HomeMy WebLinkAboutPARK 2013-09-18 COMPLETE AGENDA PACKETt
PARKS COMMISSION
Chair: Sean Albert
Vice Chair: Don Scanlon
AGENDA
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 5:30pm Tukwila Community Center
1.Call to Order
2.Approval of Minutes
a.July 17, 2013 ………………………………………………………………….……………….. pg. 3
3.Citizen Comment
4.Business
a.Project Update ……………………………………………………………………………………… pg. 5
b.Park Rules …………………………………………………………………………………………….. pg. 7
c.PROS Plan Update
i.Slides from 8.26.13 Council Meeting ……………..………………………… pg. 11
ii.Needs Analysis ………………………………………………………………………… pg. 31
d.Department Update ………………………………………………………………………..…… n/a
5.Other
6.Adjournment
Next Meeting: October 16, 2013
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TUKWILA
.PARKS & RIC REA rio
PARKS COMMISSION
MINUTES
July 17, 2013 5:30pm Tukwila Community Center
Call to Order: Parks Committee Chairperson Sean Albert called the meeting to order at 5:30pm.
Attendance: Commissioners — Sean Albert, Joanne McManus, Alice Russell, Don Scanlon
Staff — Dave Johnson, Sandra Whiting
Presentation: Edward Johannes of Diexis Consultants provided a presentation, "Rare and Disjunct Mollusk
Species in Crystal Springs Park, Tukwila ". Presentation slide show is included in these Minutes. Commissioners
and visitors asked questions of Mr. Johannes.
Approval of Minutes: Alice Russell moved to approve the Minutes of the June 19, 2013 meeting. Joanne
McManus seconded the motion, and the motion passed unanimously.
Citizen Comment: no citizen comment
Business Items
A. Project Update — The Commission reviewed the Project Update provided at the meeting.
B. Tukwila Tree & Environment Advisory Committee Update — Since the last Park Commission meeting, the
Tree Committee has presented their information to the Planning Commission and City Council, and there
appears to be only minor changes.
C. PROS Plan Update — Dave Johnson updated the Commissioners on the status of the PROS Plan process,
and the information that will be going forward to the Community Affairs and Parks Committee.
D. Department Update — Dave Johnson informed the Commission of recent staffing changes in the
department — Parks Superintendent Paul Surek is retiring after 21 years of service, and Parks Maintenance
Worker Eric Bendfeldt is resigning. Attendance at the Family 4`h event is estimate at approximately 5,000
and the event went well. The next community event is the Touch -a -Truck event on July 27th. Attendance
for Summer Camps is up approximately 20% compared to 2012. Information was provided to the
Commission on the re -start of the Preschool Program and On -line Registration, both of which are going
forward to the Community Affairs and Parks Committee.
Other
A. Discussion took place about DNA testing to be done on the findings at Crystal Springs Park. Don Scanlon
made a motion to fund the DNA testing for $250.00. Joanne McManus seconded the motion. The motion
passed unanimously,
Adjournment: Don Scanlon moved to adjourn at 7:OOpm. The motion was seconded by Alice Russell. The motion
passed unanimously.
Next Meeting: TBA
3
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PARKS & . RE C REA .El d"
CURRENT PROJECTS
1
2
3
4
PARKS COMMISSION
PROJECT UPDATE
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This project was officially closed out by the MPD Board last month. There are still some warrentee items being worked
through. The pool was closed from Sept. 1 through Sept. 8 for the Labor Day Holiday and warranty work. The scope of
work focused on replacing the pool re- circulation pump with a smaller motor and larger sized impeller to maintain the
required flow rates and prevent cavitation from continuing to happen. The showers and flooring also had work done
on them, some by staff and some by the contractor.
Target Completion Date: Project Closeout will be Summer 2013
Project Stage: Closeout
Project Budget: $1.7M
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Looking at doing this Fall 2013 when the patronage slows down.
Target Completion Date: Fall 2013
Project Stage: Researching Products
Project Budget: $10,000
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Received quote and investigating options for this in conjunction with the CIP Budget.
Target Completion Date: Fall 2013
Project Stage: Research and Planning
Project Budget: $2,000 - $5,000
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Coordination continues with this project. Past Forward consulting was hired again to assist with grant writing,
education develepment and tribal relations. A second kiosk development meeting is scheduled for Oct. 1 with Miller
Hull, SvR Design, Forterra, City Staff, and Friends of the Hill. Phase 2 conceptual planning and preliminary work studies
is under way.
Target Completion Date: On -going
Project Stage: Testing for Phase 2 /Restoration /Maintenance
Project Budget: Multiple grants for this project
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No new info to report this month.
Target Completion Date: Unknown
Project Stage: Public Input Gathering
Project Budget: N/A right now
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TUKWILA
U'i' KS & RE 2 1 /k4 iii N
PARKS COMMISSION
PROJECT UPDATE
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This project will be coordinated with the Public Works Overlay Project in 2014 to attain better pricing. Staff are
working together between departments to foster this. The funding looks to be available to complete more work then
origianlly planned.
Target Completion Date: 2014
Project Stage: Scope Planning /Design
Project Budget: $TBD
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Target Completion Date: 2013
Project Stage: Design
Project Budget: $30,000
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6
City of Tukwila
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
Parks & Recreation Department Rick Still, Director
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Park Commissioners
FM: Dave Johnson, Recreation Superintendent
DATE: September 13, 2013
SUBJECT: PARK RULES AND REGULATIONS
ISSUE
Review the Park Rules and Regulations.
BACKGROUND
The Rules and Regulations which govern Park use in the City of Tukwila we last updated in
1998.
DISCUSSION
The Parks Commission is being asked to review the existing Park Rules and Regulations with
govern use in the Parks, trails, and open space that are owned and /or maintained by the City
of Tukwila. The Rules and Regulations we last updated 15 years ago, and it is time to review
them again and propose any possible changes.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
If there are changes to the Park Rules and Regulations, we will need to have new signs made
for the parks, and will get quotes for this work.
RECOMMENDATION
Review the Parks Rules and Regulations and be prepared with recommendations at the
October meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
TMC Chapter 12.08 — Park Rules and Regulations.
12424 42nd Ave. S. • Tukwila, Washington 98168 • Phone: 206 - 768 -2822 • Fax: 206 - 768 -0524
7
TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE
CHAPTER 12.08
PARK RULES AND REGULATIONS
Sections:
12.08.010 Park Property
12.08020 Animals Running at Large
12.08030 Motor Vehicle Operations
12.08.040 Fireworks or Firearm Discharge
12.08.050 Teasing, Annoying, Feeding of Any Animal Pro-
hibited 0nParhP0p8dy
12.08.080 Refuse Deposit
12.08.070 Fires
12.08.090 Facilities Use Reservations
12.08.095 Park Hours
12.08.100 Violation - Penalty
12.08.110 Tobacco Use by Minors
12A8,0110 Park. Pr pertY
It is unlawful to mmovu, deutruv, mutilate or deface any
structure, 00nU08O1, wall, fence, 8quip08rk, b8nch, t8b|8,
treeu, p|anta, signs or other property Iawfully in any park in the
City of Tukwila.
(Ord. 1850 §1(part), 1998)
12.08,020 ArdNmaUs Runindng at Large
It is unlawful to allow or permit any animal to run at Iarge
in any park unless authorized by King County Parks Depart-
ment in Fort Dent Park, or in a City park by the Parks and
Recreation Director. Horses are not permitted in any park ex-
cept on posted bridle trails.
(Ord. 1850 §1(part), 1998)
12.08.030 Motor Vehicle Operations
It is unlawful to operate any motor vehicle in City public
parks except upon a paved roadway or parking lot, provided,
however, that the Parks Director may give written authorization
for the operation of a motor vehicle at any place within a City
public park when such vehicle is being operated in furtherance
of City business.
12.08.04 Fireworks or Firearm Discharge
It is unlawful to discharge any fireworks or firearms within
the boundaries of any public park within the City.
(Ord. 1850 §1(part), 1998)
12J0.060 Teasing, Annoying, Feeding of Any Ani-
mal Prohibited on Park Property
It shall be unlawful for any person in any pa[h, in any
manner to tease, annoy, disturb, molest, injure, kill, throw
stones or p jmctikes of any kind at, or to strike with any stick or
weapun, any animal, bird, fowl or fish. It shall be unlawful for
any person in any park to feed any wild animal, bird, fowl or
fish except as may be authorized by the Parks and Recreation
Director. Further, it shall be unlawful for any person to catch
any fish at Tukwila Pond Park, except as may be authorized by
the Parks and Recreation Director.
(Ord. 1850 §1(part), 1998)
12l0.060 Refuse Deposit
It is unlawful to throw any refuse or Iitter in any park, ex-
cept in designated receptacles. It is unlawful to deposit any
refuse not generated in the parks in designated park recep-
tacles.
12.08.070 Fires
It is unlawful to build any fire, except in devices desi ned
to contain such fires. Fires are allowed only in designated
areas using approved devices. No open fires are permitted.
(Ord. 1850 §1(part), 1998)
12.08090 Facilities Use Reservations
Groups wishing to reserve a City of Tukwila picnic shelter
or ballfield may request to do so on a first-come, first-served
basis by contacting the office of the Parks and Recreation De
partmen1. Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30
AM and 5:00 PM.
12.08.095 Park Hours
It is unlawful for any person to be in a public park when it
is closed. A park may be closed to public use during certain
hours as determined by the Mayor. Such closure hours shall
be posted on the property.
12.08100 Violation - Penalty
Persons in violation of these rules and regulations are
guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished
by imposition of a fine of not more than $300.00 and/or impri-
sonment for not more than 30 days.
(Ord. 1850 §1(part), 1998)
12-2 Produced by the City of Tukwila, City Clerk's Office
12,08„110 tobacco cco U SA by Minors
A. Minors under the age of 18 are prohibited from pos-
sessing, smoking or otherwise using tobacco products on
Tukwila public park property, at the Tukwila Community Center
and the outside areas adjacent to the Center, and at other City
facilities.
B. A violation of this section is an infraction and the vi-
olator is subject to a civil fine of up to $100.00. A notice of
infraction shall be issued and assessed in the same manner as
traffic infractions. The provisions contained in Chapter 46.63
RCW for the disposition of traffic infractions apply to the dispo-
sition of infractions of this section except as follows:
1. The provisions in Chapter 46.63 RCW relating to
the provision of records to the Department of Licensing in ac-
cordance with RCW 46.20.270 are not applicable to this sec-
tion; and
2. The provision in Chapter 46.63 RCW relating to
the imposition of sanctions against a person's driver's license
or vehicle license are not applicable to this section.
(Ord. 1850 §1(part), 1998)
Produced by the City of Tukwila, City Clerk's Office
TITLE 12 — PARKS AND RECREATION
Page 12 -3
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis
1. Introduction
The Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis is a resource for making informed
decisions about future park and recreation improvements in Tukwila. The needs
identified in this report provide a basis for system -wide recommendations and
investments which will be discussed in the Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Plan (PROS Plan) update. This report is organized into the following sections:
• An overview and key findings from the public involvement activities and an
overview of the future of the system;
• An analysis of existing park access;
• An analysis of access to recreational activities and potential park capacity;
• An assessment of existing recreation programs; and
• Policy considerations for the next phase of the planning process.
Community Involvement Overview
Community Involvement is a major part of the PROS Plan that occurs in each
phase of the planning process. Opportunities to be involved in the planning
process to date captured information from a wide cross section of the community,
across Tukwila's diverse cultures and language groups. Feedback gathered from
the public, staff and City leaders highlights the needs facing Tukwila's park
system.
• Technical Advisory Group: The City held the first in a series of Technical
Advisory Group (TAG) meetings on March 20', 2013 from 1:30 -3 pm at the
Tukwila Community Center. The TAG is an interdepartmental team working
alongside the planning team to ensure that the PROS Plan will be useful and
relevant to the city and larger community. The TAG will meet throughout the
planning process, convening at key phases, Members of the TAG include
representatives from the Mayor's Office, Planning and Community
Development, Fire Department and Parks and Recreation.
• Community Questionnaire: The Community Questionnaire was available online
and in paper format between April 30' and July 8'. The questionnaire allowed
respondents to candidly weigh -in on the park system at their convenience and
their own pace. The questionnaire generated a high degree of participation
with 418 total responses, representing 303 completed questionnaires. Results
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 1
31
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
from the questionnaire also indicated that both workers and residents of
Tukwila were well represented.
• Community Workshop: The City held the first PROS Plan Community Workshop
on Wednesday, May 22 "d, 2013 from 6 -7:15 pm, at the Tukwila Community
Center. The workshop allowed participants to discuss issues, opportunities and
challenges related to the City's parks, recreation programming, facilities and
open space. The workshop was open to the entire community, and attendees
were invited to drop in for as much or little time as they wanted. The evening
consisted of a presentation and overview of the project, a small group
discussion led by members of the planning team, and a report back from each
small group to the other groups.
• Community Leader Focus Group: The City held a focus group meeting with
community leaders on Wednesday, May 29th, from 4 -6 pm at the Tukwila
Community Center. The meetings invited feedback from representatives across
public and private organizations to identify the park system strengths and
needs facing the city. Parks and Recreation Department staff identified
participants, which included representatives from:
o Past and present Parks
Commission;
o BECU;
o Tukwila Skyway Soccer
Club;
o Showalter Middle School;
o Westfield Shopping
Center;
o Sabey Corp.;
o Community Schools
Collaboration;
o King County Library
System;
o PacWest Little League;
and
o Tukwila Pantry.
• Moving Listening Sessions: The City held four Moving and Listening sessions
on Saturday, June 15`, 2013 from 10 -12 pm. The Moving and Listening
sessions allowed residents of different language groups to discuss their
attitudes towards the park system in a convenient and engaging format. These
activities paired City of Tukwila staff with an interpreter and four to seven
members of a linguistic- minority community. The sessions occurred as the
groups walked between the ReWA offices and Cascade View Park. Following
the activities, staff and interpreters discussed what they heard to ensure
mutual understanding. The interpreters provided translations for four language
groups:
o Somalian;
o Nepali;
o Chin, Burmese; and
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 2
32
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
o Tigrnya, Amharic.
• National Night Out Block Party Intercept: Taking advantage of the strong
Hispanic /Latino turn -out at the National Night Out (August 6th, 2013), the
project extended the reach into Tukwila's linguistic and ethnic communities by
intercepting participants at the Against Crime Block Party at the Rainbow
Haven Trailer Park near Tukwila International Boulevard. With assistance from
a Spanish language interpreter, project team and City staff interviewed
approximately 30 people using questions that built on the community
conversations started during the Strategic Planning process.
• Education Expert Interviews: The City held several interviews with school
district staff either in person or by phone. The purpose of the interviews was to
understand school perspectives related to the City's current parks and
recreation services, ideas for future recreation programming, feedback on how
the City can become a more effective partner and community needs. The
planning team conducted interviews with the following:
o Refugee Impact Strategic Advisor, Tukwila School District
Administration;
o Principal, Showalter Middle School;
o Parent Involvement Coordinator, Tukwila School District
Administration;
o Activities & Transportation Director, Tukwila School District
Administration;
o Social Worker, Cascade View Elementary School; and
o ESL & Student Services, Tukwila School District Administration.
• Extended Outreach: The City held three extended outreach activities intended
to gather feedback and build interest for the PROS Plan out in the community.
The events targeted programs oriented towards different ages and areas of the
city and included Teen Late Night, Backyard Wildlife and a senior program.
Each activity involved a series of interactive poster boards that asked
participants questions related to the existing state of the park system and
needs for the future. Participants indicated their responses and preferences by
placing sticky dots on the corresponding poster board location.
Representatives from the planning team were on hand to give information
about the plan and respond to questions.
Key Needs
Throughout all the public involvement activities, several key needs related to the
park, recreation and open system surfaced. These outcomes drive the focus of the
Needs Analysis and will influence PROS Plan directions.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 3
33
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
• Accessible and connected parks and recreational opportunities: Participants
overwhelmingly voiced a need for more accessible and connected parks.
Across all involvement activities, participants indicated that they desire parks
and recreation activities and programming that are close -to -home and easy to
access. Many felt that existing opportunities are disconnected by busy streets
and physical distance and that there are few direct or affordable options to get
to parks. Improved access to the river was also an important need to
participants.
• Walking and biking, health and wellness: Walking, biking and activities that
promote general health and wellness are the most popular and desired in
Tukwila. Participants felt strongly that more opportunities that allow for these
activities are essential to overall quality of life.
• Socializing, gathering and a sense of community: According to community
feedback, opportunities and places that allow for socializing and gathering are
important. Many felt that these activities are central to a sense of community
and overall feeling of wellbeing. Feedback also indicated that Tukwila's diverse
cultural groups desire both formal and informal settings to meet, celebrate and
socialize.
• Opportunities for all: Many members of the city's diverse language groups felt
that the City needs to play a stronger role providing services in different
languages and that cater to different cultural needs. Some felt that the
language barrier prevents them from using parks and programs, or knowing
what's available.
• Affordable and convenient opportunities: Participants felt strongly that
recreation services and programs should be affordable. Many felt that
programs and classes should be more flexible and available at different times
and formats.
Strategic Plan Integration
Tukwila's recently adopted Strategic Plan
establishes a city -wide vision, supported by
strategic goals to guide the City's decision
making over the next five to ten years.
Tukwila's parks, recreation and open space
system plays a major role in supporting the citywide vision. Given the overall
direction of the Strategic Plan and community input from the PROS Plan, Tukwila
will focus its park, recreation and open space system towards the following:
City of Tukwila Strategic Plan
Vision:
The city of opportunity, the
community of choice.
• Opportunities and access for all: The park system will provide a solid
foundation of places and programs for the community, increasing access to all
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis
Page 4
34
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
residents and workers, young and old, and across all cultures and language
groups.
• Inviting and connected places: The park system will offer safe, connected and
welcoming environments, strengthening individual neighborhoods and
community identity, while supporting economic vitality.
• A sense of community: The park system will foster a sense of ownership, with
places for social gathering and a network of strong partnerships.
• Health and wellness: The park system leads to healthy lifestyles, encouraging
play, interaction and information.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 5
35
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
2. Park Land Level of Service and Service Gaps
This section examines Tukwila's existing park land level of service and the
physical distribution of existing park sites. Together, these provide a more
complete measure of how well the community is served by park land.
Level of Service
Park land level of service (LOS) is a ratio that
expresses the number of park acres available to the
population. LOS is expressed as acres per 1,000
people. Tukwila's existing park land LOS for
developed parks is 12.75 acres per 1,000 people.
This is based on 244.3 acres of local and special
use parks that serve Tukwila's 19,160 residents.
The addition of the city's 20.7 acres of open space
increases this ratio to 13.83 acres per 1,000.
The 2008 PROS Plan discussed park and
recreation need primarily by the number of acres and recreation facilities. This
presents a somewhat limited picture of existing and future conditions and does
not consider how people are using the system or how well parks support desired
recreation activities. Tukwila's parks also serve non - residents, such as workers and
visitors. With an estimated 170,000 visitors to Tukwila on average each day, LOS
standards become even more challenging to apply.'
Existing Developed Park Land
LOS:
12.75 acres /1,000 people
Existing Developed Park Land
and Open Space LOS:
13.83 acres /1,000 people
Source: City of Tukwila 2013
estimates.
Access Overview
The access analysis identifies gaps in access to parks by examining the physical
distribution of Tukwila's park system. Those areas that lack access to the
specified facility or feature within the desired distance are considered to have a
gap in service. Gaps shown on the service area maps represent the general
location of underserved areas and are for illustrative purposes only.
This analysis is based on the typical walking or biking distance most people are
willing to travel to reach parks, which is generally a 1/4- to 1/2 -mile distance. The
analysis is based on use of GIS and the City's street system and trail network data
to simulate the path of travel for pedestrians and bicyclists.2 Physical barriers in
access, such as incomplete or disconnected street networks and the Green River,
as well as lack of park access points are accounted for in this analysis to provide a
more realistic assessment of the park system, based on the way people actually
get to parks.
'Tukwila Strategic Plan (2012).
2 This is done using ESRI's Network AnalystTM extension.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 6
36
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
iII ( i ty. o , n i'ar i s
All parks provide benefits to residents and visitors and contribute to overall quality
of life, positively impact property values and make the city more attractive to work
in. Access to all City -owned parks includes local parks, special use parks and
open spaces. Based on the 1/4- to 1/2-mile service area distance to these parks,
there are 10 gap areas. Map 1: All Parks Service Areas, depicts these gap areas as
P1 to P10. These gaps are categorized into those within commercial- and /or
industrial -zoned uses (non - industrial) and those within residential -zoned uses.
• Non - residential Park Gaps: There are four park access gaps in areas that are
primarily non - residential (commercial or industrial uses).
o Gap P1: Along East Marginal Way to the north, uses within gap P1
are industrial or airport- related uses.
o Gap P3: Also along East Marginal Way, Gap P3 is mostly
warehousing and offices.
o Gap P9: The Southcenter Mall is located within Gap P9.
o Gap P10: In southern Tukwila Gap P10 is offices and warehousing,
as well as undeveloped land just north of 200`h Street.
• Residential Park Gaps: There are six park gaps in areas that are primarily
residential.
o Gap P2: Gap P2 is mostly single family homes and a large green
space. This area is also near Seattle's Kubota's Garden Park.
o Gap P4: To the west, Gap P4 is single family residential and is near
SeaTac's Hilltop Park and Sunset Park.
o Gap P5: Gap P5 is north of the Tukwila Pool and is also single
family residential.
o Gap P6: Gap P6 is north of 1 -405 and is a mix of commercial uses
(along Tukwila International Blvd.) and single family and multi-
family residential.
o Gap P7: South of 1 -405, Gap P7 is single family residential. Though
this area is near Crystal Springs Park, there is no direct access to
the park from the north.
• Gap P8: Gap P8 is higher density, multi - family residential.
to (al P :a °i< s and Sc III ool
Local parks and schools provide a wider range of recreation opportunities that
special use parks and open spaces do not provide, offering more comprehensive
park benefits for residents. As such, the local parks and schools analysis omits
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 7
37
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
special use parks and open space service areas, and focuses on gaps in access to
local parks and public school sites.' Based on the 1/4- to 1/2-mile service area
distance to these parks, there are four gap areas (Map 2: Local Parks and Schools
Service Areas). The map illustrates the importance of public school sites in areas
not served by local parks.
• Gap P2: This gap area is cut off from the rest of Tukwila by rail lines and the
hillside. The gap is close to Seattle's Kubota Garden Park however there are no
public school sites nearby.
• Gap P5: There are no nearby local parks, but Foster High School and
Showalter Middle School are in close proximity and provide sports fields,
courts and playgrounds.
• Gap P7: Crystal Springs Park is a nearby local park but there is no public
access from the west side of this park into Gap P7. No public schools exist
within this gap area.
• Gap P8: This gap area appears to have the highest density of housing of all
gap areas but lacks convenient access to a local park or school. Tukwila Park
is the closest local park, but not within a 1/4- to 1/2-mile distance. The multi-
purpose fields and playground at Tukwila Elementary School are nearby, but
there is no direct access from this gap area.
3 The city partners with local school districts to extend access to parks at school -owned parks and
school fields, courts and playgrounds. Facilities within school grounds have limited public access
and are generally not available during school hours and events. Therefore, schools might not
always provide a reliable option for park and recreation needs.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 8
38
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42
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
3. Recreational Activities Access and Park Capacity
This section evaluates how well the system meets the community's recreational
needs. Based on outcomes from the public involvement process, there are five
close -to -home recreational activities desired by residents: walking and biking,
social gathering, organized sports, unstructured play and river access. This section
evaluates the distribution of these activities across the city, identifying specific
gaps in access.
Access by Activity
The analysis of recreational activities relies on the same 1/4- to 1/2-mile service area
distance used in the previous section for each activity. Access to sports fields and
courts (Organized Sports Access) is based on a longer, 1 -mile biking or driving
distance.
Vidd king nd Biking
Walking and biking activities require safe,
convenient and accessible trails for recreation
and transportation. Tukwila's Green River Trial is
the primary trail system in the city and provides a
north /south connection along the Green River.
There are also several railways and rail branches
that have potential for future use as trails.
Map 3: Walking and Biking Service Areas shows
the 1/4- to 1/2-mile service areas to developed park
access points on the Green River Trail. The map also highlights connections
(envisioned in the City's Walk and Roll Plan and supported by input to this
planning effort) that could greatly improve access for walking and biking
connectivity. Among other recommendations, the Walk and Roll Plan identifies
the spur that runs adjacent to East Marginal Way as a potential multi -use trail that
would provide connections to Seattle and major employers.'
Overall, there are few trails that connect the east and west ends of the city,
especially trails that cross the Green River, 1 -405 and 1 -5. There are also several
connections needed to expand access to popular destinations such as the Tukwila
Community Center. The need for improved walking and biking is especially
important given the potential for trails to improve access to other parks and
activity areas.
The analysis for walking and
biking is based on trails,
which support:
• Walking
• Running
• Biking
' City of Tukwila's Non Motorized Plan: Walk and Roll (2009). The plan notes that additional
research is needed to determine the feasibility to repurpose other rail spurs near Southcenter for
use as public trails.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 13
43
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
• Gap WB1: Additional connections or trails are needed to the Tukwila
Community Center from the south and west. The Allentown Bridge provides the
primary access to the Community Center from the west. However, the bridge is
narrow with one sidewalk and no bike lanes.
• Gap WB2: A safe crossing or dedicated multi -use trail is needed that safely
crosses Tukwila International Boulevard. Safe crossings are currently limited in
this location.
• Gap WB3: A trail is needed that parallels Tukwila International Boulevard to
provide improved connectivity from north /south, and that safely crosses 144`h
Street.
• Gap WB4: A safe pedestrian /bicyclist crossing is needed to connect opposite
sides of 1 -405.
• Gap WB5: A safe pedestrian /bicyclist crossing is needed that bridges 1 -5 and
allows for safe and convenient east/west connectivity. Because of the many
parks and recreation resources that exist on the east side of the city, the need
for improved walking and biking access within this gap area is especially
critical.
• Gap WB6: An additional pedestrian /bicyclist crossing across 1 -5 is needed,
near the Southcenter Mall. Improved walking and biking access across 1 -5 in
this gap area would open access to the mall for residents living on the west
side of 1 -5.
• Gap WB7: A trail is needed that links the Southcenter Mall with the Green
River Trail. Currently, the development pattern within this area is auto -
oriented, consisting of large block lengths, expansive parking lots and limited
opportunities for walking and biking. There are currently no safe east -west
walking and biking routes within this gap area.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 14
44
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
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Social gathering occurs in small and large
spaces. These activities vary from smaller
gatherings under 20, to more formal gatherings
and events of 50 or greater. Large, formal social
gathering activities can require a number of park
and facility amenities such as restrooms, picnic
tables, drinking water access and parking. For
larger gatherings up to 50 people, the public is
required to reserve sites ahead of time through
the city. Group sizes greater than 50 are required to reserve the Community
Center. Map 4 shows the existing 1/4- to 1/2-mile service area to social gathering
areas.
Spaces in public parks that
allow for social gathering
include:
• The Community Center
• Picnic shelters
• Open lawns
• Gap SG1: An area for social gathering may be needed in this gap area. Kubota
Garden Park in Seattle is the closet location that would support this activity.
• Gap SG2: This gap area is in need of a location for social gathering. Cascade
View Elementary School is the closest site that can support this activity.
• Gap SG3: This gap area comprises multi - family residential housing and is in
need of a site for social gathering. There are no nearby parks or schools that
would allow social gathering activities.
• Gap SG4: This gap area is also multi - family residential and in need of a site
for social gathering. Tukwila Park is nearby but is inaccessible to this gap area
and lacks the type of features needed to accommodate this type of activity.
• Gap SG5: Tukwila Pond Park is nearby, but is difficult to locate and lacks safe
or convenient access along much of its northern boundary. While Southcenter
Mall provides one form of social gathering, outdoor greenspace for workers and
visitors can be an important amenity.
gan'iiizPd Sports
Organized sports occur on fields and courts that
allow for pick -up games, practices and /or team
sports. These include baseball fields, soccer
fields and multi - purpose fields, and full -court
basketball and tennis courts. In Tukwila, school
fields and courts provide for most organized
sports activities. Because most organized sports
participants need to drive, take transit or bike in
order to bring equipment, the service area uses a
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis
Spaces in public parks that
allow for organized sports
include:
• Sports fields (Baseball
diamonds and multi-
purpose)
• Sport courts (Full court
basketball and tennis)
Page 17
47
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
longer 1/2- to 1 -mile service area. Map 5: Organized Sports Service Areas shows
the existing 1/2- tol -mile service areas to organized sports opportunities.
• Gap 0S1: This gap has no access to organized sports and may need improved
access to sports fields and /or courts. The nearest location to participate in
organized sports is provided at Rainier View Elementary School.
• Gap 0S2: This gap area comprises multi - family housing and is in need of
closer sports fields and /or courts. Tukwila Elementary School provides the
closest opportunity for organized sports but is inaccessible to the majority of
homes in this area.
While these gap areas represent the missing pieces in improving additional
opportunities for organized sports, there are a number of quality, quantity and
availability issues that impact the reality of access to this activity.
Uoistructun, Lay
Unstructured play encompasses all the places
where kids play (not including designated sports
fields and full ball courts discussed in Organized
Sports, above) including playgrounds, hillsides,
open lawns and 1 basketball courts. Map 6:
Unstructured Play Service Areas shows the
existing 1/4- to 1/2-mile service area to
unstructured play areas.
• Gap U1: This gap area is in need of a location
for unstructured play. The nearest site that
offers this activity is Rainier View Elementary School.
Spaces in public parks that
allow for unstructured play
include:
• Playgrounds
• Hilly terrain
• Open lawns
• Basketball courts (1/2-
court)
• Gap U2: This gap includes some multi - family housing and is in need of
additional access to unstructured play. Thorndyke Elementary School provides
the nearest location that offers this activity.
• Gap U3: This gap area is in need of a location for unstructured play due in
part, to the lack of public access to the northern boundary of Crystal Springs
Park.
• Gap U4: This gap area is entirely multi - family housing and in need of places
for unstructured play. The closest location that offers this activity is Tukwila
Elementary School which is inaccessible to this location.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 18
48
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
River Access
River access includes all of the places where people can physically access
the river, including boat launches and docks,
water access points and fishing areas. Tukwila
is defined by the Green River and many of the
City's existing parks are located on or adjacent
to this waterway. The river access service area
includes parks with views of the Green River
which are also important to the community.
Map 7: River Access Service Areas shows the
existing 1/4- to 1/2-mile service area to river
access areas.
or view
Spaces in public parks that
allow for river access
include:
• Boat launches and docks
• Water access points
• Fishing areas
• River views
• Gap R1: This gap area is in need of improved connections to access the river
and has potential for a boat launch. Currently, the Green River Trail is
inaccessible and on the other side of the river and there are no boat launches
nearby.
• Gap R2: This gap area lacks access to the river and is in need of improved
connections between employment centers and the Green River.
• Gap R3: This gap area lacks access to the river, is undeveloped and could
serve as a suitable location for a future river access site.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 19
49
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 20
50
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58
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
Park Capacity
Many of the City's developed parks are small, built -out or have limited public
access. There is also limited undeveloped land that is suitable for building new
parks. The park capacity evaluation uses a set of criteria to determine which parks
have the potential to meet some of the demand for additional recreational
activities, while filling gaps in existing access.
( iv. c al' ity Criteria
The following criteria can be used to identify sites that have potential to fulfill
desired recreational activities.
• Ownership: Parks under the City's ownership make potential additions or
improvements more feasible. Sites owned by area schools or the county may
involve greater complexity and uncertainty in development or use negotiations.
• Improvement Potential: The improvement potential of the site involves four
factors.5
o Good Access: Sites that have multiple formal entrances and are easy
to access offer more potential and can be easily accessed by users.
o Public Parking: Sites that have existing public parking make it
easier to accommodate more users and larger groups.
o Restrooms: Sites that have existing restrooms can allow for greater
and extended use of the site.
o Fills Activity Gap: Sites with new activity potential and that improve
access to identified activity gap areas can help fill these gaps.
• New Activity Potential: Parks with new activity potential are those that do not
currently accommodate one or more of the top five close -to -home recreational
activities but have potential to do so. In some cases, parks may already feature
one of the desired activities but have the potential to add more. For example, a
site may already have an internal pathway that could be expanded to improve
opportunities for walking and biking.
arlk Capacity by tivit
Table 1 provides a complete list of parks with capacity, identifying improvement
potential and activity potential. The table also indicates the parks that have
potential to fill identified activity gaps, which are also underlined in this section.
5 This assessment relied on a preliminary review of known constraints. Further assessment and due
diligence by the city will be required to determine a more accurate understanding of existing site
challenges and park improvement feasibility.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 29
59
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60
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
• Walking and Biking: There are several parks with potential for new trails.
Nearly all are City -owned and most of these parks have good improvement
potential. Adding trails to Southgate Park would also fill a gap in this activity.
Parks with potential for new trails include:
o Codiga Park;
o Crestview Park;
o Crystal Springs Park;
o Duwamish Hill Preserve;
o Macadam Wetlands &
Winter Garden;
o Southgate Park;
o Tukwila Park;
o Tukwila Pond Park; and
o North Wind's Weir.
• Social Gathering: There are 11 parks that have available space for new picnic
shelters and /or open lawns that support informal social gathering activities
such as picnicking, socializing and small family gatherings.6 Most of these
sites are City- owned. There are five of these sites that have potential to fill
identified gaps in social gathering opportunities. Adding social gathering
spaces to many of these sites will require improved public access and public
parking.
o 57th Ave. South Park;
o Cecil Moses Memorial
Park
o Duwamish Hill Preserve;
o Hazelnut Park;
o lkawa Park;
o Macadam Wetlands &
Winter Garden;
o North Wind's Weir;
o Southgate Park;
o Tukwila Park;
o Tukwila Pond Park; and
o Tukwila Pool.
• Organized Sports: Of the five desired activities, facilities that allow for
organized sports require the most amount of level land area to accommodate
sports fields and courts. Riverton Park currently has a single multi - purpose
field and a small playground. The site is 4.9 acres and is mostly level with off -
street parking creating potential for a full basketball court or a more formalized
sport field.
• Unstructured Play: Because unstructured play can occur in a number of
different settings, activities that would support this need could be added in
multiple parks. Some of these sites are one acre or less but could
accommodate areas that integrate play with natural features and art work,
such as log or rock stepping stones, climbing or obstacle structures and
6 The city requires a permit for larger or formal events. Group sizes of 50 and greater are required
to reserve space at the Community Center.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 31
61
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
interactive artwork. There are also several parks with sloping topography that
can provide opportunities for play and challenge. Most of these sites are City -
owned and may require public parking. Adding unstructured play to Crystal
Springs Park would fill a gap in access to this activity. Parks with capacity for
unstructured play include:
o 57th Ave South Park;
o Cecil Moses Memorial
Park;
o Codiga Park;
o Crystal Springs Park;
o Duwamish Hill Preserve;
o Macadam Wetlands &
Winter Garden;
o Southgate Park; and
o Tukwila Park.
• River Access: Many of Tukwila's parks are along or near the Green River. There
are several that have capacity to increase access to water or that can
incorporate views of the river. Some sites, such as Duwamish Hill Preserve are
near the river but could have access to the river through safer street crossings
or trail connections. Duwamish Park and North Wind's Weir are not City -owned
making it more challenging for future improvements. Parks with capacity for
additional river access include:
o 57th Ave. South Park;
o Codiga Park;
o Duwamish Park;
o Duwamish Hill Preserve;
o North Wind's Weir; and
o Pamela Drive Open
Space.
• Other Opportunities: There are several additional recreational activities that
can be added into existing parks. During the community involvement activities,
residents identified these as additionally needed activities.
o Natural Preserve: User groups have identified the Duwamish Hill
Preserve as important to preserve for natural and cultural reasons,
allowing certain uses such as walking and viewing wildlife. The site
also provides views of the Green River and could accommodate a
picnic shelter.
o Disc Golf: Southgate Park has potential for adding a disc golf
course. Parks with capacity for a disc golf course offer open areas or
fairways ranging between 20 -40 feet wide, and can accommodate
nine or 18 tee pads and baskets, signage and user amenities such
as benches. However, the park currently has no public access,
parking or access to transit.
o Community Garden: The public has identified Southgate Park and
Duwamish Park as having potential for a community garden.
Gardens require at least six hours of unobstructed sunlight, access
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 32
62
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
to a reliable water source and fencing. Southgate is City -owned and
has development potential but lacks a formal entry. Duwamish Park
is not City -owned but has good public access, parking and
restrooms.
o Dog Park: The public has also expressed a need for a dog park, or
off -leash dog area, at Crestview, Duwamish and /or Joseph Foster
Memorial /Lee Philips Park. Basic requirements for dog parks should
include secure fencing, access to water and shade and parking. All
of these parks have parking but are not owned by the City.
o Fishing: Tukwila Pond Park offers an opportunity for fishing that is
away from the river in an area that is not near other parks. Though
already used as a fishing spot, the site can be improved to expand
access, with user amenities such as wayfinding and informational
signage, trash and recycling cans and benches.
o Boat Launch: The city's proximity to the Green River make non -
motorized boat launches a desirable amenity to supply activities
such as canoeing and kayaking. Non - motorized boat launches
provide safe access to water that is shallow and slow moving, with a
gradually sloping pathway connecting to vehicle parking. Duwamish
Hill Preserve, 57th Ave South Park, Codiga Park, the Community
Center and Duwamish Park all offer potential for boat launching.
Except for 57`h Ave, these sites are not directly on the water and
require safe crossing of a street to access the river. Duwamish Park
is also not owned by the City and has a steep river bank, making it a
more challenging site.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 33
63
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
4. Recreation Programming
This section describes the City's program participation, goals for program costs
and cost recovery and program service gaps.
Program Participation
Recreation program participation data provides a snapshot of the level of contact
that organized recreation activities create. The data is collected and presented in
terms of the number of units of participation (number of people multiplied by the
number of classes, sessions or events), therefore showing how many times each of
these program areas touches the community (Table 2).
Table 2: City of Tukwila Recreation Program Participation (2012)
Program Area
Preschool
Youth Programs
Teen Programs
Youth /Teen Athletics
Youth /Teen Special Events
Special Interest Classes
Fitness Classes
Adult Athletics
Open Gym /Racquetball, Fitness Room
Senior Services
Senior Trips and Tours
Senior Social Activity
Senior Classes
Senior Sports /Fitness
Rentals - TCC
Rentals - Athletics Fields
Rentals Picnic Shelters
2012 Participation
1,805
12,848
4,297
10,051
1,396
3,867
7,854
2,969
28,052
5,276
843
447
7,345
4,046
57,876
2,120
3,358
Source: City of Tukwila. Participation measured in units = number of people in an activity x number of days
the activity meets. The data does not indicate how many unique individuals participate in each category,
which would be difficult or impossible to collect for some program types.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 34
64
Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
• The largest participation number is reported for the rental of the Tukwila
Community Center. This reflects the large number of small and large events
that take place in and around this well used facility.
• Other high numbers reflect the focus on public good programs, such as youth
and senior programming as directed by policy (described below).
• The magnitude of many of these numbers reflects the regular attendance of a
group of participants over a series of regularly occurring programs.
• Participation in specific recreation programs is a complex function of various
factors including:
o Desire /demand;
o Awareness;
o Schedule;
o Location;
o Affordability; and
o Alternatives available.
Cost Recovery Goals
The Parks and Recreation Department is
working towards a program cost recovery model
based on a three tiered hierarchy. Each
program service level has a different cost
recovery range, from private programs that are
mostly to fully supported by user fees, to public
programs that are mostly supported by the City
(Table 3).8
Park and Recreation
Expenditures
• 2011: $3,495,780
• 7% of total City General
Fund Expenditures
8 Additional information is required (a breakdown of expenses attributed to program categories) to
examine the cost recovery performance by program area.
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
Table 3: City of Tukwila Program Level of Service and Cost Recovery'
Level of
Service
Private
(discretionary)
Definition
Programs, services, and facilities that are special interest
in nature, and generally develop personal skills with
specific benefits though participation. The individual or
group receives the majority or all of the benefit. Although
the public may not expect the City to provide as it may be
provided by others, they may be pleased that it's
available. Pre - requisites skills may be required for
participation, and the program may result from
community requests.
Cost
Recovery
Range
Merit
(beyond basic
services)
Public
(essential)
Programs, services, and facilities that are beyond the
basic needs. Activities enhance or contribute to quality of
life and address community wide issues such as health
and wellness. They are accessible by all in the community
and the benefit is shared between the individual and
community. The community most likely things the activity
should be provided by the city. While it may be provided
by others, they can't provide the residents with the same
level of service as the City. May require considerable
planning or supervision.
25- 100%
Programs, services and facilities that are core essential
services. Activities promote health, safety, and welfare,
and enhance or contribute to quality of life. They are
accessible by all in the community and generally benefit
the population at large. The community has expressed an
expectation for the City to provide. The activities may not
be practical to recover a fee, may not usually be provided
by others, or require little to no instruction.
mations
• The existing cost recovery approach outlined above sets a framework for how
the City makes decisions about what programs to offer and how pricing should
be based.
0 -50%
• The breakdown of private, merit and public levels of service is intuitive, but
obscures the unique benefits that an individual program may provide, such as
reaching across multiple interests and achieving multiple benefits.
Source: City of Tukwila.
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
• The City could be charging more for high- demand, private level programs. This
strategy would generate more revenue to offset costs related to programs that
have a broader public benefit.
Program Gaps
This section explores program gaps based on factors that impact participation
including demand, awareness, schedule, location, affordability and alternatives
available.
Demain ::
While the need for programmed recreation offerings remains high over time, the
specific programs, classes and activities changes rapidly. The current needs for
additional programs as expressed by the community during the outreach for this
plan include:
• Youth sports;
• Outdoor recreation; and
• Fitness and wellness programs.
The needs identified during the PROS Plan process serve as an important check -
in with the community but should not be considered as the types of programs in
demand. Instead, demand will need to be monitored through participation trends,
public input and testing new and emerging activities or interests.
e s
Distributing information about programming options is one of the factors that is
especially challenging to Tukwila due to the large number of linguistic groups
residing in the city. While finding the methods that best connect to residents is
always a challenge, being able to provide the information in multiple languages
and identify the most culturally effective methods adds significantly to raising
awareness.
Sch d ie
Schedule is a key factor in matching programs to participants. Aligning programs
to fit around work, school and family schedules was an important finding from the
online questionnaire. Evening, weekend and early morning class times were most
desirable.
Currently, the majority of programming is held during weekday evenings, between
the hours of 6 and 8 pm. Most morning programs are oriented for youth, such as
swim lessons, summer camps and before school programs. There are fewer
programs that occur during the lunch hour, and few early morning classes
oriented for adults.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 37
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
tin
The majority of recreation programs and classes are held at the Tukwila
Community Center. A few classes, such as the Summer Playground Program, are
held in local parks (Cascade View and Joseph Foster Memorial parks). The Tukwila
Pool is the location for all aquatics -based programs, including open swim and
swim lessons. Map 8: Programming Service Areas shows the existing 1/4- to 1/2-
mile service area to parks and facilities where most programming occurs.
• Gap PG1: This area comprises lower density, single family housing and may
need more convenient access to program areas. The nearest programmable
space is the Tukwila Community Center.
• Gap PG2: This gap area is mostly single family housing and may need more
convenient access to program areas. The nearest programmable space is
Cascade View Elementary School.
• Gap PG3: This gap area is also mostly single family housing and may need
more convenient access to program areas. While the area is close to the
Tukwila Pool, the nearest non - aquatic programmable spaces are the Foster
Library, Foster High School and Showalter Middle School.
• Gap PG4: This gap area is mostly multi - family housing and lacking convenient
access to program areas. The nearest programmable space is Thorndyke
Elementary School.
• Gap PG5: This gap area is mostly single family residential and lacking any
access to program areas. There are no areas south of 1 -405 that are currently
used for programs.
• Gap PG6: This gap area is predominantly multi - family residential and lacks
any access to program areas. The nearest programmable space is Tukwila
Elementary School which is inaccessible to this gap area.
Parks and Recreation Needs Analysis Page 38
68
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
Aft iu° Ill i1itY
The City has a direct hand in determining the affordability of programming to the
user through the application of the cost recovery policy. The gap in affordability is
largely about reconciling the variety of populations to serve, programs to offer and
the level of community investment. Affordability is also about the willingness and
ability of the City to make available more affordable programs and reconsider the
way its current cost recovery policy is applied.
Community input, particularly from the cultural and linguistic minorities in
Tukwila has indicated that even small user fees can be a major barrier to
participation. The community questionnaire explored the balance of City
investment and user fees for a selection of program types. Overall, respondents
indicated that costs should be shared in some way (few indicated that any
program should be 100% supported by the City). Two categories of programs were
notably high in responses indicating that the user should pay 100% of costs:
adult sports (35% of respondents) and fitness classes (21% of respondents).
Ake! natives
The Matt Griffin YMCA and Starfire Sports provide the widest array of alternative
recreation programs in and around Tukwila. As such these providers are the most
likely to overlap with City of Tukwila offerings. There is an important connection
between these alternatives and the affordability factor, with the City potentially
filling a different need for similar programs.
• Starfire Sports: Starfire is largely focused on soccer (and other field sports)
and offers a premium experience that is utilized by users from across the
region. This facility requires an annual membership that ranges from $35
(basic) to $50 (premier membership) for access to the facility and its
programs, and field use ranging from $33 /hour /participant for youth, to
$77 /hour /participant for adults. Between the cost, the demand for field space
and the location on the east side of the Green River Starfire can be seen as a
complement to the City programs and services with minimal overlap.
• YMCA: While not located in Tukwila, the Matt Griffith YMCA center offers a
wide and similar range of recreation opportunities near the border between
Tukwila and SeaTac. YMCA requires a one -time joining fee ranging from $25
(youth) to $100 (adults) with monthly membership from $32 (youth) to $65
(adult). This membership allows for unlimited use of all 13 YMCA facilities in
the greater Seattle area, including most health and wellness programs.
Specialty class and programs with fees are offered at a lower rate to members.
The YMCA also offers financial assistance with the intention of serving as
much of the community as possible. Considering the range of programs
available, the proximity and competitive costs, the YMCA can be seen as a
competitor to City programs.
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
• Other Providers: The Existing Recreational Resources Summary identified a
number of other providers in the Tukwila area that supplement city programs.
Most of these focus on a specific type of activity or program, such as Whistling
Train Farm and Evergreen Ballet) and have more limited offerings. Most of
these other providers can be seen as a complement to City programs.
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
5. Conclusions and Policy Directions
Tukwila's diverse population will require a future park system that is welcoming to
all users and that is responsive to the constantly changing face of the city.
Residents want close -to -home opportunities, and safe and inviting parks that
provide places to meet with friends and family, and that provide access to walking
and biking, health and wellness. Tukwila's population is made of residents as well
as visitors and workers who use parks, recreation facilities and programs in
different ways. Across the city, not all areas are being served equally, and some
gap areas have a greater need for increased access to parks and recreation than
others.
Implications
There are four overarching planning and policy implications that stem from results
of the analysis. The City will need to consider these issues, considering potential
strategies and system changes that will be addressed as the PROS Plan moves
into the next phase of the planning process.
fin °xii iiiin,g °tile Existing SYste
Management of Tukwila's park, recreation and open space system must be
dynamic in the face of the many demands placed upon it and resourceful to the
finite amount of land and resources available. Previously adopted service
standards for parks and facilities are no longer realistic or accurate measures of
the system's performance as there are few opportunities to expand or build new
parks and facilities. The analysis shows that there is an overall lack of access to
parks, and distances between homes and park and recreation opportunities pose a
barrier for many. Yet, several of the City's existing sites have untapped potential
and can be reconsidered to maximize their use. The programming and features
within each park can be fine -tuned to better meet the demands of park users.
Creating safer, more accessible and direct routes to get to parks, together with
new park entryways, must be considered to extend the effectiveness of the
existing system.
Ref ifi g °n a Ce Goa S for Prof; 3 Ming
g
The City's recreation programs are offered based on a cost recovery hierarchy. The
City aims to recover all or most of the costs for programs that serve a smaller
percentage of the population, while the City subsidizes those that provide a
benefit to a wider range of the population. Feedback from the community
indicated a need for more alternative programs. Many members of the City's
diverse language groups desire new and expanded programming that is culturally
relevant and available in times and settings that are more convenient. The City
must operate within its financial means but should consider adjusting the way it
offers recreation programming based on who it serves and where its customers
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Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
live. These adjustments will require a refinement in the way the City carries out its
existing cost recovery policy.
Recognizing the Mmrlportan ge °f Pa:,"tner.s
Tukwila's park and recreation system comprises a number of partners, public,
private and non - profit. Many of the service gaps in city park land and recreation
activities can be filled when adding the service areas of school district sites. At
the same time, the City will need to continuously look for new and emerging
partnerships to ensure that no opportunities are overlooked. The City should
determine how to best strengthen its level of involvement with the school district
and other key partners, with the goal of maintaining a coordinated system of
recreation providers. Above all, the City must determine what role it will play
within this system of partnerships.
Fostering a n 'iin Rol 'cal mithin the Community
Responses from the community involvement activities indicate that parks are an
essential ingredient to the city's quality of life. Yet, residents feel that parks and
recreation facilities can and should play a stronger role in their lives and in the
common welfare of the city. Residents want to know what's available and how
they can be involved. The diverse ethic and language groups need sources of
information in their languages across all City departments. Park neighbors expect
an open line of communication to discuss potential issues with park use. The
constantly evolving face of the city requires ongoing monitoring and polling of the
community to identify new issues and needs related to the park and recreation
system. The City will need to identify how it will check -in with existing and
potential park users, to anticipate what the community desires.
Next Steps
Next steps in the planning process include review and refinement of the Needs
Analysis and discussion of preliminary strategies for the next phase of the
process.
• TAG Meeting #2 (August 26, 2013): The planning team will present the
Needs Analysis to the Technical Advisory Group and get direction and
feedback for the next phase of the planning process.
• City Council Update (August 26, 2013): Following the TAG meeting, the
planning team will provide an update of the planning process to the City
Council and present the Needs Analysis.
• TAG Meeting #3 (Date TBD): The planning team will return to the TAG with
any needed revisions to the Needs Analysis and discuss strategies to address
the needs identified in the document.
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