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DRNTON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
COMPRPHENSXVP MASTER PLAN
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction Page
Demographics 1
Trends 1
Surveys 2
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Standards 3
Recreation Standards 5
Park Clas ification/Standards 6
7
RecWmelid at Ions
Recreation Facility 9
Parks/Open Space 9
Adult Sports 14
f Youth Sports 21
Beautification 22
Arts 23
Senior Services 24
Therapeutic Recreation 25
j Summary of Recommendations 26
Zone Recommendations 27
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Funding Possibilities
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Summary
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INTRODUCTION
A logical place to begin the presentation of, a five-year Master 11/
Plan is with a short discussion on the need for municipal parks
and recreation departments. Municipal leisure service agencies
are charged with providing facilities, programs, and leadorltsip
that recognize, promote, and encourage meaningful leisure
experiences. heie.ure experiences offer the best opportunity
for citizens to express themselves in a personally rewarding
manner. Recreation is modern society's avenue to actualize
self-determination, dignity, and self-worth through positive
actions and interactions, These actions and interactions can
most readily occur in the place, atmosphere, and company that
allow an individual to feel relaxed and confident, A municipal
parks and recreation department has an obligation to provide
leisure situations that individuals cannot provide for
themselves. Modern urban life has taken away much of the open
space and many of the relaxation opportunities that people once I
took for granted, It is understandable 11tat society is acting
to provide some leisure opportunities that enhance the quality
of modern life,
It is the intent of the Denton Narks and Recreation Department
to fulfill the desires of the citizens of Denton in an
efficient, effective manner. To reach that goal, the Do artment
intends to maintain the high degree of professionalism
necessary to implement, administer, and evaluate its
proposals, To provide a framework for that process, the
pepartment has been involved in an evaluation and information
gathering mode that we believe will allow an appropriate plan
to be presented.
DEMOGRAPHICS
j Denton was established In 1857 on 100 acres of land provided by
area donors. In 1866, the Town of Denton became, art
incorporated city of about four square miles Geoggraphic
growth was slow and inconsistent until it doubted in 1960 from
~J j nine to 18 square miles. Consistent annexations since have
brought' the figure in 1984 to approximately 40 square miles.
Population ggrowth has also been inconsistent but always
upward, Ranging from a low rowth figgure of 13%, from 16`0 to
1920, to a 90.91 in the 940's, until the 19b0's censk. , the
City Lad garnered a larger and larger share of the population
of Denton County, This £iggure was as high as 56,61 in 1960.
The percentage has fallan off to a 3046$ COG estimate for
1983, In the 1980's, the City has had a population increase of
8,189 people which is a jump of 20.5$, Denton County has had
an increase of 75,682 which figures to a percentage rise of
89.2,
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The high growth rates experienced by some of the cities in the
southern part of Denton County are not necessarily enviable
The NCTCOG now estimates that the city is growing at a 2.69%
annual rate with the County at a rate of 6,22%, The rate for '
the City promotes economic growth and
munic allows for effective
ipal planning, It also means that the traditional
stability of Denton can effect agreeable, acceptable life style
changes for its citizens.
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The most unique variable in the population figures of Denton is
the presence of two state universities, North Texas State
University and Texas Woman's university contribute in many ways
to Denton. Due to their presence, census data shows an
unusually high percentage of residents in the 20-24 age rou .
The concentration of this age g p
fact that the median age for the City iisal24,9xhyears. 9' This
compares to 27 year for Denton County and 28,2 years for the
State of Texas, Another revealing statistic is that of size of
household, The figures Are; City - 2,36; County - 2.77; State
2.82. Without the effect of the universities, the figures
would probably closely reflect the State average.
The ethnicity figures for the City have been very consistent,
! percentage wise, The 1980 census revealed that about 851 of
i Denton residents are white. Small changes in racial
proportions are another example of the
Minority citizens are concentrated around theatwonuniversities
and in southeast Denton,
Senior citizens have found Denton to be a favorable lac to
live, From 1970 to 1980, the 60+ age group increasedefrom
31908 to 51479, a 40% increaae. Seniors have found Denton
large enough to supply their unique service needs yet small
Enough not to be too hectic and uninviting. Seniors are now
11,48 of the population of the City, and that percentage will
be steadily rising in the future,
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{ Trends, and their impact on departmental
important, ongoing consideration, planning, are Tr ks
and recreation departments perhaps more thanctanyoothetpCity
J € department since the effect is both from a demograpphic and a
program preference angle, It is important to be ab1,e to
a differentiate between fads and longterm leisure int4roat
shifts, Parks and recreation departments must be very caraful
when allocating resources that those resources are soundly
invested.
Some of the most pronounced trends in municipal leisure service
provision are joint use of facilities agreements, fitness and
health attitudes, supplying appropriate leisure services to
handicapped and aged citizens, and fees and charges revenue
' enhancements,
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It is wise to consider any important
Demographically speaking, ulation• Denton is often
changes or shifts in the local pop
described as a white, middle class, well educated, and stable
community. Within that framework, it is necessary to keep
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close observation of changes that might impact on departmental
decisions.
While the population
sl that
on a local issues* there local
s ow Some of these changes include a higher
affect everyone.
basicenoutlookemoftconservatism$ decreaseainythecsizeaof families
bas
with part of that trend being many more single parent families,
and governmental agencies acting more as facilitators and less
as front line providers of social services.
SURD S
writing this plan, the Menton Parks andcreatio
De a
` i Department has relied heavily o n information provided Survey techniques have
` variety of state and 10oint sorthat ~extremely valid results may
yeen developed a p of a small percentage of the total
be obtained through sampling
population under consideration# The validi'y of modern sus eyi
techniques allows agencies to confidently the Iformati
gathered.
I A texas Outdoor Recreation Plan (TORP) is completed R~Veis five
years by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department,
result of the Land and Water conservation Act f196$,, thl
funds 'provided by than act are appportioned by the fedora
arelodistributeds in
government to each cetionr dTheisseution. to
provide for outdoor socrar To qualify for these
Texas by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and usually
take the form of 50/50 matr.hiug grants
federal mh as' TORP, sThee reporromaddreusesouitselfretoeasuch
rep ec such dons an inventory
bects as statewide issues and rocodmmeiadato
of outdoor
su j
of outdoor recreation Tedeficits of resources, and outdoor
recreation activities,
recreation ..spending., There is also a breakdown of thearesame
asg
types of discussion areas rea onfoureach wl►ichthincludesnnthe whole
Denton is in planning a
nietrop let
The following is a list of surveys that were used as an
E information base in formulating the 5-year plan
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State Surveys
* 1981 Outdoor Sporting Goods Expenditures in Texas - by
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
h Texans Opinions on Parks and Recreation Issues in 1982 -
by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Local Surveys
1982 Denton Area Recreation Resources Guide - Denton Parks and
Recreation Department
1982 Planning Committee Report Long, Range Nacilityy
Construction and Major Maintenance Plan 1982-83 through
1986.87 - Denton Independent School District
1982 Denton Survey - James J, Glass
1969 Decisions for Denton - Recreation and entertainment j
committee
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f 1982 Survey of Citizens Attitudes and Use of Derttonl3 Park and
Recreation Services and Facilities Division 'of
Recreation and Leisure Studies) North Texas State
University
1982 Dentor) Recreation and Parks Surveys High School Study -
f Division of Recroation and Leisure Studies, North Texas
State University
1969 Leisure Behavior and Opinions of the Citizens of Dwiton,
Texas 1969 - Denton Parks and Recreation Department
1983 Neighborhood Leisure Needs Survey - Denton Parks and
Recreation Department
1983 1983Denton Survey James J. Glass, North Texas StiLte
University
1983 Community Leisure Facility/Program Inventory
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Additional resources that should be noted are:
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Texas 2000 Commission Report and Recommendations Office
of the Governor
1980 Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan (TORP), The State
Summary - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
1980 Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan) The North Central Texas
Region Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
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STANDARDS
Probably there are few people who realize that standards exis'.
to help parks and recreation professionals in the determination
of acceptable amounts of open space and appropriate numbers of
recreation facilities. These standards allow local agencies to
express current and future resource objectives in quantitative
terms. It is hoped that these objectives can be translated
into the needed acquisition, improvement, and management
projects that will provide the citizens of Denton with the
level of leisure services they desire and deserve.
The National Park and Recreation Association, has provided a sat
of standards they describe as a guide to meeting community
needs. The standards they have deemed appropriate reflect a
great deal of research` and professional experience. These
standards were last updated in 1982.
Using NRPA standards as a basis, and applying information
gathered through several surveys, the Denton Department is
satisfied that the standards proposed herein are appropriate,
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attainable, and deserving of consideration. community
standards must satisfy several criteria to serve as a guide for
localized planning;
j * They must reflect the needs of the people in the specific
service area.
* They -must be realistic and attainable.
* They must be acceptable and useful to both the
practitioner and the policymaker.
* They must be based on a sound analysis of the best
information available
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In conjunction with a discussion of park standards should be an
explanation of the parks classification systems Classifying
makes it possible to communicate through using the terminology
most common around the coulil-y. The Denton Parks and
Recreation. Department uses the NRPA system almost exactly.
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RECREATION FACILITY GUIDE
Outdoor Facilities **Available Existing j
_Goa1*Standard_ to Public Variance
Soccer Field 1/4,000 13 r6 (7)
Football Field 1/101000 5 3 (2)
Picnic Shelters 1/2,500 13 10
Picnic Areas 1/1,000 S2 24
Baseball Diamond Lighted 1/6 000 9 (28~
Softball Diamond Lighted 1/7'000 7 5 4)
Tennis Courts 1/2,500 21 18
Basketball Courts 115,000 10 7 3)
Handball/Rasketball (4-Wall) 1/8,000 6 0 6
Play Areas 1/1,500 34 24
Golf Course (18 hole) 1/25,000 2 2 (10
swimming Pool 1/20 000 215 1 I
! Shuffleboard Lighted
1/5,600 0
Horseshoe Lighted 1/S000 10 0 (10
Volleyball Lighted 1/5 '000 0 10)
Archer yy Range Lighted 15b 000 10 0 (10
I Amphitheatre 1/50,000 i a (1
Shooting Range 1/501000 l 1
0 (1)
Indoor hacilitiec
Community Recreation Center 1/50,000 1 0
DiactPi,Ct Recreation (1)
Center (with gym) 1/150000 3
Senior Center 1/50 000 1 2 (1)
Swimming Pool 1/500000 1 1 0
Outdoor Education Center 1/500000 1 3
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LJ4 Based ,on_1983 COG ppopulation estimate of 51,700
14 **Provded to public 1+y variety of sources
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COMPONVIIT US4 SERVICE AIII.A OESIRhiILL' SITE ACRES/1,000 6ESIRAbtE SITE
POVULATION CHARACTER IST ICS
A. LOCAL/CLOSE-TO-
HOME SPACEt
Neighborhood Park/ Speclalited facilities that Loss than J-mile 1-6 acres Within neighborhoods and In Close
Playground - Type i serve a concentrated or radius, proximity to apartment complexes,
limited population or sped- townhouse devolupneot or housing
rice group such as tots or for the elcorly,
senior citiionsr Total Acreag9e r
for Type 1 d II - /
Neiglborhood Park/ 3 acres
Playground - typo lI Area for Intense recreational J to J-mile 10.15 acres Suited for intense doVolopP ont,
activities, such as field radius to servo a Easily accossiblo to nelgtiborhood
games, court games, crafts, population up to populatln;t.-goographically centered
playground apparatus area, 6,000 (a noigh- with sate walking and bike access,
picnicking, wading pools, etc. borhood), May he developed as a school-park
facility,
Crniraunlty Park Area of diverse onvironoental Several neighbor- 301 acres 6 acres May include natural features, such b
quality. Hay include areas hpods, i to 2 as water Lodiss, and areas suited ?ta
suited for Intense recreational mile radius, for intense devolopGent, Easily n
facilities, such as athletic accessible to neighborhood served.
complexes, swleming ppools. May
be an area of nattip quality
for outdoor recreation such as
walking viewing, sitting, to
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picnicking. haY be any
combi- nation of the above, depending
upon site suitability and com.
muuity need.
,I v TOTAL CLQSF.•TO•HOItE SPACE 0 ACRES/J,000 POPULATION
B, REGIONAL SPACEI c
Regional Park Area of natural or ornamental Several comauni- 2001 acres 6 acres Contiguous to or encompassing a
quality for outdoor recreation, ties. I tour natural rosources, H
such at picnicking, boating, driving time,
fishing swimeings compin ,
and trail usesL may include
play areas,
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TOTAL REOfONAL SPACE 6 6AACRES111000 POPULATION
CF SPACE THAT MAY of LOCAL OR REGIONAL AND IS UNIQUE TO EACH COftnil'Ift
Linear Park Area developed for ate or No applicable Sufficient width Variable Built or natural corridors, such
more varying modes of reerea• stonderd, to protect the as utility PINIrof-tfay, bluff
tional travel, such as Mking, resource and pro- linos, vegAtbttlon patterns, and
kEj biking, horseback ridlttg, vide mcximui use. roads, that link other Components
cross-country skiing, canoeing, of tthe recreation systen or coal•
and pleasure driving, May munity facilities, such as schoolf
include active play areas, libraries, coaaxorcial areas, and
(NOTE any inclluded for any other park arew
i of above cauponents may
occur in the `"linear pack,")
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COnrUNEkT USE SERVICE AREA OESIRAOLE SIZE ACRES/1,600. 0ESMAUL SITE
P0i'ULAT1011 CIfARACT[AISTICS
Special Use Areas for specialized or sin To No applicable Variable depending Variable NltBln communities,
purposo recreational activities, standard, on desired site,
such as golf courses, nature
centers, marinas, zoos, con-
servatorles, arboreta, dlspplay
gardens, arenas, outdoor thoa-
tens, gun ranges, or downhill
ski areast or areas that pro-
serve maintaln, and Interpret
bulldings, sites, and objects
of archeological significance, n
Also plazas or squares In or
near commercial centers, bouio.. M
Yards, parkways, n
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j Conservancy Protection and mansgemant of No applicable Sufficient to Variable Variable, depending on the N
the natural cultural envlrov- standard, protect the resource, resnuree being prutucted,
j ment with recreation use as a H
secondary objective,
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RECOMMENDATIONS
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RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations made within this plan represent a great deal of
research, public input, and thorough, professional thinking.
Priority decisions are not easy, and there is the realization that
we cannot always control the pace or make the final determination as
to which projects are funded. However, we believe it is important /
to make determinations as to what needs we have and the order in 1
which those needs will be mitigated. Not being able to predict when
resources (through gifts, grants, budget allocation, otc.) will be
available, we are making overy effort to ensure that those resources
are allocated in a logical, fair, best-use manner. We also realize
that circumstances can change quickly, Changes may make it
necessary to re-arrange some priorities even to the extent of
including some new projects and excluding some that we now rank
highly. Acting ahead of time gives us an opportunity to consider
thinggs in an objective, timely manner, We will do our best to
fulfill this plan as presented. Any plan involving so many
variables must be dynamic in nature but still able to provide a
framework of resource allocation and a measuring tool of
departmental achievements.
Recreation Paci.li_ty Recommendations
Recommendations for this area were determined by the professional
staff in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Board.
Information which helped determine these needs came from two
community surveyys conducted by North Texas State University, a
survey of neighborhood areas in Denton conducted by the Parks and
Recreation Department and many interviews with other service
providers in the community. to refine our recommendations we met
with the Denton Independent School District, Denton State School,
North Texas State University, and Texas Woman's University to
discuss their philosophies and 'needs, We also completed a community
inventory of leisure related facilities and programs to give us an
initial understanding of existing facilities in the community.
Standards were also established in this area to give us future
guidance on facility expansion which is tied into Denton's
i population growth,
These facility recommendations will hopefully aid the De artment in
focusing on community needs and provide specific goals which we will
try to accomplish, Our future expansions will rely very heavily on
cooperation with the Denton Independent School District,
1) Community Center:
' One important recommendation is to, provide the community a
facility which would be attractive to Denton residents of. all
ages and interests4 It would hopefully become the heart of . our
community by providing services to a wide range of citizbns.
! It would also enable our residents to have access 'to year
around facilities on a par with the universities which are only
I available to faculty staff and students, Thisfacility would
also meet some special needs of the community by providing the
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teens a supervised area for them to gather. It would also give
all those interested in physical fitness a number of exercise
options. The pool would allow a year around water safety
program and provide the State School and Denton Independent
School District a facility for their students. It would also
allow us to drownproof all of Denton's elementary school
children by providing classes at the pool during the school year,
The facility envisioned would have a number of mooting rooms and
offices, a gym with an indoor running track, conditioning room,
racquetball courts, locker areas, indoor pool, gameroom/arcade,
snack bar, multipurpose room. This facility would be ideally
located in the Mack Park area because it is close to low income
areas who do not have adequate transportation, will be the
geographic center of, town very soon, has good access from other
parts of town to McKinney, provides a facility on the east side
of town (2 centers on west side), and we already have some
development and land at Mack Park.
Typical Community Center Floor Plan
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2) Senior Center "xpansion: F
Another important recommendation is the expansion of the, current
Senior Center to include numerous offices for staff and other
agencies involved at the center, examination/first aid room,
game room, cafeteria style kitchen, multipurpose room, and
outside patio/game area. This expansion will help to alleviate
the crowded conditions that exist many times as well as provide
more ;space for expanded programs and services.
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SHADED AREA REPRESENTS EXISTING FACILITY
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} School/Center in Northeast Denton)
Due to the need for gym space in Denton and specifically in the
northeast section, we would propose building on a gymnasium to .
an existing elementary school site (either Wilson or Ginnings)
and allow the school to use it during the school day. We would
program the gym and a suction of 'the school on eveni.ng,, and
weekends. This arrangement would provide us added gym space at
a for less cost than a recreation center. This would provide
benefits to both the Parks and Recreation Department and the
Denton Independent School District through this cooperative
effort.
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4) Bikeway Master Plant
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1 This plan would help to define safe routes throughout Benton and
encourage an activity that is growing rapidly in popularity.
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S) School/Center in Souttseast Denton:
As in northeast Denton, we would propose a school/center be
established izone 6 when the population f othato area reaches
10,000 people" Thls would add a gym
Elementary School. or another elementary school, constructbd at a
later dates rho school/center complex provides tor the gym to
be used as the school during to ebec used yythedRecreation Division
school as well as the gy
during the evenings and weekends. Thiswould provide recreation
facilities and programs for far southeast Denton.
6) Expand Tennis Centers
The as well center at neeend an six, lighted
shop we p
to ten lighted, Supplemental facilities such as lighted outdoor
racquetball courts should also be considered.
7) Investigate Expansion of Gun Ranges
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A study should be undertaken to review the need for a gun ranges +
that is open to the public but also available for police officer
i. training.
9} Municipal Golf Course Study:
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A feasibility study should be undertaken when the population of ;
Denton reaches 650000 to determine the need for another public
golf courilo.
9} Noirth District Pbol:
When the combined po~plation of Zones 1 and 2 reach 20,000,
buald'a pool in the vers Park area.
10) South District Pools
When the combined population of zones 5 and 6 reaches 20,000, ,
! build a, pool in the
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Park De ,lo ment Advisor Grou Recomoiendati_on'S
Advisory Group Members: k
Steve Fanning Susan Hudson
Doug Key
Charles Borth Ann Reban
Stanley Thames Marcia Henderson
Prank feigert Bob Ticknor
Charles Glasgow
The advisory group recommendations for existing park development
were.
1) Civic Center Park
Development of amphitheatre area
Renovation of play area
Construct overflow parking lot between pool and Senior Center
Picni( pavilion
V panil garden area and add gazebo +
Develop landscaping plan
improve irrigation system
2) i4ack_Park
nevoinp landscaping plan
Improve irrigation system
Rexiovation of play area
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3) MIL kom Ps rk,
renovation of play area
Small shelter
a
t Develop landscaping plan
I Improve irrigation system
4) Joe $kiles Park
I Develop landscapping plan
Improvo irrigation system
Renovation o£ play area
Develop picnic area
I 5) Dena P~~. '
Renovitlon of play area
` Improye irrigation system ;
Cotlst'ruct new restroom/COncession stand j
Re•]aiup .die ds, Waighten poles
Pave and paint parking lot
7 Develop landscaping pldn
Develop picnic area
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b) North Lakes Park
Develop landscaping plan
Fix drainage problems
Improve irrigation system f
Develop picnic area !
Renovation of play area
Construct soccer complex
Deepon lakes
7) Prod Moore Bark
Develop landscaping plan
Renovation of play areas
Develop parking lot
Improve irrigation system
Improve hard surface area
Picnic pavilion
8) Phoenix Park
Develop landscaping; plan ~
Improve irrigation system
Install shelter
Renovation of play area jll
i Develop picnic area
9) Nette Schultz
C
i onstruct basketball court
Tftstall shelter
{ Rwinvation' of play areas
Develop landscaping plan
l Im tove irrigation system F
ar dge over drainage area ;
Develop picnic areas
10) P, ver,s Park
i Re-lamp fields, straighten poles
f Develop landscaping plan
Improve service road
Develop play Brea (south section)
j Develop picnic area (south section)
i Install shelter (south section)
Improve irrigation system
11) Do4tling Crggn Park
Develop landscaping plan
Install irrigation system ,
Install shelter
Develop ballfield
Construct hard surface area/basketball
d Renovation of play area
II Develop picnic area
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12) McKenna Park
Develop landscaping plan
Improve irrigation system
Install picnic pavilion
improve parking areas
Renovate play areas
Improve hard surface area
Improve existing shelters
Develop picnic areas
13) Carroll Blvd.
Develop landscaping plan
Improve irrigation system
14) Woodrow Lane Park
Remain as tree nursery until decision to develop
15) Windsor/Stewart Site
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To be developed after neighborhood needs assessment
16) Cooper Creek Park
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To remain undeveloped until demand for housing develops in that
area
17) Airport Road Park
To remain undeveloped until need for the area is assessed
Develop target range if feasible
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FACILITY/OPEN SPACE, PROJECTIONS FOR MASTER PLAN
Neighborhood Community Regional
Bst. P02. Park Acres Park Acres Park Areas Total Acres /
Existing 47 ISO 310 507 r i
52,000 156 260 260 676 j
55,000 165 275 275 715 i
58,000 174 290 290 754
610000 183 30S 305 793
64,000 192 320 320 832
67,000 201 335 335 871
700000 210 350 350 910
Standards Neighborhood Park 3 acres/1000 pop.
Community Park 5 acres/1000 pop.
Regional Park 5 acres/1000 pop.
Type: Neighborhood (Type I) size l-S acres
Neighborhood (Type 11) size 10-15 acres
Community Park size 30+ acres
Regional Park size 20fi+ acres
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Facilities:
Neighborhood (Type I 4 II) Community -Regional
ePlayf gilds *Athletic fields eNatural areas
hlay *Play area *Outdoor recreation areas Picnic areas hSpecial'Interest
*Shelter(s) ~Shelters
i *Hard surface area *Hard surface area
"kearsatioq
facilities
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Existing Standn d DifIference
Zone 1 Population 4488:
Neighborhood Park Ac,reagd 5 13 r8
Community 40 22 +16
Zone 2 -Population 107661
S Neighborhood Park Acreage 10 32 -22.
Community 0 54 r54
zone 3 Population 15332
Neighborhood Park ;Acreage 0 4S -45
Community 20 75 X55
j Zo 4 PophooudlaPti1oonk 1 Acr0859:
Coe~amunlteage 2s 33 •18
Y 55 r35
Zone 5 Population 3220:
E Neighborhood Park Acreage 0 13 13
Community 25 21 +4
Zone 6 , Population 62071
Neighborhood Park Acreage 16 19 •3
Community 0 31 31
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Neighborhood Parks
The rationale for neighborhood parks is that all parks and
playground facilities cannot be provided in natural areas, i.e.,
greenbelts, which in many instances are far removed from the 1
residential areas. Facilities near residential areas are required
in order to allow individuals to walk from their homes to play
tennis, baseball, or engage in other sports. These facilities,
along with the schools, should be provided in the neighborhood
park/school complex. The concept of joint school-park facilities
saves substantial public funds by avoiding the duplication of public
effort.
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At present, there is a clear deficiency of accessible park land in
our neighborhood areas. We are approximately 110 acres below
standard for this type of open space. Existing neighborhood parks
are, at present, adequately serving only 30% of Denton's
population. To i.nereas,) that percentage we are proposing the
following;
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1) Work with the DISD to identify and lease certain tracts of
school property to create school/nark sites. The City
would then maintain and develop these sites with approval
of the DISD. In this way, many new park sites can be
secured without any purchase of land. The schools would
benefit due to reduced maintenance costs and additional
outdoor egvipment and facilities for their students. We
would suggest that all school sites be considered except
the High School, Strickland, Woodrow Wilson, and Borman.
This would bring into the park system six new school/park
sites and would increase our park services to approximately
50% of the population of Denton.
2) Try to lease land from individuals, businesses, churches,
agencies, schools, etc,, in or around the priority areas
lndicated on the park development map. These priority
! areas are areas that have a high residential density but do
not have parks in their immediate areas, If parks, could be
secured in these areas, we would then be providing adequate
park services to approximately 90% of Denton's population,
3) If land cannot be secured on a leased basis as par
recommendations one and two, we would propose the City
institute a land acquisition program targeting neighborhood
park sites.
Community Parks
We also have a deficiency of approximately 100 acres in the amount
of community park land that should a available, To keep up with
recommended development, we ate proposing adding on to existing
h community parks and acquiring new sites in two areas of town, The
following recommendations will 'hopefully bring us up to standard
1) Acquire land adjacent to Evers Park, Mack Park and Dania
Park for future development,
r 2) Acquire two new community park sites in planning aroas two
and six. These sites should be in excbss of 30 acres each
and located as centrally in each area as possible. We must
also take into account areas of -atural uniqueness.
Linear Parks
Linear parks are a way to provide buffer, beautification and a '
F passive alternative to the more active park areas, These parks are
possible on drainage way, utility eesementa, parkways and
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boulevards or in open space areas or greenbelts that link community
areas. Recommendations In this area include:
1) Continue development and beautification of Carroll Blvd.
open sppace areas. If Carroll Is extended, these areas
should be extended as well.
2) Develop a study of drainage ways, utility easements and
greenbelt needs so community facilities can be linked by
linear open space areas,
3) Develop parkways/boulevards on new major thoroughfares as
they are planned and constructed. University Drive between ~
Bell and Loop 288 may provide this opportunity.
4) Consider landscape setbacks when property owners own
property up to curb on major thoroughfares,
Special Use Areas
Special use areas are areas set aside for specific leisure
opportunities.
1) If feasible, develop target range at Airport Park and open
to public.
2) Consider Pilot Knob area for park with historic
significance. Could possibly use area for petting zoo and
museum of natural history.
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Adult Sports Recommendations
Advisory Committee Members:
Bobby Griffith Bill Chamblee
Donna Woods Wayne Hudgens
Joe Keahey
The various adult sports leagues have recommended that:
1) All adult softball programs be moved to Mack Park.
2 Two additional lighted fields should be constructed immediately.
be constructed when the need
3 Two more sof tball fields should
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arises.
4) Touch Football and Rugby will continue to use fields at Evers
Park.
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Youth Sports Recommendations i
Advisory Group Members
R. D. Krone_ Jane Malone
Ronnie Roberts Silly Ryan
Willie Hudspeth
The various youth sports groups recommended that:
1) The 4-baseball/2-football field complex at Evers Park be
lighted.
2) The fields at Dania be renovated and re-lamped.
3) Construction of additional practice fields at Evers.
b) Construction of _restroom/concession stands at Evers and Dania.
5) Re-surface parking 'areas at Evers and Dania.
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Beautification Advisory Committee Recommendations
Advisory Group Members:
Fred Patterson Jane Mitchell
Stanley Lovelace Candice che
Mary Isham Mrs. Wilford Pierce
Grant Jacobson Gertrude Gibson
Tom Harpool Mrs. F. w. McKnight {
Delbert Overstreet Roberta Donsbache 1
Charles Hanley Donna Ryan
Bob Ticknor
The Beautification Advisory Groups recommendations included:
1)) Identify and landscapa visible areas.
j i 2) Tree Planting program in parks,
{ j 3) Bxpand it•rigation system in parks.
4) Xodian 'improvement on University Drive from Carroll to I.35,
5 Platlt wildflowers along roadsides,
6 Bxpand garden area in Civic Center Park.
j 7 'free planting program in community.
I! 8 Median improvement on University Drive from Bell to loop 268.
9 Oet business, group, agency.support for projects.
10) Ustablish an ordinance to protect beautification areas.
ll Developp` overall beautification theme for city.
12 City should fund at least one beautification project per year.
13 Start an adopt an area program,
i4 Develop ordinances to encourage beauti'ficAtion durin
development. g
15) Adoppt minimum standards for builders and developers in regard
1 { to beautification.
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Greater Denton Arts Council Recommendations
The Arts Council, recommendations intludod:
1) Construction oftitage and acoustical shell in Civic Center Park.
2) Sculpturtr harden in Civic Cen6r Park.
Joint sponsotgNi of summer arts festival.
4) Tnvesilgnte further areas of joint programming,
5} Establish -a formal process for accepting art for public places.
i 6) Investigate creation of an arts district.
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Senior Citizens Advisory GrouL Recommendations
Advisory Group Members;
Roberta Donsbache Carol Riddlesperger
Dr. Cora Martin Dr. Ralph Leach
Dr. Bert Hayslip Dr. Marie Puller
Dr. Joan Tague Wanda Knaffle
Douglas Wuenschel Deana Nenness
Joe B. Cole U. J. Ramsoy
Ann Cainley Bric Rounsfell
Elizabeth Ferring Marian Hamilton
Theda Holloway Peggy Pog'le
Blaine Murphey Past Kayser
Art Shields 'Paul Ephre m
Modena Anderson Tom Fairchild
Dr, Steve Applewhite PrAnk Davila
j Joe Bryant 0. B. O'Brien
Moody fuller Raymond Pitts
Vargle'Nimmo Howard Pulliam
I Fred Coffey George Clements
Reba Pilkey
The advisory group recommendations included;
1) Expand program services.
2) Investigate possibility of satellite programs in targeted areas
j of the city.
3 Rxpand;Senior Center.
I d~ Establish a networking system with other agencies providing
services to seniors.
5) increase public awareness of senior services.
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Therajjeutic Recreation Advisory uncil Recommendations
Advisory Council Members:
Lloyd Sanborn Jim Maestro
Earl P. Pitts Dr. Claudine Sherrill
Barbara Allyn Barbara`5anche%
Loretta May Kathy Peterson
Dave Bryant Lynne Hoilbuth
Dir. Jean Taguep Joannie Hill
Burl Bourland Ann Cummings
j Mary Zold Kathy Tedrict
Mrs. K. B. McIntyre Tom Montelione
Marilyn Cooper
Recommendations of the advisory council included:
1) Develop year round swim program,
t 2 Expand arts services for disabled,
3 Provide better access to City pool for disabled. 1
4 Expand general programs for the disabled. 1
{ S) Dedicate one FT staff person to this area.
b) Identify agoincies<who provide services.
7) Identify pftople with disabilities and determine their needs.
_ 8 Generate greater involvement of disabled in existing programs.
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SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
[
FACILITY/PROJECT $ IMPACT CRATING
Figures`6efow'~ncW~ucTe"acquisi`t on -development Costs Onnly.`AA'AA =`5igfi pi or
Projects will, be reviewed as fltnding becomes available to AAA - medium prior ,
determine actual priority of projects at the time. Impact
dollar _figures based on 1984 cost estimates. Recreation Facility Recommendations
1. Purchase land for community center 5000000 AAA
2. Construct community center 2,500,000 AAA
3. Construct school/center in Zone 2 500,000 AAA
4. Ex and Senior Center 750,000 AAA
S BikEiway Master Plan 5,,000 AAA
6. Construct school/canter in Zone b
when population reaches 10,000 500,000 AA
7. Expend tennis center 3S01000 AA
8. invostigate expansion of gun range AA
9. Municipal golf course study when
population reaches 65,000 AA
10. When Zones "1 $ 2 reach combined
population of 200000 build pool
in Evers 600,000 AA
T1,.-When Zones 5 8 6 reach combined
population of 20,000, build pool
in southern area of city 6000000 AA
Parks/Open Space Recommendations
j 1. DISD school/parks - 6 sites($50,000/
( site) 3003000 AAA
2. Acquire $ develop 100 acres
for neighborhood parks acquisition - 2,500,`000
in priority, areas development - 900,000 AAA
3. Study on linear open spare areas 250000 AAA
4,. Additional development of all
1 existing city parks 110000000 AA
5. Acquire and develop land near
Evers and Dania ($100,000/site) 200 p00 AA
6. Acquire 2 new community park sites,
1 in-NE, 1 in SE ($400,000/site) 8000000 AA.
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Adult Sports
1. Purchase land at Mack park 100,000 AAA
2. Build 2 softball fields at Mack Park 2500000 AAA
3. Construct 2 additional softball
fields as needed 350,000 AA
Youth orts
Lght 4 baseball/2 football complex
1. Li
fivers
300,000 AAA
2. Re-lomp and renovate fields at Dania 106,000 AAA
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SUMMARY OF RECOMhJENDATIONS (contd)
FACILITY/PROJECT $ IMPACT *RATING
gtlres elow inclU e ad- c uuisrt-ro-n-"'F'Tev"ef( pment costs only. Ahig`h Qr~o~`~, r
Projects will he reviewed as funding becomes available to hAA - medium priori' JJ
determine actual priority of projects at the time. Impact i
dollar figures based on 1984 cost estimates.
Youth Sports (contd)
3. Develop soccer complex at North Lakes 5000000 AAA
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Use Bvers to:
4. Construct additional baseball/football
practice fields IS00000 A.A.
5. Construe; restroom/concession stand 60,000 AA
6. Ro=surface parking areas 200,000 AA
i Use Denia to;
7. Construct restroom/concession stand 60,000 AA
8. Re-surface parking area 1009000 A.A
Beautific:.ation Committee Recommendations
i I. Identify and landscape highly visible
ublic areas 1000000 AAA
2. Tree planting program in arks
( 20,000/yr,) 80,000 AAA
3. )Ixpand irrigation system in parks
($20,000/yr) 80,000 AAA
4. University Drive median improvement
from Carroll to 1-35 1000000 AA
S. PlAnt wildflowers along roadsides
($2,500/yr) 12,500 AA
6. Expand garden area in Civic Center
Park
I 7. Commrtnity tree planting program 50,000 AA
I 8. Universiity Drive median improvement
from dell to Loop 288 200,000 AA
Arts Council ftc(Lmmendat Ions
j 1. Construct bandshell in Civic Center
park 2500000 AAA
2. Sculpturo garden in Civic Center Park 50,000 AA
Senior Services
1. Expand program services 50000 AAA;
I
z0 investigate satellite programs in
targeted areas AA
Therapeu is Retrea,ti_on
} I. 'Develop year rouricl swim program AA
2. Expand arts services for handicapped pp !
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ZONE/RECOMMENDATIONS }r'
To facilitate planning activities, the Parks and Recreation
Department has divided Denton into planning zones marked by
major thoroughfares. The zones fall into logical and
relatively homogeneous areas, but because of differences in
housing density, it is not possible to have zones of similar
population. These planning areas are easily recognizable
neighborhoods and communities within the City.
In attempting to analyze the recreation needs of the City, it
is helpful to divide It Into smaller units. The biggest reason
for this more localized consideration is to allow for
demographic differences from neighborhood to neighborhood.
Also, people tend to dislike crossing barriers such as 1-35
when they seek parks and recreation services.
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Planning 'Area 1
* Light athletic complex at Evers
* Re-developEvers Park
* Re-develop North Lakes Park
" Expand development at Bowling Green Park
* Acquire 'and `develop 10 acres for neighborhood parks
* Develop soccer complex at North Lakes
* Expand tennis center
* Construct district pool
Planning Area 2
i * Build school/center
* Re-develop Netts Shultz
* Develop school/park site at Ginnings
Acquire and develop 25 acres for neighborhood parks
* Develop one community park
* Develop Windsor Drive park site
Planning Area 3
Re-develop McKenna Park
Develop school/park sites at Razor and Congress
Acquire and develop 25 acres for neighborhood parks
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planning Are.a._4
* Re;develo Civic Center Park, Fred Moore Park, Phoenix
Park, Mock Park, and Miiam Park
Develop Woodrow Lane s.ito
* Acquire and developp 25 acres for neighborhood parks
* Dovolop school/park sites at Davis and Los
* Build bandshell In Civic Center Pai!k f
* Construct community center in Mack Park area
* Construct two lighted softball fields at Mack Park
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Planning ATS,
* Re-develop Denia Park
* Acquire and develop 10 acres for neighborhood parks
* Acquire fields at Denii for girls softball
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Planning Area .6
* Re-develOP Skiles Park and Briercliff Park
* Acquire and develop 5 acres for neighborhood parks
* Develop school/park site at Houston
* Construct school/center
* Construct district pool
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/ P1anning
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FUNDING POSSIBILITIES
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FUNDING POSSIBILITIES
Our first
priority on funding these recommendations will be to look
within the community for support through donations and leasing of
property at
where little uozed
the propertya
s not cost,st and businesses and
have helped to fund the development. neighbors
Our second priority will be to try to use funding sources available
to the City such as the General Projects Fund, Capital Improvements
Projects Fund, Community Development Funds, and the Recreation Fun
to assist with funding these recommendations. These funds could
help leverage Local Park Fund monies which are controlled by the
State of Texas. These are 50/50 matchin funds for the acquisition
and development of parks in local communities,
Our -third priority would be to seek a tax increase or bond issue to
fund the recommendations that were not funded by the above methods.
A bond issue seems like the best recommendation because bond issues
in 1965 and 1975 have funded recreation and, ark i to
date. It is probably the best way for the public top expressttheir
desire or need for additional facilities or programs.
We would propose to_investigate,funding sources in 19841 and if we
' were not able to
generate the funds needed
issue be attempted in 1985 , would propose a bond
to secure funding hese
for
recommendations. The longer we wait to attempt this bond issue .the
further we full behind in our attempt to kee
f and developing community. P up with an expanding
After a future bond issue is passed in the community,, we would
recommend the following plan of action. This
plan takes into
account that we will have the funds available to> fund all the
recommendations. If any of these -re dropped out of the plan in the
eutuee, they can be removed from t
plan also assumes that there illtibe some flexibility rand
i ro-prioritization of recommendations as a bond
together. We also understand that it is possibleis,at is pot
the items currently on our list will appear in a bond issue .not all of
The following action plan, again, assumes that all recommend
would be included in a bond is at984
co sue.:
ost C
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sti
figures mat
cbaed
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es and include only acquisition and devlopmentScosts,l98
Year of Bond Issue
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Purchase land for community center
Purchase land at Mack Park $5000000
Meet with DISD to plan establishment of 100,000
school/park sites and school/center sites
Survey community on types of facilities to be
included In community center
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First Year After Bond Issue
Hire architect to design community center,
Senior Center addition, and school/center
for NR Denton
Develop two achool/park sites $100,000
Prioritize funding of target park sites l
Apply for TPW grant funds for development
of two softball fields at Mack Park,
begin development 250,000
Identify and landscape highly visible areas 20,000
Plant wildflowers along roadsides 21500
Second Year After Bond Issue
Start construction projects:
Community Center $205000000
Senior Center Expansion 750,000
school/Center, NB Denton 500,000
Develop two school/park sjites 100,000
Acquire and develop park sites in four priority
areas, ;get TPW grant 825,000
Apply for TPW grant to develop soccer complex
at North Lakes, begin development 5000000
Re-lamp and renovate `fields 'at Denia 1000000
Re-develop. and light fields at Evers - 300,000
Begin study on,linearparks 25,000
Begin bikeway master plan 5,040
Begin tree planting program in parks 20 000
Identify and landscape hi hly visible areas '20,000
Expand irrigation system in parks 20 000
f Plant wildflowers along roadsides 2,500
I Third Year After Bond Issue
Develop two school/park sites $100000
' Acquire and develop park sites in four r '
~ p iority
areas, got T.?W grant Re-develo five existin 825,000
' Constructpband shell ingCirvi.c Center Park 3300000
Continue tree lantin 2505000 ~
• p g program in parks 20,000 '
Investigate es,pansien of gun range
Identify and landscape highly visible areas 200000
f Expand irrigation system in, parks 200000
University Drive median improvement from
Carroll 't,o I-35 1001000
° Plant wildflowers along roadsides 2,500
n Expand garden area.in Civic Center Park 500000
5 University Drivemedian improvement from
Bell to
.r Loop 288
200,000
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Third Year After Bond Issue (contd)
Expand senior program services
Investigate senior satellite programs in
targeted areas
Develop year round swim program for handicapped
Expand arts services for handicapped
Fourth Year After Bond Issue
Construct school/center in S13 Denton $500,000
Expand tennis center 350,000
Construct two softball fields dt Mack Park 350,000
Construct additional baseball/football
practice fields at Evers 150,000
Build restroom/concession stands at
Denia and avers 1200000
Re-surface parking aroas in Denia and Evers 6009000
Acquire and develop park sites in four
priority areas, get TPW grant 825,000
3 Re-develop five existing park sites 350,000
i Start community tree planting pro ram
1 Construct district pool in North Denton 6000000
Continue tree planting program in parks 20,,004 `
Identify and landscape highly visible areas 20,000
Expand irrigation system in parks 20,000
Plant wildflowers along roadsides 2,540
Sculpture garden in Civic Center Park 50,000
i
ViEth Year After Bond Issue
Acquire and develop park ;sites in four priority ,
areas, get TPW grant $025,000 ;
Re-develop five existing park sites 330,000
! Acquire new community park in NE and SE Denton 8000000
Conduct feasibility` study on golf course
Construct district pool in South Denton' 600,000
4 Continue tree planting progg•ain in parks 200000
Identify and landscape high'.ly visible areas 20,000
Bxaand irrigation system to parks 200000
# Plant wildflowers along roadsides 20500
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i SUMMARY
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SUMMARY
Parks and recreation planning is a complex exercise which
requires a delicate balance between the needs of the users, the
availability of funding, the social and political climate, and
the ability of responsible officials to interpret and to
integrate those factors. If this master plan proves
successful, it will. be due in large part to the amount of
public input and cooperation. 'The Department has striven to
provide a plan that the citizens will. continue to be involved J
with. A successful plan will add to an already high quality of
life enjoyed by Denton citizens.
The plan presentation began with a discussion of the benefits
of municipal leisure service agencies, their worth, and their
responsibilities. It was noted that modern park and recreation
departments must provide facilities and programs that citizens
cannot provide for themselves. Effectively managed parks,
programs, and leadership can add to the illusive quality of
life factor ever/one is seeking.
The City and County of Denton have prospered with steady,
though sometimes spectacular, growth. Denton is growing at a
manageable 2.69% annual rate. That allows for economic
vitality and still permits stability. Two factors have kept
Denton a young (median' age 24.9 'years) city; economic
opportunities in this area and two state universities being
located here. We have maintained steady racial proportions and
are proving to be a popular city for senior citizens.
i, Leisure services agencies must constantly monitor and evaluate
trends. Those trends that affect parks and recreation
departments range from demographic changes in the population to
the wellness concept and general fitness trend. Department
officials must also be aware of funding trends and changes in
attitude toward revenues by taxpayers. One of the most
signifIdont trends is the move toward political entities
becoming more of a service facilitator and less of a service
provider.
{
Standards, when properly adapted, are helpful in determining
amounts and location of needed facilities and open space.
These standards help administrators by providing tangible
objectives toward meeting citizen needs.
{
The Denton Parks and Recreation Department has been involved in
several survey projects locally. Using the results from those
questionnaires and adding information from the Texas "Outdoor
Recreation plan has made it possible to make some accurate
+ assumptions about the needs of Denton's citizens. It is also
imperative that the Department remain sensitive to issues
raised by users and potential users or department services.
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Recommondations previously listed in this plan are the result
of a long, arduous effort by many people. Prioritizing
facility recommendations is not easy. It is, however,
necessary. Planning keeps things moving toward established
goals and forces considoration of present and future problems
in an effort to mitigate those problems.
In attempting to recommend resource allocation, the Department
has divided the City into pplanning areas. Those six areas,
divided by major streets and -highways, can be considered as
relatively omogeneous neighborhoods. Attempting to fill
facility and open space needs in a small geographic area makes
it possible to allow more for neighborhood interests and needs.
Another way to consider facility recommendations is by
communities of interests, These communities include' athletic
interests, cultural interests, and those interested in sper,ial
populations, senior citizens, beautification, park development,
and lifetime sports interests. These groups sometimes contend
for the same resources but are very concerned also with the
well being of the overall program. We wish to thank' the
various groups, organizations, and individuals ;oho were
involved in many hours of planning associated `with these
recommendations.
The City of Denton named its first full time Parks and
N Recreation Director in 1964. Facility additions such as the
Civic Center and pool in 19650 the three recreation centers in
1975, and parks acreage having grown to 570 acres are
indications of progressive improvements. Facility deficiencies
do, however,' exist in all parts of the City, Those, have been
addressed in this plan with the hope that those deficiencies
can be addressed in a logical sequence.
Hopefully, this plan will allow the Department to maximize
present and future resources without undue adverse effect on
general revenue sources, The need for general fund tax support
i can be minimized by a greater reliance on more efficient
operation techniques, greater reliance on fees and charges, and
greater cooperation with other agencies particularly DISD,
1 r The Department is also serious about exploring outside funding
source3 such as co-sponsorship of special events and/or
programs with corporations and aggressively pursuing monies
from grant sources,
A long research and deliberation process' has translated
findings into needs, needs into a plan, and now it is important
that that plan be translated into action. The plan should
F provide an outline to help with specific day to day decisions
so that the whole program can maintain continuity and integrity.
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