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COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN

2024-2034

Adopted By: Johnson City Board Of Commissioners January 4, 2024

Johnson City Parks And Recreation Advisory Board October 26, 2023

Prepared By: City Of Johnson City Parks And Recreation Department Master Plan Project Team Maggie Darden Leigh Ann Fama Hannah Vines

Publish Date: 01/01/2025 1

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS City Commission Todd Fowler, Mayor Aaron Murphy, Vice Mayor Jenny Brock, Commissioner John Hunter, Commissioner Joe Wise, Commissioner

City Leadership

Cathy Ball, City Manager Steve Willis, Assistant City Manager Randy Trivette, Assistant City Manager Joy Baker, Interim Assistant City Manager

Project Team

Natalie Smith, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Stacey Wild, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board April Norris, Parks and Recreation Director Charles Ridlehuber, Former Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Tayler Dixon, Promotions and Events Coordinator Samuel B. Miller III, Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Peyton Voirin, Parks and Recreation Planner Cameron Clark, Parks and Recreation Assistant Director

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Adam Welch, Chair Natalie Smith, Vice Chair Robert (Joe) Bradley Karen Hubbs James Hughes

Jonathan Kinnick Matthew Palmatier Stacey Wild Charles Stahl

Technical Advisory Committee Keisha Shoun, Director of Public Affairs JT McSpadden, Digital Communications Manager Diane Youngs, Geospatial Manager William Righter, Director of Development Services Dr. Steve Barnett, Superintendent of Johnson City Schools Phil Pindzola, Former Director of Public Works James Ellis, Former Director of Parks and Recreation Deb Fogle, Senior Services Manager Joe Ebarb, Athletic Services Manager Rachel Evans, Recreation Services Manager Cindy Bogart, Park Services Manager Roger Cox, Assistant Park Services Manager Robert Dove, Program Coordinator Bryan Bentley, Golf Services Manager Missy Hollifield, Administrative Specialist

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.............. 5 INTRODUCTION............................ 17 Overview........................................................... 18 Master Plan Purpose...................................... 19 Vision, Mission, and Values.......................... 20 Project Process............................................... 22 Public Involvement........................................ 23 Online Survey Summary............................... 26 Socioeconomic Data...................................... 28 Themes and Goals.......................................... 30

PLANNING CONTEXT............... 31

97 �� IMPLEMENTATION Implementation Strategy............................. 98 Park and Facility Implementation............106 Programming Implementation................. 113 Organization Implementation...................115 City Wide Priorities...................................... 117 Strategic Actions..........................................119 Grant Opportunities.....................................122

123 ��CONCLUSION

Market Overview............................................ 32 Peer Agency Comparison............................. 40

RESOURCE ANALYSIS.............45 Existing Resources.........................................46 Park Deserts..................................................... 47 Resource Analysis...........................................48 Regional Parks.................................................49 Community Parks...........................................55 Neighborhood Parks......................................63 Linear Parks......................................................65 Natural Space/Greenways............................67 Indoor Recreation Facilities.........................69 Regional Assets...............................................74 Overall Park Findings.....................................80 Recreation Services.......................................83 Promotions and Special Events..................87 Senior Services................................................89 Golf Services....................................................93 Department Organization............................95

125 ��APPENDIX Other Referenced Documents................126 Community Meetings Data......................127 Master Plan Focus Group Data................136 Employee SWOT..........................................138 Online Survey Summaries........................140 ESRI Data.......................................................189

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Executive Summary Parks and Recreation Overview

Executive Summary Overview Purpose of Plan • Identify opportunities to maximize resources and areas of growth over the next 10 years • Guide the Parks and Recreation Department in decision-making and prioritizing resources and development • Obtain grant, state, and federal funding for future projects

Mission and Vision Mission Statement We Go.All.Out. to enrich the quality of life in Johnson City. Vision Statement We envision Johnson City as a growing community thriving on its unique recreational opportunities for all to connect through the development and stewardship of inclusive parks and programs while preserving natural resources

Themes and Goals Connectivity • Create trails, greenways, and bikeways that prioritize connections for all residents to parks and recreational facilities • Establish partnerships with external stakeholders to increase overall connectivity capacities

Sustainability • Ensure existing resource longevity through intentional planning • Prioritize consistency and standards

Accessibility • Improve and expand inclusive programming addressing community needs • Prioritize accessibility and inclusivity through park and facility development and improvements • Maintain affordability • Ensure access for a growing population

Innovation • Support staff development and engagement • Improve community interaction • Create an inclusive community

Executive Summary Timeline

Executive Summary Background & Process

The 2020 Census data and remote work opportunities emerging since COVID-19 suggests significant growth in the population of Johnson City in the next 5-10 years. The last Parks and Recreation Master Plan for Johnson City was written in 2000 and served as a guidepost for the department through 2020. A review of the plan and its major proposals is necessary to assess accomplishments, current relevancy, and identify new recommendations necessary to meet current and future project demands. A new Master plan should make proposals for the short (0-2 years), medium (3-6 years), and long (6-10 years) term and be reviewed annually to ensure community needs are being addressed. The plan should be completely re-evaluated every 10 years. Being that the previous master plan has expired there is a need for a current plan to be adopted by City Commission. This plan will shape the direction of the Parks and Recreation department for the next 10 years while aiding in obtaining accreditation, applying for grant funding and to secure federal, state and local funds for future projects. The key component to any successful master plan is public input. Public input ensures that the direction of the Parks and Recreation department aligns with the needs, values, and priorities of the community it serves. The data collection process consisted of census data analysis, online surveys, on-the-ground public surveys, an existing parks and facilities assessment, community input meetings, focus groups and open dialogue with key stakeholders and local leadership.

Executive Summary Process

A SWOT analysis was completed utilizing the management team of the Parks and Recreation Department. The SWOT analysis shows the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that are present for the department currently. The results of this analysis allows the department to build on what is done well, address what is lacking, and seize new opportunities all while minimizing the risks.

Executive Summary Implementation Strategy

Connectivity Connect Facilities Via Trails And Greenways Short

Medium

Long

Secure funding to develop a comprehensive trails and greenways master plan

Create trails and greenways

Connect the Tweetsie Trail to Jonesborough and other regional opportunities

Develop bikeways plan

Bikeways through neighborhoods

Market connectivity to citizens and potential incoming citizens

Identify sidewalk connectivity to Secure grant funding to develop parks and facilities new sidewalks to connect to parks and facilities

Sidewalk enhancements connecting to regional sites

Create Partnerships With External Stakeholders To Increase Overall Connectivity Capacities Short

Medium

Long

Identify key regional stakeholders interested in community health and recreation

Community-wide health initiatives partnering with hospitals, public health organizations, and universities

Fund facilities through public/ private partnerships

Seek partnerships to aid in development and enhancement of multi-use trails

Collaborate with ETSU for volunteers, grants, and ‘exercise as medicine’

Continuously seek effective partnerships to increase resources and capacities

Build partnerships within city and regional departments and organizations

Leverage partnerships for city transportation and greenway improvements

Create partnerships with local businesses for sponsorships of new and existing facilities

Executive Summary Implementation Strategy

Accessibility Improve and Expand Inclusive Programming Addressing Community Needs Short

Medium

Identify trends and participation changes in sport programming

Redesign sport programming

Implement new sports programming

Identify areas for nature-based education such as Winged Deer Park, Willow Springs Park, and Jacobs Nature Park

Create nature-based education locations at current parks

Continue to grow and enhance areas of nature based programs

Develop programming master Implement programming plan with emphasis on intentional, master plan accessible, and multicultural programs

Long

Re-evaluate programming master plan

Improve Accessibility And Inclusivity through Park and Facility Improvements Short

Medium

Long

Identify areas with phased ADA improvements

Create Master Plan for park sites needing extensive ADA improvements

Continue ADA improvements

Identify unique-asset based programming opportunities

Develop a plan to program and develop inclusive amenities throughout the parks system

Implement plan

Executive Summary Implementation Strategy

Accessibility Maintain Affordability Short

Medium

Long

Evaluate Fees and Charges Policy Implement the updated Fees and Re-evaluate Fees and Charges Policy Charges Policy Identify opportunities for grant funding

Develop a strategy to increase grant funding

Collaborate with external partners to apply for grant funding

Evaluate earned revenues

Develop and implement a cost recovery plan

Continue to re-evaluate revenue structures

Ensure Access For A Growing Population Short

Medium

Long

Complete needs assessment for additional Community Center

Create master plan for additional Construct additional community community center center based on needs assessment and master plan

Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy

Implement the comprehensive marketing strategy

Reassess the marketing strategy

Identify areas of City projected to undergo substantial growth

Purchase property in growth areas for future parks

Continue to assess City growth patterns and plan for future land acquisition for parks and facilities

Identify vacant land parcels throughout the City and in surrounding areas

Develop plans and secure funding for new parks and facilities at identified locations

Construct new parks and facilities to eliminate park deserts

Executive Summary Implementation Strategy

Sustainability Ensure Existing Resource Longevity Through Comprehensive Plans Short

Medium

Long

Fund Buffalo Mountain Master Plan

Create Buffalo Mountain Master Plan

Implement Buffalo Mountain Master Plan

Complete Aquatics needs and feasibility study

Develop Aquatics Master Plan

Implement Aquatics Master Plan

Fund urgent improvements: ballfield lights, playgrounds, artificial turf, court resurfacing, and ADA improvements

Create comprehensive maintenance and upgrade plan

Implement comprehensive maintenance and upgrade plan

Identify areas of parks to be converted to natural spaces

Evaluate efficacy of greenways and natural areas through collaboration with experts

Create natural spaces in parks as identified

Identify opportunities for best management practices in conservation and sustainability

Provide educational opportunities promoting conservation and sustainability

Prioritize Consistency and Standards Short

Medium

Identify uniform parks and facilities furnishings

Implement guidelines

Enforce guidelines on equipment, furnishings, etc.

Identify storage needs through the department

Build/secure storage

Continually assess ongoing storage needs

Create onboarding for P&R Advisory Board Create a standardized operating plan for all facilities and community centers

Long

Continually assess onboarding process for new P&R advisory board members Implement the standardized operating plan for all facilities and community centers

Continually reassess the standardized operating plan

Executive Summary Implementation Strategy

Innovation Support Staff Development and Engagement Short

Medium

Identify staff development and engagement opportunities

Budget for development opportunities

Long Support staff in long term continued education acquisition

Identify staff members and goals Create incentive program for for participation staff participation

Achieve departmental certification goals

Determine needed resources for staff initiated opportunities

Provide needed resources and assess efficacy

Budget for needed resources

Improve Community Interaction Short

Medium

Long

Identify a user-friendly and easily accessible recreation management software

Implement the new software

Reassess all available softwares to ensure user focus

Develop customer service training program

Implement customer service training program for all staff

Reassess, measure outcomes, and make needed changes

Identify marketing and communication streams

Implement new communication streams within changing platforms

Reassess the marketing platforms with changing needs

Create an Inclusive Community Short

Medium

÷Long

Identify organizational values that create a sense of belonging

Operationalize the values

Evaluate values and operations

Prioritize representation in operations, marketing, and communications

Evaluate representation in operations, marketing, and communications

Ensure continued representation based on a growing population

Executive Summary Conclusion Priorities Proper prioritization allows for planning, pacing, and positioning so that decisions can be made based on impact, importance, and urgency. Based on the data compiled during the data collection phase of this master plan the following priorities have been identified: • • • • • • •

Connect facilities by way of trails and greenways Purchase land for small parks and greenways Implement strategic programming Develop and enhance facilities based on community needs Invest in implementation strategies for marque parks and facilities Conduct a revenue assessment and implement changes based on the departmental vision Invest in technology updates to allow for ease of business

Conclusion With the continued population growth in Johnson City, TN the Parks and Recreation Department must grow in order to address the needs of the community it serves. Parks and Recreation is a major component to build a successful and thriving community. When successful, parks and recreation cultivates a sense of community and provides economic value, health and environmental benefits, and social importance. Johnson City Parks and Recreation currently has beautiful parks, a vast variety of programming opportunities, well aged athletic facilities, and multiple community centers providing an excellent foundation for future growth. This comprehensive parks and recreation master plan provides a map to navigate improvements and expansion as well as identifying means of obtaining funding and policy creation.

More Information For more information about specific action items that Parks and Recreation plans to complete over the next 10 years, see pages 107-120.

INTRODUCTION

Overview

As Johnson City enters an era of growth and change, we have been afforded the opportunity to design the future of Parks and Recreation. No matter how different we are, we share one comprehensive commonality, the desire to create a vibrant and progressive community that provides a high quality-of-life and cultivates a sense of community: a community that promotes and inspires social engagement, interpersonal connections, a sense of belonging and trust; a community that facilitates the creation of spaces that are just as functional as they are beautiful. We must make planning, policy and design decisions that put the community at the center of the equation. We must establish a community first plan that places a priority on quality-of-life and generational sustainability. A successful parks and recreation master plan can positively impact the community’s livability, sustainability, and resiliency. Elements of parks and recreation can help create jobs, increase revenues, protect natural resources, shape the community and character, expand transportation access, improve health and education, and strengthen families. A thriving parks and recreation system can be an oasis, bringing people together, and providing an outlet for stress relief and opportunities to improve overall wellness for community members. The Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023 is based upon a review of the community as a whole, an analysis of the existing park system, the identification of citizen needs through extensive citizen input and concerns, and the development of recreation guidelines. The Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023 establishes a framework for the gradual growth and development of the city’s parks and recreation system to keep up with the city’s rapid growth. The 2020 Census data and remote work opportunities emerging since COVID-19 suggests significant growth will occur in the population of Johnson City in the next 5-10 years, placing an increased demand on the program offerings, facilities, and parks. With continually aging infrastructure, it will be a challenge meeting the citizen’s demands for increased recreation facilities.

Master Plan Purpose

The Purpose of the Master Plan: 1. Identify opportunities to maximize resources and areas of growth over the next 10 years. 2. Guide the Parks and Recreation Department in decision-making and prioritizing resources and development. 3. Obtain grants, state, and federal funding for future projects.

This master plan will outline proposals for the short, intermediate, and long term. It should be reviewed annually to ensure that community needs are being addressed and should be completely re-evaluated every 10 years. It recommends facility improvements and the addition of new facilities before citizens’ needs and demands become an issue and existing land resources are at a premium. Through proactive planning and development of parks and recreation facilities, the City can budget needed funds over a period of time.

A Master Plan Should Include: • • • • • • •

Renovations and improvements to existing recreation facilities; Recreation programming needs; Acquisition and development of new recreation facilities; Maintenance concerns for current and proposed facilities; Citizen concerns and needs; Partnerships in the provision of recreation services; and Re-evaluation of existing parks and facilities.

This plan will shape the direction of the Parks and Recreation department for the next 10 years while aiding in obtaining accreditation, applying for grant funding and to secure federal, state and local funds for future projects.

Vision, Mission and Values

The 2021 Johnson City Strategic Plan defines the City’s vision as “poised for continued growth and revitalization. From the lifestyle advantages afforded to us by our natural assets and outdoors amenities, to a low cost-of-living, outstanding public schools, a distinguished regional university, an innovative health care sector, and robust technology infrastructure, Johnson City holds the keys to its future- a future in which we retain and attract the best and brightest people and industries, and work together toward a shared vision so all of our citizens can experience property.”

Our Vision We envision Johnson City as a growing community thriving on its unique recreational opportunities for all to connect through the development and stewardship of inclusive parks and programs while preserving natural resources.

Our Mission We GO.ALL.OUT. to enrich the quality of life in Johnson City.

Vision, Mission and Values The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to the following: • Providing opportunities for relaxation, learning and socialization to promote personal growth and well-being. • Preserving, protecting, maintaining, improving, and enhancing natural resources, parkland, and recreational opportunities. • Strengthening community image and sense of place. • Enhancing the health and wellness of our patrons through innovative and diversified parks, arts, recreation, leisure, and cultural opportunities. • Promoting positive customer experience. • Bringing children and families into our parks and giving them great reasons to stay and play for a lifetime. • Striving to improve existing facilities while seeking opportunities for future development • Developing programs, tournaments, and leagues for everyone to enjoy. • Effectively promoting and publicizing area recreational programs and events. • Making Johnson City the best place to live, work and play by enriching the lives of residents and building a healthier community.

Proper prioritization allows for planning, pacing, and positioning so that decisions can be made based on impact, importance, and urgency. Based on the data compiled during the data collection phase of this master plan, the following priorities have been identified . • • • • • • •

Project Process

The key component to any successful master plan is public input. Public input ensures that the direction of the Parks and Recreation department aligns with the needs, values, and priorities of the community it serves. The Master Planning process was conducted over approximately eighteen months. The data collection process consisted of census data analysis, online surveys, on-the-ground public surveys, existing parks and facilities assessment, two community input meetings, focus groups, and open dialogue with key stakeholders and local leadership. A SWOT analysis was completed utilizing the management team of the Park and Recreation Department. The SWOT analysis shows the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that are present in the department currently. The results of this analysis allow the department to build on what is done well, address what is lacking, and seize new opportunities all while minimizing the risks.

Public Involvement

Input from the City of Johnson City and the surrounding area was gathered through on-the-ground public surveys, public meetings, and focus groups. To ensure there was a diverse representation, the committee conducted public input meetings at different locations. In mid-September of 2021, the first public meeting was held at the Memorial Park Community Center. Two weeks later, the other public meet was held at the Carver Recreation Center to accommodate different schedules and service areas. Community members shared their thoughts through open-ended and closedended questions ranging from programming, facilities, to anticipated “big shifts” in parks and recreation.

Following the community meetings, the committee conducted interviews with local stakeholders at the Memorial Park Community Center. Local school officials, invested citizens, park advisory board members, and city staff made up the stakeholder group. Meeting with these individuals helped the committee team understand the role of parks and recreation, and how parks and recreation programs and facilities help those organizations.

Public Involvement

Most participants in the community meetings lived within Johnson City limits. About a third of the participants could easily walk or bike to Johnson City Park, while another third needed to drive more than 5 minutes to the nearest park or facility. Most individuals were aware of Parks & Recreation offerings because they heard about them via word of mouth or saw postings on Facebook. When asked about the Department’s strengths and their favorite offerings, youth sports, concert series, and sports and nature activities were most commonly chosen. Key data collected from the public meetings is summarized in the tables. Community workshop participants indicated Johnson City Parks and Recreation excelled in regards to offering a wide range of recreational opportunities, supporting school sports, willingness to support private/public programming, offering a variety of parks and playgrounds, maintaining the parks, wonderful volunteers, an approachable staff, and encouraging large numbers of community children to be involved in sports. In terms of favorite parks and facilities, Carver Recreation Center remains a clear favorite for the community surrounding it. Although not a clear first choice, the Tweetsie Trail was in many resident’s top three. In terms of favorite activities, swimming appears to be a popular activity for those who attended the community meetings. The key future issue identified in the community meetings was the population growth and how the City will address that growth as it relates to green space, transportation, infrastructure, etc.

Public Involvement

The focus group also identified population growth, loss of green space, regional tension, growth in the arts, younger demographics but also growing elderly population, lack of athletic officials, increasing crowding and overuse of parks, and lack of available trained lifeguards as issues on the horizon. For community members, some suggestions for improvement specifically to Parks & Recreation included an increase in family and cross-generational programming, better transportation to parks and facilities, and more open, green space. When asked about how the Parks & Recreation Department could improve the health, well-being and sense of community for Johnson City residents, participants indicated more multicultural events, expanding walking areas and sidewalks, and addressing transportation concerns for seniors. In terms of other areas of improvement, participants most commonly identified sidewalks and walking areas are needed across the city, updated aquatics offerings are needed, and more partnerships with community stakeholders such as volunteers or religious institutions. Focus group stakeholders indicated opportunities for improvement included networks of trails connecting all of JC, more large-scale events, increased partnerships across the city and regionally, more volunteer opportunities, more family programming, improved coach/referee training, programs for 18-35 year olds and better water recreation at Boone Lake and at pools.

Online Survey Summary

The first online survey was launched in July 2022, centered on programming. An additional online survey was launched in October 2022 seeking input from the community on the future of Johnson City Parks and Recreation, use of parks, community programming needs, and future facilities desired by the community. Respondents were mostly female. The respondents heavily represented the 40-44 age group, making up 22% of all respondents. While the 35-39 age group represented 19% and the 50-54 age group represented 12%. The households represented in the survey was generally equally represented by the 18-49 age group (54%) and the senior 50+ age group (46%). This data aligns with Johnson City’s current population which represents a median age of 36. The following is a brief summary of the data that was collected from the community via the online surveys. The full data results can be found in Appendix A. Of the survey respondents, most visit a Johnson City park on a weekly basis, but have not participated in programming. Of those who have utilized departmental programming, it is most often on a monthly basis. 29% of respondents have not participated in programming, which may indicate a lack of marketing effectiveness or programming not meeting their needs.

Online Survey Summary

Respondents were asked to pick up to 5 of their favorite parks and/or facilities. Listed below are the top 10 choices. Winged Deer Park, the Tweetsie Trail, and Founders Park were the clear favorites for participants who responded to the online survey. These include a mix of sport facilities, free play areas, biking areas, and event space. There is no clear priority in these types of parks indicating a mix of recreational opportunities are sought after by city residents. Respondents were asked to pick up to 5 of their favorite recreation programs. Listed below are the top 11 choices, with number 10 and 11 being a tie. In terms of programming, there is not a clear favorite type offered. 13% of respondents prefer the Concert Series and 11% prefer the Youth Sport Leagues, but the diversity of favorites indicates the programming is effectively reaching a broad swath of interests in the community. Nature camps and guide-led nature hikes combine for 17% indicating nature programming is a desired feature of Parks and Recreation.

Socioeconomic Data

During the 2019-2020 school year, East Tennessee State University and First Tennessee Development District partnered with kindergarten teachers from Washington County, TN to collect population level data on children’s developmental and school readiness outcomes using the Early Development Instrument (EDI). The EDI examines how experiences at home and in the community can help prepare children for the school environment. EDI data provides information about children in five developmental areas including: • • • • •

Physical health and well-being Social competence Emotional maturity Language and cognitive skills Communication skills and general knowledge

This data measures school readiness for kindergarten students and can be used to help plan programs and services to help children develop and learn before and during their school years. The Parks and Recreation Board Master Plan Committee evaluated this data to determine whether recommendations could be made regarding Park and Recreation Services which may contribute to increased EDI scores. EDI results are reported as a percentage of children who are developmentally “vulnerable,” “at-risk,” and “on track” in each area. This data was evaluated to determine whether recommendations could be made regarding Park and Recreation Services which may contribute to increased EDI scores.

Socioeconomic Data

EDI 2020: Children Vulnerable on One or More Developmental Domains in Washington County Neighborhoods, Countywide

Spurgeon Kingsport

§ ¦ ¨ 26

Fall Branch

Inset Map of Washington County

Bluff City

Oak Grove

Gray

£ ¤

Sullivan

Hawkins

Wash. Greene

Carter Unicoi

Watauga

§ ¦ ¨ 81

Elizabethton Johnson City Central

£ ¤ 321

Jonesborough

Pine Crest

Telford

§ ¦ ¨ 26

£ ¤ 23

Unicoi

Tusculum

Erwin

Banner Hill

§ ¦ ¨ 26

Miles 4

TECCS@mednet.ucla.edu

The UCLA Center for Healthier Children, Families and Communities, under license from McMaster University, is implementing the Early Development Instrument with its sub licensees in the US. The EDI is the copyright of McMaster University and must not be copied, distributed or used in any way without the prior consent of UCLA or McMaster. © McMaster University, The Offord Centre for Child Studies

For each of the developmental areas assessed, EDI data is reported by neighborhood within the county. A color-coding system is used to represent a range of values for the percentage of children vulnerable in a neighborhood. We compared locations of Johnson City Parks and Recreational facilities and programs with EDI neighborhood data. Examining the data reported in the figure above, there does not appear to be any significant correlation between EDI scores and the current location of Parks and Recreation facilities. However, Johnson City Parks and Recreation could partner with other community organizations to help address kindergarten readiness issues. For example, during the Summer 2022, in an effort to get as many books in the hands of as many kids as possible, the Johnson City Public Library BookWorm Mobile delivered free cases of books for kids using locations chosen in coordination with the scheduling of other programs such as the Johnson City Parks and Recreation summer camp, which brought kids to the Legion Street Pool (Another Successful Tour for the BookWorm Mobile, Amber Brophy, Johnson City Press, July 24. 2022). Transportation options from at-risk neighborhoods to Parks and Recreational facilities may be needed to ensure access and to help address identified issues.

Themes and Goals

Four major themes emerged during the process of compiling this plan: Connectivity, Accessibility, Sustainability, and Innovation. These themes will become goals that guide the future decision making of Johnson City Parks and Recreation.

Connectivity • Create trails and greenways to provide connections for all residents to parks and recreational facilities • Create partnerships with external stakeholders to increase overall connectivity capacities

Sustainability • Ensure existing resourcer longevity through intentional planning • Prioritize consistency and standards

Innovation • Support staff development and engagement • Improve community interaction • Create an inclusive community

Accessibility • Improve and expand inclusive programming • Improve accessibility and inclusivity through park and facility improvements • Maintain affordability • Ensure access for a growing population

PLANNING CONTEXT

Market Overview

Johnson City is a city located within three counties in Tennessee - Washington, Carter, and Sullivan. All of these counties use the amenities and programs provided by Johnson City Parks and Recreation. According to the latest United States census in 2020, it is the eighth largest city in Tennessee. Johnson City is the principal city of the Johnson City Metropolitan Statistical Area, consisting of three counties Carter, Unicoi, and Washington. The total population of the MSA is 207,285. The MSA is also part of the Johnson City-Kingsport-Bristol, Tennessee-Virginia Combined Statistical Area, which is commonly known as the “Tri-Cities” region. With a population of 514,899 as of 2020, the CSA is the fifthlargest in Tennessee. While all five cities in the metropolitan region have experienced growth over the past 20 years, Johnson City remains the largest city in the Tri-Cities Region, and from a percentage basis, it has experienced the most growth. Jonesborough has experienced the secondlargest growth rate, but it has a much smaller population. Due to its proximity to Johnson City, Jonesborough’s population growth also increased economic activity in Johnson City. Kingsport remains the second-largest city in the region with a steady growth rate somewhat smaller than that of Johnson City. Despite city growth, only Washington County has seen significant growth of all the eastern TN counties. Sullivan County remains larger overall, but its growth rate has slowed. Carter, Unicoi, and Johnson Counties have all experienced stagnant or negative growth rates in the past 20 years; Greene County has experienced a slow, steady growth rate similar to Sullivan County. Overall, Johnson City and Washington County continue to be the marquee locations in the region.

Market Overview

As of 2020, the population of Johnson City has a median age of 35.6, which is younger than the state median of 38.8 years. The largest age group in Johnson City are those between 50 and 64 years old, followed closely by 35-49 year olds. The largest percentage change was the 20-24 years old group with an increase in growth of 1.6%. 4.2% of the population moved from a different state in the last year (compared to 2.9% in TN).

Market Overview

While the median salary in Johnson City has grown, the growth (4.99%) rate was slightly less than that of residents in Kingsport (5.23%), less than half of that of Bristol residents (12.52%), and only one-quarter that of all residents in the State of Tennessee (21.01%). This stagnation could impact the ability of citizens to pay for recreational opportunities, increasing the need for affordable and accessible opportunities for all ages Annual income in Johnson City is highest amongst married-couple families who earn an average annual income of $89,103. Non married-couple families earn an average annual income of $65,512, while the average annual income of non family households is $26,518. 21.1% of Johnson City residents live in poverty, significantly higher than the state percentage of 14.6%. Families appear to struggle the most with 28.7% of individuals under 18 in Johnson City living in poverty. The housing vacancy rate is back down to 10.3%, the rate of 2014. These statistics support the importance of accessible educational and recreational programming for children as private youth sport is out of a third of their economic reach.

Market Overview

Based on geographic information system software data, for the area within a 10 minute drive from a Johnson City Park, projections indicate there will be growth in all areas, specifically median income, number of households and overall population, but the growth is projected to be slower than that experienced in the previous 10 years. Approximately 89% of the projected population growth will be from those over age 18, an important consideration for future programming. Most Popular Parks & Recreation Related Activities Walking is clearly a very important activity in Johnson City and the area nearby. Access and length of walkways, trails, and greenways could benefit the citizenry by allowing them to enjoy their favorite outdoor recreation activity. Over30 percent of the population walks for exercise, indicating the importance of accessibility to walking trails and connectivity from every neighborhood. Not surprisingly, the access to hiking remains important as the second most popular recreational activity. Johnson City has the opportunity to leverage their natural water points to increase activities such as fishing and canoeing/kayaking.

Market Overview Individuals In A 10 Minute Drive Radius From A Johnson City Park Or Facility

Market Overview

For sport-specific recreation, swimming is a significant portion of the adult participation. The citizens of Johnson City benefit from local access through Memorial Park Community Center, Freedom Hall, and seasonally Legion Street Pool. Regionally, the Kingsport Aquatics center, and seasonally the 3 major lakes nearby, also provide access for affordable swimming. A concern related to the most popular adult sport in Johnson City is the aging infrastructure at Freedom Hall and Legion Street. Swimming could grow in participation if swimming access, attractiveness, and affordability was increased. An interesting exploration to consider for the parks and recreation department is adult programming related to the other sports listed. While there are many opportunities for free play in Johnson City’s parks and facilities for these sports, leagues might be an area to explore if financially viable. Programming related to the other sports listed. While there are many opportunities for free play in Johnson City’s parks and facilities for these sports, leagues might be an area to explore if financially viable.

Market Overview

Cooking and baking remain the most popular recreation activities for adults in the Johnson City area. This combined with the high obesity rate in the area could provide an opportunity for healthy cooking and nutritional programming. Interestingly, overnight camping is the third most popular recreational activity. This may be a consideration as part of a future Buffalo Mountain master plan to allow for more access to overnight camping closer to the citizenry. For those engaging with fitness classes, the most popular were weightlifting, yoga, and aerobics. These three activities accounted for 85% of those who participated in fitness classes. Continued analysis will be required to ensure opportunities in these areas do not become limited due to increased demand and availability of offerings.

Market Overview

A Market Potential Index (MPI) measures the relative likelihood of the adults or households in the specified trade area to exhibit certain consumer behavior or purchasing patterns compared to the U.S. An MPI of 100 represents the U.S. average. For example, if an activity in Johnson City has an MPI of 106, individuals in Johnson City are 6% more likely to engage in that activity than the national average. Based on MPI data, those within a 10 minute drive of a Johnson City park are more likely than the national average to enjoy birdwatching, woodworking, canoeing/kayaking, and overnight camping. Interestingly, despite the number of mountains and mountainous trails in the region, road biking is more popular than mountain biking in the region (10.6% participation, MPI: 94 for road biking; 3.2% participation, MPI: 84 for mountain biking). This is important to consider for future greenway and connectivity planning. Activity

Expected Number of Adults/HHs

Percent

MPI

Walking for exercise

35,123

30.7%

Swimming

17,866

15.6%

100

Hiking

17,812

15.6%

Fishing (fresh water)

15,084

13.2%

123

Indoor gardening/Plant Care

15,451

13.5%

101

Overnight Camping

15,735

13.8%

106

Bicycling (road)

12,089

10.6%

Painting/Drawing

11,640

10.2%

101

Photography

11,597

10.1%

Yoga

11,435

10.0%

Birdwatching

7,978

7.0%

119

Woodworking

7,097

6.2%

111

Canoeing/Kayaking

9,305

8.1%

111

Peer Agency Comparison

Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department submitted operational information into the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) Park Metrics website. NRPA compared this data to that of other programs across the country and returned an Agency Performance Review comparing Johnson City to agencies that serve a similar population density as well as all agencies. The results allow us to measure Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department’s strengths, weaknesses and improvement opportunities and are discussed in this section.

2022 NRPA

AG E N CY P E R FO R M A N C E REVIEW

Peer Agency Comparison

Johnson City has significantly more parkland per resident (20.2 acres/1000 residents) than most comparable cities (10.4 acres/1000 residents). This is likely due to the size of Buffalo Mountain, as well as other marquee parks. This fact should be advertised as a unique feature of the city, highlighting how much green space we have available to residents.However, despite the total amount of parkland per resident being higher than average, the budget per acre ($2,196) is significantly less than comparable cities ($3,708). This means maintenance and other issues could arise as costs rise. The availability of significantly larger amounts of parkland per resident and lower upkeep costs is a tremendous asset to the City and it’s residents and should be marketed as such. Buffalo Mountain is a unique feature and Johnson City may consider researching this further to create a market differentiation for potential future citizens.

Peer Agency Comparison

Johnson City has a higher operating expenditure than that of comparable sized cities. While one could assume the higher spending per resident has to do with the large acreage per resident, 62% of the operating budget is spent on recreation vs. 38% on parks, while comparable cities spend 44% of their budget on their parks. This discrepancy may arise because peer cities report 14% of ‘other’ expenses, whereas Johnson City delineated only between recreation and parks with zero spent in ‘other.’ Johnson City spends more money per resident on parks and recreation services ($116.83) than comparable cities do ($93.01), and Johnson City earns less revenue per resident ($19.56) than comparable cities ($22.08). As acreage continues to be developed in the future, operating expenses per acre will be difficult to sustain at the current costs, and additional sources of revenue will be necessary to maintain current resources.

Percentage of Total Operating Expenditures Johnson City Number of Responses

Similar Cities

All Cities

168

819

Parks

38.0%

44.0%

44.7%

Recreation

62.0%

41.3%

42.0%

Other

0.0%

14.7%

13.3%

Peer Agency Comparison

As the poverty level is high in Johnson City, increasing revenues should have a strategic approach to allow access to lower income residents. Likewise, an assessment of costs may need to be considered with a large expenditure per capita than the average comparable city. Alternatively, it could signal a priority of parks and recreation as a city and provide market differentiation to those interested in moving to similar sized cities across the country, Johnson City differs significantly from peer agencies in the area of budget designations. For example, in Johnson City, 94% of the budget is designated for new development, but comparable agencies have almost 50% budgeted for renovations. This seems to be a concern overall with aging infrastructure related to aquatics in particular. Current Fiscal Year’s Capital Budget Breakdown Johnson City Number of Responses

Similar Cities

All Cities

150

714

Renovation

6.0%

59.2%

55.8%

New Development

94.0%

27.4%

29.9%

Acquisition

0.0%

7.0%

7.1%

Other

0.0%

7.2%

6.4%

Peer Agency Comparison

Overall, agency effectiveness ratios should be examined in comparison to national averages, but more importantly, to those with similar population density. For Johnson City, some notable differences to comparable cities include: 1. Operating expenditures: Johnson City’s operating expenditures ($116.83) are significantly higher than comparably-sized cities ($96.41). 2. Full-time employees per population: Johnson City has a much higher (16.0) number of full-time employees per population than comparably-sized cities (9.3). 3. Operating expenditures per full-time employees: Despite the larger number of full-time employees, Johnson City maintains a lower operating expenditure ($72,999) than comparably-sized cities ($104,685). As the cost of living in Johnson City increases, maximizing the utility of each employee should be considered as salaries will likely have to rise.

Metric

Johnson City

Similar Cities

Operating expenditures per capita

$116.83

$96.41

$93.01

Revenue per capita

$19.56

$23.51

$22.08

Total revenue to total operating expenditures

16.7%

25.0%

23.6%

Total tax expenditures per capita

$97.26

$65.54

$64.75

Park operating expenditures per acre of parkland

$2,196

$3,381

$3,708

Operating expenditures per acre of parkland

$5,780

$8,280

$9,236

Operating expenditures per acres of park and non-park sites $5,681

$6,429

$7,823

Operating expenditures per full time employee

$72,999

$104,685 $102,530

Full time employees per 10,000 population

16.0

9.3

8.9

Acres of park per 1,000 residents

20.2

12.1

10.4

Number of residents per park

2,960

2,300

2,323

Number of acres per park

59.8

24.9

22.5

Number of participants per program

162

Ratio of fee programs to all programs

94.0

83.1

81.4

Ratio of building attendance to park attendance

12.6

40.4

38.7

All Cities

RESOURCE ANALYSIS

Existing Resources

Park Deserts

Park deserts are considered areas of the City that do not have easy access to a park due to a lack of proximity. In order to prioritize accessibility, park deserts should be minimized, and new parks should be placed in areas that do not have an existing park nearby. The map below identifies vacant city owned parcels that should be analyzed to determine compatibility as a park that minimizes park deserts within the City.

Resource Analysis

In the next section of this plan, existing City resources will be analyzed based on their existing conditions. This analysis will have the following factors: • Overall Condition- The overall condition of the park or facility • Visual Quality- The aesthetic element of the park or facility • Site Furnishings- The quality of the furnishings that exist on the site • Vandalism- The frequency of vandalism that occurs on the premises of the park or facility • Unhoused- The frequency of occurrence of unhoused individuals in the park or facility • ADA Compliance- The accessibility of the park or facility based on ADA standards

Key

High Concern

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Medium Concern

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Low Concern

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Regional Parks

Regional parks typically include larger areas of land offering unique recreational opportunities, which are able to draw visitors in from the local community as well as from the surrounding region. The size of these facilities allows for large groups of users to be accommodated through both passive and active recreational activities. Due to the size (or unique features), regional parks often require more maintenance and support facilities.

Regional Parks Buffalo Valley Golf Course Buffalo Valley Golf Course, purchased by Johnson City in 1993, is not currently operational. The course once was an 18-hole par 71 golf course situated on 124 acres in the town of Unicoi. This City is currently attempting to sell the property.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Buffalo Mountain Park Buffalo Mountain Park is a 725-acre natural resource area obtained in a land swap with the U.S. Forest Service in 1994. The park is located on the north slope of Buffalo Mountain and consists of steep topography and densely forested land. The park functions as a nature preserve for self-directed activities, primarily hiking, picnicking, and nature programs.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Regional Parks TVA Credit Union Ballpark TVA Credit Union Ballpark is managed by Boyd Sports. This one field baseball complex houses varsity high school and the rookie league from the Johnson City Doughboys Baseball Organization. In 2021, the video scoreboard and the outfield wall were replaced. Private community events such as the Turkey Trot and Hoppy Possum Festival are also held at this facility. The Johnson City Doughboys compete in the Appalachian League comprised of 10 clubs in the Appalachian region of the United States. The Appalachian League is a summer collegiate baseball league that is part of the MLB and USA Baseball Prospect Development Pipeline, a pathway for amateur baseball players in the United States, and will also be an integral part of the identification and development process for the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team and other future national teams.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Regional Parks Pine Oaks Golf Course Pine Oaks Golf Course was constructed using funds provided through a Federal Urban Renewal Program grant. Located inside the city limits, the golf course measures 6,500 yards from the championship tees and spans some 125 acres. Pine Oaks offers 18 holes of an open layout in a park-like setting. The layout can be challenging for better players while still not offering a layout that is unplayable for seniors, juniors, higher handicappers, etc. Pine Oaks is open 362 days a year, only closing on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas. In addition to daily play opportunities, the course offers a practice range, a stocked golf shop with concession, annual pass options and gift certificates. It also hosts the First Tee program which teaches local children life and leadership skills through the game of golf. Local high schools also use Pine Oaks as their home course for varsity golf.

Overall Condition Golf Course

Pro Shop

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Regional Parks Tannery Knobs The land for Tannery Knobs was generously donated by the Summers-Taylor construction company in 2016, and sits less than a mile from the newly constructed Tweetsie Trail. Featuring endless mountain views, the 300’+ ridge line overlooks Johnson City’s historic Appalachian charm. Working with the International Mountain Bicycling Association’s (IMBA) trail building group Trail Solutions, every trail at Tannery Knobs has been meticulously designed (and redesigned) to create a unique and progressive riding experience. Riders can experience the thrill of off-road riding in a progressive environment, from rocky gnar to smooth and flowy. A second phase of Tannery Knobs will be added in 2023 to include an observation area from the pump track entrance. There will also be three additional trails and an intermediate downhill trail with a climbing trail so mountain bikers can ride from town.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Regional Parks Winged Deer Park Established in 1991, Winged Deer Park is a 239-acre regional park on land that was previously a farm. The original farmhouse was converted into the Parks and Recreation Administration Office, which includes a meeting room, working offices and a landscaped patio area with a small gazebo. The park’s historical area features the Robert Young Cabin – one of Johnson City’s oldest dwellings – the Massengil Monument, and the James H. Quillen Historical Tree Arboretum. Amenities at Winged Deer Park include five lighted natural turf softball/baseball fields, scorer’s tower and restroom, three lighted soccer fields, Batter’s Up batting cages, an 18-hole disc golf course, playground area, soccer concession building with restroom, half-mile walking track and paved fitness trails, and a bike park which winds through the forested section of the park. The bike park includes 7 miles of beginner to advanced trails. The lakefront area features two sand volleyball courts, picnic shelter with restroom, public boating access, green space, lighted handicap accessible boardwalk, amphitheater, and a Festival Plaza multi-use area with restroom. An additional athletic complex, scheduled to be finished in November of 2023, adds four synthetic softball/baseball fields with cutouts for soccer in the outfields. The complex has two full-size synthetic turf soccer fields.

Overall Condition Golf Course

Pro Shop

Trails, Bike Parks, Disc Golf, Nature Administration Office Shop

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Community Parks

Community Parks provide visitors with active and passive recreation opportunities. These parks service a population within a 1-to 2-mile radius. Typically, community parks include all of the improvements found in a neighborhood park, plus ball diamonds and play fields designed for competitive athletics, tennis, basketball courts, off-street parking, and shelter and restroom facilities.

Community Parks Neighborhood Park Established in 1972, Neighborhood Park is a 2-acre baseball field used primarily for youth baseball leagues. Neighborhood park is home of the Arrwood-Mashburn Field.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Carnegie Park Carnegie Park, formerly Jaycee Park, is a 5-acre neighborhood park established in 1945. The park consists of two girl’s lighted softball fields, a restroom shelter, basketball court and playground. A new playground with shade structure was completed in 2023.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Civitan Park Civitan Park was established in 1963 on the site of a former landfill. This 33-acre community park is primarily used as a soccer facility. The development includes five lighted soccer fields, concession area with restrooms, six pavilions, two sand volleyball courts, basketball court, playground and a walking trail connecting Civitan to Lions and Rotary parks. The existing playground was replaced with a new playground completed in 2022.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Community Parks Founders Park Founders Park is a 5-acre greenspace located in downtown Johnson City. Completed in 2014 as part of a storm water retention project to mitigate flooding, the park offers an amphitheater, walking paths, a creek, and a variety of public art. Adjacent to the park is a large open-air pavilion. The site is maintained by Public Works and programs are scheduled by Communications and Marketing.

Keefauver Farm The historic, pastoral 55-acre Keefauver farm was obtained by the city for use as a new recreation area with a number of possible uses. A master plan was initiated in 2021 and is currently in its final stages. The map below is the proposed concept plan for the park.

HALES CHAPEL RD Drop-Off

Overflow Parking Area

135 Spaces 71 Spaces Ex. Silos & Signage Large Pavilion w/ Restrooms

Open Lawn

Adventure Play Area

Maintenance Building Adaptive/Inclusive Play Area Bench (Typical)

Small Picnic Shelter Amphitheater

SHADDEN RD

Pond

Fishing/Wildlife Observation Dock

Paved Walking Trail (Approx. 1.8 mi.) Interactive Stream Play Area

Non-programmed Open Space

Small Covered Shelter (Typical)

Natural Surface Trail Pollinator Garden

Small Shelter/ Observation Deck Natural Surface Trail

Keefauver Farm Park Master Plan Johnson City, Tennessee

12.5.2023

Community Parks Keystone Instructional Baseball Field Keystone Instructional Baseball Field has two fields, which are utilized for Little League Baseball play. The park consists of approximately 2.8 acres. In addition to the ballfield, the site has a pavilion and a playground.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

King Commons Playground King Commons Playground, completed in 2018, features natural and musical elements, synthetic turf, and a history cycle highlighting significant dates from Johnson City’s first 150 years.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Kiwanis Park Kiwanis Park, established in 1949, is a 9-acre park with amenities including a lighted baseball field, lighted basketball courts, sand volleyball court, picnic tables, two playgrounds, and a multi-use building. The local Veterans Memorial is located on-site at Kiwanis Park. A grant from the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation provided funds for a new playground with features including a swing set, play areas for children ages 2 to 12, a community pavilion and fitness stations.

Overall Condition Park

Arthur Lady Field

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Community Parks Liberty Bell Complex • Kermit Tipton Stadium - The multi-purpose synthetic turf field is home to Science Hill High School football, soccer, and lacrosse teams. A full size track surrounds the field. The seating capacity of the stadium is 6,600. • Bud Seaver Field - Baseball field with score tower • Charlie Roller Field - Baseball field with score tower • John Broyles Field - Baseball field with score tower • Four Utility Fields - Multi-use fields used for track and field, lacrosse, football, soccer, physical education, and hammer throw • Pete Zannis Tennis Center - Tennis facility with bathrooms and 13 lighted tennis courts with a hitting wall • Skate Park - The concrete skate park was opened in 1999.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Kermit Tipton Stadium Bud Seaver Field Charlie Roller Field John Broyles Field Four Utility Fields Pete Zannis Tennis Center

Skate Park

Community Parks Legion Street Pool The Legion Street Outdoor Pool features an Olympic size lap pool with diving well built in 1959. The pool operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day and provides opportunities for summer swim leagues, youth summer camps, birthday parties, and special events.

Overall ÷Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Lions Park Lions Park, established in 1958, is an 8-acre neighborhood park with three Little League baseball fields, three pavilions, and concession stands. One field has no permanent outfield fence which gives the department the ability to layout a soccer field should the need arise.

Overall ÷Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Metropolitan Kiwanis Park Established in 1972, Metro-Kiwanis is a 15-acre community park used primarily for Johnson City School System softball league play. Amenities include concession area and restrooms, five picnic shelters with picnic tables, playground area, two lighted softball fields, and five tennis courts.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Community Parks Rotary Park Rotary Park, one of the most popular parks in the city with an annual attendance of approximately 40,000, consists of 10.4 acres. The park is open April through October and includes six covered picnic shelters, restrooms, picnic tables, and an all inclusive playground area with splash-pad.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Thomas B. Hager Sports Complex (Indian Trail) The complex is composed of a paved walking trail, track, lighted football/soccer field, lighted softball field, and lighted baseball field. There is a concession/restroom building on-site. A new synthetic multi-use field is proposed for installation in fall of 2023.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Community Parks Willow Springs Park Established in 1998, Willow Springs Park encompasses 36 acres with three pavilions, 1.8 mile paved walking path, small pond with observation deck, butterfly garden, volleyball court, basketball court, and playground. The existing playground is scheduled to be replaced in FY2025.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

The Johnson City Dog Park at Willow Springs Park The Dog Park is a cooperative effort between the Friends of Johnson City Dog Park Association and the City of Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department. The 1.6 acre site is located within the park boundaries of Willow Springs Park. The area incorporates a fenced area with double-gated keyless entry system, enabling members’ only access. The area includes trees, a separate area for small dogs and puppies, and other park furnishings. The park is paid for and maintained by annual fees.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Neighborhood Parks

These parks serve residents within a ten to fifteen minute walk to the facility. Though these facilities are on the smaller side, they are important because they provide a “close-to-home” recreational opportunity for nearby residents who may not have the ability to travel to a larger facility.

Neighborhood Parks Friendship Gardens Established in 1982, Friendship Gardens encompasses 3 acres located within Metro-Kiwanis Park and is used primarily for self-directed activities. The park includes Chief Junaluska, a 30 foot tall Chestnut Oak image of a Cherokee chief to honor Native Americans, sculpted by Peter Wolf Toth, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Paul Christman Park Paul Christman Park is a half-acre neighborhood park, which includes a small shelter with picnic table, playground area and a multi-use basketball court.

Overall ÷Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Powell Square Park Powell Square Park, established in 1889, is a 1.4 acre park located on West Poplar Street. The facility is the oldest in the city’s park system and includes a small shelter with picnic tables, playground area and a multiuse basketball court.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Veterans Park Established in 1973, Veterans Park is a special use park which has been incorporated into the new South Side Elementary School campus.

Linear Parks

Linear parks are developed or landscaped areas and other lands that follow linear corridors such as railroad right-of-way, creeks, canals, power lines, utilities, and other elongated features.

Linear Parks Tweetsie Trail The Tweetsie Trail is a rails-to-trails project traversing the former East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad right-of-way between Johnson City and Elizabethton. A gradual tread of packed rock, the 9.6-mile trail provides opportunities for walking, running, and biking in a beautiful, natural setting. The railroad was known as the “Tweetsie,” a reference to the sound of its steam whistles. The Tweetsie Trail begins at the corner of Van Brocklin Way and Legion streets in Johnson City. This trailhead includes paved parking, benches, water fountains, a bike repair station, and a portable restroom. Overflow parking can be found nearby at the TVA Credit Union Ballpark or the large asphalt lot on the corner of East State of Franklin Road and Legion Street. The Tweetsie Trail extension runs to both lots and connects with sidewalks that run into downtown Johnson City. These lots are also in close proximity to Tannery Knobs, the City’s mountain bike park. The trail’s terminus is at the intersection of Stateline Road and Blue Ridge Drive. There is a small parking lot and portable restroom at the 9.4 mile marker. A portable restroom is also available at the Quarry Overlook near mile marker 3. Johnson City Public Works maintains the trail system to Elizabethton.

Natural Space/Greenways

These areas are natural resources that are managed for conservation, environmental education, and passive recreational use, such as walking and nature viewing.

Natural Space/Greenways Jacobs Nature Park Johnson City’s 28-acre Jacob’s Nature Park at Sinking Creek was dedicated in 2016 to Jacob Francisco who passed away in 2004 from an E. Coli infection contracted from an unknown source. The park offers several hiking trails, a living roof pavilion, a wetland area and an abundance of wildlife including fish, frogs, salamanders and many species of birds. In 2018, the National Wildlife Federation recognized Jacob’s Nature Park as a certified wildlife habitat. Within the park boundaries is also a native tree arboretum.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Indoor Recreation Facilities

Indoor recreation facilities are facilities that serve a wide array of community needs. These facilities allow for various recreation activities to take place sheltered from the outdoor elements.

Indoor Recreation Facilities Beeson Hall For the past three years, this 5,000 square foot facility was leased to ETSU as storage space for historical items until it flooded in January 2023. Prior to that the facility was used as a recreational facility. The facility is now being leased annually to an external organization. There is a potential growth opportunity with this facility for Parks and Recreation.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Carver Recreation Center Carver Recreation Center is a 16,000 square foot building located at Carver Park. It was re-built in 2005 and the facility provides programs and activities for participants of all ages. It includes a community garden, outdoor basketball court, playground, splash pad, walking, trails, and two pavilions. Programs include, but are not limited to: holiday celebrations, tutoring services, after-school programming, summer camp, and community gardening program. The center is rented out seven days a week by various user groups throughout the community.

Overall ÷Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Indoor Recreation Facilities Freedom Hall Indoor Pool Freedom Hall Aquatics Facility, built in 1974, features a 200,000 gallon 25 meter, 6 lane pool with an additional shallow end area used for recreational swim. This facility is home to the Science Hill High School swim team and the Barracuda Swim Club. The facility also hosts birthday parties.

Overall ÷Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Fairmont Gymnasium The Fairmont school gymnasium is elementary sized, with a stage area and restrooms and available to the public to rent. The gym is also used as a weather backup site during summer camps for Nature Programming.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Indoor Recreation Facilities Langston Community Centre The Langston Centre was constructed in 2019 using a portion of the historic Langston High School, Johnson City’s school for African-American students from 1893-1965. Langston Centre promotes multicultural awareness and workforce development through arts, education and leadership activities. Langston Centre programs include multicultural history classes, a STEAM Education program, the Ralph E. Davis Academy of artistic performances and other special events.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Keystone Community Center Keystone Community Center, a former elementary school located on Bert Street houses ETSU medical services and office space, adult education, and city personnel. The gym at Keystone is used for pickleball throughout the week, therapeutic recreation programming and several other programs that require space that is not available at Memorial Park Community Center.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Indoor Recreation Facilities Memorial Park Community Center Constructed in 2012, the $15 million, 67,000-square-foot Memorial Park Community Center (MPCC) features a blend of indoor and outdoor activities for multi-generational use. The center is equipped with a 25-yard, six-lane lap pool, therapy pool, and teaching pool, featuring daily lap swim, open swim and a wide variety of water-based classes. The gymnasium is equipped with two full basketball courts that allow for open gym time each day along with other activities. Exercise areas, activity rooms, educational and performing arts classes, and a media center are just a few of the components that make this center a great place for all ages. The Johnson City Senior Center is located within Memorial Park Community Center. The Senior Center entrance features an information/welcome center surrounded by two, floor-to-ceiling gas log fireplaces, sitting area, coffee machine, and posted information about available senior and recreation classes. Outdoor features include healing gardens, twelve pickleball courts, an amphitheater, and a plaza honoring veterans with the famous Doughboy monument, as well as concrete walkways and other amenities.

Overall Condition

Visual Quality

Site Furnishings

Vandalism

Unhoused

ADA Compliance

Regional Assets

Johnson City is located in 3 counties- Sullivan County, Carter County, and primarily in Washington County. Of these three counties, Sullivan County is the only with a Parks and Recreation department. Regionally, There are an array of assets providing recreational, educational, and leisure opportunities to Johnson City residents. These include both public and privately-owned assets.

Regional Assets Appalachian Fairgrounds The fairgrounds are located just off of I-26 and host the Appalachian Fair every August, a drive-through Christmas light show each December, and additional smaller events throughout the year. The grounds include a 25,000 square foot main exhibit building and two 11,000 square foot covered pavilions. There are also grandstand facilities, a quarter-mile track and public fishing lakes.

Appalachian Trail One of the most famous trails in the world, the AT is a hiking trail extending almost 2,200 miles (3,540 km) between Georgia and Maine, and passing through 14 states. More than three million people hike segments of the trail each year and many towns along the trail leverage its popularity for economic impact. The Appalachian Trail may be accessed from several points in the region.

Virginia Creeper Trail The Creeper Trail is a 35-mile (56 km) multi-purpose rail trail. Located in southwestern Virginia, the trail runs from Abingdon to Whitetop, Virginia. It is considered one of the best bike trails in the nation and has multiple bike rental companies and cafes along the trail.

Tweetsie Trail The Tweetsie Trail is a rails-to-trails project traversing the former East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad right-of-way between Johnson City and Elizabethton. A gradual tread of packed rock, the 9.6mile trail provides opportunities for walking, running, and biking in a beautiful, natural setting. Plans are underway to extend the trail further.

Appalachian Caverns Located in Blountville, these caverns opened in 1991. The caverns are privately-owned with tours available and a campground on property.

Bristol Caverns Bristol Caverns is the largest cavern system in the Smoky Mountain region, housing millions of years of natural stone formations. Visitors enjoy guided tours year-round and retrace the banks of the Underground River that the Native Americans used as attack and escape routes during the frontier days.

Regional Assets David Crockett Birthplace State Park David Crockett Birthplace State Park is a state park in Greene County. Situated along the Nolichucky River, the park consists of 105 acres centered on the traditional birthplace of legendary Tennessee frontiersman, soldier, and politician Davy Crockett. There are campsites open to reserve and fishing and hiking trails also available.

Rocky Mount State Historic Site Rocky Mount, in Piney Flats, Tennessee, also known as the Cobb-Massengill House, was the first territorial capital of the Southwest Territory. Today visitors step back into the year 1791 and gain an appreciation for the daily lifestyle of a frontier family.

Tipton-Haynes Historic Site The Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site is located in Johnson City and interprets Northeast Tennessee’s history from early settlement to the Civil War through the lives of the families who lived here. The site features 45 acres, eleven historic buildings, the Tipton/Gifford/Simerly cemetery, and a Visitor Center, and hosts summer programs for children and numerous programs open to the public year round.

Warriors Path State Park Located in Kingsport, the 950-acre park is located on the shores of the Patrick Henry Reservoir on the Holston River. The park is home to premier boating and fishing activity, hiking trails, an internationallyrenowned mountain bike trail system (which is a designated National Recreational Trail), an awardwinning nature education program, and a nationally recognized golf course. Camping is available as well.

Roan Mountain State Park Located on TN Hwy 143 at the base of the majestic Roan Mountain. Roan Mountain State Park encompasses more than 2,000 acres dominated by rich hardwood forest along rugged ridges. The cool, clear Doe River winds its way through the center of the park and supports a healthy population of trout. The park features a campground and rental cabins and plays host to the annual Roan Mountain Festival each summer when the native rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Sycamore Shoals State Park Sycamore Shoals includes a visitor center housing interpretive exhibits, a reconstruction of the 18th century Fort Watauga, a 240-seat amphitheater, and a 1.20-mile Patriot’s Path located on the south bank of the Watauga River.

Regional Assets Bays Mountain Recreation Area Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium, located in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a 3,750 acre nature preserve and the largest city owned park in the state of Tennessee. The Park features a picturesque 44 acre lake, a Nature Center with a Planetarium Theater, hiking and mountain biking trails, zipline, and Animal Habitats featuring wolves, bobcats, raptors and reptiles.

Rock Creek Recreation Area Rock Creek is located in Erwin, TN and includes a creek-fed swimming hole, seasonal campfire programs, a rugged hiking trail into Unaka Mountain Wilderness, an easy bicycle trail and short nature trails. Camping facilities were constructed by the US Forest Service in the early 1960s.

TVA System The Tennessee Valley Authority was created to provide hydroelectric power and flood control to the region. As a result the lakes of South Holston, Boone, and Watauga were created. These artificial lakes have many opportunities for boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and open-water swimming for the region’s residents. Boone Lake is surrounded mostly by residential housing, private marinas, as well as Winged Deer Park. It is 32.7 miles in length with 130 miles of shoreline. Watauga Lake is mostly surrounded by National Forest and includes recreational areas, campsites, and access to the Appalachian Trail. It is 16.3 miles and has 106 miles of shoreline. Public areas along South Holston Lake include South Holston Dam Reservoir, two USFS recreation areas, Lone Oak and Jacob’s Creek, Sullivan County Park, and Washington County Park. It is 23.7 miles with 168 miles of shoreline.

Regional Assets Southern Fork Holston River South Fork Holston River tailwater below South Holston Lake provides 18 miles of fishable water. The water levels are controlled by the Tennessee Valley Authority through the South Holston Dam and Cherokee Dam.

Watauga River The Watauga River provides opportunities for whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking and fly fishing. There are several private campgrounds and public parks along the shores to access the river, including Sycamore Shoals Historic Site and the TVA Watauga Dam.

Nolichucky River The Nolichucky River is a 115-mile river that flows through Western North Carolina and East Tennessee. It is very popular for white water rafting due to its remoteness, beauty, and quality of rafting opportunities. Fishing is also a popular activity on this river.

Cherokee National Forest The Cherokee National Forest is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The 650,000-acre forest is the largest tract of public land in Tennessee and adjoins other national forests in Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia. The forest is home to 30 developed campgrounds and numerous picnic areas, over 700 miles of trails, seven whitewater rivers, two Forest Service scenic byways, and the Ocoee Whitewater Center.

Pisgah National Forest The Pisgah National Forest comprises over 500,000 acres of primarily hardwood forests with whitewater rivers, waterfalls, and hundreds of miles of trails. It is also home of the first school of forestry in the United States, now preserved at the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site, and boasts two of the first designated wilderness areas in the east. The Pisgah, Grandfather, and Appalachian Ranger Districts are scattered along the eastern edge of the mountains of western North Carolina and offer visitors a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains.

Regional Assets Bristol Motor Speedway Bristol Motor Speedway is a NASCAR short track venue located in Bristol, Tennessee. It hosts numerous racing events as well as other events including Speedway in Lights and the most attended college sport event ever, “Battle at Bristol” featuring University of Tennessee and Virginia Tech football teams.

Kingsport Aquatics Center The 46,000 square-foot indoor area is open year-round, featuring three multipurpose, indoor pools that are specially designed for recreation and instruction. The KAC is home to the region’s only indoor Olympic-size swimming pool, the HMG Competition Pool. The seasonal outdoor waterpark features two waterslides, a water playground, and 900-foot lazy river. They offer free swim, classes, events and activities.

The Snake 421 ‘The Best of the Snake’ is 37 miles of Route 421 between Johnson County, TN and Washington County, VA. It includes 489 curves crossing 3 mountains and traveling through Shady Valley.

Unaka Bike Park Unaka Bike Park is a trail system optimized for mountain biking that opened in the spring of 2022. There are over 10 miles of trails with a wide variety of difficulties featuring more than 700 ft. in elevation change. There are plans for expansion in the future.

Overall Park Findings

Key Areas Of Concern Most parks are in good to fair condition. However, long-term planning regarding maintenance and field usage is needed to maintain the funding and staffing for each. Identifying partnerships with naturalists could provide opportunities to focus on sustainability through the use of native species. Many parks lack adequate open space or informal play areas. For the most part, they are intensely developed facilities with little, if any, space consisting of open green space areas with landscaping, benches, walking paths, or other passive or unstructured uses/areas. The need for athletic fields and facilities has been well documented; however, the role of parks in the provision of open space and relief from urban development has been neglected. There is a lack of standardization regarding signage, park furnishings, shelter design, color identity, bleachers, lighting, restroom design, fencing, and other amenities. The adoption of uniform and complementary standards regarding site furnishings and design would reduce costs while also improving the recognition and appearance of city-owned and operated facilities. Vandalism is a constant problem at many city parks. The addition of security lights, security cameras, and increasing security patrols are necessary to deter vandalism and illicit behavior occurring at city facilities.

Overall Park Findings Key Areas of Concern

According to staff, the various ball fields cannot be properly maintained due to overuse from the large number of participants in the numerous programs (i.e. soccer is played on baseball fields and T-ball is played on soccer fields). The large number of participants is attributable to the success of the programs and participation by nonresidents of Johnson City.

The historical development of the park system indicates a lack of facility development based upon population served and park functions. Many areas of the city are not within safe walking distance of recreation facilities, while other areas are overdeveloped with facilities.

There is a serious lack of vacant and affordable land suitable for park development in several of the more intensely developed residential areas.

Several parks experience limited use due to poor location with respect to intended service area, changing growth patterns and demographics, inadequate facilities, and an overall uninviting park environment.

Overall Park Findings Key Areas of Concern

A routine inspection program of parks should be established to ensure adherence to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s guidelines and the American Society for Testing and Materials standards. Many parks pose potential safety hazards to users, which increase the risk of injury and liability to the city.

These hazards are prevalent throughout the park system and include but are not limited to: (1) substandard electrical wiring practices; (2) broken or unsafe bleacher seating; (3) fencing that is in disrepair; (4) tripping hazards; and (5) areas of uneven grade or depressions in open play areas.

A missing element in the existing development of facilities is a comprehensive bicycle and walking/hiking trail system.

A defined plan for future land acquisition and utilization for parkland and recreational facilities is needed to address population growth.

Recreation Services Community Center Programming

Recreation programming has changed over the last 5 years. With more and more private entities entering the recreational programming market, the competition is greater than ever. This is compounded with the number of sports leagues that are available to parents year-round. The recreation services staff have been working to create more sustainable programming by following trends and attempting to capture the adult audience while their children are participating in youth programs. Staff has been challenged to create additional evening and weekend on-going programs, too. A survey has been created to engage community involvement in future programming. All programs moving forward will require a program survey, and this will help staff to improve existing programming and to grow programs with community interest.

The Langston Centre The Langston Centre offers after school programming that focuses on STEAM learning topics. Langston started programming in November of 2019 with 57 students attending the first month of programming and is now serving 197 students. Summer camps focused on STEAM learning are also provided at the Langston Center. June 2021 was the first time since opening that The Langston Centre was able to offer summer camps due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On average, from June to August, there were 181 students in attendance each month. Attendance is currently tracked manually, and attendance numbers are kept by age group instead of by program participation. This prevents tracking the success of programs. Within the coming months, The Langston Centre will start using software to register and keep track of program attendance numbers.

Carver Recreation Center Carver Recreation Center offers programming for all ages, and most programs offered are free to the public. These free programs are made possible due to community partners and donations received from community members. Attendance is currently tracked manually, and attendance numbers are kept by age group instead of by program participation. This prevents tracking the success of programs. Within the coming months, Carver Recreation Center will start using software to register and keep track of program attendance numbers.

Memorial Park Community Center Memorial Park Community Center is a community center designed to provide recreational programming for all ages. The recreational services staff provide on average 50 programs per day consisting of single day special events, camps, and ongoing programs. Many of the on-going programs are only serving a small number of participants while the single day events and camps typically have a large number of participants. Participation in single day events that do not require registration is not currently tracked. Moving forward, staff will be required to enter those numbers into one single system so that program numbers are readily available and accurate. Staff has also been tasked with making contacts within the Keystone Community to advertise MPCC programming and to survey the community regarding their programming needs.

Recreation Services Aquatics Programming

Aquatics is unique in its programming, serving all ages. The most popular on-going class is Water Aerobics in the morning and evening. These classes alone serve 228 different participants per year post pandemic and 451 pre-pandemic. While most of the programs are very well attended, the morning and evening group swim lessons are lacking in attendance. Recreation Services could consider reducing the current 30 minute classes offered 4x per week to 45 minute classes offered 2x per week to increase instruction time. Many of the programs offered through aquatics are open swim and lap swim which have little to no staff involvement. There are several programs such as pumpkin swim and glow swim that have occurred year after year with as few as 2 participants. Programs that fail to produce adequate numbers year after year should be reevaluated and revamped to better serve the community’s needs.

Recreation Services Nature Programming

Nature Programming is conducted throughout various parks and facilities within Parks and Recreation. Pre-pandemic, there were several school hosted nature programs but schools have not continued these programs post-pandemic. Many of the nature programs are the same year after year and content is repeated yet updated annually. Well-attended programs have been continued, and those with poor participation have been canceled. Nature Programming is an area in need of growth. There is currently only one employee for nature programming, the naturalist. The naturalist often spends more time clearing trails and working with volunteer groups than on programming.

Recreation Services Overall Findings

Key Areas Of Concern

Strategic Planning

Diversity of Offerings

Therapeutic Recreation

Nature Emphasis

There is not a strategic plan that guides programming. This should be created to identify and appeal to community needs.

While there is currently a wide array of programs, creating more diverse programs can spark engagement from more residents, building community and inclusivity.

Currently, there are limited therapeutic recreation offerings. In order to have wholistic and inclusive programming, growth in this area needs to occur.

There is currently only one employee with focus on nature programming. In order to provide the community with opportunities for connection to the natural resources of the area, there should be an expansion of nature programming involving additional staff and a dedicated space.

Promotions & Special Events

Promotions and Special Events is housed within Administration and consists of two staff members, the Promotions and Special Events Coordinator and a Program Coordinator. This division is responsible for all marketing and promotional items including social media, physical marketing (i.e. fliers and printed publications), photography, videography, outreach events, large special events, internal events, and special event rentals. The large special events organized by this division are categorized as events with 400+ participants in a Parks and Recreation managed space. Within a calendar year, Promotions and Special Events hosts approximately 25 community events and 5 internal events.

Promotions & Special Events Overall Findings

Key Areas Of Concern

Community Engagement

Staffing

Program Evaluation

Rental Process

There is not currently a community engagement plan. With a growing city and department, a cohesive community engagement strategy would streamline the marketing process and help target a wider audeince, leading to more efficient and inclusive marketing and events.

In order to continue increasing the number and quality of events and marketing strategies, there should be an increase in staff.

Special events should be evaluated and analyzed for their ability to appeal to the community as a whole and for ways to be improved.

The current process for special event rental is not streamlined. King Commons Park and Founders Park are two stormwater devices that act as parks, but are managed by Communications and Marketing. The Parks and Recreation rental process should be in kind with the other rental process to ensure City consistency.

Senior Services About

The Johnson City Senior Center was founded in 1961. The Johnson City Senior Center was the first senior center in the State of Tennessee and 26th in the nation to achieve national accreditation from the National Council on Aging/National Institute of Senior Centers in the year 2000. Since that time, the center has completed an exhaustive and extensive reassessment and has been reaccredited every five years.

Accreditation has substantial value and benefit to a senior center and its participants, including: • • • •

National recognition as an accredited Senior Center. Development of a written strategic plan. Guidance in determining outcome measurements. Heightened awareness of senior center activities to funders, community leaders, participants, and families. • Improvement and enhancement of overall senior center operation. • Endorsement by NCOA, which has more than 70 years of nonprofit experience with advocacy for the elderly.

Mission, Vision, and Values • Vision – The Vision of the Johnson City Senior Center is to be a pathway to enriching the lives of adults 50+. • Mission – The Mission of the Johnson City Senior Center is to engage adults 50+ in Active Life through Active Living. • Core Values – The Core Values of the Johnson City Senior Center shape our work ethic, the decisions we make, the programs we offer and our compassion for the lives we touch through our center.

We are committed to help our seniors achieve the highest quality of life and are guided by our core values: • • • • • • •

Service – We will strive to deliver outstanding customer service in everything we do. Enthusiasm – Our enthusiasm will overflow to our members and throughout our programs. Nurturing – We will provide a center that shows compassion and care to our members. Innovation – We will provide new and exciting programs and classes. Openness – We will be open to new ideas and needs of members. Respect – We will treat everyone who comes to our center with dignity and respect. Selflessness – We will go the extra mile to help our members achieve an “Active Life through Active Living.”

Senior Services About Funding Sources Primary funding source for senior services is from the City of Johnson City. Washington County provides an annual appropriation to the Johnson City Senior Center Foundation to support senior center operations. An annual grant from Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability, through the First Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability, provides funding for an In-Home Service Coordinator, senior center operations, and transportation services. Other funding sources include insurance subsidies from Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit and Renew Active for participation by their respective insureds; funding from First Tennessee Human Resource Agency for nutrition services; funding from the Johnson City Senior Center Foundation Board for program support and fellowships; and participant activity fees.

Programs Offered The Johnson City Senior Center offers activities for every interest, including lifelong learning, arts, crafts, music, group fitness classes, cards and games, and sports activities. Day outings on Senior Center buses throughout the East Tennessee area are offered monthly. Charter trips offer the opportunity to travel with friends and family. Sports activities such as pickleball, table tennis and billiards are offered at no charge to Center members. Specialty dances are held throughout the year. The fitness room and aquatics activities are available for a discounted rate for seniors. Seniors like to be on the move: the walking and hiking programs are always popular with members and are planned to accommodate all abilities.

Statistical Data Transportation: recruiting and retaining licensed CDL drivers is a challenge. The Senior Center currently has three buses in operation, but only one full-time driver to meet the need for community service, outings and grant-funded personal care shopping transportation. The center has been unable to hire a temporary driver for additional services since 2019, resulting in reduced transportation services. Transportation was not offered from March 2020 to late 2021 due to the pandemic.

Senior Services Senior Services Findings

Key Areas Of Concern 1

Space Limitations

Competition for Space

Special Events

Gym Use

Instructors

Room sizes limit the number of participants per class. Group fitness classes require a larger area due to movement; classes are held in the dining room.

Demand for use of rooms at Memorial Park Community Center continues to increase for programs offered by Parks and Recreation as well as for use of other city departments.

Upgraded A/V equipment is needed in order to effectively utilize the gyms for larger events. The dining room is well-equipped, but participation is limited due to the size of the room.

Competition for use of the gyms is also increasing, especially during the winter months. Pickleball, Parks and Recreation basketball, Recreation programs, Parks and Recreation volleyball, special events and dances, and rentals all compete for gym use during the winter.

Recruiting and retaining qualified instructors, especially for fitness programs, is an ongoing challenge.

Senior Services Senior Services Findings

Key Areas Of Concern

Facility Maintenance

Pickleball Courts

Evening Programs for Senior Adults

Transportation

Heat and air is controlled off-site and concerns cannot be addressed immediately. Facility maintenance schedule could be improved so that upgrades are made in a timelier manner. For example, schedule regular replacement of floor coverings, interior painting, etc.

With the popularity of pickleball, there is increased demand for use of the pickleball courts for tournaments. Use of the courts needs to be balanced so that the local market is not overbooked with tournaments. There is also a challenge in balancing use between new players and advanced players.

Evening programs must be highly appealing to those senior adults who are still working in order to attract them to the center. Many older adults have difficulties driving after dark; those folks generally don’t attend evening programs unless transportation is available.

Recruiting & retaining licensed CDL drivers is a challenge. The Senior Center currently has 3 buses in operation, but only 1 driver for community service, outings, & grant-funded personal care shopping transportation. The center has been unable to hire an additional driver since 2019, reducing transportation services. Transportation was not offered from March 2020 to late 2021 due to the pandemic.

Golf Services

The City of Johnson City has provided public golf opportunities for over 60 years. This began with the establishment of what is now Pine Oaks Golf Course in 1963. A new full service practice range was constructed at Pine Oaks Golf Course in July, 2020. The golf operation has contributed to the community through: • • • • • •

The hosting of numerous tournaments and leagues Providing private and group golf instruction Serving as an outlet for charitable organizations to fundraise through outings and golf events Supporting area educational institutions by hosting their golf program activities at little or no cost Supporting Veterans by hosting programs like the PGA Hope Program Being a leader in the support of junior golf through programming and participation in initiatives such as the First Tee program • Working with area leaders to assist in economic development for the City and/or region • Maintaining vital inner city green space

Golf Services Golf Services Findings

Key Areas Of Concern

Ensure Citizen Accessibility

Prioritize Needs

Parks and Recreation should seek to confine its support of golf opportunities to those offered within the boundaries of the City of Johnson City to ensure the citizens of Johnson City are the primary recipients of the department’s offerings.

The final analysis for any growth of golf projects should be based on true need, demographics, population density, and recreational opportunities.

Department Organization

The Parks and Recreation department is organized into 8 divisions: Administration, Promotions and Special Events, Golf, Recreation Services, Senior Services, Athletics, Park Services, and Maintenance.

Director

Assistant Director of Operations & Programs

Recreation Services Manager

Athletics Manager

Promotions & Events

Admin Specialist

Senior Services Manager

Park Services Manager

Assistant Director of Parks & Maintenance

Maintenance Supervisor

Golf Manager

P&R Advisory Board

Department Organization Overall Findings

Key Areas Of Concern

Organization Concerns

Need for Standards

Retain and Recruit Staff

Volunteer Appreciation

The current structures of the Park Services and Athletics Divisions don’t allow for optimal effectiveness and efficiency of current staff. Staffing needs to be considered as parks and programming needs change.

There is currently not a department handbook, nor is there a consistent on-boarding process. Standard Operating Procedures also need to be developed for each division.

Moving forward, there should be a focus on retaining and recruiting valuable staff members. This involves focus on staff development, training, and support.

Volunteers are a large part of Parks and Recreation operation. Without volunteers, it would be impossible to have certain events, programs, and offerings.

IMPLEMENTATION

Implementation Strategy Themes and Goals

Upon analyzing the current resources and operations, four main themes and goals became apparent: Connectivity, Accessibility, Sustainability, and Innovation. These themes are overarching and should guide the Department for the next 10 years.

Connectivity Connectivity is important in two capacities: physical and relational connectivity. Physically, it is important to prioritize connections of residents to parks and facilities. Due to the topography of the area and past development trends, many residents are unable to move from their residences to community assets, schools, shopping, or other locations except via automobile transportation. The creation of a comprehensive sidewalk and trails system would benefit residents in a multitude of ways such as improved health outcomes, reduced pollution, and economic vitality. When considering relationships, building connections with other organizations facilitates collaborative efforts that yield strong, comprehensive, and inclusive results.

Accessibility Making Parks and Recreation accessible for all is a priority. From creating a dynamic programming strategy that includes a wide array of offerings to capture many different interests to ensuring ADA compliance and accessibility throughout parks and facilities, prioritizing accessibility facilitates inclusivity. As the population of Johnson City continues to grow, it is important to provide access to parks and recreation for new residents without compromising existing resident’s accessibility- all while keeping access affordable.

Implementation Strategy Themes and Goals

Sustainability In order to create parks, facilities, and programs that last, it is important to prioritize sustainability. In order to satisfy the growth of the region, operations must be sustainable to ensure resources last- this not only includes maintenance of existing resources, but stewardship of future resources, and protection of regional environmental features. These goals can be accomplished through intentional resource planning. Additionally, in order to streamline operations, standards and consistency must be enforced. Creating and maintaining standards creates an expectation for park and facility users that encourages attendance across a variety of parks and programs. Standards and consistency also allow for a more efficient operation while creating a strong sense of place within the Parks and Recreation system.

Innovation As Johnson City experiences growth over the next 10 years, innovation should guide the Parks and Recreation department. In order to create a connected, accessible, and sustainable Parks and Recreation system that serves to build a community for all, the department must be innovative. Prioritizing staff development will catalyze this goal, along with building inclusive community interaction. In order to better serve the community, the community must be involved. Being at the forefront of ideas and strategies and producing creative solutions will be essential to meet the community’s needs in the desired capacity.

Implementation Strategy

In order to achieve the goals identified in this plan, implementation strategies were created. These implementation strategies are timeline specific and are broken up into three categories: Short (0-2 years), Medium (3-5 years), and Long (6-10) years. These strategies shall apply to parks and practices within Parks and Recreation.

100

Implementation Strategy Connectivity

Connect Facilities via Trails and Greenways Short

Medium

Long

Secure funding to develop a comprehensive trails and greenways master plan

Create trails and greenways

Connect the Tweetsie Trail to Jonesborough and other regional opportunities

Develop bikeways plan

Bikeways through neighborhoods

Market connectivity to citizens and potential incoming citizens

Identify sidewalk connectivity to Secure grant funding to develop parks and facilities new sidewalks to connect to parks and facilities

Sidewalk enhancements connecting to regional sites

Create Partnerships with External Stakeholders to Increase Overall Connectivity Capacities Short

Medium

Long

Identify key regional stakeholders interested in community health and recreation

Community-wide health initiatives partnering with hospitals, public health organizations, and universities

Fund facilities through public/ private partenerships

Seek partnerships to aid in development and enhancement of multi-use trails

Collaborate with ETSU for volunteers, grants, and ‘exercise as medicine’

Continuously seek effective partnerships to increase resources and capacities

Build partnerships within city and regional departments and organizations

Leverage partnerships for city transportation and greenway improvements

Create partnerships with local businesses for sponsorships of new and existing facilities

101

Implementation Strategy Accessibility

Improve and Expand Inclusive Programming Addressing Community Needs Short

Medium

Identify trends and participation changes in sport programming

Redesign sport programming

Identify areas for nature-based Create nature-based education education such as Winged Deer locations at current parks Park, Willow Springs Park, Jacobs Nature Park Develop programming master plan with emphasis on intentional, accessible, and multicultural programs

Long Implement new sports programming Continue to grow and enhance areas of nature based programs

Implement programming master Re-evaluate programming master plan plan

Improve Accessibility and Inclusivity through Park and Facility Improvements Short

102

Medium

Long

Identify areas with phased ADA improvements

Create Master Plan for park sites needing extensive ADA improvements

Continue ADA improvements

Identify unique-asset based programming opportunities

Develop a plan to program and develop inclusive amenities throughout the parks system

Implement plan

Implementation Strategy Accessibility

Maintain Affordability Short

Medium

Long

Evaluate Fees and Charges Policy Implement the updated Fees and Re-evaluate Fees and Charges Charges Policy Policy Idenify opportunities for grant funding

Develop a strategy to increase grant funding

Collaborate with external partners to apply for grant funding

Evaluate earned revenues

Develop and implement a cost recovery plan

Continue to re-evaluate revenue structures

Ensure Access for a Growing Population Short

Medium

Long

Complete needs assessment for additional Community Center

Create master plan for additonal community center

Construct additional community center based on needs assessment and master plan

Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy

Implement the comprehensive marketing strategy

Reassess the marketing strategy

Identify areas of City projected to undergo substantial growth

Purchase property in growth areas for future parks

Continue to assess City growth patterns and plan for future land acquisition for parks and facilities

Identify vacant land parcels throughout the City and in surrounding areas

Develop plans and secure funding for new parks and facilities at identified locations

Construct new parks and facilities to eliminate park deserts

103

Implementation Strategy Sustainability

Ensure Existing Resource Longevity Through Comprehensive Plans Short

Medium

Long

Fund Buffalo Mountain Master Plan Create Buffalo Mountain Master Plan

Implement Buffalo Mountain Master Plan

Complete Aquatics needs and feasibility study

Develop Aquatics Master Plan

Implement Aquatics Master Plan

Fund urgent improvements: ballfield lights, playgrounds, artificial turf, court resurfacing, and ADA improvements

Create comprehensive maintenance and upgrade plan

Implement comprehensive maintenance and upgrade plan

Identify areas of parks to be converted to natural spaces

Evaluate efficacy of greenways and natural areas through collaboration with experts

Create natural spaces in parks as identified

Identify opportunities for best management practices in conservation and sustainability

Provide educational opportunities promoting conservation and sustainability

Prioritize Consistency and Standards Short

Medium

Identify uniform parks and facilities furnishings

Implement guidelines

Enforce guidelines on equipment, furnishings, etc.

Identify storage needs through the department

Build/secure storage

Continually assess ongoing storage needs

Create onboarding for P&R Advisory Board Create a standardized operating plan for all facilities and community centers

104

Long

Continually assess onboarding process for new P&R advisory board members Implement the standardized operating plan for all facilities and community centers

Continually reassess the standardized operating plan

Implementation Strategy Innovation

Support Staff Development and Engagement Short

Medium

Identify staff development and engagement opportunities

Budget for development opportunities

Identify staff members and goals Create incentive program for for participation staff participation Determine needed resources for staff initiated opportunities

Budget for needed resources

Long Support staff in long term continued education acquistion Achieve departmental certification goals Provide needed resources and assess efficacy

Improve Community Interaction Short

Medium

Long

Identify a user-friendly and easily accessible recreation management software

Implement the new software

Reassess all available softwares to ensure user focus

Develop customer service training program

Implement customer service training program for all staff

Reassess, measure outcomes, and make needed changes

Identify marketing and communication streams

Implement new communication streams within changing platforms

Reassess the marketing platforms with changing needs

Create An Inclusive Community Short

Medium

Long

Identify organizational values that create a sense of belonging

Operationalize the values

Evaluate values and operations

Prioritize representation in operations, marketing, and communications

Evaluate representation in operations, marketing, and communications

Ensure continued representation based on a growing population

105

Park and Facility Implementation Park and Facility Actions

In light of the obesity crisis, park and recreation agencies can play a vital role in promoting physical activity. However, there are various factors that affect park usage and physical activity. Research suggests that the distribution, proximity, facilities, and conditions of parks significantly impact people’s desire to engage in physical activity. Therefore, it is necessary to re-evaluate current park designs, financing mechanisms, and maintenance policies to improve the parks. Investing in park improvements can provide long-term solutions to address the obesity epidemic. Park and recreation agencies have a significant role to play in promoting healthy lifestyles for all Americans by modifying and altering variables that influence public health concerns. Using the four overarching themes and goals of connectivity, accessibility, sustainability, and innovation for guidance, implementation action items were created specifically for each park and facility. These action items follow the same implementation strategy as the overarching goals and themes, and are also timeline specific based on the same three previous categories: These strategies shall apply to each individual park/facility as identified.

106

Park and Facility Implementation

Athletic Facilities Facility

Short

Medium

Carnegie

Replace backstop fence

Replace facility fencing Replace field lights with LED

Citivan

Build structure to house equiptment with fence

Long Relight with LED

Liberty Bell Complex Kermit Tipton

Develop plans to upgrade bathrooms and concessions

Resurface track, upgrade bathrooms, and concessions

Bud Seaver

Replace fence and backstop

Remodel scoretower, relight with LED

Replace backstop

New poles with LED lights

Replace backstop, replace fence around ballfield

New poles with LED lights

Replace fencing

Add lighting and irrigation

Pete Zannis Tennis Center

Tennis courts resurfaced, repair light pole

Bathroom renovation with Relight with LED ADA accessibility, storage, and small office

ADA compliant bleachers and picnic tables

Replace playground

Lions Park

Charlie Roller

John Broyles Field

Four Utility Fields

Replace turf

Consider artificial turf

Relight with LED

Keystone Baseball Field

Replace flag pole

Relight with LED

Kiwanis Park Arthur Lady Field

Replace foul ball netting

Relight with LED

Metro Kiwanis Park

Reconstruct five tennis courts, pave parking lot

Basketball court and parking lot needs to be resurfaced

Relight with LED

Replace field fencing

Neighborhood Park

Relight with LED

107

Park and Facility Implementation

108

Thomas B. Hagar Sports Complex

Add storage to house turf

New scoreboard for baseball and softball fields

TVA Credit Union Ballpark

Repainting of grand stands to be complete by Spring 2024, restroom renovations

Install synthetic turf, build gift shop and office to house Boyd Sports

Winged Deer Park Huff Complex

ADA bleachers and picnic tables, netting over spectator seating

New LED ballfield lights, pave parking lot

Relight with LED

Synthetic turf conversion

Park and Facility Implementation

Parks Short

Medium

Long

Friendship Gardens

Water fountain needs repaired or removed

Add ADA access

Keefauver

Complete Infrastructure design and phase one of master plan

Complete phase two of master plan

King Commons Playground

Increase restroom capacity

Playground turf replacement

Kiwanis Park

Complete renovation of existing building, add restroom at BCBS Playground

Resurface the basketball court, install new backboards and goals

Replace small playground

Replace playground

Resurface the basketball court, new backboard and goal

Paul Christman Park

Complete phase three of master plan

Powell Square Park

Resurface the basketball court

Replace playground

Rotary Park

Replace playground turf, replace small playground

Improve walking path inside park to make it ADA accessible

Remodel pavilions

Willow Springs Park

Playground replacement adding additional restrooms and splash pad, addition of maintenance building

Pave parking lot, add disc golf course in wooded area, add additional pavillions

Add additional restroom to the Antioch Road entrance

Winged Deer Park Lakefront

Enhance outdoor recreation opportunities, make improvements to boardwalk, add family restroom adjacent to lakefront playground

Add adaptive boat launch, Replace lakefront restroom at the Winged Deer playground, implement Bike Park/Disc Golf parking picnic areas along lake area

Skate Parks Short Liberty Bell Complex Skate Park

Repair, resurface, and paint existing skate park

Medium Seek community input for additonal skate park features or location

Long Enhance or reconstruct skate park to meet community needs

109

Park and Facility Implementation

Trails and Greenways Short Trails and Greenways

The Trails and Greenways Committee was formed in January 2023. Secure funding for a Trails and Greenways Master Plan

Medium Implement Trails and Greenways Master Plan

Long Collaborate with stakeholders to develop regional trails and greenways connectivity

Trails, Bike Parks, Disc Golf, and Nature Short

Tannery Knobs

Winged Deer Park

110

Long

Develop a master plan

Secure funding to begin master plan implementation

Complete two bridges to maintain loop trail design, dredge back wetland, area to produce shallow pond, build restrooms

Address back parking Rework short trail at bottom of King lot by gravel removal to King Springs entrance Springs entrance for ADA accessibility, add defined paved apth from two close-in parking spots to far edge of classroom for viewing

Buffalo Mountain Park

Jacobs Nature Park Natural Open Space/ Greenways

Medium

Continue final phases of master plan implementation

Add material to the pump Construct an observation track to prevent erosion, area from the pump construct restroom track entrance facilities Renovate existing outdoor classroom

Add material along Repave the walking path edge of walking path to in forested area prevent erosion, build additional beginner trails

Park and Facility Implementation

Indoor Recreation Facilities Short

Medium

Long

Beeson Hall

Roof replacement

Bathroom renovation

Carver Recreation Center

Bleacher replacement, replace HVAC system, repave walking trail

A facility plan to address the service area growth, tie together the old and new features outdoors, parking issues

Fairmont Gymnasium

Refinish gym floor

Keystone Community Center

Refinish gym floor

Langston Community Center

Develop design for expansion

Implement expansion phase one

Implement expansion phase two

A maintenance plan to replace major mechanical and aquatics components

Build an outdoor restroom, update the amphitheater to accomodate larger musical acts

Install playground to include outdoor fitness equipment and splash pad

Memorial Park Community Center

Aquatics Facilities Short Aquatics Study Freedom Hall Indoor Pool

Legion Street Pool

Medium Use aquatics study information to create comprehensive aquatics plan

Aquatics Study, install landscaping Use aquatics study to improve curb appeal information to create comprehensive aquatics plan

Long Implement from aquatics plan

Pave gravel parking lot, implement from aquatics plan

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Programming Implementation Programming Actions

Develop a maintenance plan, repair broken lateral in the sand filter, replace filter media with recycled glass

Memorial Park Community Center

Replaster therapy, teaching, and lap pool

Identify potential parks that would Lighting at Carver benefit by installing a splash play Splash Pad Splash Play areas area such as Willow Springs and MPCC

Determine if the Rotary Park Splash Pad needs to be switched to circulating from a passthrough system

Golf Facilities

Pine Oaks Golf Course

Short

Medium

Long

Develop practice facility with pavilion and netting, tee box leveling and tee box reconstruction

Main line drainage for entire golf course, design new clubhouse

Construct new clubhouse, maintenance facility improvement with wash station, lift, and fencing. Construction and relocation of new cart staging facility. Converting to sand based greens for improved putting surfaces

Other Facilities Short

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Administration Office

Replace siding on the administration building

Main Park Services Shop

Finish rear parking lot with easement access, fence parking area for work vehicles at Park Services

Winged Deer Park Shop

Repurpose the office area to a break room for park services staff. Build a pole barn to house equipment and poor a pad for the dumpster at WDP shop

Farmhouse at Winged Deer Park

Full electrical replacement, New HVAC System

Medium

Long

Install rollup door in rear of building at Park Services

Add clay and sand storage bins

Enhance parking area

Programming Implementation

Using the four overarching themes and goals of connectivity, accessibility, sustainability, and innovation for guidance, implementation action items were created specifically for programming. These action items follow the same implementation strategy as the overarching goals and themes, and are also timeline specific based on the same three previous categories: These strategies shall apply to the departmental organization/structure of Parks and Recreation.

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Programming Implementation

Programming Needs Programming Strategic Plan Develop Therapeutic Recreation Offerings

Expand Nature Programming Develop community swim lesson program Partner with School System to indroduce trending sports/ programs Develop a mobile recreation platform

Short

Medium

Develop Plan

Implement Plan

Update plan to ensure it still meets community needs

Survey the community to identify interest, establish a communication network for special needs

Hire or certify a program coordinator to be a Therapeutic Rec Specialist

Develop a standalone Therapeutic Recreation Center

Secure and develop dedicated space for a nature center and nature education

Develop a strategic nature programming plan

Implement plan, identify expansion opportunities for larger nature center

Partner with school system and confirm availability of transportation with Transit

Institute program

Meet with principals and P.E. teachers to gauge interest in P&R participation

Institute program

Budget to update and graphic Survey community to wrap a surplus trailer from Park best meet needs and Services, reinstitute program interests

Maintain strict standards to Maintain Senior Center remain accredited Accredidation

Reapply for accredidation at end of 5 year cycle

Identify appropriate home base for E-Sports, invest in gaming infrastructure

Develop community partnerships for additional funding

Develop E-Sports offerings

Train staff to acquire their Develop transportation CDL, plan for transportatoin solution vehicles in CIP Develop communication methods to reach diverse populations Innovate summer camp offerings Identify new athletics offerings

114

Long

Work with ETSU’s multicultural center to develop a program to translate flyers and publications into various languages Survey community for summer camp interests

Create and implement programs based on survey

Survey the community for organized sports interests

Create and implement programs based on survey

Organization Implementation Organization Actions Using the four overarching themes and goals of connectivity, accessibility, sustainability, and innovation for guidance, implementation action items were created specifically for department organization. These action items follow the same implementation strategy as the overarching goals and themes, and are also timeline specific based on the same three previous categories: These strategies shall apply to the departmental organization/structure of Parks and Recreation.

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Organization Implementation Organizational Needs Organizational Needs Efficiently staffed parks and programs Parks and Recreation Software

Short Assess staffing needs and trends

Address staffing as parks and programming needs change

Identify and implement new software

Review staffing Park Services Division structure and adjust based Restructure on needs

116

Medium

Long Continue to address staffing needs and trends Re-evaluate software needs

Evaluate staffing needs based on assets

Job Descriptions

Review and update job descriptions

Athletics Division Restructure

Review staffing structure, move the Athletics Division to eliminate a divisional silo

On-Boarding Process

Develop and implement on-boarding procedures

Evaluate procedures and implement changes as needed

Complete employee handbook and distribute to staff

Update handbook

Employee Handbook Standard Operating Procedures

Division Managers to develop/ update SOPs and implementation plan

Advisory Board On-Boarding

Develop on-boarding procedures and implement

Comprehensive Staff Training

Identify opportunities for staff development

Create programming for staff development

Re-evaluate staffing structure and adjust based on needs

Update handbook

City Wide Priorities

Priority

Critical Task

Desired Outcome

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance Plan

Under federal regulations, when parks and recreation facilities are built or altered, they must comply with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design (ADA Standards), which require inclusion of features such as accessible parking spaces, routes, toilet facilities, public telephones, and spectator seating areas.

Develop a Transition Plan. Adhere to ADA compliance when facilities are built or altered.

Safety and Security

Multiple steps to increase public safety and park security should be taken as the parks system strives to improve. When possible, have staff present during regular operational hours of each facility will act as an additional deterrent for undesirable activities. Security cameras can help to deter crime and increase safety at Parks and Recreation properties. Wireless technology makes it possible to provide a live feed of a facility to police and security when power and a cellular phone signal is available. As improvements are made to each facility, vandal-resistant fixtures such as toilets and sinks should be installed. While it is not possible to completely vandal-proof a fixture, having a fixture that is difficult to damage can deter a lot of criminal activity.

Identify problem areas with the assistance of the Police Department. Create a plan of action to install security cameras in identified areas.

Maintenance

If the parks system expands in the future, additional maintenance staff and equipment may need to be increased. A seasonal maintenance checklist for each facility should be developed. This will assist in managing staff allocation and help Parks and Recreation leadership see where supplemental or volunteer labor may be necessary.

Continue Cartegraph implementation and develop a comprehensive maintenance plan.

117

City Wide Priorities

Priority

Critical Task

Desired Outcome

Community Involvement

Growing current groups is something that needs to be continued moving forward. Bike and Greenways Committee, SORBA-Tri Cities, Park Board, Senior Board, Golf Board, Senior Foundation, Parks and Recreation Foundation, Niswonger, ETSU, and Little League.

Continuously look for additional organizations for potential partnerships to enhance the services provided.

Site Furnishings

Various brands and styles of furnishings are used throughout the park system. Uniform site furnishings should be purchased when updating park assets.

Uniform picnic tables, benches, and trash cans.

Landscape

Steps should be taken to ensure that parks are not detracting from the natural environments which they occupy.

New plantings should all consist of native vegetation. Trees should be planted in clusters to increase the efficiency of mowing and maintenance around each tree group. In heavily paved areas, tree islands should be utilized to reduce the increase in heat caused from the sun reflecting off of pavement. If landscape areas are disturbed, temporary seeding and mulching should be used to reduce the potential for runoff or erosion until land can be repaired.

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Strategic Actions Capital Improvement Programming CIP is an asset management plan, which itemizes repairs and replacement, and can help the department adequately set aside funding for upkeep.

City of Johnson City Department Coordination The coordination and collaboration of the various departments throughout the city is vital to the overall success of the city. It’s important that Parks and Recreation work closely with the various departments such as Facilities Maintenance, Public Works, Planning, and Marketing and Communications. Developing collaborative relationships with the various city departments ensures that we are providing support to one another on projects that may crossover departments. The coordinated efforts provide the best experience and amenities to the community.

Address Changing Demographics In order to address the changing demographics of the city, we must keep informed and engaged in the needs of the community. Creating surveys and polls to allow for community input and gather demographic information will aid in those efforts. The department should use the information to develop requested programs and events centered around those particular demographics.

Cost Recovery Cost Recovery is the ability to generate revenues by charging fees, or other types of revenue, for some, or all, programs and services in order to recuperate the total operational costs to provide them. Cost recovery in the public sector does not necessarily mean that the goal is to recuperate all of the operational cost incurred. The goal can be anywhere from 0% to more than 100% of direct costs. Cost recovery is defined differently in nearly every organization. The Johnson City Parks and Recreation department does not currently have a cost recovery model to guide the staff. The Department desires to develop a long-term strategy, structure, and system that provides for its budgetary health and sustainability and is responsive to the community. A committee of Parks and Recreation staff should be established to develop a set of principles that are sustainable and justifiable, a supporting policy, and cost model for calculating fees. The fees and charges policy should be reviewed and adjusted bi-annually.

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Strategic Actions Staffing Whenever a new project, program or event is considered, staffing needs must be evaluated and considered as a part of the overall project or program cost. Any proposed project should go through an appropriate budgetary process before being implemented. Staffing should be reevaluated each year during the budget process in order to ensure proper staffing levels are consistently maintained.

Strengthen Partnerships Development of strong partnerships within Johnson City Parks and Recreation is paramount to its continued success and growth. Strategic partnerships can help generate funds to aid in the development of new programs and the addition of new facilities. This could include cross-sector grants, fundraising, or donations. Local partnerships have been created with East Tennessee State University, Johnson City School System, Visit JC, SORBA Tri-Cities, various non-profit organizations, and businesses. These current partnerships have growth opportunities and should be massaged to gain traction. In addition to the current partnerships, new partnerships should continuously be sought after for the benefit of the community to increase program offerings, outdoor recreation amenities, and wellness initiatives.

Earned Revenues, Contract Services, and Volunteers Johnson City Parks and Recreation should consider exploring additional revenue streams utilizing existing assets such as providing rental canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats at Winged Deer Park lakefront, developing disc golf leagues, and mountain bike clubs. Non-resident fees are considered when renting space at facilities and athletic programs, however it is not considered in all other activities. A differential fee structure should be considered to charge non-residents for participating in programs and camps at each of the community centers that are tax dollar funded. Utilizing contract services can provide benefits to the department such as preservation of staff resources and a reduction in liability exposure to the City. Contractors are typically specialized in their field, therefore offering efficiency and expertise that the department may not have in its staff. Volunteers are vital to the success of the department across all divisions. Maintaining a healthy volunteer database should be continued as well as the programs that celebrate those who volunteer within the department. Volunteer recruitment events should be developed and held at least twice a year to ensure the department has sufficient volunteers to aid with programs and events occurring throughout the year.

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Strategic Actions The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) manages the Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF), the Recreational Trails Program (RTP), and the Tennessee Recreation Initiative Program (TRIP, the Land Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), and the Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF). • The Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF) provides grants to eligible local government entities for the purchase of lands for parks, natural areas, greenways, and recreation facilities. The funds may also be used for trail development and capital projects in parks, natural areas, and greenways. At least 60 percent of the funds allocated will go to municipal governments as authorized by TCA 67-4-409. All grant projects must be on publicly owned land. • Federal Grant Programs: Recreational Trails Program (RTP) In 1991, Congress initiated a number of reimbursable grant programs, including the RTP, designed to enhance America’s “Livable Communities” through the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA). The program is used to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities. Another potential fund to pursue is the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement grant (CMAQ) offered through the Federal Highway Administration. • Tennessee Recreation Initiative Program (TRIP) provides grants to cities and counties currently without a comprehensive parks and creation delivery system in operation due to lack of staffing and organization. The program is not applicable to Johnson City Parks and Recreation; however, it may be applicable to the neighboring counties. • Land and Water Conservation Funds (LWCF) program provides matching grants to states to administer to state and local governments for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Recreation Educational Services administers the LWCF grants in Tennessee. These grants require a 50% match. • The Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF) is established in accordance with TCA 11-14-304. The NRTF was created by the General Assembly “to protect the endowment represented by the land and minerals owned by the State; and to ensure that development of state-owned non-renewable resources will proceed in a manner which is economically sound, and that revenues received from disposal of those resources will be used for the long term public interest.” Grants from the NRTF may be awarded to all eligible local governmental entities and state areas for outdoor recreation, historical or archaeological sites, the acquisition of lands, waters, or interests in lands and waters. The Recreation Educational Services Division (RES) administers the NRTF grants.

Transportation Alternatives Grant The TDOT Local Programs Development Office utilizes federal funds to aid local communities in surface transportation. Expanding travel choices and enhancing infrastructure such as bike and pedestrian facilities, streetscape improvements and transportation related infrastructures, provides better access and quality of life.

121

Grant Opportunities Tennessee Greenways and Trails Program The Greenways and Trails program encourages Tennessee communities to save special green spaces, to promote the volunteer spirit of Tennesseans and to preserve and conserve the natural and cultural resources that make each community in the state of Tennessee special.

Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) Tennesseans Outdoors - Vision 2030 outlines the recreation, parks, and conservation priorities for the State of Tennessee for the next 10 years. The main focus of the plan outlines the priorities that fulfill Tennessee’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), which serves as a guide for all public outdoor recreation in urban and rural neighborhoods, cities, and regions.

International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) The International Mountain Bike Association provides a Small Grants Program that provides help for mountain biking associations. While foundations can provide an important conduit for pursuing funding, there are some disadvantages. For example, since the funding is reliant on donations, year-to-year funding can be unreliable. Also, the costs associated with raising money for the foundation can be relatively high. As an alternative, the city could look to direct-giving mechanisms to help fund parks. This could include the establishment of an endowment or trust fund.

People for Bikes The People for Bikes Community Grant Program provides funding for projects that leverage federal funding for biking. Projects can include bike paths and trails, mountain bike trails, bike parks, and BMX facilities. The program is funded by bike industry partners such as Fuji, Shimano, and Trek.

Surface Transportation Program (STP) STP provides funding to states that may be used for “projects to preserve and improve conditions and performance on any Federal-aid highway, bridge and tunnel projects on any public road, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and transit capital projects, including intercity bus terminals.”

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) The National Recreation and Park Association provides information about grant and fundraising opportunities that are available for park and recreation agencies and affiliated friends groups.

122

CONCLUSION

123

Conclusion

Johnson City is currently experiencing significant growth, and this trend is projected to continue in the near future. Parks and Recreation is a major component necessary for a successful thriving community, so it is essential the Parks and Recreation Department adapts and keeps pace to address the needs of the community it serves. If successful, parks and recreation contributes to community development by providing economic value, health and environmental benefits, and social importance. We completed an analysis of the Parks and Recreation Department using data collected from a multitude of sources. Data analysis allowed us to examine the current state of the department and to make suggestions for improvement in order to better serve the residents of Johnson City. Johnson City Parks and Recreation currently has beautiful parks, a vast variety of programming opportunities, well aged athletic facilities, and multiple community centers providing an excellent foundation for future growth. This comprehensive parks and recreation master plan provides a map to navigate improvements and expansion as well as identifying means of obtaining funding and policy creation. Key findings include the need for a comprehensive sidewalk and trails system to facilitate movement of residents to community assets, schools, shopping, or other locations except via automobile transportation, and to improve health outcomes, reduced pollution, and economic vitality. Additionally, actions should be taken near term to plan for additional facilities in areas of the city undergoing rapid growth and which are currently underserved with parks and recreational facilities. Future planning must also include staffing and maintenance costs. Overall, The Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department is well-positioned to meet the ever-changing needs of the community it serves.

124

APPENDIX

125

Appendix Other Referenced Documents Other Referenced Documents Johnson City, TN Bridge Plan https://jcbridgeplan.com/ ETSU Early Development Instrument https://www.etsu.edu/coe/child/documents/edisnapshot.pdf

Transportation How close to your home is the nearest park? I can easily walk or bike there.

It takes less than 5 minutes to drive it.

It takes more than 5 minutes to drive it.

Do you live in Johnson City limits? Yes

How do you get to Johnson City Parks? Walk or Bike

Drive

Public Transportation

How did you hear about parks and recreation opportunities?

126

Instagram

Facebook

Fun Guide Publication

Johnson City Parks and Recreation Website

Newspaper

School

Senior Lifestyles Publication

Television

Twitter

Word of Mouth

Appendix Community Meetings Data Communications How do you hear about parks and recreation opportunities? Instagram

Facebook

Fun Guide Publication

Johnson City Parks and Recreation website

Newspaper

School

SEnior Lifestyles Publication

Television

Twitter

Word of Mouth

How should Johnson City parks and recreation communicate with the public? Publish dates and times of lawn mowing Keep website updated Allow staff directors access to publishing ino Better and easier to understand website Post mowing schedule Weekly events article Facebook Radio Social Media Newspaper, TV Consistent communication with mowing Schools Utilize functional app Local news Open park and rec meetings Twitter Flyers around parks Send announcements to schools to share

127

Appendix Community Meetings Data Programming What is your favorite Johnson City parks and recreation programming? Nature-related

Youth Sports

Adult Sports

Sr Sport/PA

Art/Dance/Music

Concerts

Special Events

Other Sr Activity

Education - Youth

Education - Adult

What do you like to do most at Johnson City parks and recreation facilities?

128

Biking

Disc Golf

Education Activities

Enjoy Nature

Golf

Hiking

Mountain Biking

Play

Rec Sports

Socialization

Swimming

Walk/Run

Water play

Dog Walking

Pickleball

Concert

Other

Appendix Community Meetings Data What does Johnson City Parks and Recreation currently do best? Offer a wide range of recreational opportunities Willingness to support private/public programming Variety of parks Great playgrounds Park Maintenance Maintenance during Covid has been outstanding Support of school sports Volunteers are the best Approachability of staff Good variety of opportunities Summer concerts are great Attempt to provide a wide variety of activities Good facilities Gets lots of kids in rec sports Strengths & Weaknesses What does Johnson City Parks and Recreation currently do best? Diversity of choices from recreation Good upkeep Lots of places to visit Good workers Diversity, all involved Park maintenance Programs Capitalizing on beauty of our region After school programs Upkeep of facilities Park maintenance

129

Appendix Community Meetings Data Carver always caters to children New parks showing the beauty of Johnson City Children’s playground What does Johnson City parks and recreation currently do that needs improvement? Sidewalk, paths Gain more volunteers Create a functional app Partner with churches More sidewalks Keep locker room cleaner Communication in all areas Outside concerts More bathrooms in certain parks Aquatic centers More activities in certain parks Pools are dated Better hours on weekends Need an indoor pool Improve communication to families Garden areas need improvement New tennis courts Additions to the gyms Better maintenance More flowers around the parks Better hours Better drainage on soccer fields Safety

130

Appendix Community Meetings Data Update aquatic equipment Swimming lessons More lighting at certain parks Enforce guidelines Trail maintenance Bathroom care More connectivity between parks Future Planning What do you think the primary mission of Johnson City parks and recreation should be? Provide diverse recreational opportunities

Quality maintenance of parks and facilities

Preservation of natural resources

Creation of natural habitats within our parks, trail systems and city’s green space

Over the next 20 years, how important is it for Johnson City parks and recreation to: Serve Johnson City Residents Very Important

Somewhat Important

Not Important

Serve Tri-City residents Very Important

Somewhat Important

Not Important

Attract tourist to the area Very Important

Somewhat Important

Not Important

131

Appendix Community Meetings Data What should be the 3 areas of primary focus for Johnson City parks and recreation over the next 20 years? ADA

Affordability

More parks

Education Opportunities

DEI

Fun and play

Nature/Steward

Sense of Community

Tourism

Wellness

What is the one thing you wish Johnson City parks and recreation had that it currently does not have?

132

Bowling

Dog parks

Skating

Programs to support nursing home residents

Better bike/pet safety

Speed bumps

More bathrooms

Theater

More funding

Wi-Fi

Mini-golf

Rowing

Art

Outdoor water park

Botanical garden

Pickleball

Indoor basketball courts

More senior activities

More arts for African Americans

Dirt jump park for mountain bikes

Equal access to all centers

Competitive pay

More outdoor basketball courts

Swimming pools

Walking and running track

City wide bike connection

Botanical garden

Adult programming that isn’t just seniors

State of the art aquatic center

Speed hump in front of dog parks

Appendix Community Meetings Data Indoor volleyball courts

Sports complex

Night time activities

Connected sidewalks

Skating ring

Aquatic center

Dance classes

Free dog park

Big sized chess/checker boards

Ice hockey/deck

Astronomy event

More adult activities

Water park/swim area for dogs Facility Rankings 1st

2nd

3rd

Buffalo Mountain

Carver Rec

Civitan Park

Founders Park

Freedom Hall Pool

Jacob’s Nature

King Commons

Kiwanis Park

Langston Centre

Legion St Pool

Memorial Park CC

Metro Kiwanis

Pine Oaks Golf

Rotary Park

Tannery Knobs

Tweetsie Trail

Winged Deer

Willow Springs

133

Appendix Community Meetings Data Overarching Community Engagement What big shifts do you anticipate for the city of Johnson City over the next 10-15 years? Increase in population Need of additional housing Population growth Traffic Growth in transportation Housing demand Large influx of new residents from other states Growth in infrastructure Cost of living increase AI will play a big part in next decade What could Johnson City do that would increase health and wellness, sense of community and engagement? More walking trails Diversity, equity, and inclusion More info through social media Multi-cultural events Expand sidewalks and walking areas Transportation concerns for seniors Engage in partnerships with private entities Health and wellness information Inclusive community center More green space Host more youth tournaments

134

Appendix Community Meetings Data What do you feel is the purpose of Johnson City parks and recreation? How do you feel they play a role in the city? Provide opportunities for children and adults to be active Recreational opportunities Bringing community together Serve everyone in JC Provide services Collaborations Interact with community more Health and fitness Stress relief Healthy environment Be involved with the community Connection with tourist What does Johnson City lack right now that could be addressed by our parks and recreation department? Better access to parks Better programming Green space Transporation Increase family programming Build trails Network of greenway and bikeways Programs, events for all ages Easy accessible park Outdoor activities

135

Appendix Master Plan Focus Group Data Big Shifts Population Growth More housing Loss of green space Infrastructure Regional tension Facilities/relationships Growth in the arts COL increase Blending of cultural diversity Younger demographics Growing elderly population with an increased demand for low-impact activities Recruitment and training athletic officials More parks Managing growth of area - crowded parks Increase demand for lifeguards and training Engagement Transportation Networking Trails/bike trails More large scale events Partnerships/connectivity Social media impact Multi-cultural events Connect all areas of JC Foster diversity programs Purpose & Role Serve everyone and enjoy activities provided Provide health, fitness and stress relief Provide opportunities for all levels Exposure to recreation opportunities/athletics

136

Appendix Master Plan Focus Group Data What do we lack in JC? Increasing gym spaces

Family programming

Signage

Volunteer opportunities

Grassroots involvement

Green space/trails

Arts program

Transportation

Coaches/ref

Program/events for 18-35

Connect Annexed areas

Aquatics facility

Outdoor basketball

Boating facility at Boone Lake - Adaptive boat dock with launching area

Kayak rentals at Boone Lake

Partnership with ETSU rowing program

Monthly programming the Tweetsie Trail photography, dog walks, birdwatching, tree identification, halloween costume walk, 5K run, history walk, treasure hunt, walk to sycamore street park

Connectivity - bike and greenways

137

Appendix Employee Parks and Rec SWOT

138

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

Knowledgable staff

Limited Budget

Population growth

Workforce changes

Low user fees

Training

Additional facilities

Loss of green space

Organizational structure Communication

Expanded programming

Oversaturation of afterschool programming

Fostering community

Lack of storage

E-sports

Downtown concert series

Low cost

Inefficient procurement Curriculum based school Risk managepartnership ment too strict

Natural assets

Low marketing reach

Multicultural awareness

Boys & Girls Club

Senior Foundation

No transportation

Intergenerational programs

Senior Centers

Clean facilities

No alcohol permitted

Eveing programs

Staff

Sport opportunities available

Communication

Increase tournament opportunities

Economic issues with less funds

Playgrounds available in parks

Evaluation

Recreational therapy

Coach/fan behavior

Walking trails

Technology

Partnership within community

Competing organizations

Community center

Repeating programs that Billboard/social media are not successful targeted ads

Global short staff issue

New facilities

Branding/identification

High school/college volunteers

Referee/umpire shortage

Volunteer staff

Transportation services

Team building exercises

Other organizations

Revenue stream

9 month seasonal employee cutoff

Partner with local organizations

Connectivity

Indoor/outdoor pool

Dual employment

Adding dog parks

Recession

Concerts

Timesheet protocol for seasonal staff

Collaborations

Employee recruitment

Golf course

No football field

Growth

City not competitive

Appendix Employee Parks and Rec SWOT Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

Flyers, text alerts, email reminders for programs

Departments operating seperately

Natural resources

More options of entertainment

Cost efficient registration fees for programs

Limited Staff

University town

Cost of living going up

Flawless programs

Facilities

Volunteers

Homelessness

Staff teams

Innovation of change

Relocation of people

Population growth

Organization structure

Communication

Weather

Homeless population

Fundings

Experience in all divisions

ETSU employee base

Finances

Facilities

Aging facilites

Growing tax base

Technology

Support

Communication

Growing population

Youth are not as active

Affordable programs

Maintenance on parks

Lifestyle changes

Recreation options

New/Fresh ideas

E-sports

Number of programs

Proper staffing

New people moving to area

Variety of programs

Limited budget

Reaching out to young people

Building up playgrounds/ Aging facilities parls Building on programs

Reaching out to teenage group

Interest of community

Communication between departments Time it takes to complete certain tasks

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Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q1 How familiar are you with Johnson City Parks and Recreation? Answered: 589

Extremely familiar

Skipped: 0

Not familiar at all

Slightly familiar

Very familiar

Moderately familiar

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Not familiar at all

6.96%

Slightly familiar

17.32%

102

Moderately familiar

29.71%

175

Very familiar

33.79%

199

Extremely familiar

12.22%

TOTAL

589

1/1

140

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q2 In the last 12 months, how frequently have you or your family.. Answered: 534

Skipped: 55

100% 90% 80% 70%

48%

60% 50%

36%

40% 30%

18%

20%

29%

23%

13%

10%

19% 4%

Participated in our programming?

Daily

Gone to a Johnson City park?

Weekly

Monthly

Yearly

None

Participated in our programming? Gone to a Johnson City park?

DAILY

WEEKLY

MONTHLY

YEARLY

NONE

TOTAL

WEIGHTED AVERAGE

3% 18

18% 92

13% 69

36% 186

29% 152

517

4.42

6% 30

48% 254

23% 119

19% 100

4% 21

524

2.98

1/1

141

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q3 The current Mission of the Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department states: “The department is committed to enhancing the quality of life by providing diverse recreational opportunities, quality maintenance of parks and facilities, the preservation of natural resources and the creation of natural habitats within our parks, trail systems and our City's green space.” How important do you think each aspect is to enhancing quality of life? Answered: 489

Providing diverse recreational...

Quality maintenance of parks and...

Preservation of natural resources

1/2

142

Skipped: 100

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Creation of natural habitats wit...

10%

Not import…

20%

30%

40%

50%

Not very im…

60%

Neutral

70%

80%

90%

100%

Somewhat i…

Extremely i…

NOT IMPORTANT AT ALL

NOT VERY IMPORTANT

NEUTRAL

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT

EXTREMELY IMPORTANT

Providing diverse recreational opportunities

1.23% 6

0.61% 3

9.02% 44

29.30% 143

59.84% 292

488

Quality maintenance of parks and facilities

0.20% 1

0.41% 2

1.02% 5

11.89% 58

86.48% 422

488

0.00% 0

0.21% 1

5.14% 25

20.78% 101

73.87% 359

486

0.20% 1

1.43% 7

7.77% 38

24.13% 118

66.46% 325

489

Preservation of natural resources Creation of natural habitats within our parks, trail systems and our City's green space

TOTAL

2/2

143

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q4 What makes Johnson City Parks & Recreation special? Choose up to 5. Answered: 473

Skipped: 116

Green space (fields/trails/ forests) Indoor facilities Playgrounds People who run the programming People who maintain the parks Affordability of programs Variety of programs available Affordability of park/facilities Location of the parks/facilites Opportunities to interact with... Educational offerings Other (please specify) 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

1/3

144

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Green space (fields/trails/forests)

79.07%

374

Indoor facilities

26.64%

126

Playgrounds

52.01%

246

People who run the programming

20.72%

People who maintain the parks

36.79%

174

Affordability of programs

36.58%

173

Variety of programs available

34.25%

162

Affordability of park/facilities

44.82%

212

Location of the parks/facilites

53.49%

253

Opportunities to interact with others/socialization

29.18%

138

Educational offerings

18.60%

Other (please specify)

8.25%

Total Respondents: 473 #

OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)

DATE

Willow springs

10/5/2022 7:31 PM

Wing Deer Park is highly used and has so much to offer. This is our best Park for all. Pool and lake swswimming would be great. Bus serservice and sidewalks should be considered seball at night and the lake provides fishing and boat use. It appears that this is the most popular Park in Johnson City and should be considered for a swimming pool accessible to the public along with lake swimming area. We have a valuable asset that is placed in the middle of Johnson City. Much potential use for everyone. It has potential use for everyone and should

9/28/2022 1:43 PM

Quality Pools

9/24/2022 6:46 PM

I actually believe all of the above should be an option

9/23/2022 12:17 PM

Clean public restrooms, handicap accessible

9/23/2022 12:08 PM

Great parks!

9/21/2022 11:08 AM

Pools

9/17/2022 9:32 AM

Swimming pool at freedom needs to be relocated and another pool put in for students the pool at freedom hall is in bad location with events and pool is in bad shape of replaced

9/17/2022 7:42 AM

The variety of natural environments and complimentary sports facilities

9/14/2022 8:53 PM

A nice aquatic center

9/14/2022 1:03 PM

indoor pool

9/14/2022 9:15 AM

I appreciate how JC incorporates recreation spaces in practical infrastructure projects, like Founders Park.

9/13/2022 9:57 AM

Having workout stations at each park

9/12/2022 3:46 PM

The tennis courts at Metro Kwainans need to be replaced

9/12/2022 2:27 PM

Pet friendly

9/10/2022 9:01 AM

Disc golf

9/8/2022 9:17 PM

2/3

145

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Green space (fields/trails/forests)

79.07%

374

Indoor facilities

26.64%

126

Playgrounds

52.01%

246

People who run the programming

20.72%

People who maintain the parks

36.79%

174

Affordability of programs

36.58%

173

Variety of programs available

34.25%

162

Affordability of park/facilities

44.82%

212

Location of the parks/facilites

53.49%

253

Opportunities to interact with others/socialization

29.18%

138

Educational offerings

18.60%

Other (please specify)

8.25%

Total Respondents: 473 #

OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)

DATE

Willow springs

10/5/2022 7:31 PM

9/28/2022 1:43 PM

Quality Pools

9/24/2022 6:46 PM

I actually believe all of the above should be an option

9/23/2022 12:17 PM

Clean public restrooms, handicap accessible

9/23/2022 12:08 PM

Great parks!

9/21/2022 11:08 AM

Pools

9/17/2022 9:32 AM

Swimming pool at freedom needs to be relocated and another pool put in for students the pool at freedom hall is in bad location with events and pool is in bad shape of replaced

9/17/2022 7:42 AM

The variety of natural environments and complimentary sports facilities

9/14/2022 8:53 PM

A nice aquatic center

9/14/2022 1:03 PM

indoor pool

9/14/2022 9:15 AM

I appreciate how JC incorporates recreation spaces in practical infrastructure projects, like Founders Park.

9/13/2022 9:57 AM

Having workout stations at each park

9/12/2022 3:46 PM

The tennis courts at Metro Kwainans need to be replaced

9/12/2022 2:27 PM

Pet friendly

9/10/2022 9:01 AM

Disc golf

9/8/2022 9:17 PM

2/3

146

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q5 What do you think the focus of the Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department should be over the next 20 years? Choose up to 5. Answered: 466

Skipped: 123

Accessibility

Aﬀordability

Community

Connectivity Customer Service Diversity

Education

Equity

Fun

Integrity

Innovation

Inclusion

Nature

Play

Accessibility

Safety

Stewardship

Tourism

1/4

147

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey Wellness Other (please specify) 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Accessibility

24.46%

114

Affordability

29.40%

137

Community

42.49%

198

Connectivity

22.75%

106

Customer Service

6.44%

Diversity

18.24%

Education

9.44%

Equity

9.87%

Fun

40.99%

191

Integrity

6.44%

Innovation

19.31%

Inclusion

16.52%

Nature

53.00%

247

Play

39.70%

185

Accessibility

27.04%

126

Safety

25.97%

121

Stewardship

34.12%

159

Tourism

17.81%

Wellness

35.41%

165

Other (please specify)

13.52%

Total Respondents: 466 #

OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)

DATE

Importance on preserving the environment

10/5/2022 3:21 PM

BEST usage of any other parks in Johnson City. Just needs a pool and Lake swimming area. Great exercise area used by average citizens. Potential use is unlimited

9/28/2022 1:48 PM

Safe place for teens and pool

9/24/2022 6:47 PM

Again, all of the above

9/23/2022 12:18 PM

More parks and trails

9/21/2022 11:09 AM

2/4

148

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 6

Aquatics

9/19/2022 8:50 AM

Swimming facilities need updated for competition swimming.

9/18/2022 8:39 PM

New Aquatic Center

9/18/2022 11:26 AM

New Aquatics Center is desperately needed

9/17/2022 8:51 PM

Building a better pool for swim meets; training etc

9/17/2022 11:29 AM

Swimming

9/17/2022 9:33 AM

Updating freedom hall pool get it away from concert hall but close enough for science hill students to utilize

9/17/2022 7:44 AM

New competitive swimming centers

9/16/2022 10:56 PM

Swimming

9/16/2022 10:39 PM

We NEED a new Aquatic Center! Freedom Hall Pool is not enough and does not have the facility space to host events and swim meets.

9/16/2022 10:22 PM

We need a competition aquatics center and continued focus on all types of biking

9/14/2022 8:46 PM

Giving kids more things to do

9/14/2022 6:43 PM

We need a new pool to replace Freedom Hall pool facility; better accessibility for handicapped visitors to Kermit Tipton stadium

9/14/2022 3:53 PM

Pools/swimming improvement

9/14/2022 1:14 PM

pool facilities

9/14/2022 9:21 AM

Update city pools

9/14/2022 9:16 AM

New pool replacement for Freedom Hall

9/14/2022 9:14 AM

The tennis courts at Metro Kwainans need to be replaced

9/12/2022 2:28 PM

It goes with diversity…..allowing other sports to use fields. Like lacrosse!

9/12/2022 11:00 AM

Pet friendly

9/10/2022 9:03 AM

I think Johnson City would benefit from a waterpark facility similar to the kingsport athletic club.

9/9/2022 7:55 PM

A larger variety of sports

9/9/2022 7:20 PM

All sound great, ridiculous to rank

9/9/2022 3:40 PM

Pools

9/8/2022 8:03 PM

More trees/shade in parks. Preserving wooded trails for safe use by hikers (mountain bikers don't always share well). More hours for open and lap swim. Making downtown parks feel safer, especially in the earlier part of morning.

9/8/2022 1:09 PM

Upgrading current facilities

9/8/2022 11:50 AM

County owned recycle facitys

9/1/2022 5:58 PM

Biking!

9/1/2022 2:23 PM

Trails

8/31/2022 2:37 PM

A place for teenagers

8/31/2022 10:47 AM

MANY more short trails "through the Looking Glass" which make walking across the City easier and more fun; e.g. trail from Shady Lane to Fairmont School

8/17/2022 4:33 PM

A Kayak Ramp at Wing Deer Park

8/17/2022 4:30 PM

Growth to new land

8/16/2022 4:23 PM

Picked ball courts at wingdeer

8/16/2022 11:31 AM

3/4

149

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 40

Cleanliness. Some parks are over run with dogwaste and need to be cleaned

8/16/2022 9:19 AM

INCREASING green space & good design in the city!

8/15/2022 7:28 PM

More variety outdoor for citizens at lake front Wing Deer Park

8/15/2022 8:50 AM

Competitive Swimming Pool for High School and Solution to Outdoor Pool

8/13/2022 1:10 PM

mountain bike trails

8/10/2022 1:09 AM

Upgrade summer nature camps to a appropriate facility. If my children were still of the camp age I would not feel safe leaving them at the Winged Deer Shelter. Also there should be programs for ID/DD members of the community. government mandates they be served in the community but there are not community resources that are appropropriate,

8/8/2022 5:20 PM

need more picnic and grill areas and more fishing spots also river walk and seating

8/8/2022 7:56 AM

Please keep the DEI stuff out of Parks and Rec. Just keep the parks clean and safe. That's it.

8/7/2022 7:35 PM

lifelong learning (for all ages - not just students or seniors)

8/4/2022 2:08 PM

All of these should be a point of focus.

8/4/2022 5:44 AM

Mountain biking trails

8/3/2022 8:46 PM

Improved indoor swimming area for seniors

8/3/2022 8:32 PM

Multipurpose Turf Fields/Facilities for Hosting Tournaments

8/3/2022 8:30 PM

More Turf Fields

8/3/2022 12:17 PM

Mountain Bike Trails

8/2/2022 6:04 PM

Allowing LICENSED carrying of handgun in the outdoor parks/playgrounds for protection of our children

8/2/2022 4:54 PM

Art

8/2/2022 9:52 AM

New Trails

8/2/2022 8:36 AM

Needs input from women who want to participate, women's voices in decisions

8/1/2022 10:07 PM

Trails

8/1/2022 7:55 PM

Geena space in and around town

8/1/2022 7:41 PM

I want to stress Safety again. With the increase of homeless individuals using the parks facilities for basic utilities safety has to be a priority.

8/1/2022 5:30 PM

Campgrounds

8/1/2022 5:05 PM

Football

8/1/2022 4:12 PM

4/4

150

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q6 Which of the following are your favorite parks and/or facilities? Choose up to 5. Answered: 457

Skipped: 132

Winged Deer Park Tweetsie Trail

Founders Park Buﬀalo Mountain Park Rotary Park Willow Springs Park Kings Commons Memorial Park Community Center Tannery Knobs

Civitan Park Jacob's Nature Park Freedom Hall Pool Carver Recreation Center Legion Street Pool Liberty Bell Complex Metro-Kiwanis Park (Guaranda Dr.) Kiwanis Park TVA Credit Union Ballpark

1/4

151

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey Pine Oaks Golf Club Langston Cetre Kermit Tipton Stadium Veterans Park Powell Square Park Liberty Bell Skate Park Pete Zannis Memorial Tennis Facility Keefauver Farm

Lions Park

Keystone Park

Carnegie Park Paul Christman Park Thomas B. Hager Sports Complex Indi... Fairmont Gymnasium 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

2/4

152

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Winged Deer Park

56.67%

259

Tweetsie Trail

54.70%

250

Founders Park

52.74%

241

Buffalo Mountain Park

37.86%

173

Rotary Park

31.51%

144

Willow Springs Park

28.88%

132

Kings Commons

28.23%

129

Memorial Park Community Center

24.29%

111

Tannery Knobs

22.98%

105

Civitan Park

15.32%

Jacob's Nature Park

14.66%

Freedom Hall Pool

13.79%

Carver Recreation Center

10.28%

Legion Street Pool

10.28%

Liberty Bell Complex

8.53%

Metro-Kiwanis Park (Guaranda Dr.)

8.32%

Kiwanis Park

7.88%

TVA Credit Union Ballpark

7.88%

Pine Oaks Golf Club

7.22%

Langston Cetre

6.13%

Kermit Tipton Stadium

4.16%

Veterans Park

3.72%

Powell Square Park

2.84%

Liberty Bell Skate Park

2.63%

Pete Zannis Memorial Tennis Facility

2.19%

Keefauver Farm

1.97%

Lions Park

1.97%

Keystone Park

1.75%

Carnegie Park

1.53%

Paul Christman Park

1.09%

Thomas B. Hager Sports Complex Indian Trail

0.88%

Fairmont Gymnasium

0.44%

Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Total Respondents: 457

3/4

153

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q7 Which of the following are your favorite Johnson City Parks and Recreation programs? Choose up to 5 programs. Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey Answered: 412

Skipped: 177

Concert Series Youth Sport Leagues Special events

Nature Camps Guide-led Nature Hikes Sports Camps Senior Sports/Physical Activity Adult Sport Leagues Adult Educational Classes After School Programs Adult/Teen Physical Activity... Theraputic Recreation Programs Arts & Crafts Youth Classes Other Senior Activities or Groups Senior Arts & Crafts Music Youth Classes Other Dance Youth Classes Just for Teens 0%

154

1/5 10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Concert Series

45.63%

188

Youth Sport Leagues

39.08%

161

Special events

31.55%

130

Nature Camps

31.31%

129

Guide-led Nature Hikes

26.70%

110

Sports Camps

21.60%

Senior Sports/Physical Activity

20.87%

Adult Sport Leagues

18.45%

Adult Educational Classes

15.05%

After School Programs

13.83%

Adult/Teen Physical Activity Classes

13.83%

Theraputic Recreation Programs

12.14%

Arts & Crafts Youth Classes

11.65%

Other Senior Activities or Groups

9.71%

Senior Arts & Crafts

9.47%

Music Youth Classes

5.83%

Other

5.58%

Dance Youth Classes

5.10%

Just for Teens

3.88%

Total Respondents: 412 #

PLEASE EXPLAIN WHY, AND IF YOU SELECTED OTHER, WHAT?

DATE

Pool at Liberty Bell is in the wrong place. Civic center should go forward and separate from the School System- poor management now. Concerts were great. WHAT HAPPENED?? It made money not consumed it

9/28/2022 1:56 PM

swim. we DESPERATELY need a 50 meter competition pool.

9/20/2022 8:04 AM

I've never been part of any

9/19/2022 4:39 PM

��

Christmas Tree Lighting

9/19/2022 9:21 AM

Need swimming competition swimming facilities. The freedom hall pool was put in 1974. It needs updated.

9/18/2022 8:43 PM

We make use of Freedom Hall pool daily as we have Junior High and High Sc hool swimmers. It is great that the City has a pool on-campus so it is easy to get to for them, however the pool is showing it's age.

9/18/2022 11:32 AM

Seniors need to be able to stay active and safe, especially many with mobility issues.

9/17/2022 11:34 AM

Please help the freedom hall pool we need a pool that is made for competition racing for swimmers . Get kids involved in these activities and keep them off video games etc.

9/17/2022 7:46 AM

Freedom Hall Pool

9/16/2022 11:00 PM

3/5

155

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 10

Barracuda Swim Club

9/16/2022 10:40 PM

I really enjoy the facilities located in JC for adult sports. I am an avid volleyball player and being able to use the courts for free is very useful. If there were more programming around that, it would be great.

9/16/2022 4:27 PM

Super Sprouts at Memorial Park Community Center on Friday mornings. This is such a wonderful play time for mom's with little ones. A time for mom's and kids to be social. I do hope this will continue through the winter, when it's too cold for outdoors. Ms. Maria does an excellent job.

9/15/2022 6:30 AM

I have not participated in formal programs so I don't feel I can choose favorites.

9/14/2022 9:48 PM

Sports camps were an affordable childcare option at Spring and Summer breaks

9/14/2022 3:55 PM

These are the ones in which we have participated

9/14/2022 10:01 AM

Just moved here. Still learning what Johnson City has to offer.

9/14/2022 9:28 AM

My kids participate in youth sports year round. It's crazy to me that the Barracuda Swim Club has to utilize the Kingsport Aquatics Center so much because Freedom Hall is so outdated and can't accommodate spectators.

9/14/2022 9:17 AM

I love the variety of community events in Founders Park and King Commons that allow the community to gather (and support local business). I especially love the Christmas Tree display that gives everyone a great opportunity to get outside and downtown in the winter.

9/13/2022 10:01 AM

Pet friendly

9/10/2022 9:06 AM

Swimming lessons and classes at Memorial Park Community center.

9/9/2022 7:56 PM

It’s hard to choose! All of these options are things that are valuable to a community. Investing in youth (the next generation) & caring for our seniors are 2 groups that I feel benefit most public programs.

9/9/2022 7:26 PM

I absolutely love the concert series. I am not sure what special events are included under JC Parks, but I am thinking of all the festivals (Meet the Mountains, etc.).

9/9/2022 1:29 PM

Disc golf

9/8/2022 9:20 PM

This list makes me realize I’m missing out on wonderful programming I’d enjoy!

9/8/2022 8:17 PM

Outdoor pool

9/8/2022 4:19 PM

Youth private swim class

9/8/2022 1:09 PM

Masters swimming

9/7/2022 9:59 PM

Never been to any of these things

9/7/2022 5:17 PM

I have no experience with programs at all.

8/17/2022 11:03 PM

Johnson City should pick up funding for the "Artful Aging" professionally taught classes for seniors offered at the Johnson City Public Library during 2017-18. This was a higher level of instruction than typically offered at recreational centers, and was funded to create a model for establishing amenities that attract significant investment from relocating retirees. High engagement arts activities are also proven to promote physical and mental health benefits for older people, offsetting healthcare costs.

8/17/2022 3:33 PM

Swimming

8/16/2022 4:28 PM

Things the entire family can do together and involved the wider community.

8/15/2022 1:30 PM

these items fit my family

8/12/2022 9:10 AM

I have been a youth coach and my children have participated in youth sports since they were eligible

8/11/2022 2:51 PM

Love water aeropics

8/6/2022 5:08 PM

Kids need activities to participate in that are low cost and fit into their schedule after school.

8/6/2022 3:55 PM

Taking my dog for walks and taking evening strolls, picnics.

8/6/2022 2:40 PM

4/5

156

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 38

Importance of Lifelong Leisure Opportunities

8/6/2022 10:39 AM

I feel that programming across the system is antiquated and a bit stagnant. Revamped programs and adding new programs to align with current trends would be good. Also, JC needs an aquatic complex.

8/6/2022 10:29 AM

I love the concert series because it brings the community together. Guided hikes are so informative especially when Connie is the leader. Great to be outdoors! I look forward to participating more in the senior programs this next year upon my retirement. There's not much available for working seniors which could be an area of improvement for you. Please plant trees around the green space where Fridays After Five is! Also add shade sails over the Natural Adventure Park. It would be used so much more in the summer months.

8/4/2022 9:23 PM

I like learning and the other options do not really apply to me.

8/4/2022 2:13 PM

golf

8/4/2022 11:01 AM

Connie Deegan is the best.

8/3/2022 6:56 PM

Bike events to showcase the mountain bike trails

8/3/2022 5:33 PM

They’re activities I’m likely to attend.

8/3/2022 2:00 PM

I have only gotten to enjoy concert series and special events so far as I’ve only been here a year, but I love options for classes offered and always check to see what is available.

8/3/2022 7:05 AM

The mountain bike trails and walking trails have been the primary means of physical wellness for this 72 year old and wife, for years, especially during Covid lock downs of gyms. More walking , hiking, mountain biking trails should be major part of future planning. Winged Deer is our favorite since it is closest park to our home.

8/2/2022 6:11 PM

Youth Sports League, After School Programs, Therapeutic Recreation Programs, Special Events, and OTHER- being the summer camp program.

8/2/2022 1:42 PM

I do not believe I have ever participated in any JCPR programming activities besides large festivals. I would be interested in the ones I selected above, including hikes, arts and crafts, and others

8/2/2022 11:39 AM

Taking care of all ages is crucial for healthy community

8/2/2022 9:45 AM

My daughter has enjoyed playing softball and learning the sport

8/2/2022 8:04 AM

I have not attended any programs

8/2/2022 7:55 AM

I'm a senior.

8/2/2022 1:48 AM

Lap swimming. Your schedules are "old fashioned." Leadership has never cared to understand the schedules of women who want to participate, esp women who have children. Now there are many seniors who are caring for children while parents work because child care is both hard to find and unaffordable. You cater programming to children (women and seniors transport but don't get to participate).

8/1/2022 10:15 PM

Jump start camp!

8/1/2022 9:06 PM

None of these

8/1/2022 7:42 PM

5/5

157

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q8 What is one thing you wish Johnson City Parks and Recreation had that they do not currently have? Answered: 327

RESPONSES

DATE

More playground equipment.

10/30/2022 3:49 PM

More adult friendly parks

10/25/2022 3:46 PM

Adult activities that cost nothing

10/25/2022 10:47 AM

Walking/ biking trail between Johnson City and jonesborough

10/22/2022 5:08 PM

Better lighting for early mornings and evenings.

10/20/2022 3:42 PM

Resurface and take care of the Liberty Bell tennis courts

10/18/2022 10:18 AM

Better gyms for children and more places that are dog friendly.

10/16/2022 4:00 PM

Non-vehicle bike routes that connect the northern areas to the downtown, Tweetsie Trail, campus etc.

10/15/2022 2:24 PM

Paul Christman park needs swings and you should replace the mulch with the squishy ground that rotary park has! :) another suggestion could be more play structure options for kids under two!

10/8/2022 3:16 PM

More updates website with current and upcoming events, programs, classes, etc. Most classes I see ended between May and August and a lot of event have already happened.

10/7/2022 9:27 PM

A sensory playground would be awesome!

10/5/2022 3:23 PM

Shade

10/2/2022 3:15 PM

I would love to see a temporary outdoor ice-skating rink in the winter time!

10/1/2022 6:37 PM

Turf baseball fields

9/29/2022 6:40 PM

A quality Aquatic center that can provide a safe and attractive environment for the community and to attract sporting events to the area. Kingsport has invested in a center that provides access to those who may not otherwise have a year round activity center.

9/28/2022 8:51 PM

Usage of Cash Hollow for motorcycle and 4 wheelers would be great. Much useful use of resources and can be self funded with proper management

9/28/2022 2:00 PM

More funding for educational programs and personnels.

9/27/2022 5:15 PM

City wide bike trails, connecting communities, neighborhoods, shopping, and downtown.

9/27/2022 10:11 AM

More paid employees to maintain the amenities since inmates will no longer be maintaining them.

9/26/2022 8:09 PM

A professionally constructed skate park

9/26/2022 3:24 PM

There is nothing in terms of group activities for children under a year old. Or even under two years old that I can find. I also wish there were more ways to find out about programs for adults, I didn’t even know there were adult programs.

9/26/2022 12:04 PM

I would like to express our family’s concerns about the prospect of not having a completion sized pool in Johnson City. Our family has has utilized freedom hall pool for over a decade. My sons learned to swim during the many open swim times, and my son has benefited from swimming with Barracuda Swim Club, as well as Science Hill Swim and Dive. The city is already lacking in this area compared to other cities in the region. Having a younger son who plans to swim, it is important to us that this opportunity is still available. It is clear that Johnson City has made personal health a priority. Our family has benefited from the many

9/24/2022 7:38 PM

1 / 12

158

Skipped: 262

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey outdoor facilities that have been crated over the years. We love the many outdoor spaces that have been designed and maintained over the past few years-including the Tweetsie Trail, the mountain bike trails at Winged Deer, and the natural play spaces in downtown. I hope you will prioritize the need of a competition pool in Johnson city the same way you have successfully prioritized so many wonderful aspects of our city. 23

Indoor walking area, Better pools

9/24/2022 6:49 PM

Better pool facilities, ie competition and recreation combination. The news pool in the city is tiny and only meets the need of a small group of users.

9/23/2022 10:31 PM

Shade over swings

9/23/2022 5:27 PM

I would like to see a new competitive swimming pool. The Barracuda swim club now uses the pool at Freedom Hall and it is just shy of 50 years old.

9/23/2022 12:24 PM

Arts/crafts for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, exercise activities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

9/23/2022 12:12 PM

Park near Boones Creek, nicer pool facilities

9/23/2022 10:08 AM

Larger outdoor concert venue

9/22/2022 10:13 PM

A new competitive pool in the city!

9/22/2022 9:05 AM

Olympic swimming pool and aquatic center

9/21/2022 9:31 PM

a new competitive swimming pool

9/21/2022 7:47 PM

pollinator garden shade trees in parks (winged deer lakeside and willow springs for example) accessible walking nature paths (winged deer) picnic areas in shade

9/21/2022 5:52 PM

More greenway/bike paths

9/21/2022 5:26 PM

Want more dog friendly walking trails (especially away from traffic, shaded, and either paved and/or gravel). Ones simsilar to Jonesboro or Sycamore Shoals Park.

9/21/2022 11:14 AM

Freedom hall swim pool has been the most busiest facility among all jc park facilities in terms of number of people and frequency. The pool has been the ONLY pool for daily training used by shhs, jc middle schools, barracuda swim club, and other water sports lovers. However, it’s been in a bit-so-good condition for years. We definitely need a upgraded swimming pool like Kingsport aquatic center. So that we host more swim meets to bring revenue and tourism to jc communities. In addition, it would be nice to build another tennis courts in north jc, such as winged deer park. Badminton sport is also gaining a lot of popularity in the area. However, there is no badminton court in the area.

9/20/2022 9:34 PM

A 50 meter competition pool. the pool at freedom hall is embarassing. the pool in the memorial center is too short. the legion street pool is not available year-round.

9/20/2022 8:05 AM

Senior bingo

9/20/2022 4:38 AM

I would love to see JC build a competition facility for swimming, with a competition pool and spectator areas.

9/19/2022 5:41 PM

A zip line for kids like at The All-Inclusive park in Greenville. An entire park like The AllInclusive Playground in Greenville.

9/19/2022 4:41 PM

Competition swimming pool.

9/19/2022 4:01 PM

Training classes for sports like soccer softball football it actually teaches the fundamentals and how to play and what the rules are instead of just going out there and playing the game.

9/19/2022 11:36 AM

Pickleball courts

9/19/2022 9:22 AM

more pools

9/19/2022 8:51 AM

A water park similar to Kingsport Aquatics Center. A beach similar to Boone Dam at Winged Deer Park.

9/19/2022 8:41 AM

Pool like kingsport aquatic center like in Kingsport. It generates millions of dollars.

9/18/2022 8:45 PM

A better community pool

9/18/2022 7:50 PM

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Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 48

I wish we weren't falling behind in aquatics. Kingsport having that great competition pool is nice, so we don't have to travel as far for club meets (although lots of people from other states are coming to Kingsport and spending $)-but it makes JC seem behind the times. My kids on swim team use the Freedom Hall pool daily, and we like the location - but it really needs to be replaced with a new pool. As an adult in the home, I use the Memorial Center pool every week for fitness and it is a great addition to the city, but it's inadequate for the teams. I had to go use the KAC when the heater at Memorial was down last winter and it was SO nice! We don't necessarily need a facility with multiple indoor/outdoor pools, but at least one competition level pool in town would help us maintain our place as the best of the Tri-cities!

9/18/2022 11:48 AM

Competitive swim pool.

9/18/2022 9:45 AM

A nicer, newer pool. A pool similar to Kingsport Aquatics Center would be great.

9/17/2022 8:53 PM

An affordable indoor space to rent for parties when it is raining.

9/17/2022 12:36 PM

Better pool

9/17/2022 11:30 AM

A new pool (or 2)

9/17/2022 9:34 AM

More sports for kids I mean a baseball team only needs 9 to 13 players more sports

9/17/2022 7:47 AM

Aquatics Center that could host swim clubs and swim meets across the southern states

9/17/2022 7:23 AM

An aquatic center

9/17/2022 6:59 AM

More swimming pools

9/17/2022 5:44 AM

An Aquatic Center that could bring in tourism and revenue through competition. It could diversify itself from other centers locally by focusing on the natural elements of the area.

9/17/2022 3:49 AM

I wish we had an updated aquatics center like Kingsport has.

9/16/2022 11:01 PM

A new competition swimming center. Freedom Hall Pool was built in 1974. Legion Street Pool was built circa 1958. Both pools have age-related challenges which limit programming and utilization. The Freedom Hall 5-Year Plan may involve filling in the current pool, which will leave the high school, middle schools, and club team with no place to train or hold meets in the city. Johnson City is falling behind other cities in the area when it comes to aquatic venues and programming, which impacts potential tourism revenue for the city.

9/16/2022 10:58 PM

Public indoor pool

9/16/2022 10:41 PM

A better swimming facility and additional swimming facility for competition

9/16/2022 10:23 PM

A new Aquatic center like Kingsport has!

9/16/2022 10:23 PM

I wish the community center was available for members of the community at a more affordable rate. I also wish the sand volleyball court at Civitan were more maintained. The sand is not appropriate and needs to be maintained more often as well as the pipes around it.

9/16/2022 4:28 PM

Better maintenance of the sand volleyball courts, especially at Civitan Park. Adding sand volleyball, bocce ball, pickell ball courts to powell sq park.

9/16/2022 4:27 PM

Water bottle filling stations - NOT water fountains

9/16/2022 11:13 AM

More water features, more trees and flowers in downtown parks, encourage more musicians and traveling artists downtown, encourage more cleanliness and things to look at downtown, more things to draw you to walk around downtown (similar to jonesborough or Greenville, sc), maybe a science or STEAM festival, events that high light local folk music and events, violins, fiddles

9/15/2022 9:05 PM

Better drainage area behind volleyball courts at Civitan

9/15/2022 9:51 AM

A small indoor play place. Or just a small open gym where you can bring toddlers and preschoolers to play at any time in the day.

9/15/2022 6:32 AM

The ability to attract AND keep quality employees for all positions and efficient use of those employees.

9/14/2022 9:51 PM

We lack an adequate competition aquatic center to support of swim and dive programs. The barracuda and HS swim dive teams, as well as, the aquatic programs at other park and rec

9/14/2022 8:59 PM

3 / 12

160

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey facilities are one of JC’s best assets. 72

Competition aquatic Center

9/14/2022 8:54 PM

A modern competition aquatics center

9/14/2022 8:48 PM

A new aquatics center

9/14/2022 8:35 PM

water park

9/14/2022 7:48 PM

Keefauver WITHOUT COWS. LESS bikes.

9/14/2022 7:45 PM

More things for teenagers to do

9/14/2022 6:46 PM

A new swim pool for both school team practice and public

9/14/2022 5:05 PM

An couple good indoor rain/snow weather places to visit, more kid friendly museums or activity places like rock climbing etc

9/14/2022 4:02 PM

A competition pool and facility similar to the Kingsport Aquatic Center

9/14/2022 3:56 PM

Water slides like Kingsport Aquatics Center

9/14/2022 1:16 PM

Mommy and me type programs (swimming, exercise, art, etc.) would be great for infants, toddlers, and preschool ages.

9/14/2022 1:16 PM

A pool like Kingsport has at the YMCA

9/14/2022 10:01 AM

A competition style aquatics facility like Kingsport aquatic center that has a good competition pool, spectator area, and recreational capabilities

9/14/2022 9:20 AM

New pool facilities at Freedom Hall!

9/14/2022 9:18 AM

A newer and better competitive pool for youth swimmers. Freedom Hall is too small and old, and Legion street is circa 1958 without an indoor option for a long course. Johnson City loses drastically to Kingsport with their competitive pool.

9/14/2022 8:33 AM

An updated pool for our swimmers to swim in. Freedom Hall is dilapidated.

9/14/2022 7:11 AM

Competitive pool outside of freedom hall

9/14/2022 6:34 AM

Connected sidewalks

9/13/2022 6:38 PM

Large park that includes most all sports to become a mecca of sport...ie soccer volleyball baseball basketball lacrosse

9/13/2022 6:01 PM

Watauga River Public Access Park along Herb Hodge Rd/Riverview Dr.

9/13/2022 10:23 AM

Improved safety in Powell Square Park.

9/13/2022 10:02 AM

More tennis courts maybe indoor

9/13/2022 9:44 AM

A water park, similar in size to Wetlands, however hopefully significantly cleaner than wetlands or something similar but slightly larger than Kingsport Aquatic Center. Additionally, an all inclusive center that houses a large playground, mini golf, outdoor obstacle course, and tree houses with bridges, etc.

9/12/2022 8:49 PM

Mini Golf

9/12/2022 5:55 PM

More youth basketball camps or more than one basketball season.

9/12/2022 5:27 PM

More shade at parks

9/12/2022 4:18 PM

All have outdoor workout equipment

9/12/2022 3:51 PM

The tennis courts at Metro Kwainans need to be replaced

9/12/2022 2:30 PM

100

An indoor hangout center for teens

9/12/2022 11:10 AM

101

More dog parks

9/12/2022 11:06 AM

102

More fields for sports…allow lacrosse to access fields otherwise Science Hill will loose this amazing sport without youth to feed into it.

9/12/2022 11:05 AM

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161

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 103

More greenways

9/11/2022 6:44 PM

104

I am going to cheat and list two things: 1. I would love to see a JC adult volleyball league. I greatly appreciate the pick up on Wednesday night but have to drive to Kingsport or Elizabethton to play in a competitive league. 2. We frequently use the sand volleyball courts at Civitan and they desperately need some new sand. Likewise the sand courts at Winged Deer are in such bad shape that they are not suited for legitimate play. Any chance of getting some new sand at both places?

9/11/2022 3:43 PM

105

Easy website, Facebook, more marketing presence.

9/11/2022 2:51 PM

106

The amount of shade and/or seating at parks is lacking. I would like to see more classes like yoga for all ages.

9/10/2022 11:26 AM

107

FREE bark park, for the dogs

9/10/2022 9:07 AM

108

A waterpark facility similar to the one at Kingsport aquatic center.

9/9/2022 7:57 PM

109

A Fitness Court for use by all ages.

9/9/2022 7:28 PM

110

outdoor pools

9/9/2022 5:53 PM

111

An aquatics and wellness center similar to the Kingsport YMCA/Aquatics Center

9/9/2022 4:23 PM

112

More classes and educational opportunities for adults as most are limited to kids and seniors

9/9/2022 3:42 PM

113

Better Swimming pools. Memorial park's pools are great, but Freedom Hall and Legion Street really need updates.

9/9/2022 1:33 PM

114

A park or playground near the Mountcastle area

9/9/2022 1:22 PM

115

Age centric meet up groups by toddler age

9/9/2022 12:42 PM

116

A mom group

9/9/2022 9:23 AM

117

Lacrosse programming

9/9/2022 9:23 AM

118

The master plan needs to account for health quality of life. Taking into account the five D's of active community elements: density, diversity, design, destination accessibility, and distance to transit.

9/9/2022 8:59 AM

119

A better outside pool or water park

9/9/2022 8:41 AM

120

Update freedom hall pool

9/9/2022 7:55 AM

121

Bring Buffalo Valley Golf Course Back.

9/8/2022 10:29 PM

122

Ice skating

9/8/2022 10:29 PM

123

A second disc golf course

9/8/2022 9:20 PM

124

A better swimming complex! One with pool space that could bring in swim meets.

9/8/2022 8:05 PM

125

A year-round facility for throws practice. ETSU has no facilities. Science Hill shares theirs with ETSU, Liberty Bell and Indian Trail middle schools AND they refuse to make them available year-round because "that's the way it's always been done". Very frustrating for all athletes.

9/8/2022 6:22 PM

126

Swim lessons at legion pool during the summer! Especially with the state park pools closing, more resources need to go to outdoor pools and teaching kids to swim.

9/8/2022 6:18 PM

127

More bike trails that connect downtown and walnut st. to neighborhoods on other side of major roads (e.g., state of franklin)

9/8/2022 4:21 PM

128

Homeschool nature classes for all ages together

9/8/2022 4:12 PM

129

Improved, longer greenbelt with better shade / scenery

9/8/2022 2:41 PM

130

Amphitheater for music concerts and speakers

9/8/2022 2:36 PM

131

A park or trail closer to home (Boone’s creek) that would be safe place to run/bike. We use freedom hall pool extensively, but it could use new blocks-Actually, it may be time to upgrade facility in order to compare more favorably with KAC.

9/8/2022 2:29 PM

5 / 12

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Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 132

Additional bike trails

9/8/2022 2:28 PM

133

A way for folks who are interested in adult sports but don't have a whole team to register with to find other people who want to build a team together.

9/8/2022 2:28 PM

134

Paving on the Tweetsie Trail so it could be used for rollerblading along with biking/walking.

9/8/2022 2:16 PM

135

Not sure

9/8/2022 1:35 PM

136

South Roan community park

9/8/2022 1:27 PM

137

More trees/shade in parks.

9/8/2022 1:09 PM

138

A north JC park

9/8/2022 12:20 PM

139

Indoor 50 meter pool

9/8/2022 11:58 AM

140

Indoor tennis facilities

9/8/2022 11:51 AM

141

Turf Soccer Fields

9/8/2022 10:45 AM

142

More splash pads

9/8/2022 10:35 AM

143

A quality competitive Aquatic center

9/7/2022 9:59 PM

144

dog water fountains and more poop bag dispensers

9/7/2022 5:18 PM

145

Dog Park, Functional green space with adequate access to power, Olympic grade pool, campground

9/7/2022 2:00 PM

146

Indoor Tennis Facility or Multi use indoor space that included tennis

9/7/2022 11:59 AM

147

More shade at Winged Deer Park. Also, some more activities for kids at Winged Deer would be great.

9/6/2022 5:31 PM

148

A gym to play pick-up basketball. All of the gyms around town are either in use or closed.

9/6/2022 1:27 PM

149

Greenway or wide bike path to both Buffalo Mountain and the Tweetsie Trail from downtown

9/4/2022 3:15 PM

150

Dog poop bag dispensers at trailhead at winged deer mt bike parking lot. Thanks for the recent addition of a much-needed porta spotty at Winged Deer mt bike parking lot. However, it is occupying a very valuable parking space instead of being located a few feet away on the paved area by the kiosk sign. Disc golfers, hikers and mt bikers frequently fill that parking lot to overflow, so please move that potty!

9/3/2022 9:26 PM

151

dog park

9/2/2022 3:07 PM

152

I would love to see improved connectivity between the tweetsie trail Spurs, downtown parks, and the tweetsie trail proper. The sidewalks between them are all rather small and not amenable to biking, particularly where State of Franklin crosses under the highway. There are several light polls in the middle of the sidewalk that make it unsafe to travel in groups, especially during the Taco Trek.

9/2/2022 11:45 AM

153

More mountain bike trails in green spaces

9/1/2022 5:37 PM

154

More concert options.

9/1/2022 12:33 PM

155

Trails for riding horses

9/1/2022 9:31 AM

156

Guided nature walks where you can learn to identify native trees and plants

9/1/2022 6:56 AM

157

Connection of Buffalo Mountain Park to the Pinnacle Fire Tower area

8/31/2022 10:00 PM

158

A plan for the development of the Keefauver Farm being a City park, not within the City Limits.

8/31/2022 9:58 PM

159

Greenways to connect parks

8/31/2022 2:39 PM

160

Playgrounds for 13-17 age

8/31/2022 10:49 AM

161

Off leash dog park.

8/30/2022 2:23 PM

162

A place where ALL people are welcome to rest and enjoy the parks (regardless of their housing status)

8/30/2022 12:26 PM

6 / 12

163

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 163

Water fountains

8/30/2022 12:21 PM

164

A more developed Buffalo Mountain Park, including well-maintained trails (Hike and Bike), Parking, Restroom, and Picnic Areas

8/30/2022 7:53 AM

165

A water park like Kingsport has. Would keep our dollars in JC instead of Kingsport or Jonesborough.

8/30/2022 1:09 AM

166

More events on the lake front

8/30/2022 1:02 AM

167

nothing i can think of

8/28/2022 8:22 PM

168

Organized Family-friendly Hikes

8/28/2022 3:39 PM

169

Exercise equipment

8/28/2022 11:17 AM

170

A park accessible to the major residential subdivisions situated along the Boone's Creek corridor.

8/26/2022 3:37 PM

171

indoor walking track

8/22/2022 9:41 AM

172

More parks like Buffalo mountain

8/21/2022 6:56 AM

173

Dog park

8/20/2022 2:07 PM

174

Dog park free open to everyone

8/19/2022 9:17 AM

175

A ropes course could be very interesting. I think the closest one is in Sevierville or NC. Even for a small fee for upkeep and employment, it would be a very cool feature for JC!

8/18/2022 6:30 AM

176

Sorry, not sorry-I have 2 things: 1. Squash 2. Outdoor fitness park

8/17/2022 11:07 PM

177

<<< A year round indoor ice skating rink large enough for hockey. (Even tiny Spruce Pine, NC managed to keep one running for 20 years.) >>> Johnson City would be a real city if it had that, and an Amtrak station!

8/17/2022 4:41 PM

178

My wife and I went to Cove Lake State Park in Caryville, TN and at the park they had a Kayak ramp that allowed us to slide our kayaks down to and back up from the lake. It made it much easier to launch our kayaks and it kept kayakers from blocking the boat access. It was wooden and very easy to use. Winged Deer Park would be a perfect place to build one, as I have used it several times and I have seen many kayakers there also. One at the boat launch at Wined Deer Park and another at the boat launch across the Bristol Highway would be great. I have pictures of the Cove Lake kayak ramp that I would be happy to share.

8/17/2022 4:37 PM

179

Ropes Course

8/17/2022 4:29 PM

180

See previous comment about "Artful Aging" (also EA Michaelson Philanthrophy https://eamichelsonphilanthropy.org/

8/17/2022 3:36 PM

181

Perhaps some adult outdoor exercise equipment (e.g. pull-up bars, dip bars, etc.) along the Tweetsie Trail at the Cranberry Quary overlook site.

8/17/2022 8:48 AM

182

An updated skate park for all the skateboarders downtown.

8/16/2022 7:54 PM

183

Additional shade in parks. For example, trees/flowering trees in King Commons and Founders Park or additional shade sails in children's nature park.

8/16/2022 7:48 PM

184

none

8/16/2022 5:20 PM

185

Indoor Tennis, soccer/ training facility for our kids to use during the winter months. Way to worried about softball and not the other sports.

8/16/2022 4:42 PM

186

Non-perishable food boxes

8/16/2022 11:39 AM

187

Picked ball courts at Wingdeer

8/16/2022 11:33 AM

188

Wildlife reserve would be a great idea. That's probably really expensive. A pool with in and outdoor pool. Current facilities are too small &or crowded.

8/16/2022 11:15 AM

189

More walking trails in nature

8/16/2022 9:23 AM

190

I live at the south end of johnson City and I would like to see a park with a walking path and activities

8/16/2022 9:22 AM

7 / 12

164

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 191

Put put course or mini golf area, great family fun time.

8/16/2022 9:22 AM

192

I think some parks need a bit of tlc. Fpunders park for instance is a main hub for yoga but I'm didcourage from going due to the amount of dog waste everywhere. The big grass fields are nice but wasted if they're too gross to use.

8/16/2022 9:21 AM

193

A better maintenance and improvement program for existing facilities.

8/16/2022 4:54 AM

194

Well-designed greenspace/greenway running through and around the whole city (really easy-toaccess green walking space, from any neighborhood)

8/15/2022 7:32 PM

195

Shaded areas at all playgrounds. (Especially Winged Deer!)

8/15/2022 4:34 PM

196

More Adult Sporting events for the community. A lot is built around the children in the area which is great and a need. But for adults not attending a local college it's harder to currently find opportunities to play team/ community sports.

8/15/2022 4:19 PM

197

Can't think of anything

8/15/2022 3:47 PM

198

Native arboretum and butterfly garden

8/15/2022 1:54 PM

199

A food truck park!

8/15/2022 1:32 PM

200

Parks with all naturalist gardens with native plants that attract a variety of pollinators (especially honey bees) and other wildlife. Get rid of the lawns and use these spaces to sustain natural species including plants, insects and birds. No insecticides!!

8/15/2022 1:31 PM

201

More updated/well maintained pool facilities

8/15/2022 9:44 AM

202

I wish they would do more at Wing Deer Park at Lake front. Like Horse shoe pits, covered shuffleboard courts, a large water pad for adults and kids, a musical setup like they have down below the JC Library, a large musical carousel, A large bandstand gazebo in the middle of the big field, a small train like at Steele Creek Park. Some Bad mitten courts, Bounce Ball courts, Some big shade tree areas near lake with tables to have picnics. have a small hot dog, hamburger, ice cream food truck area to be able to purchase food items. More community events at the lake side area. Also repave walkway trails, redo Wing Deer Park signs at the road where some are torn up and have been for years. I also think they should have painted murrals on the bridge underpass pole uprights as you come off of 26 to State of Franklin Rd. Like Redbud or Dogwood Trees, or Wisteria with flowers and birds in the trees or animals sitting at the base like rabbits, squirrels, groundhogs, raccoons, etc. to beautify that as tourist get off that exit. I have a lot more ideas. I wish they would do more festivals for the Holidays like really decorate and I mean decorate downtown areas for festivals like on the Hallmark shows- Fall Festival, Halloween Festival, Thanksgiving Festival and Especially Christmas Festival, Snow Festival, and all of the other holiday festivals as able with themes and decorations and activities to go along with it and get all the stores and businesses to decorate the window and provide activities- Games, food, crafts. etc. I also wish the city would decorate the street like they did when I was a kid with garland banners with bells and balls hanging from one side of the street to the other side for Christmas. Not just the ole skimpy wreaths and flags like a lot of the towns around the area do. Make the holidays memoriable for all the young and old at heart.

8/15/2022 9:19 AM

203

A swim park like Kingsport

8/14/2022 10:17 AM

204

More mountain bike trails on Buffalo and a campground close by. Good for the outdoor active tourist.

8/13/2022 9:21 PM

205

A bigger weight room and cardio room at Memorial Park Community Center or create a new facility for those looking for more weight lifting/cardio options.

8/13/2022 1:12 PM

206

more disc golf! So many open spaces in parks but only one disc golf course.

8/12/2022 9:11 AM

207

An aquatic center like Kingsport’s

8/11/2022 9:31 PM

208

A bigger skate park

8/11/2022 9:00 PM

209

Aquatics Center similar to Kingsport

8/11/2022 2:51 PM

210

A water park.

8/11/2022 2:43 PM

211

More winterized bathrooms at playgrounds. Interconnected greenway systems throughout the

8/11/2022 12:55 PM

8 / 12

165

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey city. 212

Love all the new beautiful parks Johnson city has created. I don’t mind paying property tax when I can see all the improvements that are made every year. Thank you for all you are doing!

213

An Adult Playground for Seniors

8/10/2022 6:37 AM

214

mountain bike trails on buffalo mountain city park

8/10/2022 1:12 AM

215

Electric/quiet maintenance equipment rather than high powered gas noise machines.

8/9/2022 9:27 PM

216

other forms of art/show apart from music (dancers, people making bubbles... street art type)

8/9/2022 9:02 PM

217

More Connie Deegans

8/9/2022 8:31 PM

218

More adult league like volleyball, basketball

8/9/2022 8:21 PM

219

A inner city soccer facility for youth and adults who do not play on travel teams or cannot afford travel or adult soccer to play pickup soccer.

8/9/2022 6:27 PM

220

An aquatic center or water park

8/8/2022 11:07 PM

221

Programs that adults with special needs (ID/DD) could participate in. Programs might need to be tailored. Roanoke, VA manages to have programs where ID/DD are accommodated.

8/8/2022 5:24 PM

222

more picnic and grill areas and more fishing piers and river walks. Places to just sit and people watch or watch water traffic, and more shade to do so.

8/8/2022 8:01 AM

223

More forest bound trails and paths.

8/7/2022 9:52 PM

224

Remote electronic locking/unlocking bathrooms so they are always open during the day Water bottle filling stations

8/7/2022 5:06 PM

225

An indoor garden.

8/7/2022 2:33 PM

226

Need more bike trails/safe bike lanes for commuting

8/7/2022 6:59 AM

227

More options for adult sports (soccer, kickball, etc)

8/6/2022 6:32 PM

228

More wooded trails

8/6/2022 6:12 PM

229

hot tub near pool in community

8/6/2022 5:09 PM

230

Access to bathrooms near Founders, the pavilion bathrooms are always locked

8/6/2022 4:31 PM

231

It’s crazy to think this survey is going to be relevant in 20 years. If you really care about the future of P&R you would not be planning further out than 5 years. 10 at the max. The needs of the city are ever changing. So y’all need a shorter strategic plan.

8/6/2022 3:58 PM

232

More nature programming during the academic year

8/6/2022 3:38 PM

233

More areas to bike and hike :)

8/6/2022 3:37 PM

234

More benches for seating along walkways and playgrounds and more picnic tables. Winged Deer only has a few tables near the playground. Maybe some awnings over benches that are not under shade trees.

8/6/2022 2:43 PM

235

More dog parks or dog programming

8/6/2022 2:21 PM

236

A Buffalo Mountain Nature Preserve & Interpretive Center

8/6/2022 10:41 AM

237

Aquatic complex. Fitness complex. Combined versions are found in many similarly sized towns.

8/6/2022 10:30 AM

238

Zoo

8/6/2022 9:07 AM

239

More senior trips.

8/5/2022 3:08 PM

240

Bike trails at the parks and leading to the parks. Our kids/ community members need to get more exercise and be less reliant on our cars.

8/5/2022 2:12 PM

241

Sports fields & programs for Special Needs students & adults... like Miracle League Park in Kingsport.

8/5/2022 11:09 AM

9 / 12

166

8/10/2022 12:13 PM

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 242

At the rate Johnson City is growing, it will have all that I wish for!

8/5/2022 9:02 AM

243

A pool on the south side of Johnson City.

8/4/2022 10:05 PM

244

SHADE in green space across from King Commons and in park there!

8/4/2022 9:25 PM

245

Sauna and hot tub at Memorial Park

8/4/2022 7:38 PM

246

A large trail system on Buffalo mountain

8/4/2022 7:30 PM

247

New outside pool

8/4/2022 6:20 PM

248

Better pools, water recycler at rotary

8/4/2022 5:49 PM

249

Wish more of the speakers/informational/educational programming was offered in evenings or weekends. For people who work the timing of most events interferes with a traditional work day.

8/4/2022 2:15 PM

250

An historical lecture series focused on JC's people, places, events, buildings, etc. Perhaps coupled with walking tours.

8/4/2022 11:16 AM

251

more trails

8/4/2022 11:01 AM

252

not sure

8/4/2022 7:48 AM

253

A downhill bike park

8/3/2022 10:50 PM

254

Mountain biking trails off of the backside of Buffalo Mountain Park

8/3/2022 8:51 PM

255

areas in Johnson City that have exercise equipment for seniors in the outside areas of parks -

8/3/2022 8:37 PM

256

Enhance current programs!

8/3/2022 8:33 PM

257

Multipurpose Turf Fields

8/3/2022 8:32 PM

258

Interconnected greenways (See Knox County or Blount County configurations)

8/3/2022 8:04 PM

259

More hiking only trails

8/3/2022 6:57 PM

260

More pickle ball inside where you can reserve a court and play with a group of your choice.

8/3/2022 6:10 PM

261

Connection of bike resources(bike lanes)

8/3/2022 5:34 PM

262

Year round access to Buffalo Mountain

8/3/2022 2:58 PM

263

Pickleball lines at Kiwanis park guaranda dr

8/3/2022 2:01 PM

264

More infras tructure and facilities at buffalo mountain, including a walk/bike trail that connects it to downtown

8/3/2022 12:49 PM

265

Salt water pool

8/3/2022 12:44 PM

266

We need additional soccer/lacrosse fields near Liberty Bell. LBMS needs it's own field for soccer and football. If ITMS has a facility, LBMS needs one as well. LBMS should not have to use the SHHS stadium, as that impacts SHHS sports teams access to that facility, especially girls soccer. Please develop a separate field for LBMS teams to use for practices and games.

8/3/2022 12:20 PM

267

Beginner bike skills areas placed along the Tweetsie Trail.

8/3/2022 12:06 PM

268

No suggestion

8/3/2022 12:05 PM

269

Bike paths to connect parks.

8/3/2022 11:09 AM

270

A park north of town

8/3/2022 11:08 AM

271

Safe bike routes between parks

8/3/2022 10:36 AM

272

I wish there were more pre-school options for classes and activities. I know there are some, I just can’t think of something else and do know I had big thoughts about that while looking for things to do with my kids this past year.

8/3/2022 7:08 AM

273

Water park (outdoor pool, lazy river, slide) located behind MPCC

8/2/2022 10:27 PM

274

More dog parks

8/2/2022 9:14 PM

10 / 12

167

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 275

More disc golf!

8/2/2022 8:06 PM

276

Porta potty at Winged Deer mountain bike parking lot, like Tweetsie and Tannery Knobs. People are dedicating in the woods! Also needs dog poop bags at same location.

8/2/2022 6:14 PM

277

Long Mountain bike trails. 20+ miles ,like our neighbors just south of us. (Asheville Area)

8/2/2022 6:09 PM

278

Better community engagement.

8/2/2022 5:18 PM

279

Allowing licensed carry ing of firearms in the outdoor areas. There’s been a few times I’ve taken my kids to the playground and had to leave because I felt certain people just hanging around were suspicious and a possible threat to my children. Those of us that have taken the concealed carry classes and have our state issued license should be allowed to carry at the outdoor parks/playgrounds.

8/2/2022 4:58 PM

280

N/a

8/2/2022 4:48 PM

281

Bikeable connectivity via natural surface trails from Buffalo Mountain City Park to the National Forest

8/2/2022 3:46 PM

282

Just call me Leslie Knope, because the parks is my Jam.... :) 1. Offering guided hiking adventures. 2. Maybe a kids overnight camp, with actual tent camping led by parks and rec team members. 3. An overnight camp for kids with physical disabilities, like #2, but with more employee/ volunteer support. 4. Something similar to a boy/ girl scouts (no cookie selling), just a program to get kids into nature and learning skills that will soon be forgotten if not preserved. 5. Meditation program for kids in a specific park. 6. Just more offerings... and pay the Parks people more to do these programs. Like treat it as an overtime bonus or something to help push the parks people to want to be more involved with their community. Yes, the P&R has lots to offer, but some of it just does not work with most people's schedules, or children find to be a bit boring. By incorporating newer ideas, you will have better turn outs. :)

8/2/2022 1:47 PM

283

More access to clean and maintained water fountains and such.

8/2/2022 11:41 AM

284

MTB Skills Park with jumps, drops and slope style features

8/2/2022 10:47 AM

285

More fitness and dances

8/2/2022 10:32 AM

286

A sculpture trail along the Tweetsie like the one from Chicago to Skokie along McCormick Boulevard. This would join JC to Elizabethton in a show of community support and connectedness. Also a mural park like the one https://www.thewallsartpark.com.

8/2/2022 9:58 AM

287

Outdoor pools/waterslides

8/2/2022 9:46 AM

288

A quality disc golf cours e on the south side of town.

8/2/2022 9:14 AM

289

A water park

8/2/2022 8:55 AM

290

Better parking system for Tweetsie Trail

8/2/2022 8:37 AM

291

more soccer fields, turf and Natural grass

8/2/2022 8:32 AM

292

More hiking trails, more outside workout equipment

8/2/2022 8:31 AM

293

More art! There are countless opportunities for art to be displayed in the Parks & Recreation system. It would be an innovative way for Johnson City to push the boundaries of public art "in the city," i.e., in nature.

8/2/2022 8:26 AM

294

Ropes course

8/2/2022 8:04 AM

295

A master plan to develop Buffalo Mountain city park for new Mountain biking opportunities and updated facilities

8/2/2022 8:04 AM

296

large freeride mountain bike features, There are some more difficult trails but zero large freeride features, 15'+ jumps, and 6'+ drops

8/2/2022 7:58 AM

297

I love parks that combine playgrounds with what’s already available in nature. Shallow creeks that flow near or even through the play area, trees to be climbed and conquered, boulders to explore. Y’all are doing a great job!

8/2/2022 7:02 AM

298

More facilities for pickleball. Would like to see pickleball courts added to the winged deer expansion.

8/2/2022 5:33 AM

11 / 12

168

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey 299

A swimming pool specifically for young children.

8/2/2022 5:24 AM

300

Turf soccer fields that would partner with JCFC

8/1/2022 11:01 PM

301

Youth triathlon

8/1/2022 10:24 PM

302

Swimming facilities like KIngsport.

8/1/2022 10:15 PM

303

Quality artificial turf rectangle fields for soccer and lacrosse complex

8/1/2022 10:13 PM

304

Indoor venue for music.

8/1/2022 10:02 PM

305

A safer environment for kids at the Willow Springs playground

8/1/2022 9:52 PM

306

An up to date online calendar and descriptions of activities at MPCC

8/1/2022 9:27 PM

307

An aquatic center like Kingsport

8/1/2022 9:10 PM

308

More shade at some playgrounds, and fun kid zip lines on playgrounds.

8/1/2022 9:07 PM

309

An indoor sports complex similar to the new one in Kingsport.

8/1/2022 9:04 PM

310

Safe pathways connecting the parks to each other. Right now, it’s really difficult to go from park to park by foot or by bike without having to cross so many busy roads. Mountain bike trails on Buffalo Mountain. If we had good trails on that mountain, we would get more visitors and people relocating here.

8/1/2022 8:54 PM

311

More accessible parks for children that are not in the middle of public housing complexes and are safe from homeless leaving drug paraphernalia laying around

8/1/2022 8:20 PM

312

A larger Greenway connecting more areas of the city.

8/1/2022 7:59 PM

313

Mountain bike trails on Buffalo Mtn park

8/1/2022 7:56 PM

314

Water park

8/1/2022 7:55 PM

315

A green way to connect all the parks around town and a 24 hour skate/BMX park with lights. And take down all the fences and gates at public parks. Maybe do some evening events for people who work during the day!

8/1/2022 7:44 PM

316

Educated staff to build more trails and to maintain the existing trail networks

8/1/2022 7:37 PM

317

bathrooms provided along the tweetsie trail! !! More information about who you are and what you do for the average person to be able to learn about

8/1/2022 7:28 PM

318

Outdoor swimming for adults

8/1/2022 7:18 PM

319

Better website information for the memorial center. The website never seems updated

8/1/2022 6:18 PM

320

Campgrounds such as Warrior's Path park in Kingsport

8/1/2022 5:07 PM

321

Extensive trail system accessible to all neighborhoods

8/1/2022 5:04 PM

322

Arts Center and more dedication to art related classes and programs

8/1/2022 5:02 PM

323

Gymnastics/ tumbling classes for kids.

8/1/2022 4:45 PM

324

I'm pretty satisfied with what is offered.

8/1/2022 4:17 PM

325

Youth football

8/1/2022 4:13 PM

326

More Pickleball courts. JC needs aquatic complex like kpt

7/29/2022 10:50 PM

327

Competitive indoor pool complex with a water park

7/29/2022 4:58 PM

12 / 12

169

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q9 Where do you hear about Johnson City Parks and Recreation opportunities? Choose all that apply. Answered: 414

Skipped: 175

Johnson City Parks and Recreation... Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

Newspaper

School

Television

Word of Mouth 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Johnson City Parks and Recreation Website

47.58%

197

Instagram

13.77%

Twitter

4.35%

Facebook

44.44%

184

Newspaper

24.40%

101

School

14.49%

Television

10.87%

Word of Mouth

58.94%

244

Total Respondents: 414

1/1

170

60%

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey

Q10 In what area of Johnson City do you live? Answered: 431

Skipped: 158

Antioch

Austin Springs

Boone Station

Carnegie

Carroll Creek

Cherokee

Downtown

ETSU

Gray Station

Indian Trail

Keystone

Knob Creek Liberty Bell North Liberty Bell South Midtown

Mountain Home North Johnson City Oak Grove

Ridges

1/3

171

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey Ridges

South Roan

Southside

Towne Acres

West Walnut

Watauga

Willow Springs

Woodland I do not live in Johnson City but in... I do not live in Washington County 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

2/3

172

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks and Recreation Master Plan Community Input Survey ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Antioch

0.70%

Austin Springs

3.02%

Boone Station

1.39%

Carnegie

1.39%

Carroll Creek

6.03%

Cherokee

4.87%

Downtown

4.18%

ETSU

3.02%

Gray Station

3.02%

Indian Trail

1.86%

Keystone

0.46%

Knob Creek

2.55%

Liberty Bell North

1.62%

Liberty Bell South

1.39%

Midtown

0.46%

Mountain Home

0.46%

North Johnson City

12.06%

Oak Grove

1.86%

Ridges

1.62%

South Roan

3.94%

Southside

8.58%

Towne Acres

7.42%

West Walnut

1.39%

Watauga

1.62%

Willow Springs

3.02%

Woodland

2.09%

I do not live in Johnson City but in Washington County

9.74%

I do not live in Washington County

10.21%

TOTAL

431

3/3

173

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q1 Have you ever attended a class, program, exercise class or special event that was provided by Johnson City Parks and Recreation? Answered: 77

Skipped: 0

71.43%

Yes

22.08%

Unsure

6.49%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Yes (1)

71.43%

No (2)

22.08%

Unsure (3)

6.49%

TOTAL

BASIC STATISTICS Minimum 1.00

Maximum 3.00

Median 1.00

1/1

174

Mean 1.35

Standard Deviation 0.60

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q2 What programs, exercise classes, or special events have you attended? Answered: 64

Skipped: 13

RESPONSES

DATE

Swim lessons, fitness classes

7/25/2022 2:09 PM

N/A

6/29/2022 2:40 PM

yoga pickleball

6/21/2022 12:33 PM

pickleball

6/21/2022 12:32 PM

pickleball

6/21/2022 12:28 PM

pickleball pickleball tournament

6/21/2022 12:27 PM

pickleball tournament

6/21/2022 12:24 PM

pickleball

6/21/2022 12:22 PM

exercise classes prostate lecture joint lecture others

6/21/2022 12:20 PM

Bride for beginners French for beginners German Club

6/21/2022 12:15 PM

Swimming, art, soccer seasons and sports camp.

6/18/2022 12:03 PM

My children attended Jump Start camps

5/13/2022 2:44 PM

Nature programs Parks and Rec sports

5/2/2022 7:58 AM

Seniors center

4/12/2022 12:22 PM

Water aerobics

4/9/2022 7:41 AM

Concerts in the park, movies in the park

4/4/2022 7:53 AM

Chair yoga, Dance lessons, Friday night dances

4/2/2022 6:46 PM

Swim class for child

3/31/2022 6:49 PM

Swim lessons, soccer, basketball, daddy daughter dance, mother son date night.

3/30/2022 10:19 PM

Community activities, like Halloween events when my children were younger

3/30/2022 12:28 PM

Aerobics

3/30/2022 10:37 AM

Lakeside concert, youth sports

3/30/2022 6:40 AM

Soccer, kickball, baseball, softball

3/29/2022 9:36 PM

None

3/29/2022 12:38 PM

Kids Art Classes at Memorial Park Community center with Maria.

3/29/2022 10:35 AM

Fitness room

3/29/2022 6:24 AM

3/28/2022 9:34 PM

Soccer games, Start Smart Basketball, halloween

3/28/2022 8:45 PM

Soccer dad and coach

3/28/2022 6:14 PM

Youth Soccer

3/28/2022 5:40 PM

My son's basketball games for the youth league

3/28/2022 4:09 PM

1/2

175

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey 32

Summer camps: mountain biking, geology, tennis

3/28/2022 3:05 PM

Youth softball, Langston summer camps (2021)

3/28/2022 2:39 PM

Water aerobics, basketball court, billiards room, workout room, Super Spooky

3/28/2022 2:34 PM

Homeschool PE, summer camps, Halloween festival, bands during summer.

3/28/2022 2:08 PM

None

3/28/2022 1:57 PM

Youth soccer

3/28/2022 1:50 PM

Water aerobics

3/28/2022 1:26 PM

1. Banquet 2. Award Ceremonies

3/28/2022 1:19 PM

Soccer

3/28/2022 1:14 PM

Camps, hikes

3/28/2022 1:10 PM

children's summer camps

3/28/2022 1:09 PM

Basketball games, baseball games, softball games.

3/28/2022 1:08 PM

Soccer, basketball youth

3/28/2022 12:59 PM

Youth sports

3/28/2022 12:54 PM

Water aerobics Yoga

3/28/2022 12:54 PM

After 5, Candyland Christmas

3/28/2022 12:53 PM

The Build it Up program class

3/28/2022 12:36 PM

None

3/28/2022 12:33 PM

Father/daugher dance, machine pitch softball, basketball, volleyball

3/28/2022 12:28 PM

Youth athletics

3/28/2022 12:27 PM

My kids have attended jump start camps. I, myself, have not attended any programs.

3/28/2022 12:23 PM

My kids have played soccer, softball and basketball

3/28/2022 12:04 PM

None

3/28/2022 12:03 PM

Soccer

3/28/2022 12:00 PM

Fes tivals

3/28/2022 11:57 AM

PARK AND REC ATHLETICS PROGRAMS FOR MY GRAND KIDS.

3/28/2022 11:55 AM

youth sports

3/28/2022 11:43 AM

Swim lessons, childrens events,

3/28/2022 11:41 AM

Outdoor concerts.

3/28/2022 11:36 AM

water aerobics

3/28/2022 11:32 AM

Lap Pool Swim

3/28/2022 7:47 AM

3/27/2022 5:59 AM

Never attended any program

3/27/2022 3:07 AM

2/2

176

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q3 On a scale of 1-5, how would you rate the classes, programs, exercise classes, or special events you have attended? Answered: 64

Skipped: 13

7.81%

1- Poor

2Unsatisfactory

25.00%

3- Satisfactory

4- Very Satisfactory

40.63%

26.56%

5- Outstanding 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

1- Poor (1)

7.81%

2- Unsatisfactory (2)

0.00%

3- Satisfactory (3)

25.00%

4- Very Satisfactory (4)

40.63%

5- Outstanding (5)

26.56%

TOTAL

BASIC STATISTICS Minimum 1.00

Maximum 5.00

Median 4.00

Mean 3.78

Standard Deviation 1.08

1/1

177

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q4 If you rated the class, program, exercise class, or special event less than a 4, please tell us why so we may improve. Answered: 31

RESPONSES

DATE

They were just ok. Nothing spectacular.

7/25/2022 2:09 PM

need more pickleball courts

6/21/2022 12:22 PM

1. Swimming pool is good, but the smaller warm pool was used by the swim teacher during homeschool hours leaving disabled children in cold pool, "unless they want to sign up for lessons". Happened more than 3 times so I stopped taking my family there. 2. Art activities are thrown together with minimum public knowledge, lacking in effort/funding/vision. 3. Soccer seasons are insanely competitive and need structured guidelines followed by BOTH administration and participants. Age brackets need revisited, more programming during these times to expand potential. 4. Sports camp was understaffed for the amount of registrants, making it dangerous and non-inclusive for lack of resources. Some of the kids had horrible behavior that drained the supervision.

6/18/2022 12:03 PM

Personally I would like to get jump start camps back at the Memorial Center.

5/13/2022 2:44 PM

5/2/2022 7:58 AM

N/A

3/30/2022 12:28 PM

Coaches that coach there children need to have a balance of playing time

3/29/2022 9:36 PM

This survey is weird

3/29/2022 12:38 PM

Fitness room is very small. It could be larger to be able to add two more treadmills. Or eliminate two machines that are little used to make room for 2 treadmills.

3/29/2022 6:24 AM

3/28/2022 9:34 PM

Some parent coaches that have repeatedly had bad sportsmanship have continued to be allowed to coach for years.

3/28/2022 8:45 PM

It was appropriate for the age and level.

3/28/2022 5:40 PM

The referees were very inconsistent between games

3/28/2022 4:09 PM

Communication for softball isn’t always the best and it appears more preference is given to the boys baseball, example pulling refs from softball to fill (what we were told) were “boys” sports.

3/28/2022 2:39 PM

I would appreciate longer hours of availability, especially on Saturday & Sunday

3/28/2022 2:34 PM

N/A

3/28/2022 2:08 PM

3/28/2022 1:26 PM

None rated less than 4.

3/28/2022 1:19 PM

The soccer is good. The programming is horrible. They never contact you. I always hve to reach out numerous times. Just not put together at all.

3/28/2022 1:14 PM

n/a

3/28/2022 1:09 PM

Have not been able to sign daughter up for soccer as they have not had enough coaches for the teams.

3/28/2022 1:02 PM

Well, since I cannot recall much about it, it wasn't that memorable.

3/28/2022 12:57 PM

N/A we love all of the programs we have taken advantage of

3/28/2022 12:28 PM

N/a

3/28/2022 12:23 PM

1/2

178

Skipped: 46

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey 25

Poor communication, unorganized, cannot start on time, don't have coaches, little practice time

3/28/2022 12:04 PM

I've never attended any class, program, exercise class, or special event.

3/28/2022 12:03 PM

Public drinking, and catering to gay pride and other groups of that nature. It's something I don't want myself or my kids around.

3/28/2022 11:57 AM

Pre covid it was a lot more organized. I DO NOT under any circumstance think younger groups should play up without consent first. If y'all don't have enough players, you tend to just group these kids together and last year my 11 year old was competing physically with a kid that literally almost could drive her parents to the game lol. In a numbers game, its not that different, but when you are talking about size and maturity... there is zero chance you are not looking at injuries. Especially in a sport with high contact like Basketball. We pulled my kid after, but I wish I would have known before we even started because she instantly knew she was going to get hurt just looking at the other kids and now she won't play basketball.

3/28/2022 11:43 AM

Need more variety at the downtown outdoor concerts. They usually consist of Indy Rock, Bluegrass, Country, & one mediocre rock. Suggest some soul, funk, good rock bands.

3/28/2022 11:36 AM

Wish there were more hours to choose from

3/28/2022 7:47 AM

3/27/2022 5:59 AM

2/2

179

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q5 What type of programs would you like to see more of? Answered: 69

Skipped: 8

Arts & Crafts

37.68%

Music

37.68%

Sports

37.68%

Hiking/Walking

28.99%

Swimming

27.54%

Esports (Gaming)

2.90%

Exercise Classes

17.39%

33.33%

Family Events

26.09%

Youth Events

23.19%

Teen Events

Gardening

27.54%

Nature

26.09%

4.35%

Team Building Adult Sports Programs

27.54%

Dance

17.39%

Cycling

15.94% 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

1/2

180

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Arts & Crafts (1)

37.68%

Music (2)

37.68%

Sports (3)

37.68%

Hiking/Walking (4)

28.99%

Swimming (5)

27.54%

Esports (Gaming) (6)

2.90%

Exercise Classes (7)

17.39%

Family Events (8)

33.33%

Youth Events (9)

26.09%

Teen Events (10)

23.19%

Gardening (11)

27.54%

Nature (12)

26.09%

Team Building (13)

4.35%

Adult Sports Programs (14)

27.54%

Dance (15)

17.39%

Cycling (16)

15.94%

Total Respondents: 69 BASIC STATISTICS Minimum 1.00

Maximum 16.00

Median 8.00

Mean 7.48

Standard Deviation 4.67

OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)

DATE

round robin doubles pickleball tournament

6/21/2022 12:30 PM

Dodgeball, ping-pong, music.

6/18/2022 12:03 PM

Politics

3/29/2022 12:38 PM

Basketball

3/28/2022 8:07 PM

Homeschool

3/28/2022 2:08 PM

Just more organization

3/28/2022 1:14 PM

Youth tennis!

3/28/2022 12:59 PM

A new indoor swimming pool close to Johnson city Sam’s Club area. Lack of facilities here in northern part of city.

3/27/2022 3:07 AM

2/2

181

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q6 What day(s) of the week is/are best for you to attend classes, programs, exercise classes, and special events? Answered: 71

Skipped: 6

28.33% Monday

31.67% 70.00%

31.67% Tuesday

26.67% 70.00%

29.31% Wednesday

25.86% 74.14%

26.23% Thursday

31.15% 75.41%

25.42% Friday

30.51% 77.97%

80.33% 57.38%

Saturday

40.98%

1/2

182

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

46.94% 75.51%

Sunday

46.94%

10%

Morning

MORNING (1) Monday

20%

30%

40%

50%

Afternoon

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Evening

AFTERNOON (2)

EVENING (3)

TOTAL RESPONDENTS

28.33% 17

31.67% 19

70.00% 42

Tuesday

31.67% 19

26.67% 16

70.00% 42

Wednesday

29.31% 17

25.86% 15

74.14% 43

Thursday

26.23% 16

31.15% 19

75.41% 46

Friday

25.42% 15

30.51% 18

77.97% 46

80.33% 49

57.38% 35

40.98% 25

46.94% 23

75.51% 37

46.94% 23

Saturday Sunday

BASIC STATISTICS MINIMUM

MAXIMUM

MEDIAN

MEAN

STANDARD DEVIATION

Monday 1.00

3.00

2.32

0.81

1.00

3.00

2.30

0.84

1.00

3.00

2.35

0.82

1.00

3.00

2.37

0.79

1.00

3.00

2.39

0.79

1.00

3.00

2.00

1.78

0.79

1.00

3.00

2.00

0.74

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

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Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q7 What is your age group? Answered: 75

Skipped: 2

16-24

25-29

2.67%

30-34

2.67%

18.67%

35-39

21.33%

40-44

8.00%

45-49

16.00%

50-54

55-59

8.00%

60-64

8.00%

65-69

8.00%

5.33%

70-74

1.33%

75+ 0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

1/2

184

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

16-24 (1)

0.00%

25-29 (2)

2.67%

30-34 (3)

2.67%

35-39 (4)

18.67%

40-44 (5)

21.33%

45-49 (6)

8.00%

50-54 (7)

16.00%

55-59 (8)

8.00%

60-64 (9)

8.00%

65-69 (10)

8.00%

70-74 (11)

5.33%

75+ (12)

1.33%

TOTAL

BASIC STATISTICS Minimum 2.00

Maximum 12.00

Median 6.00

2/2

Mean 6.45

Standard Deviation 2.39

185

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q8 Do you have children in your household? If so, what age group? Answered: 76

No children in household

Skipped: 1

34.21%

1.32%

Infant 0-1

Toddler 1-3

5.26%

Preschool 3-6

6.58%

38.16%

School Age 6-12

Adolescent 12-18 0%

43.42% 10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

No children in household

34.21%

Infant 0-1 (1)

1.32%

Toddler 1-3 (2)

5.26%

Preschool 3-6 (3)

6.58%

School Age 6-12 (4)

38.16%

Adolescent 12-18 (5)

43.42%

Total Respondents: 76 BASIC STATISTICS Minimum 1.00

Maximum 5.00

Median 4.00

1/1

186

Mean 4.24

Standard Deviation 0.91

Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey

Q9 How do you most often learn about Parks and Recreation programs, classes, and events? Answered: 75

Skipped: 2

33.33%

Social Media

36.00%

Website

4.00%

Radio

17.33%

Newspaper

4.00%

TV Friend/Family Member

28.00%

At Parks and Recreation Facilities Other (please specify) 0%

24.00%

9.33% 10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

ANSWER CHOICES

RESPONSES

Social Media (1)

33.33%

Website (2)

36.00%

Radio (3)

4.00%

Newspaper (4)

17.33%

TV (5)

4.00%

Friend/Family Member (6)

28.00%

At Parks and Recreation Facilities (7)

24.00%

Other (please specify) (8)

9.33%

Total Respondents: 75 BASIC STATISTICS Minimum 1.00

Maximum 8.00

Median 4.00

Mean 3.96

Standard Deviation 2.44

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Appendix Online Survey Summaries Johnson City Parks & Recreation Programming Survey #

OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)

DATE

On website, usually after the event is over.

6/18/2022 12:03 PM

Senior Lifestyles

4/2/2022 6:46 PM

Hard to find about things

3/31/2022 6:49 PM

I would subscribe to a text message if available

3/30/2022 12:28 PM

EMAIL mailing list

3/28/2022 2:34 PM

3/28/2022 12:33 PM

I just know when sign ups start and receive emails or texts from you all

3/28/2022 11:43 AM

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188

Appendix ESRI Geographic Information System Data Sports and Leisure Market Potential Location 1 : 0 - 10

Prepared by Esri

Demographic Summary Population

2022 138,940

2027 140,802

Population 18+ Households

114,422 58,888

116,075 59,876

$51,003

$62,040

Percent 7.7% 2.7% 3.6% 2.6% 6.1% 3.2% 10.6% 5.5% 8.1% 8.1% 13.2% 3.2% 3.0% 3.6% 7.9% 15.6% 1.9% 4.1% 3.7% 1.8% 9.9% 3.4% 2.7% 3.1% 1.7% 1.5% 2.3% 3.2% 1.8% 15.6% 6.1% 3.5% 2.3% 30.7% 11.1% 10.0% 2.4% 6.4% 5.9% 8.5% 1.8% 3.0% 2.8% 2.9% 12.6% 9.6% 57.5%

MPI 92 111 100 89 90 84 94 108 100 111 123 90 96 99 100 97 91 119 130 78 89 119 86 88 95 97 83 82 94 100 113 93 88 99 88 96 74 102 102 99 112 110 112 87 99 104 99

Median Household Income Expected Product/Consumer Behavior Participated in aerobics in last 12 months Participated in archery in last 12 months Participated in backpacking in last 12 months Participated in baseball in last 12 months Participated in basketball in last 12 months Participated in bicycling (mountain) in last 12 months Participated in bicycling (road) in last 12 months Participated in boating (power) in last 12 months Participated in bowling in last 12 months Participated in canoeing/kayaking in last 12 months Participated in fishing (fresh water) in last 12 months Participated in fishing (salt water) in last 12 months Participated in football in last 12 months Participated in Frisbee in last 12 months Participated in golf in last 12 months Participated in hiking in last 12 months Participated in horseback riding in last 12 months Participated in hunting with rifle in last 12 months Participated in hunting with shotgun in last 12 months Participated in ice skating in last 12 months Participated in jogging/running in last 12 months Participated in motorcycling in last 12 months Participated in Pilates in last 12 months Participated in ping pong in last 12 months Participated in rock climbing in last 12 months Participated in roller skating in last 12 months Participated in skiing (downhill) in last 12 months Participated in soccer in last 12 months Participated in softball in last 12 months Participated in swimming in last 12 months Participated in target shooting in last 12 months Participated in tennis in last 12 months Participated in volleyball in last 12 months Participated in walking for exercise in last 12 months Participated in weight lifting in last 12 months Participated in yoga in last 12 months Participated in Zumba in last 12 months Spent on sports/recreation equipment in last 12 months: $1-99 Spent on sports/recreation equipment in last 12 months: $100-$249 Spent on sports/recreation equipment in last 12 months: $250+ Attend sports events: basketball game (college) Attend sports events: football game (college) Attend sports events: high school sports Attend sports events: baseball game (MLB regular season) Attend sports events Listen to sports on radio Watch sports on TV

Number of Adults/HHs 8,828 3,117 4,150 2,993 6,979 3,613 12,089 6,298 9,248 9,305 15,084 3,620 3,413 4,121 9,016 17,812 2,149 4,726 4,181 2,090 11,355 3,877 3,071 3,508 1,916 1,727 2,636 3,659 2,051 17,866 6,969 3,996 2,657 35,123 12,751 11,435 2,762 7,314 6,744 9,758 2,081 3,449 3,188 3,295 14,371 11,030 65,828

Data Note: An MPI (Market Potential Index) measures the relative likelihood of the adults or households in the specified trade area to exhibit certain consumer behavior or purchasing patterns compared to the U.S. An MPI of 100 represents the U.S. average. Source: These data are based upon national propensities to use various products and services, applied to local demographic composition. Usage data were collected by MRI-Simmons in a nationally representative survey of U.S. households. Esri forecasts for 2022 and 2027.

January 12, 2023 Page 1 of 6

189

Appendix ESRI Geographic Information System Data Sports and Leisure Market Potential Location 1 : 0 - 10

Product/Consumer Behavior Watch on TV: alpine skiing/ski jumping Watch on TV: auto racing (NASCAR) Watch on TV: auto racing (not NASCAR) Watch on TV: baseball (MLB regular season) Watch on TV: baseball (MLB playoffs/World Series) Watch on TV: basketball (college) Watch on TV: basketball (NCAA tournament) Watch on TV: basketball (NBA regular season) Watch on TV: basketball (NBA playoffs/finals) Watch on TV: basketball (WNBA) Watch on TV: bicycle racing Watch on TV: bowling Watch on TV: boxing Watch on TV: bull riding (pro) Watch on TV: esports on TV Watch on TV: extreme sports (summer) Watch on TV: extreme sports (winter) Watch on TV: figure skating Watch on TV: fishing Watch on TV: football (college) Watch on TV: football (NFL Sunday/Monday/Thursday night games) Watch on TV: football (NFL weekend games) Watch on TV: football (NFL playoffs/Super Bowl) Watch on TV: golf (PGA) Watch on TV: golf (LPGA) Watch on TV: gymnastics Watch on TV: high school sports Watch on TV: horse racing (at track or OTB) Watch on TV: ice hockey (NHL regular season) Watch on TV: ice hockey (NHL playoffs/Stanley Cup) Watch on TV: mixed martial arts (MMA) Watch on TV: motorcycle racing Watch on TV: Olympics (summer) Watch on TV: Olympics (winter) Watch on TV: international soccer Watch on TV: rodeo Watch on TV: soccer (MLS) Watch on TV: U.S. men`s soccer national team Watch on TV: U.S. women`s soccer national team Watch on TV: soccer (World Cup) Watch on TV: tennis (men`s) Watch on TV: tennis (women`s) Watch on TV: track & field Watch on TV: volleyball (pro beach) Watch on TV: ultimate fighting championship (UFC) Watch on TV: other mixed martial arts (MMA) Watch on TV: wrestling (WWE) Interest in sports: college basketball super fan Interest in sports: college football super fan Interest in sports: golf super fan Interest in sports: high school sports super fan Interest in sports: International soccer super fan Interest in sports: MLB super fan Interest in sports: MLS soccer super fan Interest in sports: NASCAR super fan Interest in sports: NBA super fan Interest in sports: NFL super fan Interest in sports: NHL super fan

Prepared by Esri

Expected Number of Adults/HHs 2,762 10,110 5,200 19,620 17,785 15,792 11,019 13,190 13,500 2,424 1,990 2,553 4,831 3,154 3,082 1,937 2,224 5,858 4,436 31,613 35,701 33,617 36,107 14,019 3,230 4,583 4,847 2,975 8,683 8,334 2,600 1,800 9,025 9,232 3,770 2,066 3,939 3,060 4,189 4,918 6,185 6,046 2,599 1,831 4,536 2,600 4,057 3,373 7,245 1,954 2,083 3,156 4,501 1,800 1,830 3,784 10,412 2,319

Percent 2.4% 8.8% 4.5% 17.1% 15.5% 13.8% 9.6% 11.5% 11.8% 2.1% 1.7% 2.2% 4.2% 2.8% 2.7% 1.7% 1.9% 5.1% 3.9% 27.6% 31.2% 29.4% 31.6% 12.3% 2.8% 4.0% 4.2% 2.6% 7.6% 7.3% 2.3% 1.6% 7.9% 8.1% 3.3% 1.8% 3.4% 2.7% 3.7% 4.3% 5.4% 5.3% 2.3% 1.6% 4.0% 2.3% 3.5% 2.9% 6.3% 1.7% 1.8% 2.8% 3.9% 1.6% 1.6% 3.3% 9.1% 2.0%

MPI 88 115 115 95 95 108 104 83 84 79 94 101 73 113 94 93 92 101 113 109 100 100 99 103 100 98 105 102 97 96 92 102 97 102 62 102 71 76 85 73 80 80 82 87 96 92 90 98 105 101 85 57 90 53 89 71 88 73

January 12, 2023

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Appendix ESRI Geographic Information System Data Sports and Leisure Market Potential Location 1 : 0 - 10

Prepared by Esri

Expected Product/Consumer Behavior Member of AARP Member of church board Member of fraternal order Member of religious club Member of union Member of veterans club Participate in indoor gardening or plant care Attended adult education course in last 12 months Visited an aquarium in last 12 months Went to art gallery in last 12 months Attended auto show in last 12 months Did baking in last 12 months Barbecued in last 12 months Went to bar/night club in last 12 months Went to beach in last 12 months Played billiards/pool in last 12 months Played bingo in last 12 months Did birdwatching in last 12 months Played board game in last 12 months Read book in last 12 months Participated in book club in last 12 months Went on overnight camping trip in last 12 months Played cards in last 12 months Played chess in last 12 months Played computer game (offline w/software)/12 months Played computer game (online w/o software)/12 months Cooked for fun in last 12 months Did crossword puzzle in last 12 months Danced/went dancing in last 12 months Attended dance performance in last 12 months Dined out in last 12 months Flew a drone in last 12 months Attended state/county fair in last 12 months Participated in fantasy sports league last 12 months Did furniture refinishing in last 12 months Gambled at casino in last 12 months Gambled in Las Vegas in last 12 months Participate in indoor gardening/plant care Participated in genealogy in last 12 months Attended horse races in last 12 months Participated in karaoke in last 12 months Bought lottery ticket in last 12 months Played lottery 6+ times in last 30 days Bought lottery ticket in last 12 months: Daily Drawing Bought lottery ticket in last 12 months: Instant Game Bought lottery ticket in last 12 months: Mega Millions Bought lottery ticket in last 12 months: Powerball Attended a movie in last 6 months Attended movie in last 90 days: once/week or more Attended movie in last 90 days: 2-3 times a month Attended movie in last 90 days: once a month Attended movie in last 90 days: < once a month Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: action

Number of Adults/HHs

Percent

MPI

17,356 3,280 2,862 3,626 4,313 2,923 15,451 9,937 5,553 6,852 5,393 34,251 34,251 19,473 30,494 5,899 4,814 7,978 25,334 42,675 3,616 15,735 22,463 3,907 9,303 17,280 27,320 14,799 8,016 3,481 59,325 2,936 12,950 4,928 5,359 12,195 3,030 15,451 6,055 1,915 3,413 37,151 11,608 3,492 22,617 17,365 19,664 52,769 1,459 2,025 4,499 38,092 17,863

15.2% 2.9% 2.5% 3.2% 3.8% 2.6% 13.5% 8.7% 4.9% 6.0% 4.7% 29.9% 29.9% 17.0% 26.7% 5.2% 4.2% 7.0% 22.1% 37.3% 3.2% 13.8% 19.6% 3.4% 8.1% 15.1% 23.9% 12.9% 7.0% 3.0% 51.8% 2.6% 11.3% 4.3% 4.7% 10.7% 2.6% 13.5% 5.3% 1.7% 3.0% 32.5% 10.1% 3.1% 19.8% 15.2% 17.2% 46.1% 1.3% 1.8% 3.9% 33.3% 15.6%

100 102 98 96 92 107 101 88 91 89 96 103 98 100 90 103 102 119 101 99 89 106 105 91 100 101 97 101 87 97 102 96 111 94 104 93 77 101 107 85 85 100 99 89 107 89 93 96 90 75 82 101 91

January 12, 2023 Page 3 of 6

191

Appendix ESRI Geographic Information System Data Sports and Leisure Market Potential Location 1 : 0 - 10

Prepared by Esri

Expected Number of Adults/HHs 19,886 10,631 8,263 16,920 8,480 18,414 8,211

Percent 17.4% 9.3% 7.2% 14.8% 7.4% 16.1% 7.2%

MPI 92 89 91 88 87 90 89

Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: fantasy Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: horror Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: romance

11,001 5,831 7,044

9.6% 5.1% 6.2%

89 90 88

Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: science fiction Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: thriller Went to museum in last 12 months Attended classical music/opera performance/12 months Attended country music performance in last 12 months Attended rock music performance in last 12 months Played musical instrument in last 12 months Did painting/drawing in last 12 months Did photo album/scrapbooking in last 12 months Did photography in last 12 months Did Sudoku puzzle in last 12 months Participated in tailgating in last 12 months Went to live theater in last 12 months Visited a theme park in last 12 months

9,256 9,144 12,768 3,144 5,804 8,754 8,608 11,640 4,838 11,597 10,369 3,716 10,487 14,177

8.1% 8.0% 11.2% 2.7% 5.1% 7.7% 7.5% 10.2% 4.2% 10.1% 9.1% 3.2% 9.2% 12.4%

91 87 89 83 104 97 92 101 96 96 98 102 91 86

Visited a theme park 5+ times in last 12 months Participated in trivia games in last 12 months Played video/electronic game (console) last 12 months Played video/electronic game (portable) last 12 months Visited an indoor water park in last 12 months Did woodworking in last 12 months Went to zoo in last 12 months Bought 1-2 DVDs/30 Days Bought 3+ DVDs/30 Days Rented DVDs (movie or other video) in last 30 days: 1 Rented DVDs (movie or other video) in last 30 days: 2 Rented DVDs (movie or other video) in last 30 days: 3+

2,898 9,175 13,917 6,816 2,677 7,097 12,533 3,949 3,421 2,462 2,650 4,288

2.5% 8.0% 12.2% 6.0% 2.3% 6.2% 11.0% 3.5% 3.0% 2.2% 2.3% 3.7%

78 102 104 100 97 111 97 115 127 92 104 99

Rented movie or other video/30 days: action/adventure Rented movie or other video/30 days: classics Rented movie or other video/30 days: comedy Rented movie or other video/30 days: drama Rented movie or other video/30 days: family/children

21,100 5,859 17,676 13,027 8,664

18.4% 5.1% 15.4% 11.4% 7.6%

97 95 97 94 102

Rented movie or other video/30 days: foreign Rented movie or other video/30 days: horror Rented movie or other video/30 days: musical Rented movie or other video/30 days: news/documentary Rented movie or other video/30 days: romance Rented movie or other video/30 days: science fiction Rented movie or other video/30 days: TV show

1,938 6,584 2,705 4,233 5,948 7,456 7,736

1.7% 5.8% 2.4% 3.7% 5.2% 6.5% 6.8%

81 101 96 94 92 102 99

Rented movie or other video/30 days: western

2,757

2.4%

111

Product/Consumer Behavior Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: adventure Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: animation genre Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: biography genre Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: comedy Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: crime Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: drama Movie genre seen at theater/6 months: family

January 12, 2023

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Appendix ESRI Geographic Information System Data Sports and Leisure Market Potential Location 1 : 0 - 10

Prepared by Esri

Expected Number of Adults/HHs

Percent

Rented/purchased DVD/Blu-ray/30 days: from amazon.com

12,940

11.3%

Rented DVD/Blu-ray/30 days: from netflix.com

8,551

7.5%

Product/Consumer Behavior

MPI

Rented/purchased DVD/Blu-ray/30 days: from Redbox

10,183

8.9%

101

Bought any children`s toy/game in last 12 months

40,443

35.3%

Spent on toys/games for child last 12 months: $1-49

7,776

6.8%

Spent on toys/games for child last 12 months: $50-99

3,354

2.9%

Spent on toys/games for child last 12 months: $100-199

8,496

7.4%

102

Spent on toys/games for child last 12 months: $200-499

10,942

9.6%

Spent on toys/games for child last 12 months: $500+

6,055

5.3%

96 103

Bought infant toy in last 12 months

7,930

6.9%

Bought pre-school toy in last 12 months

7,782

6.8%

Bought for child last 12 months: boy action figure

8,640

7.6%

102

Bought for child last 12 months: girl action figure

3,362

2.9%

Bought for child last 12 months: action game

2,953

2.6%

101 95

Bought for child last 12 months: bicycle

6,706

5.9%

Bought for child last 12 months: board game

16,123

14.1%

Bought for child last 12 months: builder set

6,383

5.6%

103

Bought for child last 12 months: car

8,537

7.5%

Bought for child last 12 months: construction toy

6,888

6.0%

Bought for child last 12 months: fashion doll

4,661

4.1%

Bought for child last 12 months: large/baby doll

7,776

6.8%

104

Bought for child last 12 months: doll accessories

4,910

4.3%

107

Bought for child last 12 months: doll clothing

4,410

3.9%

103

Bought for child last 12 months: educational toy

15,450

13.5%

102

Bought for child last 12 months: electronic doll/animal

3,192

2.8%

107

Bought for child last 12 months: electronic game

5,676

5.0%

Bought for child last 12 months: mechanical toy

4,697

4.1%

101

Bought for child last 12 months: model kit/set

4,167

3.6%

101

Bought for child last 12 months: plush doll/animal

10,870

9.5%

102

Bought for child last 12 months: water toy

10,036

8.8%

102

Bought for child last 12 months: word game

2,470

2.2%

January 12, 2023 Page 5 of 6

193

Appendix ESRI Geographic Information System Data Sports and Leisure Market Potential Location 1 : 0 - 10

Prepared by Esri

Expected Number of Adults/HHs 18,918

Percent 16.5%

MPI 95

Bought hardcover book in last 12 months

28,159

24.6%

101

Bought paperback book in last 12 months

35,902

31.4%

100

Bought 1-3 books in last 12 months

23,161

20.2%

Bought 4-6 books in last 12 months

11,501

10.1%

Bought 7+ books in last 12 months

22,310

19.5%

102

Product/Consumer Behavior Bought digital book in last 12 months

Bought book (fiction) in last 12 months

33,023

28.9%

101

Bought book (non-fiction) in last 12 months

30,146

26.3%

Bought biography in last 12 months

8,992

7.9%

Bought children`s book in last 12 months

11,183

9.8%

Bought cookbook in last 12 months

7,692

6.7%

Bought history book in last 12 months

10,458

9.1%

96 104

Bought mystery book in last 12 months

13,790

12.1%

Bought novel in last 12 months

16,917

14.8%

Bought religious book (Not Bible) in last 12 months

7,403

6.5%

109 108

Bought romance book in last 12 months

6,804

5.9%

Bought science fiction book in last 12 months

6,800

5.9%

Bought personal/business self-help book last 12 months

8,119

7.1%

Bought travel book in last 12 months

1,859

1.6%

Purchased greeting card in last 12 months

62,878

55.0%

101

Bought book from Barnes & Noble store in last 12 months

11,910

10.4%

Bought book from other book store in last 12 months

10,354

9.0%

102

Bought book from Amazon Online in last 12 months

33,051

28.9%

Bought book from Barnes & Noble Online in last 12 months

2,348

2.1%

Bought book from iTunes/Apple Books in last 12 months

1,799

1.6%

Listened to Audiobook in last 6 months

8,652

7.6%

January 12, 2023

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Page 6 of 6

Johnson City Parks & Recreation April Norris | Director 508 Cranberry Street | Johnson City, TN 423-283-5815 | www.johnsoncitytn.org