - Multi-purpose trail located within greenways, parks and natural resource areas. •

Type I - Separate/single purpose hard surfaced trail for pedestrian or bicyclists/in-line skater.

•

Type II - Multi-purpose hard surfaced trail for pedestrian and bicyclists/in-line skater.

•

Type III - Nature trail for pedestrians. May be hard or soft surfaced.

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Myers Park Trail

Connector Trail - Multi-purpose trails that emphasize safe travel for pedestrians to and from parks and around the community. •

Type I - Separate/single purpose hard surfaced trail for pedestrian or bicyclist/in-line skater located in independent right-of-way.

•

Type II - Same user as above, but located within roadway right-of-way.

•

On-Street Bikeways - Paved segment of roadways that serve as a means to safely separate bicyclists from roadway traffic.

•

Bike Route - Designated portions of the roadway for the preferential or exclusive use of bicyclists.

•

Bike Lane - Shared portions of the roadway that provides separation between motor vehicles and bicyclists, such as paved shoulder.

•

All-Terrain Bike Trail - Off-road trail for all-terrain bikes.

•

Single purpose loop trail usually located in larger parks and natural resource areas.

The above park and trail classifications provide guidelines for application in designating and formulating the applicable parks to the future system. Not all recreational uses in a single type of park may be achievable, but they can be modified to fulfill the intent of this specific type of space. Planning Guidelines and Standards The activities or typical facilities listed for each park are considered the minimum to deliver an adequate level of service to the user. Many activities and features are those requested by citizens in the recreation survey conducted in April, 1996. The demand, or request, for some of these activities and features in the parks may change slightly in the future as a result of updated surveys. Following are the activities/facilities for the applicable parks:

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Classification

Service Area

Size

Population Served

Typical Facilities

Development Cost* ( per acre)

Mini - Park

¼ Mile

1- 3 acres

500-2,500

Landscaping, fountain, sidewalk, gazebo, playground, benches

$65,000 $80,000 Per Acre

Neighborhood Oriented Park

¼ Mile

1 acre / 20 lots less than 12,000 sq. ft.

500-1,200

landscaping, artwork, sidewalk, benches, playground

$90,000$150,000

Neighborhood Park

½ Mile

10 acres to 12 acres

2,00010,000

Playground apparatus, picnic area(s), pavilion, play courts, play fields, restroom, landscaping & parking

$70,000 $100,000 Per Acre

Community Park

2 Miles

40 acres to 150 acres

10,00050,000

Tennis courts, sports fields, playground apparatus, picnic area(s), pavilions, walking/jogging trails, swimming pools, open space, landscaping, recreation centers, restrooms & parking

$30,000 $50,000 Per Acre

Regional Park

10 Miles

200 acres to 1,000 acres

Entire urban area

Sports fields, tennis courts, lakes, swimming complexes, campgrounds, hike/bike trails, bridle paths, golf courses, nature areas, restrooms & ample parking

$2,000,000 & up (total cost)

Natural Area

Varies

Determined by Entire resource community

Nature trails, multipurpose trails, benches, picnic areas, wildlife viewing stations, educational components, information kiosks, interpretive signs, exercise courses & drinking fountains

Varies

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Classification

Service Area

Size

Population Served

Typical Facilities

Development Cost* ( per acre)

Greenbelts / Greenways

Varies

5,000 to Entire Community

Landscaping, multipurpose trails, benches, information kiosks, telephones, exercise courses & drinking fountains

$250,000 $500,000 per mile for Greenbelts

Special Use Park

Varies

Determined

Varies Dependent on Primary Use

Concentration of one or two of the following: baseball/softball complex, soccer fields, tennis centers, sports stadiums, golf courses, performing arts parks, boat ramps, amphitheaters & ornamental gardens

Sports Complex

Entire City

Sports fields, tennis courts, parking lots, restrooms, concessions, spectator plazas, playgrounds & trails

by Primary User

40 acres to 150 Acres

$25,000 $40,000 Per Acre

* All costs exclude land and are based on 2010 dollars.

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VI. INVENTORY OF AREAS & FACILITIES Existing Recreational Facilities Eight different types of spaces are located throughout the City where recreational opportunities are available. Presently, there are 997 acres of land in the City’s park system, with 267 acres developed. This public space is supplemented by a country club and golf course, fourteen school sites located within the city limits, the 22 acre Y.M.C.A. site and private neighborhood parks where recreational facilities and space of various types are available to the public or members. For citizens interested in activities related to water, Rockwall is conveniently located along the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard. Additionally, there are seven lakes and ponds located within City Parks.

The present arrangement of park space is shown on the Existing Parks and Open Space Map. If there is a deficiency in the present system, it would be at the Community Park level. While older residential sections of the City have been developed without setting aside park land for neighborhood parks, the City has had success with a Park Land Dedication Ordinance which requires new developments to dedicate land for neighborhood parks. The ordinance does not, however, address the growing need for Community Parks.

South of the Interstate, the Chandlers Landing development provides private park spaces for use by residents of the development. These private spaces are fulfilling the need for neighborhood recreational opportunities for the residents of Chandlers Landing.

In recent years, emphasis has been placed on the acquisition of park land by a somewhat aggressive program to secure land for both active and passive use in the developing sections of the City. This has included efforts to secure land for trail systems, neighborhood parks and a community park in the northern portion of town. The acquisition of these new areas has created a somewhat dispersed system of new spaces, some of which will be further enhanced by other acquisitions as new residential development occurs. This is particularly applicable to the trail system where linkages are either planned or committed through subdivision platting in both the northern and southern sections of the City.

The following discussion of existing recreational facilities in Rockwall is divided into three sections: (1) City of Rockwall; (2) Rockwall Independent School District; and (3) Y.M.C.A.

The City has seventeen developed parks, six undeveloped parks and seven greenways which have

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a combined area of 997 acres. Facilities in these parks are outlined in Table 2. Although the parks and open space network contains 997 acres, only 267 acres are developed with recreational amenities. The parks have been placed in one of 11 categories which describe their present role in the overall park network.

Mini-Parks - Five mini-parks can be found in the existing system: 1. Gloria Williams Park 2. Lofland Park 3. Clark Street Park 4. Dalton Ranch Park 5. Foxwood Park Gloria Williams Park is a ½ acre park which includes a small pool, a playground, and a concrete basketball court.

Lofland Park, with 2.2 acres, is larger than most mini parks and is tucked behind residential lots fronting adjacent streets. Playground equipment in Lofland includes a large trail styler “Leathers” playground. Additionally, Old Town Rockwall Neighborhood Association is providing four pavilions at the site. Use of land in the former Interurban right-of-way would allow this space to be linked to Dobbs Elementary School and Myers Park.

Foxwood Park is a 1/4 acre site with a playground and benches.

Greenways - There are currently eight developed greenways in the Rockwall system: 1. Lago Vista 2. Waterstone 3. Timbercreek 4. Meadowcreek-Madison 5. Lynden Park 6. Lakeview Summit 7. Highland Meadows 8. Meadowcreek The above open spaces are all relatively new park areas, and each has the potential to have their size increased through further dedication of flood prone areas. The greenways, although generally undeveloped, have potential to provide linkages between various public facilities with the addition of trails.

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Neighborhood Parks - The existing park system also contains nine neighborhood parks. These parks include: 1.

The Park at Emerald Bay

The Park at Foxchase

Shores Park

Windmill Ridge Park

Jewel Park

Meadowcreek-Foxwood

Henry M. Chandler Park

Hickory Ridge Park

Fontana Park

The Park at Emerald Bay is 11.8 acres in size and includes a trail, playground, picnic tables, benches, a small lake with a covered pier, and an open area which is used primarily as a soccer field.

The Park at Emerald Bay

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The Park at Foxchase is 10 acres and includes a sprayground, pavilion, playground, basketball court, picnic tables, trail, play field, benches, water fountain, and pond on ten acres.

The Shores Park is 11.9 acres and includes a basketball court, multi-purpose trail, nature trail, picnic tables, benches, water fountain, pavilion, large play field, and two playgrounds.

Shores Neighborhood Park

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Windmill Ridge Park is 8.5 acres and includes picnic tables, grills, benches, water fountains, bicycle rack and two playgrounds.

Jewel Park is 3.5 acres and is located in a developed residential area and could potentially be enlarged by further dedication as adjacent land is developed. Jewel Park contains benches, picnic tables, a grill, two play modules for different age groups, and a large sandbox with unique water play table.

Water Table at Jewel Park

Hickory Ridge Park is a 25.4 acre park with a sprayground, basketball court, trail, picnic tables, pavilion, water fountain, two ponds, playground and a large play field.

Hickory Ridge Park

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Henry M. Chandler Park, is a four acre park located at the entrance to Chandlers Landing, with one ballfield and open space with soccer goals and a backstop.

Fontana Park is a 5.2 acre park with a playground.

Community Park - Myers Park is the most developed space for active and passive uses in the park system. Facilities in the park include those listed in Table 2 plus three playground areas. Each playground contains a variety of children's play equipment for all age groups and the open character of the park combined with the two water features add interest to the overall park space. Located within the park is an early pioneer house used as a museum. In 2003, the park was expanded and a sprayground, pavilion, fishing pier, amphitheater, and a multiuse trail that circles the lake and extends north to Caruth Lake were added.

In 2008, the first phase of Caruth Lake Park was completed. The trail on the north side of the lake and connecting trail to Phelps Lake is open providing access to this key resource.

Sports Complex - Yellow Jacket Park is a 7.6 acre park with a playground and baseball/softball fields with bleachers.

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Leon Tuttle Park is home to the Rockwall Baseball Association, Rockwall Girls Softball Association, city adult softball leagues, Kiwanis Angels League and the YMCA youth and adult programs. The park has six lighted, irrigated fields, restrooms and parking. Recent improvements include a covered playground, sidewalks, and awnings over the spectator areas on fields 1-4.

Park-School - Northshore Park is classified as a park-school facility because of its adjacency to Virginia Reinhart Elementary School. The proposed development plan includes facilities for pre-school age children and supplement the school's equipment. This park adds ten acres of space to the six acre school site. Because of the savings and convenience, this joint approach to serving a neighborhood is advantageous to the children and to the general public responsible for financing both facilities.

Special Use Park - The Harbor mixed use development has approximately seven acres devoted to lakeside leisure and recreation. The fountains, spray area and grassy lawn provide a unique space for outdoor concerts and events.

The above spaces and facilities provide the base upon which to build the future park system. Most areas should be adaptable to a system which is functional and efficient. Future municipal recreational facilities will be supplemented by those furnished by others on sites throughout the City. It is important to recognize these other facilities and what impact they can have on the

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planning for future recreational space and facilities. When feasible, and if agreeable, recreational spaces, or opportunities, should be jointly planned and used.

Rockwall Independent School District has eighteen school campuses, fourteen of which are within the city limits; three high schools, three middle schools and twelve elementary schools. Most school campuses are generally large enough to have open and competitive athletic spaces in addition to the building, parking and other spatial requirements for meeting their education mission. With the agreement of the school district, these spaces and facilities can often be utilized by the City to help satisfy the recreational demands

The YMCA provides residents with a wide range of recreational opportunities. The YMCA is a private organization which requires a membership, thus its services are not available to all residents in the community. However, growing participation in YMCA activities and programs indicates the importance of their service to the community while satisfying some recreational needs of Rockwall County residents.

The YMCA facility is located on a partially wooded site adjacent to S.H. 205 and on the west side of Caruth Lake in the northern portion of the City. The site contains approximately 22 acres. A recreational building contains a gymnasium/multi-purpose space, weight room, locker room, and administrative offices. Multi-purpose athletic fields, located north and south of the recreational building, are used for baseball and soccer. The facility contains eight soccer fields, three T-ball fields and three baseball/softball fields. A lighted court for basketball/volleyball and walking track is also located in this complex.

The YMCA services the entire county and is currently utilizing city fields in addition to their facilities for play.

Private recreational facilities often offer services which might not otherwise be available because of their cost.

The Shores offers an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, and eight lighted tennis courts for its members. The Shores is a membership golf course but it is also open to the general public

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for a daily green fee. Buffalo Creek is a similar facility located adjacent to the City in Heath. These courses provide service to that sector of the citizenry willing to pay and play at these courses. A third golf facility is the private nine hole course at Lakeside Village.

Chandler's Landing has a current population estimated to be about 2,000 persons. The development has private facilities which include a swimming pool, playgrounds, jogging track, and tennis courts. In addition, there is a Yacht Club in Chandler's Landing available to the public for membership.

Chandlers Landing Marina is located south of Interstate Highway 30 in the Chandlers Landing development and is leased by the City to the operator. There are 635 slips for boat storage plus 173 dry storage and other recreational opportunities available to the public such as boat rentals.

Harbor Bay is a marina located adjacent to Interstate Highway 30 and Lakeside Village and is leased by the City to the operator. There are 350 slips for boat storage and other recreational opportunities available for public use.

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.25

The Park at Emerald Bay

11.85

10.3

The Park at Foxchase

The Shores Park

11.9

Windmill Ridge

8.5

7.5

Jewel Park

3.5

Meadowcreek

16.5

3.5

Henry Chandler

4.2

2.5

Hickory Ridge

25.4

12.0

Fontana

5.2

Parking Lot

.25

Soccer Field

Foxwood

Sprayground

Concession Stand

Baseball/Softball Fields

Dalton Ranch

Pool

Community Building

1.3

Playground

Clark Street

Pond

1.2

Shelters/Pavilions

1.2

Trails

Lofland

Restrooms

Bench

Bar-B-Que

Basketball Court

Picnic Tables

Developed Acres

Gloria Williams

Volleyball Court

Total Acres

Inventory of Existing Parks & Recreation Facilities

Mini Parks 1

Y N

Park/School Northshore

Neighborhood Parks 2

N 1

3 Y

2 N

N. Country Lane

47.4

Leon Tuttle

18.6

Yellowjacket

7.6

6.0

Hwy 66 Boat Ramp

Squabble Creek Mountain Bike Trails

40.3

Timbercreek

8.3

Lago Vista

Waterstone

12.88

Highland Meadows

5.9

Lynden Park

11.3

Parking Lot

168

Soccer Field

Caruth Lake Park

Sprayground

Concession Stand

Baseball/Softball Fields

Pool

Community Building

Playground

Rockwall County YMCA

Pond

Shelters/Pavilions

Trails

Restrooms

Bench

Bar-B-Que

Harry Myers

Picnic Tables

Volleyball Court

Developed Acres

12.4

Future Neighborhood Park (Stone Creek)

Basketball Court

Total Acres

Inventory of Existing Parks & Recreation Facilities

Community Parks 3

Y 8

N N

Sports Complex 1

6 1

Specialty Park

Greenways

Y Y

Y N

Developed Acres

Lakeview Summit 33 0

Meadowcreek-Madison 17.4 9

Lakeside Park 420 0

The Harbor 7 7

Total Acreage 1,018.88 288.55 10 Y

Y 1

Parking Lot

Soccer Field

Sprayground

Concession Stand

Baseball/Softball Fields

Pool

Community Building

Playground

Pond

Shelters/Pavilions

Trails

Restrooms

Bench

Bar-B-Que

Picnic Tables

Volleyball Court

Basketball Court

Total Acres

Inventory of Existing Parks & Recreation Facilities

Regional Park

Special Use Park

Level of Service Level of service is the term used to describe the importance or the role of a park system in a community and is expressed in acres of useable park land per 1,000 persons. For the last forty-five years, the targeted level of service for communities nationwide has been 10 acres of park land for every 1,000 residents.

In recent years, the standard has been modified to more specifically reflect the unique characteristics of each community and a range of levels of service has been more widely utilized. Based on the specific needs of a community, levels of service ranging from 5 acres of developed park land per 1,000 people to 15 acres of developed park land per 1,000 people are typically targeted.

It is important to note that the level of service for parks and open space is based on useable space and, therefore natural open space, undeveloped or unusable park land should not be a factor in the level of service calculation. Although private recreational facilities and golf courses should be considered when establishing the desired level of service for that activity to be provided by a community, the actual acreage is not typically used in the level of service calculation. Similarly, outdoor recreational facilities and open spaces on public school campuses that are not readily available to the general public for use during non-school hours are not calculated as useable space in the Level of Service.

While Rockwall’s current level of service of 8.24 is lower than many of its peer cities, The Shores Country Club, the two marinas and Lake Ray Hubbard provide recreational opportunities which are not necessarily reflected in the level of service calculation.

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VII. NEEDS ASSESSMENT & IDENTIFICATION The recreational needs for the City of Rockwall were determined using a combination of the three planning approaches (demand based, standard based and resource based) generally used in conducting a Needs Assessment. This combination allowed the desires for recreational opportunities expressed by citizens with different interests to be compared with NRPA standards while at the same time recognizing the unique natural attributes of the City of Rockwall.

The Needs Assessment integrates supply and demand. The supply is provided by the existing park and recreation facilities as well as the unique natural resources found in the community. The demand is identified through the stated goals and objectives, the concept of level of service, national standards, and most importantly, input from local citizens. Local input was obtained through public hearings, special interest group interviews, City staff, the Parks Board, and the 2008 Citizen Attitude Survey. The result is a balanced analysis which reflects the parks and recreation needs and desires of the citizens of Rockwall through 2020.

The 2008 Rockwall Citizen Attitude Survey revealed the following: T

95% of the survey respondents are very satisfied with the quality of life in Rockwall.

88% are very satisfied or satisfied with the park opportunities currently provided.

82% are very satisfied or satisfied with the recreational opportunities currently provided.

When asked whether they would support City funding for parks & recreation projects within the next five years, citizens strongly supported or supported the following facilities: -

Jogging/Biking Trails (91%)

Additional Neighborhood Parks (81%)

Performing Arts Center (80%)

Nature Center/Environmental Education Center (78%)

Additional Large Community-wide Park (77%)

Dalton Road Lakeside Park (76%)

Multi-Purpose Sports Complex (69%)

Additional Spraygrounds (64%)

Water Park (63%)

Dog Park (63%)

Outdoor Municipal Pool (58%)

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RECENT IMPROVEMENTS TO THE PARK SYSTEM

The City of Rockwall has made significant improvements and additions to its Parks and Open Space System since the 2002 Parks and Open Space Master Plan was adopted. The additions and improvements in the last seven years include: <

The acquisition and development of The Shores neighborhood park. The parkland (12 acres) was acquired in 2003 and development completed in 2007.

The acquisition and development of Hickory Ridge neighborhood park. The parkland (10 acres) was acquired in 2003 and development completed in 2008.

The acquisition of an additional 130 acres in 2006 on Lake Ray Hubbard - north of Dalton Road for a Regional Park

Reconstruction of Foxchase Park completed in 2007

Reconstruction of the Highway 66 Boat Ramp in 2007

Reconstruction of Emerald Bay Park in 2007

The acquisition and development of 47.4 acres in northern Rockwall for a community park.

The construction of The Harbor - a mixed use lakeside development with leisure amenities on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard (2006-2007)

Created a master plan for Caruth Lake Park and constructed the first phase of multi use trails in the park.

Constructed three miles of mountain bike trails at Squabble Creek.

In addition to the construction of parks and the acquisition of parkland mentioned above, the City made significant improvements in the level of maintenance provided at each park.

The improvements to the park system and level of maintenance applied to each park were rewarded at the state level. In the spring of 2009, the City of Rockwall was awarded the Gold Medal Award from the Texas Recreation and Parks Society for excellence in the park system.

EXISTING PARKS - NEEDS The existing developed parks in the system are generally in excellent shape. The level of maintenance at these parks is high and pleasing to the general public. There is a need to continue to update and improve the existing parks to meet the ever changing demands of the general public. The

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existing playgrounds should be periodically reviewed and inspected to ensure that they are compliant with the latest Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines for playground safety and accessible to all based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Northshore Park, in north central Rockwall, needs to be improved with additional recreational facilities. Currently, the park is situated on ten acres and contains a basketball court, picnic tables and a playground. Although the improvements to the park need to be solidified by public input, the park should be improved to include the following facilities: multi-use trails, gazebo, multi-sport practice areas, picnic stations, unstructured open areas, and picnic pavilion.

NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS - NEEDS Neighborhood Parks are the backbone of the Rockwall Park System. This concept is supported by survey results which shows that approximately 81% of those surveyed feel that creating additional neighborhood parks is important or very important.

The 1997 Parks and Recreation Master Plan established a level of service of 2.1 acres per 1,000 persons for neighborhood parks. To satisfy this level of service, neighborhood districts were created to be a guide for the Park Land Dedication Ordinance.

The 2.1 acres per 1,000 persons level of service was established to produce ten acre neighborhood parks in each park district, based on projected residential densities. The service area for each neighborhood park should include the area within a ½ mile radius of the park.

A review of the neighborhood districts established in 1997 has shown that modifications and additions to the districts map is needed. After analyzing newly planned thoroughfares, growth patterns, and neighborhood park needs, the neighborhood districts were amended as shown on the Neighborhood Park Districts Map. Each neighborhood district defines the intended service area for future neighborhood parks and is based on the NRPA standards. As a part of the development process, residential developers are required by the ordinance to dedicate land and/or monies in lieu of land as circumstances dictate. The previous success of the Park Land Dedication Ordinance,

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coupled with the updated park district map, should insure that the needs for future neighborhood parks is satisfied.

To enhance the performance of the neighborhood park system; future

neighborhood parks should be located along the trails and greenways outlined herein and shown on the Trails Map. Where possible, neighborhood parks should be located adjacent to elementary schools for the creation of school parks.

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COMMUNITY PARKS - NEEDS There is a need for community parks in Rockwall. Myers Park (60 acres) is currently the only park in the system fulfilling the role of a community park. The 1997 plan established a level of service of 2.3 acres per 1,000 persons for community parks. Based on the level of service target, there is a need to provide a total of approximately 110 acres of community parks by 2020. Since Myers Park satisfies 60 acres of that need, fifty additional acres of community parkland needs to be developed by 2020.

Due to the intended service radius for each community park of two miles and the fact that Interstate 30, running east-west through the center of the city, acts as a barrier, a minimum of two new community parks are needed. One park should be located north of Interstate 30 and one located on the south. In 2007, the City purchased 47.4 acres in northern Rockwall for a community park, which will serve the area north of Interstate 30. One community park site needs to be acquired south of Interstate 30.

REGIONAL PARKS - NEEDS Harry Myers Park was targeted in the 1997 plan as a large park which will ultimately contain approximately 130 acres. Since the adoption of the 1997 plan, the City has acquired additional acreage adjacent to Myers. The park now contains 60 acres. The need to enlarge this park to form a large central park for the City previously established in the 1997 plan remains a need today, although the feasibility is unclear.

The need is supported by the level of service concept standards adopted in the previous plan. The targeted level of service for regional parks is between 1.7 and 2.0 acres per 1,000 persons.

Lake Ray Hubbard is located along the entire western city limits of Rockwall. The lake, shore, and vistas provided are the most unique natural features in the City. Residential development along the lake has severely limited public access and exposure to the lake.

The Home Town 2000

Comprehensive Plan for Rockwall states “Rockwall is unique and fortunate to have such a highly visible and attractive shoreline, yet decades of conventional subdivision development along the lake has left very little remaining opportunity to provide for meaningful public access to the water’s edge

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for the majority of its citizens. The few remaining opportunities for public access must be assessed and, if deemed feasible, protected for future development as public parks, shoreline greenways and/or public/private partnerships with community-wide benefit.” The only public lake access in Rockwall is via a boat ramp immediately north of the SH66 bridge. The need for a park on Lake Ray Hubbard is supported by the results of the citizens survey. Seventysix percent of those participating in the survey support or strongly support a large park on Lake Ray Hubbard. Additionally, the City Council upon recommendation from the Council Sub-Committee for the Take Line Issue established as its first objective the aggressive pursuit and development of areas for lake access for all citizens of Rockwall.

Regional parks should contain recreational facilities included in the recreational menu shown on page 21. This menu contains a mix of active and passive recreational elements which should be enhanced by the preservation of natural elements found on each specific site. The need for this broad array of recreational facilities is supported by citizen input as well as the citizen survey results. In 2008, a master plan for a regional lakeside park was developed.

NATURAL RESOURCE AREA - NEEDS There is a need to incorporate key natural resource areas into the park system. The resource based planning approach is most appropriately used to determine and establish need for this vital park component.

Above and beyond the creeks, streams and drainage ways in the City, there are two unique environmental assets that should be incorporated into the system: The Wallace Preserve and the shores and wetlands of Lake Ray Hubbard.

The Wallace Preserve is one of the few native blackland prairies remaining in the area. Should the City obtain custody of this resource, development should be kept to a minimum thus preserving the value of this asset regarding habitat, history, and urban character.

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Lake Ray Hubbard Wildlife Sanctuary - Located along the far north shoreline of Lake Ray Hubbard, the potential sanctuary is currently controlled by the City of Dallas. The 1995 Lake Ray Hubbard Master Plan calls for a wildlife sanctuary on 350 acres of wetland habitat in this area. The report states “Since this is one of the last significant pieces of undeveloped land on the east shore of the lake, this site could also be developed as a nature center with community park facilities serving the Rockwall area”. The plans for the sanctuary should be incorporated with the proposed regional park on the lake previously discussed.

GREENWAYS - NEEDS There are currently needs in Rockwall for a system of greenways laced with trails that connect neighborhoods, parks, retail centers and schools. Although national standards do not apply to this park classification, local demand dictates the desire for such as a system. The citizen survey shows that the expansion of the multi-use trail system is one of the highest priorities related to the city. Over 90% of the survey respondents support or strongly support the expansion of the existing multiuse trail system.

In order for the Greenway system to be effective, two trail types are needed: trails along roadways and trails independent of roadways. The combination of the two trail types into a systematic network will provide alternate transportation routes for pedestrians, bicyclists, in-line skaters and other users. Additionally, the trail system will provide a vast array of recreational opportunities for area residents. Trails along drainage ways meet needs over and above trails along roads. The Home Town 2000 Comprehensive Plan supports this need by stating “One of Rockwall’s most distinguishing features is its landscape of ridges and low rolling hills, dissected by wooded streams and grassy drainage ways. These impart topographic interest and a rolling rural character to the community that is often mentioned by residents and visitors as one of the city’s outstanding assets.

These drainage ways and the floodplains associated with them also perform the vital functions of flood water storage and conveyance during storm events. In addition, the trees and grassy vegetation along their banks control erosion, and allow storm water runoff to infiltrate naturally into the ground, maintaining the natural water table and aiding water quality. Finally, the natural tree stands in many of Rockwall’s floodplains provide important linked habitats for songbirds and other wildlife, and

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represent an unmatched recreational resource with the potential for a linked system of natural parks and city-wide trail system development.”

The broad spectrum of trail users suggests that concrete trails will meet more needs than other trail types such as asphalt or gravel surfaced paths. National standards for multi-use trail widths do not exist. Therefore, trail widths must reflect the demand or anticipated demand of each trail segment. In areas where the demand is expected to be low (less than one hundred trail users per hour during peak periods), the width of a two-way path may be less than ten feet wide. In areas where heavy trail traffic is anticipated (300 users per hour or more during peak periods), the width of a two way path should be at least twelve feet.1 In Rockwall, the standard trail shall be 8' wide and constructed of concrete. The overriding need in Rockwall is that the greenway system be a “connected” system that fulfills the recreational, transportation, and natural area desires of the citizenry.

SPORTS AND ATHLETICS - NEEDS Organized sports, especially youth sports are very popular in Rockwall. The participation rates for youth soccer, softball and baseball are significantly higher than national averages; therefore national standards cannot be realistically used to determine future needs. This needs analysis for sports facilities is based on participation and the carrying capacity of fields. For this analysis the standard of one game field for each twelve teams is used. This ratio is based on youth baseball and softball games being played on weekdays and youth soccer on Saturdays.

Soccer - The youth soccer needs are currently being met through the programs and facilities of the Rockwall County YMCA and Lake Pointe Church. The YMCA program has a total of 85 soccer teams. Soccer’s growth rate is based on the 1.4% population growth in Rockwall. At this rate, the expected YMCA soccer program will expand to 97 teams by 2020. Lake Pointe Church has a total of 64 teams and is estimated to grow to 75 teams by 2020. Lake Pointe Church has their own facilities for games and practices.

Trails for the Twenty-First Century, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, P. 81-82

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The YMCA has three - two lighted and one unlighted - full size soccer fields located on their main campus in Rockwall. The three fields can be divided into a total of eight smaller soccer fields to accommodate younger players. The 3 full size fields are currently divided into the correct sizes according to the demand of the appropriate ages. Based on the participation, the YMCA is very close to their capacity at the existing facility. However, by the year 2020, the number of teams will increase to 97 and the need will be a total of 8 fields - their full capacity. Depending on the rate of growth of the soccer program, the City of Rockwall, will need to continue to work with the YMCA to the extent possible, by providing an area with quality fields for practices and fields. The following table explains the carrying capacity of the soccer fields based on the number of teams and the population growth of 1.4% per year. Soccer Leagues

Soccer Leagues

Number of Existing Game Fields* 2010

Number of Teams 2010

Number of Required Game Fields* 2010

Number of Teams 2020

Number of Required Game Fields* 2020

YMCA

Total

* Field are NOT based on full size fields but the overall need of fields to accommodate all age groups. Baseball/Softball - The youth baseball/softball program has grown consistently over the past few years and currently consists of 64 teams. In addition, there are 20 adult softball teams, 9 YMCA teams and 4 Kiwanis Angels teams that utilize city fields. Based on the locally adopted standard of one game field for each twelve teams, there is a current demand for 1 additional game field. The city has six game fields at Tuttle Park and two fields at Myers Park. Since the two fields at Myers Park are not irrigated or lighted and have no concession building, they are only used for games under extreme circumstances. It should be noted that four of the six baseball/softball fields at Tuttle Park are very large (fences at 350') with skinned infields to accommodate adults as well as youth play.

The growth in softball and baseball is currently at or about 1.4% per year in Rockwall. If growth remains constant over the next ten years, there will be a total of 91 teams by 2020. In order to accommodate 91 teams, the city will need a total of eight game fields by 2020. The following table

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explains the carrying capacity of the baseball/softball fields based on the number of teams and the estimated population growth of 1.4% per year. Baseball/Softball Leagues

Baseball/ Softball Leagues

Number of Existing Game Fields 2010

Number of Teams 2010

Number of Required Game Fields 2010

Number of Teams 2020*

Rockwall Baseball Association

Rockwall Girls Softball Association

Boys Baseball

Girls Softball

Angel League

YMCA

Total

Number of Required Game Fields 2020

*Based on annual growth of 1.4% The Adult Softball League typically plays one game per week as opposed to youth baseball/softball organizations that play two games per week. Therefore, the Adult Softball League’s ratio of teams per field increases to 24. The city currently has 4 fields available for adult softball at Leon Tuttle but these fields are shared with the 77 youth baseball/softball teams that use those fields throughout the week. The current need for adult softball is one field. The projected need in 10 years, at a growth rate of 1.4% will remain at 1 field. The following table explains the carrying capacity of the adult softball fields based on the number of teams and the estimated population growth of 1.4% per year. Adult Softball League

Softball League

Number of Existing Game Fields 2010

Number of Teams 2010

Number of Required Game Fields 2010

Number of Teams 2020*

Number of Required Game Fields 2020

Adult Softball

The City of Rockwall will be at a total deficit of 3 baseball/softball fields by 2020. Two fields are needed to support the use by youth baseball and softball players and an additional field will be needed for adult softball.

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Rockwall has an additional 3 baseball/softball fields in Yellow Jacket Park located in the center of the city. These 3 fields are unlighted and are currently used by Lake Pointe Church for their sports teams. The fields are also used as practice facilities for all baseball and softball teams. The church currently has a total of 44 teams and 530 +/- players. With unlighted fields and only playing 4 days a week, Lake Pointe Church can not accommodate every team to play 2 games per week at Yellow Jacket Park. It should also be noted that Yellow Jacket Park is currently owned by the City of Rockwall and there is an option to sell the land within the next few years. The money earned from selling the property will be used to buy additional park land or to upgrade existing park land. If Yellow Jacket is sold, the city would immediately be at a deficit of 3 baseball/softball fields. The following table explains the carrying capacity of the baseball/softball fields based on the number of teams and the estimated population growth of 1.4% per year.

Lake Pointe Church League Baseball/ Softball League Lake Pointe Church

Number of Existing Game Fields 2010

Number of Teams 2010

Number of Required Game Fields 2010

Number of Teams 2020*

Number of Required Game Fields 2020

After reviewing the current number of baseball/softball teams - both youth and adult - and projecting the future growth of the sport, it is apparent that the City of Rockwall will be at a total deficit of 5 baseball/softball fields by 2020 assuming that Yellow Jacket Park will NOT be sold. Two fields are needed to support the use by youth baseball and softball players at Leon Tuttle Sports Complex and an additional field will be needed for adult softball. Two additional game fields will be needed for the Lake Pointe Church league if the City continues to provide facilities for their use. If Yellow Jacket Park is sold by 2020, the city will immediately be at a deficit of 8 total baseball/softball fields.

There are two additional factors that affect the baseball and softball needs - select leagues and tournament play. There are currently no facilities available for select baseball or softball leagues. As a result, those seeking a higher level of play must travel out of town to participate. Although the numbers of players traveling outside of Rockwall to participate in select leagues is hard to quantify, they are anticipated to be significant.

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The current baseball and softball facilities are not suitable for major tournaments. The demand on the fields for recreational play and size of the fields are key limiting factors to attracting significant tournaments which could provide an economic boost to the local economy.

Between 2007 and 2009 the City initiated a public-private partnership to built a tournament quality baseball/softball complex - Big League Dreams. The plan was for six fields - each a replica of a major league stadium. The fields were to be complimented with upscale spectator amenities. Due to the down economy, the project was cancelled in 2009.

The departure of the Big League Dreams project underscores the need for additional baseball and softball fields.

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NATURAL OPEN SPACE - NEEDS The acquisition and preservation of natural open space which is woven into the overall park system remains a significant need in Rockwall. In addition to the Wallace Preserve and the Lake Ray Hubbard Wildlife Sanctuary which were previously discussed in the Natural Resource Area Needs, there are key natural assets in the landscape which deserve preservation. As stated in the Home Town 2000 Comprehensive Plan, the vast majority of Rockwall’s floodplains remain in excellent condition. These multi-objective greenways should be designed and managed to preserve the floodplain’s natural functions of movement and storage of flood water by prohibiting their filling and constriction into narrow channels, and the construction of homes and businesses in flood prone areas. Their protection will also help to save the valley’s vegetation for its erosion control, aesthetic, and wildlife habitat values, and to allow development of an interconnected trail system linking many of the city’s parks and open spaces to each other. The system should also incorporate steeply sloping areas unsuitable for development, as well as wetlands and other sensitive habitats.

Rockwall’s floodplains offer some unique opportunities that should be capitalized upon. Many contain a number of existing Soil Conservation Lakes.

These offer numerous recreational

opportunities such as picnicking, fishing and watching waterfowl. These should be incorporated into the greenway system, and could be enhanced with shoreline vegetation to improve them as habitat for aquatic life and waterfowl. Also, the Squabble Creek floodplain is sufficiently wide, wooded and of such high scenic quality immediately west of SH 205 to allow for creation of a major city park at that location. Many smaller drainage ways join Squabble Creek there, allowing for greenway linkages into the proposed park from adjacent neighborhoods to the north and south.

Multi-objective floodplain greenway systems have been a key design feature of new planned communities for decades, and are being retrofitted into existing cities large and small throughout the United States as their myriad benefits are realized. As Rockwall continues to develop, its system of floodplain greenways will become one of its greatest assets and distinguishing characteristics.

The need to preserve natural attributes as a piece of the park system is supported by input received at the neighborhood input meetings, through the citizen survey and by the Parks Board.

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In addition to the creeks and drainages, there is a need to preserve existing wood lots containing native vegetation and mature trees. As the development of Rockwall continues, the number of areas containing significant mature vegetation will diminish. Future parkland and natural open space acquisition should target these remaining natural areas for preservation and incorporation into the park network.

INDOOR RECREATION - NEEDS A significant trend in the provision of recreational opportunities is the increasing nationwide demand for indoor recreational activities. Currently, the City of Rockwall provides limited indoor recreation primarily for seniors at the municipal complex.

There is a need, especially long range, for an indoor recreation center with facilities that cater to the full population spectrum. A properly planned and programmed indoor facility would fill a significant void in the Rockwall parks and recreation network.

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III. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION & PRIORITIZATION OF NEEDS

The following table presents the projected recreational facilities priorities for the Rockwall Park System. These priorities are based on the needs analysis, citizen surveys, public input meetings, the Rockwall Home Town 2000 plan and input from city staff, the Rockwall Parks Board and City Council.

Parks and Recreation Facilities Priorities Priority

Facility

Multi-use Trails

Baseball/Softball Fields

Soccer Fields

Playgrounds

Picnic Areas

Natural Open Space

Pavilions

Water Features (i.e. small lakes, ponds, creeks)

Open Areas for General Play/Sports Practice

Swimming Pool/Water Sprayground

Tennis Courts

Skate Park

Disc Golf

Volleyball Courts

Parks, Recreation and Open Space Recommendations Based on the needs analysis, citizen survey, adopted priorities, staff input and national standards, the following projects for parks, recreation, and open space are recommended. The cost estimates shown for each project merely represent the range of probable costs and are not a guarantee of actual construction costs. The project estimates may not include fees associated with planning, engineering and/or architectural work that may be required.

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2010-2015 1. Develop Northshore Park with recreational facilities to include: < Multi-use paved trails < Open area for general play < Sports court < Picnic stations < Play features < Landscaping < Parking & Utilities Total - $100,000 - $200,000 2.

Acquire land and develop the first phase (±100 acres) of a multi-sport athletic complex to include: < Baseball fields < Softball fields (youth and adult) < Soccer fields < Multi-sport field (suitable for lacrosse, rugby and football) < Trails < Playgrounds < Concessions < Parking < Maintenance facility Total - $8,000,000 - $15,000,000* * plus land cost

Acquire 50 acres in South Rockwall for the development of a Community Park. Total - Market Price / Funds from 2005 Bonds

Continue park development at Caruth Lake Park in accordance with the park’s master plan. Total - $2,750,000 - $3,250,000 Develop trail linkages Total - $300,000 - $550,000 / mile Acquire additional neighborhood parks. Acquire through Parkland Dedication Ordinance

5. 6.

The following projects have been identified through the needs analysis, although due to fiscal restraints, these projects will not likely be implemented during the first five years of the plan. The City should review theses projects when updating the plan and reassess their respective positions in the implementation schedule and address new projects as the need arises.

2016-2020 1. 2.

Develop Lakeside Community Park - Phase I Develop Trail Linkages

NOTE:

Costs are preliminary estimates only and prepared without the benefit of detailed engineering data. All costs shown are based on 2010 dollars. Final construction costs will vary.

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IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM The implementation schedule presented in the following table is based on an evaluation of the 2008 Citizen Survey, the facilities priorities identified in the Home Town 2000 Comprehensive Plan, and recommendations from the Parks Board and the City Council. More detailed project information is included for the first five years of the plan because cost estimates become less accurate the further out they are projected.

It is important to note that the following schedule is intended to be a flexible guide for developing parks and recreational facilities over the next ten years. The schedule assumes the dedication and development of neighborhood parks and greenways as a part of the development process for residential subdivisions. The City should evaluate and take advantage of any unforseen opportunities that may arise that are not identified in the schedule or change the order of implementation as necessary.

Implementation Schedule Project

Date

Estimated Cost*

Potential Funding Source

2010

$100,000$200,000

General Fund General Obligation Bond

Develop Northshore Park

Acquire approximately 200 acres and develop the first phase of a multi-sports complex.

2012-2013

$8,000,000$15,000,000

TP&W Grant (outdoor) General Fund General Obligation Bond Other Grants & Partnerships

Acquire 50 acres in South Rockwall for the development of a community park

2014

Market Price/ Donation/ Dedication

2005 Bond Funds Land Donation

Continue park development at Caruth Lake Park

2014

$2,750,000$3,250,000

TP&W Grant (outdoor) General Fund General Obligation Bond

Develop trail linkages

2010-2020

$250,000$550,000 per mile

TP&W Grant (Trail Grant) General Fund General Obligation Bond

Acquire additional neighborhood parks

2010-2020

Dedication

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Project

Date

Estimated Cost*

Potential Funding Source

Develop Lakeside Park - Phase I

2017

N/A

TP&W Grant (outdoor) General Fund General Obligation Bond

Develop Trail Linkages

2010-2020

$250,000 $550,000 per mile

TP&W Grant (Trail Grant) General Fund General Obligation Bond

2016 - 2020

* Note:

Costs are preliminary estimates only and prepared without the benefit of detailed engineering data. All costs shown are based on 2010 dollars and do not include fees associated with planning, engineering and/or architectural work that may be required. Final construction costs will vary.

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IX.

IMPLEMENTATION - EXISTING AND AVAILABLE MECHANISMS In order to implement this park and open space plan update, there are a variety of funding mechanisms and tools available for use by the City of Rockwall. These include:

SENATE BILL 376-4B - SALES TAX REVENUES - Funds generated by this special sales tax can be used for developing and maintaining public recreational facilities.

TEXAS RECREATION & PARKS ACCOUNT PROGRAM - This program, administered by Texas Parks and Wildlife, is a matching grant program which may be used to aid communities in acquisition and development of parks and open space. This grant program includes the Outdoor Recreation Acquisition and Development Program and the Texas Recreation & Parks Account Indoor Recreation Program. The Texas Recreation & Parks Account Small Grants Program is a matching grant program which may be used to aid communities with a population less than 20,000 in the development of parks and open space. The Regional Park Grant Program provides 50% matching fund grants to local governments in order to create large, intensive-use recreation areas, regional systems of parks, and conservation areas with trail linkages, as well as linear greenways between parks and other community amenities in Texas' urban areas. Another important element of these grants is to encourage partnerships and leverage development between the private sector, non-profit organizations, and among local governments. Regional Park Grant applications will be given priority if the proposed project: acquires large tracts of land to be set aside as park land, has local matching funds from multiple political jurisdictions as well as non-profit organizations/private donations, project is listed on local park master plan, park will be used in a multiple jurisdictional manner, project provides water-based recreation, links multiple jurisdictions with trails or greenbelts, and the project has a direct link to the mission of Texas Parks & Wildlife.

TEXAS RECREATIONAL TRAILS FUND - The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department administers the National Recreational Trail Fund through a provision in the Federal Highway Bill. The National Recreational Trail Grants provides 80% matching funds (maximum $100,000) for both motorized and non-motorized trail projects in local communities for hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, off-road motor vehicles, and nature enthusiasts. Funds can be utilized to construct new recreational trails, improve/maintain existing trails, develop/improve trailheads or trailside facilities, and acquire trail corridors. Eligible sponsors include city and county governments, state agencies, river authorities, water

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districts, MUDs, school districts, federal land managers, non-profit organizations, and other private organizations.

NATIONAL FISH AND WILDLIFE FOUNDATION - The national Fish and Wildlife Foundation promotes healthy populations of fish, wildlife, and plants by generating new commerce for conservation. The foundation leverages public dollars with corporate, private, and other non-profit funds. Funds are available on an as-need basis.

PAY AS YOU GO - This method of financing park improvements involves budgeting for land acquisition, development, and maintenance of park facilities through the city's annual budget process. Allocations for park improvements are made and spent annually through the standard budget process.

GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS - These bonds are issued by the city following an election in which the voters authorize their issuance for specific stated purposes, as well as the necessary tax increases to support them. These bonds pledge the property or ad valorem taxing power of the city.

CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION - These certificates have basically the same effect as general obligation bonds except they do not require an election to authorize them. An election can be petitioned by five percent of the registered voters of the city. These certificates are issued on the authorization of the City Council. Repayment is based on the property taxing power of the city, utility system revenues, or a combination of the two.

USER FEES - This method of financing requires the eventual user of each park to pay a fee for the use of each facility. Fees to be charged users can be established to pay for debt service, maintenance, and operation of the park system.

PRIVATE OR CORPORATE DONATIONS - Donations from foundations, corporations, and/or private individuals are often used to acquire and develop parks. The city should constantly identify and pursue opportunities to receive such funding for parks. One avenue for receiving donations is through the use of the Texas Parks & Recreation Foundation. This foundation has been developed to help all communities in the State of Texas to maximize the benefits of donations of land, property, and money.

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CONCLUSIONS The City of Rockwall has a great park system. The facilities, innovation in programming, and level of maintenance is strongly supported by the citizens at-large. With the anticipated growth of the city, additional parks and open spaces are needed in order to maintain the current high standards.

Currently, the City of Rockwall has a total of 1,018.88 acres of park land within its corporate limits. This figure represents public parks and open space in Rockwall and includes existing facilities owned by the YCMA. Out of the total park land, 288.5 acres are currently developed. When compared to the existing population in the planning area of 35,000, the resultant level of service of developed park land is 8.24 acres for each 1,000 people. The ratio of total park land is 29 acres per 1,000 people.

This parks and open space master plan outlines park projects which add approximately 310 acres of developed park land to the overall system. If every park project outlined in the plan is implemented, based on the projected population growth, the level of service in the year 2020 will be nearly 12.5 acres per 1,000 people. This figure does not include the neighborhood parks and greenways which will result from residential development and the park land dedication ordinance. Therefore, the level of service will be increased by more than 50% over the next ten years. More importantly, continued upgrades to the existing park facilities, expansion of the existing trail system, and new neighborhood parks created through the development process will help create a first class park system for residents of the entire Rockwall community.

This plan is to be utilized as a flexible tool which should be reviewed annually and updated every two years to continue to reflect the unique recreational needs of the area. The city should take advantage of any unforseen opportunities not identified in the plan that may arise, such as donations of land and/or facilities as long as the actions meet the intent of the goals, objectives and recommendations of this plan.

With the proposed additions to the park system that are outlined in this plan will come additional maintenance and operational needs in order to best utilize, manage, and care for both the new facilities and those that exist today. Positive economic impacts will also be experienced as a result of the projects proposed. In his book Measuring the Economic Impact of Visitors to Sports Tournaments and Special

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Events, author John Crompton establishes a template for quantifying the potential dollars sporting events i.e. baseball and soccer tournaments, potentially bring to a city.

In order to realize the maximum economic benefits, several key components must be in place: <

Overnight accommodations

Shopping opportunities

Dining facilities

Other entertainment venues; and most importantly

Quality sports venue

Currently, Rockwall has all of these elements except the quality sports venue - which is herein proposed.

The proposed improvements contained in this plan will enhance the quality of life in the area and help ensure that the City of Rockwall is able to keep pace with the growing recreational needs of the citizens. The resulting benefits include increased quality of life, significant economic impact, increasing property values, and pride in the residents of the area

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Appendix Northshore Park Conceptual Plan Caruth Lake Conceptual Plan Lakeside Park Conceptual Plan

Aerial Photos of: Myers Park Shores Neighborhood Park Highway 66 Boat Ramp The Park at Foxchase Emerald Bay Park

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