HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/3/2016 - STAFF REPORTS - 5.A. iZ
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fi Cg41F0 �P City Council Staff Report
DATE: February 3, 2016 NEW BUSINESS
SUBJECT: APPOINT A DOG PARK CITY COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE, AND
DISCUSSION OF TURF MAINTENANCE AND POTENTIAL
IMPROVEMENTS TO THE PALM SPRINGS DOG PARK
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Office of the City Manager
SUMMARY:
The implementation of state-mandated water conservation measures limiting outdoor
watering to three days per week, and the City Council's prior cancellation of annual
winter rye grass re-seeding in 2014 and 2015, has resulted in the deterioration of the
turf at the Palm Springs Dog Park. Currently, most of the underlying Bermuda grass has
been lost due to the high volume use by residents, the reduced irrigation, and deferral of
annual winter re-seeding resulting in the appearance of bare ground. Complaints from
users of the Palm Springs Dog Park have prompted staff to initiate efforts with a
Landscape Architect to review the site and provide recommendations for solutions to
the on-going turf maintenance challenges.
RECOMMENDATION:
1) Appoint Mayor Moon and Councilmember Foat as a subcommittee to coordinate
on issues related to the Dog Park; and
2) Provide direction to staff as appropriate.
BACKGROUND
Planning efforts for construction of the City's first dog park were initiated in 1998.
Subsequently, the dog park was constructed on approximately 1 acre of City land
located immediately north of City Hall, as shown in Figure 1. The dog park is
landscaped primarily with turf, with a variety of trees in and around the perimeter of the
site. The type of turf used is a "hybrid Bermuda" grass, which is a very common type of
grass that is used throughout the Coachella Valley, defined as:
Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass well adapted to warm regions of
California. It does best in full sun and high temperatures. During periods of
extended low temperatures, Bermuda grass will turn brown. In areas where p�
ITEM NO. l^.
City Council Staff Report
February 3, 2016 -- Page 2
Dog Park Maintenance
Bermuda grass is well adapted, it is very water-efficient and has few pest
problems. Both seeded and hybrid varieties are durable and withstand heavy use
during the spring, summer, and early autumn months when they are actively
growing, but they can be severely damaged from traffic durinlg the winter months
when they are not growing, giving weeds a chance to invade.
During the winter months, the Bermuda grass will dormant, turning yellow and
appearing dead. Its dormancy period extends generally from September to May, when it
starts its growing season again not requiring replanting. Historically, during its dormancy
period the City will over-seed the Bermuda grass with an annual Rye which provides a
full, dark green turf throughout the winter months, after which it naturally dies off by the
summer months due to the higher temperatures.
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Figure 1
Annual winter Rye grass reseeding of the dog park typically required complete closure
of the dog park for 4-6 weeks to allow for germination of the Rye grass, and in 2014 at
the request of dog park users, the City deferred the annual reseeding to allow the dog
park to remain open during the peak season of September/October. As a result, due to
high traffic use of the dormant Bermuda grass, the condition of the underlying Bermuda
grass deteriorated.
Recently, on September 16, 2015, the City Council received a presentation on the
current status of the state-mandated water conservation regulations implemented by
Desert Water Agency on the City, and directed staff to defer annual reseeding at all City
' Taken from University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources, Statewide Integrated Pest 2
Management Program website, 1/27/16
City Council Staff Report
February 3, 2016 --Page 3
Dog Park Maintenance
parks, including the dog park, with certain exclusions. A copy of the September 16,
2015, staff report is included as Attachment 1. As noted in the staff report, the City is
under specific regulations restricting outdoor watering which has generally deteriorated
the condition of turf, trees and landscaping at all City parks and facilities. The
combination of reduced outdoor watering and deferral of annual reseeding has
significantly deteriorated the underlying Bermuda grass to the extent that most of it has
now been replaced by bare ground.
The condition of the dog park has prompted its users to question the City's maintenance
of it, requesting immediate action by the City. In response, staff held two public
meetings on December 7, 2015, with dog park users to provide an opportunity for them
express their concerns. A follow up focus meeting with dog park users was held
privately by the Mayor on December 29, 2015, and a second meeting was most recently
held with dog park users and the Mayor and Councilmember Foat on January 27, 2016.
Requests have been made that the City replace all of the existing turf, and consider
planting of "St. Augustine" grass which it has been claimed is used elsewhere in the
Coachella Valley as an all-year grass not requiring annual reseeding during the winter
months. Specifically, claims have been made that it is used at other dog parks, and at
the private recreation area at the Coyote Run apartment complex in north Palm Springs.
St. Augustine grass is defined as:
St. Augustine grass, along with bermuda grass and zoysia grass, is a warm-
season turf grass. In areas where it is well adapted, it is water efficient and has
few pest problems. St. Augustine grass is used in the most moderate California
climate zones, along the Southern California coast or in coastal valleys. It prefers
full sun, but has a high tolerance for shade. It grows quickly during the summer
months, but slows down during the spring and fall and enters a dormancy period
in the late autumn and during the winter months. Because St. Augustine grass is
not wear tolerant, it is used for lawns and general purpose turf, but not for high
traffic sports turf.2
Staff has contacted the City of Palm Desert, and has confirmed that at all of its dog
parks they have planted hybrid Bermuda grass and not St. Augustine grass. Staff has
also contacted the City of Rancho Mirage, and has confirmed that it does not currently
have a dog park, but has completed the design and is currently bidding construction of a
new 1.5 acre dog park on Key Largo Avenue and Via Vail. A copy of the conceptual
plan for the Rancho Mirage dog park is included as Attachment 2, and as shown the
majority of their new dog park will be constructed with decomposed granite with limited
area of turf(specified as hybrid Bermuda).
Staff does not recommend the City consider planting St. Augustine grass, as it is not a
true year-round turf, is difficult to maintain (is thick and problematic for removal of dog
feces), and is not recommended for high traffic sports areas like dog parks.
2 Taken from University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources, Statewide Integrated Pest
Management Program website, 1/27/16 03
City Council Staff Report
February 3, 2016 -- Page 4
Dog Park Maintenance
An immediate resolution to the recent complaints on the condition of the dog park is to
consider replanting of hybrid Bermuda grass in February/March when the temperatures
are warmer. Staff previously received a proposal in the amount of $54,375 from its
landscape maintenance contractor, Golden Valley Construction, to remove the existing
turf and replant hybrid Bermuda; a copy of the proposal is included as Attachment 3.
Staff does not recommend replanting hybrid Bermuda throughout the entire dog park at
this time due to the following issues:
1) Extension of state-mandated water conservation regulations limited outdoor watering
to 3 times per week is not sufficient to adequately maintain turf to its best condition.
2) The existing irrigation system requires replacement with an improved and more
efficient system with separate irrigation stations and valves allowing for segregation
of turf areas for maintenance.
3) Hybrid Bermuda grass requires annual reseeding with Rye grass to ensure it is not
damaged during its dormancy period, and annual reseeding may not be allowed
under the current state-mandated water conservation regulations.
Furthermore, the City of Palm Desert is encountering these very same issues with the
overall condition of its dog parks, with deterioration of the turf areas due to reduced
outdoor watering and deferral of annual reseeding. On January 28, 2016, the Palm
Desert City Council received a report on the issue, documenting the condition of its
parks; a copy of this report is included as Attachment 4.
At the January 19, 2016, Parks & Recreation Commission, staff reported that the City
had entered into a contract with one of its on-call Landscape Architects (David Volz
Design) to review the City's dog park and provide recommendations on improvements
that should be made to address the deteriorated condition of the turf, including
preparation of a conceptual plan for its complete renovation. A copy of the proposal with
David Volz Design is included as Attachment 5. Staff has met with David Volz, and he
has initiated the scope of work identified in the proposal, and will be meeting with the
appointed City Council subcommittee and an ad-hoc subcommittee of the Parks &
Recreation Commission to further discuss preliminary findings and recommendations.
Staff anticipates scheduling focus meetings with the dog park users and David Volz
Design as an opportunity to offer comments and suggestions to improving the dog park.
Ultimately, staff is suggesting that a revised design for the dog park be prepared by
David Volz Design that ultimately reduces the overall area of turf resulting in the state-
mandated 36% reduction of water use at the dog park sufficient to request approval
from Desert Water Agency to return to daily outdoor watering at the dog park. In this
way, replacement of new hybrid Bermuda grass and its annual reseeding would
hypothetically be allowed given the overall reduction in water use at the dog park,
ensuring the condition of the new grass would be adequately maintained, justifying the
City's investment at the dog park.
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City Council Staff Report
February 3, 2016 -- Page 5
Dog Park Maintenance
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:
The requested City Council action is not a "Project' as defined by the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Pursuant to Section 15378(a), a 'Project' means the
whole of an action, which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change
in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the
environment. According to Section 15378(b), a Project does not include: (5)
Organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or
indirect physical changes in the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Direction to proceed with replacement of the existing turf will cost $54,375 and is not
currently appropriated as part of the 2015/2016 fiscal year budget. Funding will require
the City Council to adopt a budget resolution appropriating funding from the General
Fund reserve.
SUBMITTED:
Prepared by: Approved by:
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Marcus L. Fuller, M WA, P.E., P.L.S. David H. Ready, Esq .D
Assistant City Manager/City Engineer City Manager
Attachments:
1. September 16, 2015, staff report
2. Rancho Mirage Dog Park
3. Golden Valley Construction Proposal
4. January 28, 2016, Palm Desert staff report
5. David Volz Design Proposal
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Attachment 1
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. a`-• •' CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
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DATE: SEPTEMBER 16, 2015 UNFINISHED BUSINESS
SUBJECT: DEFERRAL OF ANNUAL TURF OVER-SEEDING AND
CONSIDERATION OF A DROUGHT RESPONSE PLAN AT CITY PARKS
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Marcus L. Fuller, Assistant City Manager/City Engineer
SUMMARY
On May 20, 2015, the City Council received a report on the Stage 2 Water Shortage
Alert issued by Desert Water Agency (DWA), and steps to be taken by staff to comply
with the Stage 2 Alert. Accordingly, irrigation of turf within street medians and parkways
has been suspended, and irrigation at City parks and facilities has been reduced from 7
days per week to 3 days per week. As a result, landscaped areas are suffering due to
the summer heat. Annually, the City has historically initiated turf "over-seeding" with rye
grass in late September when the underlying Bermuda grass goes dormant for the
winter; however, over-seeding requires constant irrigation for a 7 day period for
germination of the rye seed — inconsistent with the Stage 2 Alert regulations adopted by
DWA. Staff requests City Council direction on the deferral of annual turf over-seeding
during the on-going drought, and regarding conceptual plans for future desert landscape
conversions at various City parks.
RECOMMENDATION:
1_ Authorize the deferral of rye-grass over-seeding at: Airport, Baristo Park, City
Hall/Civic Center Campus, Dog Park, Francis Stevens Park, Desert Highland Park,
Ruth Hardy Park, Sunrise Park (with the exception of Palm Springs Stadium
baseball field), and Victoria Park; and
2. Authorize rye-grass over-seeding at: Demuth Park (irrigated with reclaimed water),
the Palm Springs Stadium baseball field at Sunrise Park, and Village Green; and
3. Approve the conceptual plans for future desert landscape conversions at various
City parks.
aL:7 NO.�
City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015--Page 2
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
BACKGROUND:
The state of California continues to suffer an historic water crisis. While most
communities suffering from severe water shortages are located in central or northern
California, southern California relies in large part on State Water Project delivered
through the California aqueduct from northern California, or from the Colorado River.
More than 50% of California's daily water use (and as much as 80% or more) is used
outdoors for lawns and outdoor landscaping.
In response, local agencies including the City and DWA have adopted water
conservation regulations that have helped reduce outdoor use of the domestic water
supply.
On September 3, 2014, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1858 enacting Chapter
11.06 "Water Conservation and Water Waste Prevention" of the Palm Springs Municipal
Code (PSMC). Section 11.06.050 "Water Conservation Requirements" includes
restrictions on outdoor watering of lawns and landscaped areas, and identifies certain
actions that are not applicable to the water conservation regulations, and states:
(a) Watering hours and duration. No lawn or landscaped area shall be irrigated or
watered by any means between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m, on any day.
Above-ground spray irrigation or watering shall not exceed fifteen (15) minutes per
irrigation station or area. This subsection shall not apply to:
1. Drip irrigation systems.
2. Use of a hand-held bucket or similar container.
3. Use of a hand-held hose equipped with a positive action quick-release shutoff
valve or nozzle.
4. Irrigation necessary to establish newly planted low water usage plants.
5. Water expended for limited periods of time necessary for irrigation system
maintenance or leak repair.
6. Irrigation necessary to establish annual reseeding of seasonal grass and
planting seasonal color for a maximum period of fourteen (14) days after
the reseeding or the newly planted seasonal color.
The exclusion to water conservation regulations noted in item 6 was intended to allow
for the annual maintenance of lawns through over-seeding. However, Section 11.06.070
"Drought Alert Requirements" includes reference to the fact that the City's local
regulations are subject to other regulations that may be adopted, and states:
(a) The requirements of this Chapter are in addition to, and not in lieu of, the Desert
Water Agency Water Supply Plan for Emergency Supply Shortage, adopted by
Ordinance No. 45 of the Board of Directors of the Desert Water Agency, as may be
amended.
(b) The requirements of this Chapter are in addition to, and not in lieu of, any Federal or
state Water Supply Plan or Regulation for Emergency Supply Shortage.
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City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015--Page 3
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
On April 21, 2015, DWA held a public hearing and adopted Resolution No. 1108
revising mandatory conservation measures identified for its Stage 2 Water Shortage
Alert pursuant to DWA's Water Shortage Contingency Plan. A copy of DWA's
Resolution No. 1108 is included as Attachment 1; among the new or revised water use
restrictions imposed by DWA on all of its urban water customers are:
• Outdoor irrigation of commercial, industrial and institutional facilities shall be
restricted to alternate days after 7:00 PM and before 7:00 AM according to a
schedule determined by DWA; (alternatively, DWA may approve an alternative water
use reduction plan that achieves reduction in water use equivalent to those expected
from the standard restrictions)
• Outdoor residential irrigation shall be restricted to Mondays, Wednesdays, and
Fridays, after 7:00 PM and before 7:00 AM
• The use of fountains or other decorative water features shall be prohibited unless
necessary as habitat for aquatic pets (this restriction was later rescinded by
DWA)
• The application of water to outdoor landscapes during and up to 48 hours after
measurable rainfall shall be prohibited
• The use of potable water to irrigate turf within street medians, and turf within the
dedicated right-of-way on either side of a public street, shall be prohibited
Therefore, DWA Resolution No. 1108 enacted water conservation regulations that are
more restrictive than Chapter 11.06 of the PSMC, in that there is no exemption for daily
irrigation of outdoor lawn for annual reseeding of seasonal grass.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The City's water conservation efforts have resulted in a significant reduction of its water
consumption. In June 2015, the City consumed 48,848 hundred cubic feet (hcf)', or
36.5 Million gallons of water as reported by the several hundred domestic water meters
providing irrigation at City parks and landscaped medians and parkways, and providing
water supply at all City facilities. The June 2015 consumption compares to a
consumption of 85,220 hcf, or 63.7 Million gallons of water — equivalent to a year-to-
year reduction of 43%I The City's water conservation efforts surpassed the state-
mandated reduction of 36% imposed on DWA. A copy of the City's water consumption
records for June 2012—June 2015 is included as Attachment 2.
On the basis that the City has reduced its water consumption more than the 36%
reduction imposed by the state on DWA and Its customers, the City could argue an
ability to increase irrigation to accommodate annual reseeding of seasonal grass;
however, staff recommends that the City defer annual reseeding given the public
perception of wasted water associated with the constant irrigation required during the
reseeding operation_ Deferral of reseeding is recommended at:
' DWA reports water consumption in units of 100 cubic feet (hcf); there are 748 gallons
of water in 100 cubic feet.
City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015-- Page 4
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
• Airport
Baristo Park
• City Hall/Civic Center Campus
• Dog Park
• Francis Stevens Park
• Desert Highland Park
• Ruth Hardy Park
• Sunrise Park (with the exception of Palm Springs Stadium baseball field)
• Victoria Park
However, staff recommends that reseeding occur at Demuth Park given that Demuth
Park is irrigated with reclaimed water and is exempt from the water conservation
regulations applicable to potable water.
Additionally, given the recreational use of the Palm Springs Stadium baseball field, and
the need for appropriately maintained turf for baseball play, staff recommends that
reseeding occur at the Stadium baseball field only, but be deferred elsewhere at
Sunrise Park.
Finally, given the limited turf area within the Village Green, and its high use by the
public, staff recommends that reseeding occur at Village Green.
Future Desert Landscape Conversion of City Parks
There are eight parks and several City facilities with large turf areas that can be
considered for future desert landscape conversion. Limiting outdoor irrigation at these
parks and facilities to 3-days per week has caused landscaping to suffer, with turf areas
browning and adjacent trees now evidencing shock due to loss of water. It is important
to note that most of the City's parks and landscaped areas are irrigated with turf over-
spray sprinkler systems, and there are no dedicated separate tree irrigation systems.
Thus — by reducing the irrigation to the turf over-spray sprinkler system, the trees within
the City's parks are receiving much less irrigation than they require.
A Plan of Action to preserve the City's prior investment in outdoor landscaping is
required. Accordingly, staff prepared conceptual exhibits of each City park identifying
an area of 36% that may be set aside for future desert landscape conversion —
corresponding to the state-mandated reduction of 36% imposed on DWA. In theory, by
setting aside these areas, the City's water consumption will decrease by a similar
amount — and on that basis the City can request DWA approval of an alternative water
use reduction plan authorized by its Resolution No. 1108.
Implementation of the desert landscape conversion at City parks would occur in phases,
as follows:
Phase 1 — Irrigation retrofit and turf browning
Phase 2 — Desert landscape design approval
Phase 3— Desert landscape conversion t 0
City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015— Page 5
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
Staff recommends that the City initiate Phase 1 immediately, and implement
modifications to the existing irrigation systems to allow for the areas set-aside in the
City's parks to stop receiving turf irrigation. Consequently, staff would request approval
from DWA to implement an alternative water use reduction plan allowing for daily
outdoor irrigation at the City's parks and facilities where at least 36% of the landscaped
and turf areas are set-aside and allowed to brown and go bare.
The conceptual exhibits of the City parks are included as Attachment 3.
Funding to proceed with Phases 2 and 3 has not been identified. The conceptual
exhibits for Baristo Park, Desert Highland Park, Frances Stevens Park, Ruth Hardy
Park, Sunrise Park and Victoria Park identify over 750,000 square feet of landscaped
turf areas to be set-aside representing 36% of the area. Costs to implement desert
landscape conversions vary — depending upon the type of drip irrigation system and
plantings, but may cost from $4 to $6 per square foot. Thus, implementing this Plan of
Action for water conservation at City Parks may require $3 Million to $4.5 Million.
At the June 16, 2015, Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the Commission
reviewed the conceptual exhibits for implementing turf reductions at the various City
parks, and recommended approval.
At the July 21, 2015, Sustainability Commission meeting, the Commission reviewed the
conceptual exhibits for implementing turf reductions at the various City parks, and
recommended approval.
Baristo Park
Baristo Park, located at Calle El Segundo is approximately 2 acres with 27,021 square
feet (0.62 acres) of turf. Over-seeding is not advised for Baristo Park. To comply with
the state-mandated reduction of 36% imposed on DWA, staff recommends that 9,796
square feet of the turf area in Baristo Park be allowed to go fallow and considered for
conversion to desert landscape as funding is made available. The area to be considered
for conversion is indicated with cross hatching in Figure 1.
Figure 1 — Baristo Park
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City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015--Page 6
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
City Hall
There is over 58,000 square feet (1.33 acres) of turf areas at the City Hall/Civic Center
Campus. Staff recommends that these turf areas at the City Hall/Civic Center Campus
not be over-seeded. Staff has coordinated preparation of a conceptual landscape plan
for the desert-landscape conversion at City Hall, which has been reviewed by the City
Council Sub-Committee (Lewin/Mills), and will be presented to the City Council for
consideration at a future meeting.
Fi ure 2 — Cit Hall
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Demuth Park
Demuth Park shown in Figure 3 has over 61 acres of outdoor landscape and
recreational areas, and includes ball fields, 4 public tennis courts, soccer fields and tot
lot. Demuth park is open until 10 pm and is heavily utilized for team sports until late
evening hours.
Demuth Park is irrigated with reclaimed water (not potable water) which is exempt from
the water conservation regulations applicable to potable water. Staff recommends that
over-seeding occur at Demuth Park to ensure the recreational areas and sports fields
have appropriately maintained turf areas for athletic play.
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City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015—Page 8
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
Francis Stevens Park
Francis Stevens Park, located on Alejo Road between Palm Canyon Drive and Indian
Canyon Drive is 4 acres with approximately 1.6 acres of turf. Over-seeding is not
advised for Francis Stevens Park given the high traffic use anticipated in
October/November which has historically caused damaged to the newly over-seeded
rye grass. To comply with the state-mandated reduction of 36% imposed on DWA, staff
recommends that 26,478 square feet of the turf area in Francis Stevens Park be
allowed to go fallow and considered for conversion to desert landscape as funding is
made available. The area to be considered for conversion is indicated with cross
hatching in Figure 5.
Figure 5— Francis Stevens Park
Desert Highland Park
Desert Highland Park, located on Tramview Road is approximately 10 acres with 7.6
acres of turf. Over-seeding is not advised for Desert Highland Park. To comply with the
state-mandated reduction of 36% imposed on DWA, staff recommends that 2.8 acres of
the turf area in Desert Highland Park be allowed to go fallow and considered for
conversion to desert landscape as funding is made available. The area to be considered
for conversion is indicated with cross hatching in Figure 6.
City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015--Page 9
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
Figure 6 — Desert Highland Park
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Ruth Hardy Park
Ruth Hardy Park, located on Tamarisk Road is approximately 22 acres with play
structures, 8 public tennis courts, 3 sand volleyball courts, picnic tables, basketball
court, and tot lot, and 14.6 acres of turf. Over-seeding is not advised for Ruth Hardy
Park. To comply with the state-mandated reduction of 36% imposed on DWA, staff
recommends that 5.3 acres of the turf area in Ruth Hardy Park be allowed to go fallow
and considered for conversion to desert landscape as funding is made available. The
area to be considered for conversion is indicated with cross hatching in Figure 7.
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City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015 --Page 10
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
Figure 7 — Ruth Hardy Park
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Sunrise Park
Sunrise Park, located on Sunrise Way is approximately 38 acres with basketball courts,
baseball fields, and play structures, and 14.4 acres of turf. Over-seeding is not advised
for Sunrise Park with the exception of the Palm Springs Stadium baseball field. To
comply with the state-mandated reduction of 36% imposed on DWA, staff recommends
that 5.2 acres of the turf area in Sunrise Park be allowed to go fallow and considered for
conversion to desert landscape as funding is made available. The area to be considered
for conversion is indicated with cross hatching in Figure 8.
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City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015 --Page 11
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
Figure 8 — Sunrise Park
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Victoria Park
Victoria Park, located on Via Miraleste is approximately 10 acres 8.7 acres of turf. Over-
seeding is not advised for Sunrise Park. To comply with the state-mandated reduction
of 36% imposed on DWA, staff recommends that 3.1 acres of the turf area in Victoria
Park be allowed to go fallow and considered for conversion to desert landscape as
funding is made available. The area to be considered for conversion is indicated with
cross hatching in Figure 9.
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City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015-- Page 12
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
Figure 9 — Victoria Park
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FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no budget allocated for desert landscape conversion of the City's parks at this
time, which are estimated to cost from $3 Million to $4.5 Million to implement. Initially,
staff can pursue retrofit of the irrigation systems by its landscape maintenance
contractor, for a nominal cost to be funded from existing budget. However,
implementing this initial retrofit will allow the areas set-aside in the parks to go fallow
until such time as funding is appropriated to implement the desert landscape conversion
of those areas.
City Council Staff Report
September 16, 2015--Page 13
Drought Response Plan at City Parks
SUBMITTED:
Prepared by:
Marcus L. Fuller, MPA, P.E., P.L.S. David H. Ready,
Assistant City Manager/City Engineer City Manager
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Attachment 2
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Attachment 3
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Golden Valley Construction
2000 Executive Drive
Palm Springs, CA.92262
O 760 322-0010 F 760 322-0020
CA.Lic. 776249 DIR#1000005427
November 23, 2015
City of Palm Springs
Attn: Ken Custer
Ref: Dog Park
Here is another option for the dog park. If implemented,we need to over seed every winter with rye
grass or we will lose the Bermuda as we did the last two years.You can't expect dogs to run on dormant
Bermuda without fatal results.
SCOPE
Remove lawn and two inches of dirt
Grade subgrade to drain toward street
Install over-seeded hybrid Bermuda
Total Cost$54,375.00
Thank You
Mike Honz
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Attachment 4
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CITY OF PALM DESERT
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: RECEIVE AND FILE INFORMATION IN REGARD TO WATER
CONSERVATION EFFORTS
SUBMITTED BY: Mark Greenwood, P.E., Director of Public Works
DATE: January 28, 2016
CONTENTS: Water Savings and Fines (July-December 2015)
Photo of Washington Charter Park
Recommendation
Receive and file information in regard to water conservation efforts.
Background
In 2010, the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) implemented tiered water rates
that penalize excessive water use by charging higher rates for higher usage. There are
5 Tier categories with Tier 1 being "Excellent" and Tier 5 being "Wasteful." Since that
rate structure went into effect, the Landscape Services Division has been working to
increase efficiency of water use in the landscaped areas maintained by the City.
In April 2015, Governor Brown implemented a mandatory 25 percent statewide water
reduction to reduce potable urban water usage. The state-set goal for water usage
reduction for CVWD is 36 percent. Governor Brown's drought—related water restrictions
have been extended through October 2016. This reflects the widely known fact that
even in an extreme El Nino year, such as we are undergoing, the effects of the drought
will continue for at least the foreseeable future.
On July 1, 2015, a Tier 2 Drought Penalty was implemented for customers that failed to
reduce their outdoor water budget by 36 percent. Staff has implemented measures
such as program changes to the irrigation systems, replacement of outdated irrigation
systems, and not overseeding to reduce irrigation by the required percentage. These
changes have resulted in an average water reduction of 32.41 percent for the period of
July through December, 2015. Even with the reduction in usage, the City has incurred
an additional $4,985.16 in penalties compared to the same period in the prior year.
Given that maintaining the City's parks is water intensive, this increase in assessed
penalties is relatively minor and can be attributed to several factors such as failure of
outdated irrigations systems, normal park use and programmed events, increased
irrigation run time to salvage mature trees, increasing irrigation at the Hovley Soccer
25
Staff Report
Receive and File Information in Regard to Water Conservation Efforts
January 28, 2016
Page 2 of 2
Park to promote the Bermuda grass, vandalism, and increased penalty rates
implemented by CVWD.
The water savings has also come at a cost. Actively used parks such as Washington
Charter Park, Freedom Soccer Park, Hovley Soccer Park, and the four dog parks have
seen the turf severely deteriorate due to the reduced water and not overseeding or
sodding this year. The soil has become compacted and is either too dusty or too wet
when the parks are used. Staff has received complaints regarding the lack of turf,
including calls from Washington Charter School parents reporting an increase in
asthma-related incidences as a result of the additional dust. To properly correct this
issue, the Washington Charter Park will be sodded and the cost included in the budget.
Watering will be increased in other heavily used park areas in an attempt to keep the
Bermuda grass viable. This will result in increased water usage and penalties
Fiscal Analysis
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.
Department Head: Approval:
Mark Greenwood, P.E. John M. Wohlmuth, City Manager
Director of Public Works
G]PubWorkslStaH Regortsl2016Wanuary 28101 Receive and File lnrormahbn 0 Regard b Water ConservalionlSR lnIb item-Water Conservation.docx 26
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Attachment 5
33
"-I. Iql Architects 11i&I P11r1e 114ii&uIs
December 17, 2015 ww ..dvolzdesign.com
Home Office
Marcus Fuller, MPA, PE, PLS 151 Kalmus Drive, A92
Costa Mesa,CA 9262626
Assistant City Manager/City Engineer phone 714.641.1300
fox 714.641.1323
City of Palm Springs
3200 Tah uitz Canyon Way Coachella Valley Office
q y y 78060 Calle Esudo
Palm Springs, Ca 92262 La Quinn,CA 92253
phone 760.580.5165
fax 760.564.0369
HI,: PROPOS. IL 7'o t. I . II.!'. 117i . 1.N7) PROI 11Y,SOLI 110AS F0 O.1I IRY 11. U-11 GS
006 P,I RK L,I:%DR',I PLN 6
Dear Mr. Fuller,
The Palm Springs Dog Park is in need of refurbishment. This well used facility needs a general
clean-up and new dog friendly play surface. An examination of the facilities and amenities, the
large and small dog boundaries and the creature comforts for two and four legged park users
also need to be reconsidered. David Volz Design would be honored to lead a stakeholder
driven planning effort to identify and quantify the needed upgrades for this facility.
OVD proposes to reach out to the community and users to engage them in identifying needs
and possible solutions. Simultaneously the DVD team will assemble a report that examines
similar dog parks throughout the Coachella Valley and in other Southern California
municipalities. Our team will assemble data on up to a dozen similar public dog parks for
review by the stakeholders and the city's civic leaders. This report will inform the decision
making process and inspire a thoughtful plan for updating the Palm Springs Dog Park.
Thank you for the opportunity to propose on this interesting and much needed facility
improvement project. DVD has several similar dog park projects in planning and design and
our knowledge and insights will help to guide the refurbishment planning for your dog park.
Should you have any questions about this proposal or any matters please do not hesitate to
call.
Very truly yours,
I/A\Y111 \�IIL% 118�16�
David J. Volz, L.A.#2375
LEED Accredited Professional, QSD/QSP
A ,
Des(5ntne tandseapts that create Cosxn.0 Jj
3/4
SCOPE OF SERVICES L7A�
IAv.EfSfQrC a2{�4i1L�5 GY.41 P(11��ANnHS
TASK 1 - PROJECT INITIALIZATION
1.01 Prepare base map based upon city record
documents and/or available aerial photographs.
1.02 Prepare photo documentation of existing
conditions.
1.03 Prepare for initial outreach meeting, review
preparations with city staff.
Meetings&Deliverables
• Planning Base map f
• Project schedule
• Meeting with city staff
TASK 2 - SURVEY REPORT OF SIMILAR FACILITIES
2.01 Prepare information documentation matrix for
survey
f�
a. Size, age and general user profile of facility
b. Fencing and enclosure layout
c. Surface treatments and maintenance protocol
d. Operational structure, oversight
e. Amenities, fixtures
f. Problems and concerns
g. Water use, runoff controls
h. Miscellaneous comments
2.02 Request information and interview cities in the
Coachella Valley that have dog parks.
2.03 Reach out to other municipalities with similar
facilities
2.04 Compile information received
2.05 Create summary letter
2.06 Prepare survey report
TASK 3- STAKEHOLDER COMMUNITY OUTREACH * ''"
3.01 Meet community on site
Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs Page 1 of 6 35
SCOPE OF SERVICES ��l. I'^
landscape ArchiteGS and Park P.unw.ers
a. Conduct site walk
b. Discuss opportunities and objectives
c. Review limitations and challenges
d. Review findings from Survey
e. Facilitate brainstorming with participants
f. Gather ideas and inspirations
3.02 Document input received
a. Prepare summary of input
Meetings& Deliverables
Stakeholders/Community outreach meeting, summary of input
TASK 4- DEVELOP PRELIMINARY CONCEPT PLAN
4.01 Review findings with city staff
a. Identify opportunities
b. Prepare initial program for facilities improvement
4.02 Prepare conceptual plan(s)
a. Refine and consolidate ideas
b. Prepare initial program and description of alternatives
c. Annotate maps with potential development options
d. Prepare order of magnitude construction cost budgets
e. Prepare conceptual design package for review
4.03 Meet with city staff
a. Review work to date
b. Define conceptual design package
c. Prepare for stakeholder outreach meeting
Meetings&Deliverables
Preliminary concept plan(s) and report
City staff review
TASK 5- STAKEHOLDER/COMMUNITY CONCEPT REVIEW MEETING
5.01 Present conceptual plan(s)
a. Review backgrounds and challenges
b. Present initial concepts
c. Gather input
Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs Page 2 of 6 36
SCOPE OF SERVICES 1M1TjVt VA -1," :5I;-L
Caascape hrcMi!Gcit a.w Aark PtarnGrs
d. Seek consensus on collective vision
Meetings&Deliverables
Stakeholder/Community review meeting
TASK 6 - REFINE CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
6.01 Review input with city staff
a. Obtain direction for refining plans and information
6.02 Refine plans and report
6.03 Prepare for commission and council review
Meetings & Deliverables
Refined plan and report
TASK 7 - CONCEPT PLAN PRESENTATION/REVIEW
7.01 Present preliminary plans and report
a. Commission presentation
b. Collect and document input and comments
c. Review input with city staff
d. Provide addendum to report as required
7.02 Present final plans and report
a. Council presentation
b. Provide addendum to report as required
Meetings& Deliverables
Council plans and report
Addendum
Commission and presentation
Staff review meetings
Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs Page 3 of 6 37
PROJECT EXPERIENCE ID111fiV '" DWM_K '
'.a+.dsuipe Archit U and Park Ka 5
JEAN WOODARD DOG PARK
City of Yorba Linda Client.
City of Yorba Linda
The new dog play lot will encompass the identified undeveloped Mike Kudron
land at the park. The one-third acre facility will have a mulched or Parks&Recreation
inorganic surface for the dogs to play on. The design will includes Superintendent
an area for people to congregate, fencing, and water fountains for 4845 Casa Kona Avenue
P.O.Box 87014
people and dogs. Storm water pollution control measures will also Yorba Linda,Ca 92885
be designed into the facility as will ADA access. The DVD team will 714-961-7160
also explore dog play lot apparatus that could be included as a part mkudron®yorba-linda.org
of the recreational and fun facility we envision for this site. elements:
Water and shade for all
ADA accessible
Stormwater detention
,dk Services provided:
rsr� Master Plan
Construction Documents(in
progress)
f
Cost of Design:
. . S37,700
Staff:
David Volz,
Gary Vasquez
coA.tt. Paul Cassar
�cPr a .r.
JEAN WOOOARD DOG PARK
Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs Page 4 of 6 38
PROJECT EXPERIENCE KWW � 7IL
",..Ascape Architects 4.A TMrk TMwVii
TUSTIN BRANCH TRAILS
City of Tustin client:
County of Orange
Tustin Branch Trail is an approximately half-mile segment of Clay Whisenant
regional trail that makes new use of an old railroad line that Project Manager
once served the local citrus industry. It runs between East 17th orange County Parks
13042 Old Myford Road
Street and Warren Avenue. The trail's design draws on the Irvine,CA 90602
line's heritage with railroad themed signage and design details. 949-923-3762
Landscaping along the trail uses California-friendly, drought- clayton.whisenant@rdmd.ocgov.com
tolerant plants this landscaping with the colorful flowers and
Elements:
shrubs that line the trail make for a serene experience. The Trails
hard-packed clay trail surface is comfortable for all types of trail Railroad themed
use. Sustainable
Low maintenance
M Stormwater detention:bio-swales&
riparian corridor
ddd Climate sensitive plantings
Services provided:
—_`" Schematic Design,Design
�.
Development
Construction Documents,Permit and
Bidding Assistance,Construction
Period Services
Acreage: HaBmile
99y�y Date of completion: 2010
Cost 0f Design:
$26,000
Cost of Construction:
$350,000
Staff:
LADavid Volz,
Gary Vasquez
Paul Cassar
Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs Page 5 of 6 39
PROJECT EXPERIENCE
.Vkwlx Amhkt PNA ftrk 1 1
WASHINGTON STREET MINI PARK
City of Diamond Bar Client:
City of Diamond Bar
Washington Mini Park has had a great impact on this part of Bob Rose
the community where parks are scarce. A dusty vacant lot Director of Community Services
was transformed into a beautiful community gathering place. (909)839-7061
Through a community- based design process, the design brose@diamondbarca.gov
team identified the most important needs. This is now a Elements:
unique gathering place for young and old, with art, gardens, Community neighborhood park
benches, and play spaces. Art tiles created by the children Universally accessible
and full accessibility to all amenities were incorporated into Play structure
the design. Fun play apparatus, benches and tables were Stormwater detention:bio-swages a
placed along a beautiful stone walkway with a grassy area riparian corridor
Native and climate sensitive plantings
where children can run and play. Sustainability of the park Low water usage irrigation
improvements included carefully selected native and Shaded picnic area
climate-appropriate plantings, and a state of the art irrigation Chess tables
system for low water usage. The perimeter garden is a bio- Public art
swale in disguise, the parks lighting system is LED, the Gardens
irrigation system is state of the art for low-water use, the Services provided:
plantings are regionally appropriate and much of the Community Outreach
construction material was locally sourced. This beautiful Master Plan
park is designed to be vandal resistant and low maintenance. Design Development
The success of this park is evident by the hundreds of Construction Documents
Bidding Assistance
residents who use this small community space week in and Construction Period Services
week out.
Awards:
' APWA Project of the Year
APA Designer of the Year
Acreage:11.5
_ Date of completion:May 2012
Cost of Design:$48,302
Cost of Construction:$600,000
Staff:
David Volz,
Gary Vasquez
Paul Cassar
rd
Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs Page 6 of 6 40
PROJECT SCHEDULE IDMMkj
This scope of services can be delivered over a three to five month schedule dependent upon meeting times and agenda requirements. DVD will work
closely with city staff to ensure all elements of the park are considered and analyzed.The end result will be a carefully considered facility update plan
and program as well as a comparison document that examines similar municipal facilities in the valley and beyond.
MONTH 1 MONTH 2 MONTH 3 MONTH 4 MONTH 5
Scope of Services IwkI wk2 wk3 wk4 wk5 wk6 wk7 wk8 wk9 wk10 wk11 wk12 wk12 wk14 wk15 wkl6 wk17 wk18 wk19 wk20
1. Project initialization
2. Survey report of similar facilities
3. Stakeholder/Community outreach
4. Preliminary concept plan
5. Stakeholder/Community concept
review meeting
6. Refine concept design
7. Concept plan Commission presentation/
Council presentation
Work effort
Milestone
Agency review
A
~` Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs 1 of 1
FEE SCHEDULE
Lea LI7�
l.a,+dscape Arohittcts a,K1 aarle.Ptuwners
David Volz Design proposes the following Time and materials fee schedule to provide the services identified in this
proposal. The tasks listed below are estimates of the service hours for the design tasks for identified in the project
program. Billing will be based upon actual expended time for each task.
PR LA PP I CT I AD Total
Fee
Scope of Services $220 $193 $135 $121 $115 Hrs
Task 1- Project initialization 2 2 4 2 10 $ 1,540
Task 2- Survey report of similar facilities 4 8 8 2 22 $ 3,622
Task 3- Stakeholder/Community outreach 4 4 2 2 12 $ 2,124
Task 4- Preliminary concept plan 4 12 8 12 2 38 $ 5,958
Task 5- Stakeholder/Community concept review meeting 2 4 2 4 2 14 $ 2,196
Task 6- Refine concept design 2 4 2 4 2 14 $ 2,196
Task 7- Concept plan presentation/review 8 8 4 2 1 22 $ 4,018
26 42 12 38 14 1 132 $ 21,654
Reimbursables
Reimbursable expenses, printing,copying,postage,etc. Estimate $ 500
where identified included in proposed fee.
TOTAL ESTIMATED DESIGN FEE $ 22,154
ASSUMPTIONS:
1. DVD will provide the services outlined in the proposed scope of services.
Proposal to Provide Landscape Architectural Design Services for
Dog Park,City of Palm Springs 42
1of1
Travis Armstrong
Item 5A- Dog Park
I want to thank the City Council, particularly Mayor Moon and Council member
Foat, for addressing the Dog Park.
As the Parks Master Plan indicates, the Dog Park, square foot by square foot,
day in and day out, is one of the most used park spaces in Palm Springs. It's a
social space for dogs — and for people. (See attached Desert Sun article.)
It's also a victim of its own success, as well as of the maintenance challenges,
such as an irrigation system unable to water by sections.
I have attended more than 30 Parks and Recreation Commission meetings over
the past years to bring up user concerns. Our group that existed in 2011, for
example, worked with the commission and staff on numerous improvements.
(See the attached 2011 city memo.)
The commission's Dog Park Subcommittee that I have been a community liaison
to has held meetings at the park and helped with improvements. Despite all this,
the Dog Park needs a more comprehensive review to stop the cycle we are in of
every few years having a community flare-up regarding upkeep.
The Dog Park still is overcrowded, despite the fact that some residents and
visitors have stopped coming because of its condition. A reconditioned park will
bring even a higher volume.
That's why the comprehensive review also should address the Master Plan's goal
of a second dog park.
Right now, our park is the only legal public space on city property for off-leash
recreation. A second environmentally sustainable park would ease the problem of
overcrowding at the present park and maintenance challenges that go along with
such overuse. A second park also would minimize disruptions when the present
park is closed for long or short periods of time. (See our palmspringsdogs.com
Web site for more on this.)
We have a world-class animal shelter. Now it's time for world-class spaces for
our dogs to run and socialize after being sprung from the shelter.
1y� �-�4
We need more off-leash places for canine friends
Travis Armstrong 10:19pm.POTApH130,2019
Palm Springs is home to thousands upon thousands of dogs.Add to that number dogs owned by second-home
owners,seasonal residents and visitors.
It's been nearly 20 years since Palm Springs created a place for people to take dogs off-leash.Now it's time to
begin thinking about more dog-friendly spots as our canine population grows.
Not just dogs will benefit.People do,too.As a Desert Sun story noted:"The Palm Springs Dog Park(is)a
popular social hangout for canines and their owners...It's a human space."
At the park,friendships are made.Snowbirds make connections with residents.Seniors befriend people who
assist them in their lives away from the park.For individuals with physical challenges,the park may be the only
place they can exercise their dogs and get to do so in a social setting.
(Photo:court syphoro)
The dog park is the only legal fenced-in,off-leash public space in Palm Springs.You may see dogs off-leash on
trails.But,in some cases,dogs may not really be allowed there at all under state or federal codes,even when leashed.
The dog park was created in the 1990s after dog owners became tired of sneaking into parks at night.They secured land behind City Hall.The mayor
held a fundraiser at his home.After a national design competition,$100,000 in public art money paid for the hand-forged steel fence.
Today,the park suffers from its success.The parking lot can be full during the season,and the park overcrowded.Heavy use takes its loll.The park is
closed two afternoons a week for maintenance.It's also dosed for two months in the fall to reseed.
I and other dog owners for the past three years have attended nearly every meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission to ask for improvements.
The commission also has held meetings at the dog park.
To the city's great credit,it has been responsive.Parks officials have made a series of improvements,from putting in new water fountains to adding waste
bags.They've created a temporary dog park by the animal shelter for the two months the dog park is shut.This smaller space,though,isn't a long-term
answer.Instead,Palm Springs needs more on-leash and off-leash areas.
These spaces would help reduce the wear and tear on the dog park and make maintenance closures less disruptive.
The draft Parks and Recreation Master Plan,now under review,includes statistics about the usage of our 1.6-acre dog park.
These numbers are remarkable when compared to all the other parks combined and ball fields.In terms of size,foot by foot,weekend or not,no other
park really gets this kind of use.
A second space to take dogs off leash could be within an existing park or on new land.It could be built with"green"principles to reduce maintenance
costs.
Some of us would like to name it the"Officer Ike K9 Playground"to honor the police dog killed in the line of duty in 2011.(Far more,see
www.palmspringsdogs.com)
The draft master plan notes:"Add or identify dog off-leash areas or dog friendly areas(these will likely require an ordinance change to the leash law)"
The Parks and Recreation Commission has listened to community input during the master plan process to include goals of expanding dog friendly
spaces,as well as recognizing other emerging recreational needs,such as more soccer fields.
Someday,I hope my dogs Jonny and Jay Jay will have a second public place where they can run free,legally.They were sprung from the shelter,and
now need more spaces in our city to socialize,exercise and thrive.
Travis Armstrong of Palm Springs has served on the editorial boards of the San Jose Mercury News,Santa Barbara News-Press and Monterey County
Herald.He has received three awards for opinion writing from the Humane Society of the United States.You can reach him at www.travisarmstrong.com
''1N1
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Dogs at play at the Palm Springs Dog Park on Wednesday.The park will be closed for two months for reseeding.Dervrse coocserfrKE DESERT sun
Pooches' play area, padlocked
Facility to undergo t"ANf a cial scene that adds to the en-
f •1, rY � joyment of the experience.
reseeding, routineN� w Porfy Flores,57,was at the
maintenance f� _-" park with his five-month-old
:,� ' a� ;t n*. pup Paw,a Doxie mix with a
a t short,caramel and brown-col-
By Denise Goolsby y, „- ored coat.
The Desert Sun `.' ^; Flores said he enjoys the
ah camaraderie at the park.
PALM SPRINGS—The Palm 5' ,..x...--..,,, ,.,._ '' "I don't do bars," he said.
Springs Dog Park, a popular You get to meet a lot of peo-
social hangout for canines and . ple,which is really very cool.
their owners,will be closed for "They get to know you,they
two months —beginning Sat- "" get to know the dogs. If you
urday — for reseeding and 4 stop coming for a few days,
maintenance. r people ask, 'Where have you
The park willa= %a been?'I love it here."
Dec. 14, according to signs John l.amberti,left,and Jacob Ruyter chat at the Palm Springs Dog Paul Van Nies said the dog
posted at the gated entrances. Park on Wednesday.DENise GooLSBVIrNE DESERT SUN park folks are a tight-knit
People who were at the group that watches out for one
park on Wednesday expressed left out on the sidewalk during and the roots to develop. another,especially seniors.
disappointment that their fa- the closure. The city of Palm "If we let the dogs on it too "We get to know them and
vorite place to mix and mingle Springs has made alternate early,it won't grow,"he said. we know where they live,"
with their pets will be off-lim- plans to accommodate the dis- The park, established in Nies said.
its for the next two months. placed dog lovers. 1999 with the support of Deyna "They'll come by here and
"It's inconvenient," said "We're installing a tempor- Hodges, a longtime Palm if they don't show up for a
Kelly Reece, who was at the ary dog park at Demuth Park," Springs city councilwoman while,we all get concerned.A
park with dogs Max and Ru- James Thompson, Palm who lost her battle with lung few of us are able to go over
pert. "I know it's the time of Springs city clerk/chief of cancer in 2004, is more than and find out what's going on,
year they have to do it—but staff,said Wednesday. just a place where four-legged and maybe bring them here or
the weather just started get- Thompson said the two- friends stretch their limbs and take their dog for a walk closer
ting nice." month closure was necessary interact with similar species. to their home if they're recu-
Dog owners won't be totally to allow the seeds to mature It's a human space—a so-, perating."
rAIM UCC41rol"o,".
March 14, 2011
Palm Springs Parks & Recreation Commission
Tim Scott - Dog Park Subcommittee
r ROM Thomas Wilson, Assistant City Manager
Vicki Qttean, Dream, Parks b Recreation Department
SUES. _C1 Dog Park RenovahonsAJpgrades
• Repairfremove concrete walk damaged by tree roots
• Relocate brickwork with coninbutors names
• Fix large dog area water fountain at entrance
• Do a system wide examination - repair as necessary - the entire irrigation system
• Implement new fertilizing and watering schedule for grass recovery - begins April 1
• Establish new decomposed granite entry - large dog area
• Establish new mowing program - grass well not be cut lower than 1-1f2 inches at any
firm - summer grass will be grown to 2 inches plus to ensure better winter coverage
• Establish new evening watering schedule
• There will be no overseed:ng with winter grass
• Install decomposed gren4e around 'Once lines
• Redo signage
• Weekly inspections for any equipment malfunctions - eliminate standing water
• Inspect park weekly in summer - particularty, smaN dog area -for ants and spray
where observed
Home City Memo on Improvments Before Pictures
Friends of
Palm Springs Dog Park
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"The Palm Springs Dog Park, a popular social hangout for
canines and their owners ... it's a human space — social
scene that adds to the enjoyment of the experience."
—The Desert Sun, Oct. 17, 2013
Off-leash in Palm Springs, California
The Palm Springs Dog Park is a gathering space for
Coachella Valley residents, snowbirds, tourists and their dogs
of all sizes. With a fence that's a work of art commissioned
after a national contest and views of the mountains, no other
dog park in the desert can boast its character and sense of
place. It is the city's only legal leash-free public space.
WHERE: The dog park is on
the Civic Drive directly behind
Palm Springs City Hall, near Toward a second
the airport. The nearest sustainable,
intersection is Civic Drive and
Tahquitz Canyon Way. environmentally
WHAT: This is how the city friendly dog park
describes the park on its Web The city's overall stated long-
site: "The Palm Springs Dog term goals include a second dog
Park consists of 1.6 acres of park. There's even a way on the
fenced-in rolling grass with fire city's Web site to donate to help
hydrants, dual purpose create another park. Click here
canine/human drinking for how to make a donation to
fountains, picnic tables and the city's "Dog Park Operation
benches made from recycled and Development" fund,
materials, solar lighting and
shade structures. Dogs run Palm Springs is home to more
and play leash-free; park never than 10,000 dogs, in addition to
closes. Separate play area for the many dogs brought to Palm
small dogs. Beautiful fence Springs by seasonal residents,
designed and built by artist people from neighboring
Phill Evans; double-gated for communities and tourists.
safety." In the past, some expressed
concerns about about the
HISTORY: The park exists maintenance of two dog parks
today thanks to the work of when the upkeep of one at times
Palm Springs dog lovers in the has posed challenges. The
'90s. They raised start-up present park is heavily used and
money and convinced the can be overcrowded. A second
airport to sell the land to the park would help ease the
city for a dollar. The mayor at problem of"overuse." This would
the time suggested a reduce wear and tear on the
competition to design a unique original park, make it easier for
metal fence inspired by dogs the city to care for the existing
and the desert. Artists from park, and mean that short or
across the country submitted longer term closures for
more than 60 entries. Public art maintenance would be less
funds paid for the $100,000 disruptive.
expense. In 2012 and 2013, reseeding of
INVOLVEMENT: The the grass meant the city had to
close the park for two months
Friends of the Palm Springs each year and pay to create a
Dog Park was an informal temporary fenced-in location in
" group of volunteers who, from DeMuth Park.
2011 to 2012, worked to put
the park back in the public's A key to the success of a
attention. The goal was to second dog park would be to
improve the city's only off- reduce maintenance expenses
leash public space for dogs. by creating an open space built
with sustainability principles in
Now, the city has created a mind. Dog parks in other
Dog Park Subcommittee of the communities provide green
Palm Springs Parks and examples to follow, such
Recreation Commission planting drought-resistant
composed of two landscaping and using solar
commissioners and acitizen - power. They also have found
creative ways to dispose dog
member. For example, the
waste so it doesn't end up in
subcommittee recently held an
landfills, harm water quality or
community meeting at the park cause other environmental
r to hear the opinions of users. problems.
The Friends group is no longer
active. Examples include:
PARK IMPROVEMENTS: The K-9 Corner Dog Park in
The first goal of the Friends Long Beach "has a unique
�^ group in early 2011 was to try design that is environmentally
•r� to improve the park's grass. friendly by using drought tolerant
For example, sprinkler heads landscaping and generating 100
were broken. Much of the turf percent of its electricity on site
with solar energy."
came back after the city's golf-
course experts offered their At the Pacific Street Dog Park in
advice, and park users halted Cambridge, Mass., dog waste is
their fund-raising efforts for a used as an energy resource.
resodding of the park. "Anywhere people are walking
dogs can be a source of heat
and light by introducing a
ar'A In early 2012, the turf again methane digester into the
r s was having problems and the equation ... The Park Spark
Friends group met with the city Proiect is the transformation of
once mor dog waste into energy
e. The city reseeded
in the fall of 2012 and again in (methane) through a publicly fedmethane digester as an
2013, closing the park from interactive urban intervention
>e .�: pt mid-October to mid-December that questions our current waste
each year. The city created a system, and at the same time
temporary dog park in DeMuth creates an opportunity for others
to participate in the (re)imaging
Park by the new Palm Springs
� of the byproduct energy
Animal Shelter during the (methane)." The Streetkleen
• closures. project in London is using "dog
fouling" to create energy.
The city also has installed new
drinking fountains, placed In Ithaca, N.Y., environmentally
conscious members of group
gravel around the perimeter of creating a new dog park
the park, poured concrete in "became concerned about the
a certain areas, replaced broken environmental impacts from the
bricks, inspected and trimmed large amount of dog waste and
trees and roots, and moved a plastic bags entering the waste
sign that was covering an stream. As a solution, the group
started a pilot project to
artistic element on one of the determine whether the dog doo
gates. could be disposed of in an
environmentally-friendly fashion
The city had the fence through composting. After
repainted in early 2013. Waste reviewing the logistics, members
bag stations also have been agreed that the dollar costs of
' installed. composting were probably
cheaper than garbage disposal
J and waste removal."
Dog park users have taken on
their own improvement- The Crescenta Valley Dog Park
projects. One user helped in Los Angeles County was
"designed with xeriscaping in
improve a drainage problem mind. There will be some paved
near the drinking fountain in areas, drought tolerant plants
the small dog area by bringing and a good portion of the park
in rocks to create a drainage will be landscaped with mulch
'T area. Another person has (which will cut down on watering
installed water-cooling misters and maintenance requirements
and fleas tend to not like to like
c in the small dog area.
1w S it). There is also an integrated
water collection channel that will
An appreciative bark out to all collect rain water during the
the park users, city staff, the winter months and lessen the
j ' ,•._: p: w ,:.a :
Pa need for watering."
n..-- Parks and Recreation
commissioners, and the Members of the city's Parks and
commission's Dog Park Recreation Commission have
Subcommittee members who expressed support for a second
,- collaborated to enhance the dog park.
Palm Springs Dog Park. The time is here is for a new
sustainable, environmentally
E-mail your information to friendly dog park in Palm
trav1000Co).ao1 com to add your Springs that will be a model for
name to the e-mail list, other communities to follow.
p
Palm Springs dog links i , Ille"
City of Palm Springs Dog Park page If' J •••'—'"•"",
Terra Labo residents. Tax is `unfair'
PalmSprings com Dog Park page
VisitPalmSprings com's Doa Park Page I
Phill Evan's Web site • artist who created the Dark's fence MMMKAQ"
t>n,irrr
Dggfriendly.com'c Palm Borings page
Yelo.com reviews of the Palm Springs Doa Park
Doagoes com's Palm Springs Dog Park Dage
Brinafido com's Palm Springs Dog Park�age Pooches' 1)1t1y itr@fl t)$C110cl:CCi
Palm Springs Animal Qgntrol and Shelter
Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter October 2013 article about the two-month closing
of the dog park for reseeding the grass.
Riverside County Animal Qontrol and Shelters
Animal Samaritans
Save A Pet
Jay Thompson
From: Jay Thompson CITY OF PALM SPRINGb
Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 2016 4:59 PM 2016 FEB -2 PM 5: 00
To: Jay Thompson
Subject: FW: Dog park discussion JAHES THOIiPSON
CITY CLERK
From: larry mcfadden <larpv(a msn.com>
Date: February 2, 2016 at 10:55:20 AM PST
To: Marcus Fuller<Marcus.Fuller cr palmsprings-ca.gov>, David Ready <David.Readygyalmsprings-ca.gov>
Subject: Dog park discussion
I noted that there is a discussion of the dog park on the agenda and would hope at some point it
can be mentioned/discussed the idea of having a smaller park at Ruth Hardy AND at
DeMuth. There already exists an enclosure at DeMuth which the ASPC uses and there is ample
room at Ruth Hardy for a small one. That could take the pressure of the main park and keep it in
better condition.
Unfortunately, I am out of the area until February 24th so will be unable to attend the meeting.
Merely a suggestion but something to consider!!!
Larry McFadden
Larpvkmsn.com
(760) 668-9110
Sent from my Wad
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