HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-2019 Parks and Recreation Master PlanMarch 10, 2015
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
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PROJECT STAFF
MARK WESTERMEIER,
MICHAEL W. KLITZING,
PARK BOARD
JAMES L. ENGLEDOW, President
RICHARD F. TAYLOR III, Vice President
JENN KRISTUNAS, Treasurer
JOSHUA A. KIRSH, Secretary
WENDY FRANKLIN
KATHIE FREED
JAMES D. GARRETSON
RICHARD LEIRER
LINUS RUDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.2 AGENCY BACKGROUND 2
1.3 PROJECT PROCESS & PURPOSE 2
1.4 VISION STATEMENT 3
1.5 MISSION STATEMENT 3
1.6 STATEMENT ON ACCESSIBILITY 3
1.7 CURRENT PARKS MAP & DEFINITION OF PLANNING AREA 5
1.8 PARK BOARD 6
1.9 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 6
1.10 KEY RECOMMENDATIONS 7
1.11 “BIG ROCK” RECOMMENDATIONS 9
1.12 CONCLUSION 9
2.1 GENERAL FINDINGS 10
2.2 KEY LEADERSHIP AND STAKEHOLDER PUBLIC INPUT 11
2.3 STATISTICALLY VALID COMMUNITY SURVEY 12
3.1 NATURAL FEATURES AND LANDSCAPE 34
3.2 CLIMATE 37
3.3 MAN-MADE, HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL 38
3.4 SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS 42
3.5 TRENDS ANALYSIS 49
3.6 BENCHMARK ANALYSIS 56
4.1 PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES ASSESSMENT 61
4.2 RECREATION PROGRAM ASSESSMENT 64
4.3 PARK CLASSIFICATIONS AND LEVEL OF SERVICE STANDARDS 76
4.4 SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS/EQUITY MAPPING 85
4.5 PRIORITIZED FACILITY AND PROGRAM NEEDS ASSESSMENT 102
4.6 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN 105
5.1 OPERATIONAL AND MAINTENANCE REVIEW 113
5.2 FINANCIAL ANALYSIS 117
5.3 FUNDING AND REVENUE STRATEGIES 127
6.1 GUIDING PRINCIPLES 132
6.2 KEY RECOMMENDATIONS 132
6.3 “BIG ROCK” RECOMMENDATIONS 134
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munity, a thriving economy, and a high quality of life in the City of Carmel and Clay Township.
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and removing barriers in order to serve individual and community needs, as well as to provide quality programs
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Funding
Mechanisms to Support Support Vision
Land and Open
Space
Programs
Maintenance
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Flowing Well ParkWest Park
Central Park
Carmelot Park
Founders Park
Meadowlark Park
Cherry Tree Park
Carey Grove Park
Lenape Trace Park
Hazel Landing ParkPleasant Grove Park
Prairie Meadow Park
River Heritage Park
Lawrence W. Inlow Park
White River Greenway
Monon GreenwayHagan-BurkeTrailGre y h o un d
Tr ai lSources: Esri, DeLorme, NAVTEQ, USGS, Intermap, iPC, NRCAN, Esri Japan,METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri (Thailand), TomTom, 2012
Carmel Clay, IndianaParks and Recreation Master PlanCCPR ParksSystem Map
0 1.5 3 4.5 6Miles
1 in = 2 miles
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Local Road
Major Road
Highway
Carmel Boundary
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1.8 PARK BOARD
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2.1.1 STRENGTHS OF CCPR
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Q3. Importance of Parks, Recreation Services, and Open
Space to the Quality of Life in Carmel and Clay Township
by percentage of respondents
Very Important62%
Important
30%
Neutral
4%
Somwhat Important3%
Not Important
1%
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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57%
52%
20%
20%
19%
17%
9%
6%
3%
2%
Provide opportunities to enjoy nature/outdoors
Improve health and wellness
Promote the natural environment
Connect people, build stronger families & neighbor
Enhance community image & sense of place
Promote youth and development
Help seniors & people with disabilities remain act
Provide opportunities for lifelong learning
Provide cultural activities
Other
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%
Q4. Benefits of Parks, Recreation Services, and
Open Space that Are Most Important
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by percentage of respondents (sum of top 2 choices)
69%
55%
46%
39%
32%
28%
19%
18%
15%
15%
14%
12%
10%
9%
9%
2%
1%
4%
Monon Community Center
Monon greenway
West park
Central park
Flowing Well park
Founders park
Hagan Burke trail
River Heritage park
Lawrence W. Inlow park
Greyhound trail
Carey Grove park
Hazel Landing park
Meadowlark park
Cherry Tree park
White River greenway
Prairie Meadow park
Lenape Trace park
None chosen
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%
Q5. Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation Locations
Households Have Visited in the Past 12 Months
by percentage of respondents (multiple choices could be made)
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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Excellent
58%
Good40%
Fair
2%
by percentage of respondents
Q5a. Overall Condition of Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation Locations Households Have Visited
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
25%
21%
20%
11%
8%
7%
7%
6%
4%
3%
3%
3%
2%
2%
1%
7%
40%
Fitness/Wellness Programs
Community Events
Aquatic Programs
Arts & Culture Programs
Summer Camps
Extended School Enrichment
Preschool/Toddler Programs
Youth Recreation Programs
Youth Sport Clinics
Outdoor Education
Adult Sports Leagues
Continuing Education/Skills Development
Tween/Teen Programs
Adaptive Recreation
Senior Recreation Programs
Other
None
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
Q6. Programs and Activities Offered by Carmel Clay Parks and
Recreation that Households Have Participated in
During the Past 12 Months
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by percentage of respondents (multiple choices could be made)
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1 program/activity30%
2-3 prgms/activities41%
4-6 prgms/activities11%
7-10 prgms/activities5%
11+ prgms/activities3%
Don't Know10%
Q6a. Number of Programs and Activities Offered by Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation That Household Have Participated in
During the Past 12 Months
by percentage of respondents that have participated in Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation programs
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
69%
40%
37%
25%
24%
21%
20%
8%
5%
9%
Location of the program facility
Times the program is offered
Quality of the program facility
Fees charged for the class
Friends participate in the program
Quality of instructors/coaches
Dates the program is offered
Nowhere else to go for the service
Other
None chosen
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%
Q6b. Primary Reasons Households Have Participated in
Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation Programs and Activities
by percentage of respondents that have participated in Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation programs(multiple choices could be made)
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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Excellent44%
Good50%
Fair5%
Poor1%
Q6c. Overall Quality of Recreation Programs and Activities in Which Households Have Participated
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by percentage of respondents that have participated in Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation programs
Q7. Ways You Prefer Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation to Provide Your Household with Information
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
64%
46%
43%
18%
17%
14%
13%
7%
5%
3%
3%
Escape Guide (seasonal program brochure)
Parks and Recreation website
eNewsletters
Newspaper
Fliers at recreation facilities
School newsletters/messenger
Social media
Television
Radio
Converstaions with staff
Other
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%
by percentage of respondents (multiple choices could be made)
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75%
30%
26%
26%
24%
20%
15%
12%
11%
8%
5%
8%
8%
Carmel Clay Parks & Rec/Monon Comm. Center
Homeowners Association Parks & Facilities
Hamilton County Parks & Rec
Private Fitness Centers
Carmel Dad's Club
Church/Faith Based/Rec Facilities
Indy Parks & Rec
School District/PTO Prgms & Facilities
Noblesville Parks & Rec
YMCA
Fishers Parks & Rec
Other
None
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Q8. Service Providers Households Have Used for Indoor and
Outdoor Recreation Activities During the Last 12 Months
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by percentage of respondents (multiple choices could be made)
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8%
71%
26%
24%
22%
21%
14%
11%
9%
7%
5%
3%
6%
Carmel Clay Parks & Rec/Monon Comm. Center
Private Fitness Centers
Homeowners Assn Parks & Facilities
Carmel Dad's Club
Hamilton County Parks & Rec
Church/Faith Based/Rec Facilities
Indy Parks & Rec
School District/PTO Prgms & Facilities
Noblesville Parks & Rec
YMCA
Fishers Parks & Rec
Other
None
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice
Q8a. Service Providers Households Have Used Most Frequently
for Indoor and Outdoor Recreation Activities
During the Last 12 Months
by percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top three choices
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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81%78%54%53%52%49%48%48%39%39%33%32%30%29%27%24%24%23%20%18%16%13%12%10%9%8%8%7%
Paved multipurpose trails (walking, biking, etc.)Nature trails/boardwalksWalking/running track (indoors)Fitness/exercise facilities (indoors)Swimming/activity pools (outdoors)PlaygroundsSwimming/activity pools (indoors)Nature centerSpray park (above ground water play)Picnic shelters (rentable)Fishing areas (lakes, ponds, river access)Off-leash dog parkLap lanes for exercise swimming (indoors)Ice skating rink (indoors)Basketball courts (outdoors)Basketball/volleyball courts (indoors)Tennis courts (outdoors)Soccer/multipurpose fields for youthDisc golf courseBaseball/softball fields for youthRock climbing wall (indoors)Soccer/multipurpose fields for adultsSoftball fields for adultsBike/BMX parkSkate parkCommunity vegetable garden (rentable plots)Bocce ball courtsPickleball courts (indoors or outdoors)
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Q9. Park and Recreation Amenities Your
Household Has a Need For
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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23,34322,67615,57115,31015,19414,26713,97713,80311,42511,2519,6279,2508,5838,3227,9456,9016,9016,6985,8575,2774,7273,6833,3933,0162,6392,3782,1751,885
Paved multipurpose trails (walking, biking, etc.)Nature trails/boardwalksWalking/running track (indoors)Fitness/exercise facilities (indoors)Swimming/activity pools (outdoors)PlaygroundsSwimming/activity pools (indoors)Nature centerSpray park (above ground water play)Picnic shelters (rentable)Fishing areas (lakes, ponds, river access)Off-leash dog parkLap lanes for exercise swimming (indoors)Ice skating rink (indoors)Basketball courts (outdoors)Basketball/volleyball courts (indoors)Tennis courts (outdoors)Soccer/multipurpose fields for youthDisc golf courseBaseball/softball fields for youthRock climbing wall (indoors)Soccer/multipurpose fields for adultsSoftball fields for adultsBike/BMX parkSkate parkCommunity vegetable garden (rentable plots)Bocce ball courtsPickleball courts (indoors or outdoors)
0 6,000 12,000 18,000 24,000
Q9a. Estimated Number of Households in Carmel That
Have a Need for Parks and Recreation Amenities
by number of households based on 28,997 households in Carmel
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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57%56%53%50%49%49%48%47%47%44%40%40%37%36%36%35%35%28%26%21%19%16%16%15%14%12%9%8%
23%26%34%25%30%28%31%33%17%37%35%29%23%28%12%30%26%28%33%
22%32%23%
16%21%4%19%
15%10%9%13%15%15%12%16%18%17%19%19%14%24%19%14%14%23%20%26%19%23%31%10%12%25%9%15%
3%
5%
2%
7%
6%
5%
3%
1%
13%
3%
4%
4%
14%
6%
19%
5%
10%
13%
9%
16%
11%
10%
18%
20%
10%
13%
9%
19%
3%
3%
1%
6%
3%
6%
3%
6%
1%
7%
11%
6%
15%
16%
16%
10%
12%
37%
30%
19%
13%
55%
48%
28%
70%
40%
Swimming/activity pools (outdoors)Walking/running track (indoors)PlaygroundsFitness/exercise facilities (indoors)Spray park (above ground water play)Swimming/activity pools (indoors)Soccer/multipurpose fields for youthPaved multipurpose trails (walking, biking, etc.)Lap lanes for exercise swimming (indoors)Picnic shelters (rentable)Nature trails/boardwalksBasketball/volleyball courts (indoors)Softball fields for adultsBaseball/softball fields for youthDisc golf courseSoccer/multipurpose fields for adultsIce skating rink (indoors)Basketball courts (outdoors)Nature centerPickleball courts (indoors or outdoors)Skate parkBike/BMX parkFishing areas (lakes, ponds, river access)Bocce ball courtsOff-leash dog parkTennis courts (outdoors)Community vegetable garden (rentable plots)Rock climbing wall (indoors)
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
100% Met 75% Met 50% Met 25% met 0% met
Q9b. How Well Park and Recreation Amenities Are
Meeting Your Household Needs
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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9-3. How Well Needs Are Met for a Walking/Running Track
2013 Carmel Community Interest and Opinion Survey
Shading reflects the mean rating for all respondents by CBG (merged as needed)
9-2. How Well Needs Are Met for Swimming/Activity Pools (Outdoors)
2013 Carmel Community Interest and Opinion Survey
Shading reflects the mean rating for all respondents by CBG (merged as needed)
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9P. How Well Needs Are Met for Fitness/Exercise Facilities
2013 Carmel Community Interest and Opinion Survey
Shading reflects the mean rating for all respondents by CBG (merged as needed)
9H. How Well Needs Are Met for Playgrounds
2013 Carmel Community Interest and Opinion Survey
Shading reflects the mean rating for all respondents by CBG (merged as needed)
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Q9c. Estimated Number of Households in Carmel Whose Needs
for Park and Recreation Amenities Are Only Being
50% Met or Less
2,3652,171
6,5495,8725,5905,5334,6924,6383,8893,5763,4513,2883,2573,1503,1453,0742,881
2,1332,0691,9001,8491,7701,5621,5601,4881,4001,3571,293
Off-leash dog parkFishing areas (lakes, ponds, river access)Nature centerNature trails/boardwalksPaved multipurpose trails (walking, biking, etc.)Tennis courts (outdoors)Fitness/exercise facilities (indoors)Basketball courts (outdoors)Rock climbing wall (indoors)Ice skating rink (indoors)Swimming/activity pools (indoors)Lap lanes for exercise swimming (indoors)Swimming/activity pools (outdoors)Disc golf courseWalking/running track (indoors)Spray park (above ground water play)Picnic shelters (rentable)Basketball/volleyball courts (indoors)Community vegetable garden (rentable plots)Baseball/softball fields for youthBocce ball courtsPlaygroundsSkate parkBike/BMX parkPickleball courts (indoors or outdoors)Soccer/multipurpose fields for youthSoftball fields for adultsSoccer/multipurpose fields for adults
0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000
50% Meets Needs 25% Meet Needs 0% Meets Needs
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by number of households based on 28,997 households in Carmel
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Excellent44%
Good50%
Fair5%
Poor1%
Q6c. Overall Quality of Recreation Programs and Activities in Which Households Have Participated
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by percentage of respondents that have participated in Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation programs
Q7. Ways You Prefer Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation to
Provide Your Household with Information
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
64%
46%
43%
18%
17%
14%
13%
7%
5%
3%
3%
Escape Guide (seasonal program brochure)
Parks and Recreation website
eNewsletters
Newspaper
Fliers at recreation facilities
School newsletters/messenger
Social media
Television
Radio
Converstaions with staff
Other
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%
by percentage of respondents (multiple choices could be made)
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17,94914,7309,4539,2508,4097,4526,9886,8146,6986,1476,1476,0315,2775,1905,1034,0604,0604,0603,9733,9733,7702,9292,8422,8422,5522,4652,4652,3491,421
Community eventsFitness/wellness for adultsArts & Crafts classesOutdoor/environmentalFitness/wellness for youthFitness/wellness for seniorsWinter sport activitiesRecreational sports youthRecreational sports adultsDance/performing artsLearn to swimSenior programsWater aerobics/fitnessTennis lessons/leaguesSummer/school break campsBefore/after school careGolf lessons/leagues youthRecreational sports seniorsGolf lessons/leagues adultsGymnastics/tumblingPreschool/early childhoodParent's day outMartial artsRopes/challenge coursesScuba diving instructionGolf lessons/leagues seniorsRock climbing instructionDaycare for preschoolersAdaptive programs (people with disabilities)
0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000
Q11a. Estimated Number of Households in Carmel That Have
a Need for Recreation Programs and Services
by number of households based on 28,997 households in Carmel
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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60%42%42%40%39%36%36%33%33%31%31%29%29%28%25%24%20%20%19%18%14%14%14%14%11%10%8%5%4%
22%23%8%31%30%22%15%11%12%23%19%38%
38%35%20%28%20%23%21%12%14%5%23%8%17%12%16%15%
8%18%29%17%18%17%26%30%21%29%15%29%57%22%25%27%26%37%34%40%28%22%27%14%22%33%12%36%15%
8%12%
13%
6%
9%
16%
18%
15%
21%
17%
12%
4%
9%13%10%18%
15%
17%
16%
24%
22%
32%
23%
33%
21%
24%
23%
33%
3%5%
8%
6%
5%
9%
5%
11%
12%
23%
1%
14%
3%3%19%8%10%
6%
5%
22%
28%
23%27%25%19%44%20%33%
Before/after school careDance/performing artsDaycare for preschoolersRecreational sports youthSummer/school break campsLearn to swimGymnastics/tumblingParent's day outRecreational sports seniorsPreschool/early childhoodMartial artsCommunity eventsAdaptive programs (people with disabilities)Fitness/wellness for adultsFitness/wellness for youthRecreational sports adultsOutdoor/environmentalWater aerobics/fitnessFitness/wellness for seniorsArts & Crafts classesTennis lessons/leaguesGolf lessons/leagues-youthGolf lessons/leagues-seniorsRock climbing instructionGolf lessons/leagues-adultsSenior programsScuba diving instructionWinter sport activitiesRopes/challenge courses
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
100% Met 75% Met 50% Met 25% met 0% met
Q11b. How Well Recreation Programs and Services are
Meeting Your Household Needs
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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Q11c. Estimated Number of Households in Carmel Whose Needs
for Recreation Programs and Services Are Only
Being 50% Met or Less
1,723
5,8875,7285,5075,0684,8844,4094,3143,8413,7443,3893,2183,1982,9312,5392,3132,2132,1512,0412,0171,9961,931
1,6251,6231,5681,4221,1751,014768
Community eventsArts & Crafts classesWinter sport activitiesFitness/wellness for adultsOutdoor/environmentalSenior programsFitness/wellness for seniorsTennis lessons/leaguesRecreational sports adultsFitness/wellness for youthWater aerobics/fitnessGolf lessons/leagues adultsGolf lessons/leagues youthLearn to swimRopes/challenge coursesRecreational sports seniorsDance/performing artsScuba diving instructionGolf lessons/leagues seniorsRecreational sports youthGymnastics/tumblingPreschool/early childhoodParent's day outSummer/school break campsRock climbing instructionMartial artsDaycare for preschoolersAdaptive programs (people with disabilities)Before/after school care
0 2,000 4,000 6,000
50% Meets Needs 25% Meet Needs 0% Meets Needs
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by number of households based on 28,997 households in Carmel
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22%
2%
43%32%17%14%13%12%12%12%11%10%9%8%7%6%6%6%6%5%4%4%4%3%3%3%3%2%2%
2%
Community eventsFitness/wellness for adultsOutdoor/environmentalFitness/wellness for seniorsArts & Crafts classesLearn to swimRecreational sports youthFitness/wellness for youthSenior programsRecreational sports adultsTennis lessons/leaguesWinter sport activitiesSummer/school break campsDance/performing artsBefore/after school careDaycare for preschoolersWater aerobics/fitnessGolf lessons/leagues adultsMartial artsAdaptive programs (people with disabilities)Gymnastics/tumblingParent's day outRecreational sports seniorsRopes/challenge coursesPreschool/early childhoodGolf lessons/leagues youthScuba diving instructionGolf lessons/leagues seniorsRock climbing instructionNone Chosen
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
Most Important 2nd Most Important 3rd Most Important 4th Most Important
Q12. Recreation Programs and Services Most
Important to Your Household
by percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top four choices
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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68%
68%
58%
55%
53%
48%
47%
47%
42%
37%
34%
28%
27%
27%
21%
20%
25%
27%
29%
34%
32%
30%
34%
32%
28%
38%
35%
30%
33%
34%
19%
30%
6%
4%
9%
9%
14%
20%
17%
17%
22%
20%
23%
36%
28%
32%
50%
39%
1%
1%
3%
2%
1%
2%
3%
3%
6%
4%
7%
6%
9%
6%
9%
9%
0%
1%
0%
1%
1%
3%
2%
2%
1%
4%
2%
2%
2%
Maint/cleaniness Monon Comm Ctr
Maint/cleanliness of parks/trls
Convenience of parks to home
Number of parks throughout the community
Condition fitness equipment-Monon
Customer assistance by staff-facil
Selection of fitness equipment
MCC hours of operation
Customer assistance by staff-phone
Availability of information
Ease of registering for pgms
Quality/number/type youth programs
User friendliness of website
Quality/number/type adult programs
Quality/number/type senior programs
Use of social media/e-Mktg
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Very Satisfied Somewhat Satisfied Neutral Somewhat Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied
Q13. Overall Satisfaction with Carmel Clay
Parks and Recreaton Items
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
23%
37%
20%
18%
16%
16%
13%
13%
12%
12%
9%
9%
7%
7%
7%
6%
5%
Maintenance/cleanliness of parks and trails
Number of parks throughout the community
Quality, number & type of youth programs
Maintenance/cleanliness of Community Center
Quality, number & type of adult programs offered
Availability of information programs and facilitie
Convenience of parks to my home
User friendliness of website
Quality, number & type of senior programs
Ease of registering for programs
Monon Community Center hours of operation
Selection of fitness equipment Community Center
Condition of fitness equipment at Community Center
Customer assistance by staff at facilities
Use of social media & eMarketing
Customer assistance by staff over the phone
None Chosen
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice
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Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top three choices
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37%
35%
33%
33%
30%
29%
26%
23%
18%
18%
32%
31%
23%
22%
18%
24%
16%
25%
21%
20%
23%
28%
33%
34%
36%
34%
35%
29%
36%
42%
8%
7%
11%
11%
16%
14%
23%
23%
25%
21%
Upgrade play grd/amenities in parks
Finish developing multiuse trail
Acquire new parkland NW Carmel
Enhance West Park upgrade
Acquire new parkland NE Carmel
Build playground/spray park
Construct community center W Carmel
Develop special event park
Develop adult sports complex
Assist City manage Brookshire Golf
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Very Supportive Somewhat Supportive Not Sure Not Supportive
Q15. Overall Support For Actions Carmel Clay Parks &
Recreation Could Take to Improve the Park System
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
19%
12%
31%
31%
25%
22%
21%
20%
20%
15%
14%
12%
Upgrade playgrounds/amenities in existing parks
Finish developing multi-use trail along White Rive
Enhance West Park through upgraded/new amenities
Acquire new parkland in northwest Carmel
Acquire new parkland in northeast Carmel
Develop special event park in downtown Carmel
Construct a comm. center on west side of Carmel
Build a playground and spray park in Central Park
Develop an adult sports complex
Assist the City by managing Brookshire Golf Course
Other
None Chosen
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice
Q16. Actions That Are Most Important for Carmel Clay
Parks & Recreation Officials to Develop
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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Very Satisfied51%
Somewhat Satisfied32%
Neutral10%
Somewhat Dissatisfied3%
Very Dissatisfied1%
Don't Know3%
by percentage of respondents
Q17.Level of Satisfaction with Overall Value Your Household Receives From Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
Q1. Demographics: Number of People in Household
by percentage of respondents
One
5%
Two33%
Three
19%
Four28%
Five+15%
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
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Q2. Demographics: Ages of People in Household
by percentage of household occupants
Under Age 55%
Ages 5-98%
Ages 10-148%
Ages 15-1910%Ages 20-245%Ages 25-347%
Ages 35-4414%
Ages 45-5417%Ages 55-6414%
Ages 65+11%
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
Q19. Demographics: Gender
Male42%
Female58%
by percentage of respondents
Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute (May 2013)
Q20. Demographics: Number of Years lived in the City of Carmel or Clay Township
5 or fewer years16%
6-10 years24%
11-15 years16%
16-20 years15%21-25 years15%
26-30 years5%
Over 30 years9%
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E 116th StW 116th St
Gray RdE 146th StW 146th St
Towne RdTowne RdGray RdShelborne RdRiver RdE 126th St
College AveE 106th St
Carmel Dr
99th St
E 111th StOld Meridian StW 106th St
Dtch RdW 121st StWest RdW 126th St
Clay Center RdW 141st St
W 136th St
Six Points RdSpring Mill RdE 136th St
River RdMain St Carey RdOak Ridge RdWestfield BlvdHazel Dell PkwyE 103rd St
E 131st St
Pennsylvania StDitch RdW 131st St
Shelbourne RdIllinois St Range Line RdKeystone AveSR
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Fitness
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OUTDOOR RECREATION MARKET ANALYSIS
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Fund
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Chapter Four
PROGRAM AssessMent AnD OveRvIeW
In the Socioeconomics of Urban Travel: Evidence from the
2001 National Household Travel Survey report, John Pucher and John Renne evaluate variations in travel behavior and other behavioral characteristics based on income, race,
ethnicity, sex, and age.
They developed a 65-segment Community Tapestry system that classifies U.S. neighborhoods based on their
socioeconomic and demographic compositions. Community Tapestry combines the traditional statistical methodology of cluster analysis with ESRI’s latest data mining techniques
to provide a robust and compelling segmentation of U.S.
neighborhoods. Tapestry market information is of particular importance for an abundance of campaigns, including:
• Targeting specific groups
• Using customer preferences in developing services
• Customer relations and marketing
To provide a broader view of the 65 various tapestry profile
segments, twelve LifeMode groups were created. LifeMode
groups are based on lifestyle and lifestage composition.
When analyzing the LifeMode Groups by household income,
it is evident that although LifeMode Groups are summarized based on a shared experience, many of the similarities are based on the socioeconomic profiles of the segmented
populace. Figure 9 illustrates the income ranges of each of
the LifeMode Groups. While most fall in the middle ground, only one group – High Society – is exclusively comprised of
very affluent households.
INCOME RANGE OF THE LifeMode SUMMARY GROUPS
L1 High Society
L2 Upscale Awareness
L3 Metropolis
L4 Solo Acts
L5 Senior Styles
L6 Scholars and Patriots
L7 High Hopes
L8 Global Roots
L9 Family Portrait
L10 Traditional Living
L11 Factories and Farms
L12 American Quilt
$16,339 per year $168,876 per year
Figure 9 - lifeMode Groups
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Rank Percent Percent
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2015-2019
Parks and Recreat ion Master Plan
Appendices
March 10, 2015
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
i
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank the many citizens, staff and community groups who provided
extensive community input for the development of this Parks and Recreation Master
Plan. The efforts of this community will continue to ensure the success of Carmel Clay
Parks & Recreation.
Project Staff
Mark Westermeier, CPRP, Director of Parks and Recreation
Michael W. Klitzing, CPRE, Chief Operating Officer
Park Board
James L. Engledow, President
Richard F. Taylor III, Vice President
Jenn Kristunas, Treasurer
Joshua A. Kirsh, Secretary
Wendy Franklin
Kathie Freed
James D. Garretson
Richard Leirer
Linus Rude
ii
Table of Contents
APPENDIX 1 – PARK ASSESSMENT SUMMARY ................................................................. 3
APPENDIX 2 – DRIVE TIME MAPPING ............................................................................. 34
APPENDIX 3 – NORTHSIDE SERVICE AREA MAPPING .................................................. 39
APPENDIX 4 – CCPR PROGRAMMING PLAN ............................................................... 54
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 54
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................................ 54
REVENUE GUIDELINES .................................................................................................................................. 55
RECREATION PROGRAMMING GOALS AND OBJECTIVES .................................................................... 59
PROGRAM AND SERVICE DETERMINANTS ............................................................................................... 60
SERVING THE COMMUNITY ......................................................................................................................... 61
PROGRAM AREA OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................................... 62
MASTER PLAN GOALS, STRATEGIES AND ACTIONS ................................................................................ 67
PROGRAM EVALUATION ............................................................................................................................ 72
SERVING THE UNDERSERVED ...................................................................................................................... 72
PARTNERSHIPS ............................................................................................................................................... 72
MARKETING ................................................................................................................................................... 74
RISK MANAGEMENT ..................................................................................................................................... 75
PLAN REVIEW ................................................................................................................................................ 75
APPENDIX 5 – 2015-2019 STRATEGIC PLAN .................................................................. 76
STRATEGIC PLAN FOUNDATIONAL FRAMEWORK ........................................................................ 76
THE BIG ROCKS | TOP 5 PRIORITIES ................................................................................................. 76
STRATEGIC PLAN | PARCS 5-YEAR GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ............................................... 76
STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS ......................................................................................... 79
APPENDIX 6 – PUBLIC PARTICIPATION........................................................................... 80
STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS & PUBLIC WORKSHOPS .................................................................................. 80
STAFF FOCUS GROUPS ................................................................................................................................ 83
APPENDIX 7 – ACCESSIBILITY COMPLIANCE SIGN-OFF SHEET.................................... 87
APPENDIX 8 – SIGNED RESOLUTION OF MASTER PLAN ADOPTION ........................... 88
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Final Report
3
APPENDIX 1 – PARK ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
CAREY GROVE PARK
Location: 14001 North Carey Road
Size: 5.3 acres
Classification: Local Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
2-5 year old playground Good
5-12 year old playground Good
Ball field Fair
Half-court basketball court Good
Parking areas Fair
Paved pathway Fair
Picnic tables/benches Excellent
Multipurpose open space Good
Shelter Good
STRENGTHS
Carey Grove Park is a neighborhood park serving local residents with multiple recreation
activities.
The park includes 2 playgrounds serving multiple age segments (2-5 & 5-12 ages), as well as a
ballfield and multipurpose open space.
The park includes a shelter with three picnic tables and a barbeque grill.
Adequate parking exists and the parking lot is ADA accessible.
Landscape beds are well-maintained as are the open space turf.
OPPORTUNITIES
Re-stripe parking area and repaint parking bumpers.
The basketball court, while in fair condition, could be expanded to
a full-court with new basketball goals.
Entryway signage should be replaced with new branding logo and.
Utilize distance signage on the loop trail.
Replace wood along playground due to safety as some of the beams
are rotting with screws sticking out.
Repaving of the parking area and trail will be needed within the next five years.
Carey Grove Park Entrance
Sign
4
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Half-court basketball court; Shelter with new
picnic tables; 5-12 Playground; Example of rotting board unattached; Parking bumper in
need of paint; 2-5 Playground
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
CENTRAL PARK
Location: 1235 Central Park Drive East/1195 Central Park Drive West
Size: 158.4 Acres
Classification: Signature Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Benches Excellent
Boardwalk Good
Interpretive Signage Excellent
Landscaping Excellent
Monon Community Center (147,000 Square
Feet)
Excellent
Natural Trails Good
Parking Area Good
Paved and Accessible Trails Good
Picnic Tables Excellent
Shelters (2) Excellent
Signage Excellent
Skate Park (10,000 Square Feet) Excellent
Solar Powered Latrine Excellent
Water Park Excellent
Wetland Excellent
STRENTHS
Central Park was completed in 2007 with ongoing
improvements on the east side of the park. The park
includes an excellent water park. The Monon
Community Center features an indoor aquatic facility,
fitness and dance rooms, locker rooms, meeting and
program rooms, and staff offices. The park has many
access points to the Monon Greenway.
The skate park, which was recently renovated, is in
excellent condition and is frequently utilized by the
community.
There are a variety of paved, aggregate, and mulch
trails on the site, including a boardwalk on the west side of the park and a small lagoon that
allows fishing.
Central Park West Entrance
Sign
6
The park has extensive landscaping that is very well maintained.
The recent constructed shelters on the east side of the park are in excellent condition and used
for rentals, summer camps, and daily use.
The Westfield and 106th Street entrances to the park are well maintained with well-placed
directional signage to amenities. The College Avenue entrance is maintained adequately, but
should be upgraded to design standards used for other entrances in future phases of
development.
The parking lots adjacent to the Monon Community Center and Waterpark were recently crack-
sealed and restriped.
Interpretive signage on the east side of the park is excellent.
Excellent use of signage to warn users of break-ins.
OPPORTUNITIES
Establish a replacement schedule for decking on the boardwalk due to rotting and warped boards.
Consider marking the trails throughout the park as “Heart Healthy” and add distances.
Add additional trash cans near picnic tables.
Repaint center line along the paved trail on the west side of the park.
Add aggregate rock to prevent runoff along the paved trail on the west side of the park.
Relocate and develop a new maintenance facility for the park system.
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS
Drainage improvements to east parking lot and west drive (2013).
Replacement of the temporary, gravel overflow parking with a new, paved parking lot (2013).
Development of North Meadow and Dog Park, including parking lot, shelter, and restrooms
(2013).
Development of West Commons, to include destination playground, shelters, restrooms, parking
lot, and west drive improvements (2013-2015).
Overflow Parking Area Monon Community Center
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): West side of park pond/wetland area;
Interpretive signage; Solar powered latrine; Skate Park recently renovated; East
building parking area; Recently completed shelter area
8
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): East side of the park walking path;
East side nature board walk; Erosion on west side of park paved trail; Excellent
use of signage educating users of the park
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
CHERRY TREE PARK
Location: 13720 Hazel Dell Parkway
Size: 12.3 acres
Classification: Local Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Mature trees Fair to Poor
Open space turf Good
STRENGTHS
Cherry Tree Park is an undeveloped 12-acre neighborhood park on the east side of Carmel.
Currently, there exists no park signage, parking or amenities.
Open space turf well maintained by a contractor.
OPPORTUNITIES
Develop a master plan for the site.
Mature cherry trees in park are approaching the end of the natural lifecycle and beginning to
fail. Reforestation efforts should be considered.
Possible amenities include a paved loop trail, benches and shelter. Linkage with neighborhood
trail would be ideal.
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Signage from street; Neighborhood
walking path near park; well-maintained open space
10
FLOWING WELL PARK
Location: 5100 East 116th Street
Size: 17.1 acres
Classification: Special Use Area/Nature Preserve
Amenity / Asset Condition
Artesian well area Excellent
Benches Good
Bridges Good
Interpretive signage Poor
Natural trail Fair
Observation desk Fair
Parking lot Fair
Pathway trail Good
Picnic tables Fair
Shelter Fair
STRENGTHS
Flowing Well Park is the oldest park in the Carmel Clay Parks and
Recreation system. The park has an artesian well that people use
to fill containers of water.
Park was originally developed with Land and Water Conservation
Funds and has a federal encumbrance that restricts use of parkland
for non-recreation purposes.
The park has both paved and natural trails throughout and has very
scenic natural views.
The area surrounding the artesian well is very well maintained and
landscaped.
Bridges throughout the park are in good condition.
OPPORTUNITIES
Consider adding a stabilized pervious trail in the wooded area of the park.
Replace parking bumpers in the parking lot and repave. Explore opportunities to expand parking
lot to the east to better accommodate user demand.
Replace rotting observation deck. Decide if the deck is utilized by the public and is needed.
Also, consider the removal of the small nature observation deck near the creek.
Match the shelter with the color scheme (white) of the artesian well versus brown.
Remove debris in stream and stabilize the creek banking.
Flowing Well Park
Entrance Sign
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Update interpretation signage throughout the park as it is outdated and has faded.
Add a trail map and signage throughout the park.
Consider installing a trail linkage to the adjacent Brookshire Golf Course.
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Shelter; Artesian well; Observation
deck in need of board replacement; Erosion near creek in need of stabilization;
Small observation deck; Interpretive signage in need of an update
12
FOUNDERS PARK
Location: 11675 Hazel Dell Parkway
Size: 40.1 acres
Classification: Community Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Large Shelter Excellent
Multipurpose Field Fair
Parking Area Excellent
Picnic Tables Excellent
Playground Excellent
Restrooms Excellent
Trails (paved and unpaved) Excellent
STRENGTHS
Founders Park is a brand new park opened in 2011 that features a large playground and shelter,
restrooms and a paved loop trail around that park. Large amounts of open space, a pond, and a
multipurpose field are also on site.
Parking lot is in excellent condition and features plenty
of parking.
Restrooms were clean and in excellent condition.
Large shelter is an excellent amenity on site for users
of the park.
OPPORTUNITIES
Utilize signage on loop trail to let users know the
distance.
Evaluate opportunities to enhance access to the pond,
keeping in consideration the 8-foot fluctuation in water
levels and the need to maintain ADA accessibility.
Consider adding enclosed pavilion, consistent with master
plan, to accommodate summer camps, nature programs, and community use.
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS
Improvements to sports fields, including replacement of existing rocky soil and installation of
irrigation system (2013)
Addition of shade structures in and around playground and installation of washing station (2013)
Founders Park Entrance
Sign
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Shelter; Playground; Loop trail;
Entrance to shelter pavilion; Loop trail path; Multipurpose field in need of
reseeding
14
GREYHOUND TRAIL
Location: Connection to Hagan-Burke Trail near High School
Size: 0.75 Miles
Classification: Greenway
Amenity / Asset Condition
Bridge Excellent
Paved path Good
Signage Excellent
STRENGTHS
The Greyhound Trail is a trail connecting the Hagan-Burke Trail to the Carmel High School path.
The asphalt trail is 12’ wide and is in good condition.
Signage is excellent.
The historic Indiana bridge, added in 2011, is from approximately 1920 and is in excellent
condition.
Wood fencing along trail was in good condition.
OPPORTUNITIES
Utilize a maintenance schedule for trimming back growth in the wooded areas along the trail.
Photos this page (left to right): Historic bridge; Overgrowth by trees over trail;
Excellent signage along trail on history of bridge
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
HAGAN-BURKE TRAIL
Location: Connection to Monon Greenway and Greyhound Trail
Size: 1.42 Miles
Classification: Greenway
Amenity / Asset Condition
Bridge Good
Paved path Good
Signage Good
STRENGTHS
The Hagan-Burke Trail is a 1.42 mile trail is accessible to the Monon Greenway and Greyhound
Trail.
The asphalt trail is 12’ wide and is in good condition.
Signage is excellent as it depicts trail connections, as well as the history of the trail.
Wood fencing along trail was in good condition.
OPPORTUNITIES
Continue to fill in areas affected by erosion, specifically with larger aggregate.
Fix the bent sign off the Monon Greenway trailhead. Also at this trailhead, fill in areas where
the concrete has settled.
Utilize a maintenance schedule for trimming back growth in the wooded areas along the trail.
Hagan-Burke Trail Signage Bridge Along Trail
16
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Interpretive signage along trail; Area
of trail with erosion; Monon Trailhead location where crack exists from settling;
Transition Lip on Bridge; Bent sign along Monon Trailhead location
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
HAZEL LANDING PARK
Location: 10601 Hazel Dell Parkway
Size: 43 Acres
Classification: Community Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Canoe Launch Good
Natural Wooded Area Along White River Good
Open Turf Area Good
Parking Area Excellent
Picnic Tables Good
Signage Fair
STRENGTHS
Hazel Landing Park is a 44 acre scenic park along the White River featuring
picnic opportunities, canoe launch and well as picnic tables in a large
open space area.
Pathways surround the parking area and natural trails are located along
the White River.
Paved parking area was in good condition and well landscaped.
OPPORTUNITIES
Update signage along Hazel Dell Parkway, in coordination with City's
installation of a new round-a-bout at 106th Street, as it is very difficult
to see the entrance.
Grade gravel entry drive annually until new entrance installed per
master plan.
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS
Installation of an 18-hole disc golf course (2013).
Hazel Landing Park
Entrance Sign
Photos this page (left to right): Open space area with picnic tables; Parking lot
area well landscaped; View from canoe launch of White River
18
LAWRENCE W. INLOW PARK
Location: 6310 E. 131st Street
Size: 15.5 Acres
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
9-Hole Disc Golf Course Excellent
Benches Good
Nature Trail Good
Parking Area Good
Paved Pathway Good
Picnic Tables Good
Playgrounds (3 total ages 5-12) Fair
Restrooms Fair
Shelter Excellent
Water Feature/Splash Pad Good
Wildflower Area Excellent
STRENGTHS
Lawrence W. Inlow Park is a 16-acre park complete with a
water feature/splash pad, as well as a well maintained
shelter.
The disc golf course is in excellent condition and includes
holes in the open space area, as well as the surrounding
wooded area. Signage is excellent.
The nature trail in the wooded area was in good condition.
The maintenance of the park turf and beds was excellent,
as well as the wildflower area.
OPPORTUNITIES
The three playgrounds and water feature are at the end of
their lifecycles and should be replaced within 2-3 years.
Updated stainless steel fixtures in restrooms.
Consider moving the playgrounds closer to the shelter and restrooms due to visibility.
Update signage throughout park on the location of amenities.
Lawrence W. Inlow Park
Entrance Sign
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Shelter and restroom area; Water
feature/splash pad showing some discoloration; Playground on site; Signage
depicting layout of disc golf course; Signage of hours of operations
20
LENAPE TRACE PARK
Location: 9602 Westfield Blvd.
Size: 2.9 Acres
Classification: Local Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Benches Good
Drinking Fountain Fair
Open Turf Area Good
Paved Pathway to Monon Greenway Good
Picnic Tables Good
Shelter Fair
STRENGTHS
Lenape Trace Park is a small green space surrounded by
condominiums/apartments and located off of Westfield Park.
The park includes a paved pathway with excellent access to
the Monon Greenway for members of the community living in
the surrounding residences.
Shelter and picnic tables are accessible from a paved pathway.
Landscaping of beds and open turf area was excellent.
Small loop trail was in good condition.
OPPORTUNITIES
Repaint the shelter, as well as the drinking fountain on site as both are showing signs of rust.
Dedicated parking should be marked as there is no access off of Westfield Boulevard.
Establish maintenance schedule to routinely trim and prune tree/shrub growth along access
pathway to Monon Greenway.
Develop and reclassify as a Greenway to support planned and future development in the vicinity.
Lenape Trace Park Sign
Photos this page (left to right): Shelter with three picnic tables; Paved pathway
around the park with drinking fountain and trash can; View of open turf area
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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MEADOWLARK PARK
Location: 450 Meadow Lane
Size: 18.4 Acres
Classification: Community Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Basketball Court (Full Court) Fair
Bridges (2) Fair
Dock Excellent
Parking Area Fair
Open Turf Area Good
Paved Path Near Playground Poor
Paved Trail Fair
Picnic Tables Fair
Playground (Ages 2-5) Good
Playground (Ages 5-12) Good
STRENGTHS
Meadowlark is a 17 acre park with access to the Monon
Greenway.
The park includes a 1-acre pond, managed by the Indiana
Department of Natural Resources, where fishing is allowed.
The playgrounds, which are in good condition, were installed in
2003.
The park serves and is surrounded predominately by
condominiums, townhomes and apartment buildings.
The open turf area allows for multi-purpose use if desired.
OPPORTUNITIES
Repair or replace fishing dock.
Consider repaving and updating the basketball court due to cracks in the playing surface.
To ensure the paved path does not collect debris from runoff, use aggregate stone instead of the
plastic barrier currently in use.
Crack seal the trail pavement.
Replace bent picnic table in the shelter.
Add signage throughout the park both for direction to amenities as well as distances along the
trail.
Meadowlark Park Entrance
Sign
22
Repave and restripe parking area as well as parking bumpers and metal bollards.
Replace paved path near playground and shelter.
Add new mulch and rake playground area.
Replace trash containers near shelter.
Repaint shelter.
Consider adding a restroom on site.
Improve the height of the entrance to the fishing dock to ensure ADA accessibility.
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Basketball court in need of new court
surface; Bridge in need of new boards and enhanced transition to path; Shelter
area; Playgrounds
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Update height of entrance to fishing
dock to ensure ADA accessibility; Replace pavement path near shelter and
playground; Utilize aggregate near paved path instead of plastic barrier;
Repaint and repave parking area; Consider new amenities in open turf area;
Replace bent picnic table
24
MONON GREENWAY
Location: 96th Street Trailhead to 146th Street Trailhead
Size: 5.2 Miles – 10’ to 15’ wide
Classification: Greenway
Amenity / Asset Condition
96th Trailhead Good
Bridge Crossings Good
Crosswalks Fair
Depot Good
Fencing Good
Information Kiosks Good
Parking Areas Good
Paved Trail Good
Restrooms Fair
Rohrer Road Trailhead Good
Rotary Plaza Good
Signage Good
Trail Gates Fair
Water Fountains Good
STRENGTHS
The Monon Greenway is a heavily used and well-maintained 5.2 mile greenway.
The two restrooms located at the 96th Street and Rohrer Road Trailheads are well maintained,
but in need of updated fixtures.
Signage along the crossing and trail are excellent.
The Depot Trailhead, located in downtown Carmel, is well-maintained and offers parking to trail
users.
Staff has done a great job keeping the greenway free of debris and trash.
The Rotary Plaza is well maintained and the drainage area has assisted to keep the area from
flooding. A new pump was recently installed and lights will be added.
Landscaping beds along the trail are clean and in good condition.
Staff is doing a good job of removing trees affected by the Emerald Ash Borer.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
OPPORTUNITIES
Educate users of the trailheads of the possibility of break-ins and to remove valuables. This has
been effectively accomplished at the Monon Community Center through warning signage.
Consider adding security cameras at trailheads if economically feasible.
Update the outdated trail maps at the information kiosks and add information board at Rohrer
Road trailhead.
The 96th Street tunnel is wired for a camera, but there is not one installed. Consider working
with the City to install one.
Due to the maintenance on the swinging gates along the trail, consider using wooden, offset
bollards/posts or alternative systems to keep motorized vehicles off the trail, as well as to warn
users of the trail of the oncoming crossing.
Restripe parking areas at the trailheads.
Update trailhead restrooms with enhanced fixtures.
Work with City and County street departments to ensure crosswalk areas are periodically
repainted.
Establish a replacement program of the wood fencing, especially the areas covered by trees due
to rotting.
Repaint water fountains and bike racks annually or more frequently as there are instances of the
paint chipping on the stainless steel. This is particularly observed at the Depot.
Continue to utilize larger aggregate rock along the sides of the trail where runoff has been
severe.
Update ADA accessibility into the Rohrer Road restroom as there are runoff and drainage
concerns. This could be dangerous when freezing occurs.
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS
Repaving entire length of trail (2013-2014)
Photos this page (left to right): Information kiosk located in 96th Street trailhead;
Bike rack in need of paint at the Depot; Rotary Plaza
26
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Update map of the Monon Greenway
as it is out of date; Consider using wooden bollards that are offset instead of the
gates; Use larger aggregate rock to prevent run off along the trail in problem
areas; Restripe trailhead parking areas; Repaint water fountains
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
PRAIRIE MEADOW PARK
Location: 5282 Ivy Hill Drive
Size: 4.5 Acres
Classification: Nature Preserve
Amenity / Asset Condition
Open Turf Areas Good
Paved Pathway Good
Prairie Grass Area Good
Signage Fair
STRENGTHS
Prairie Meadow Park includes an area of prairie plants (2 acres) that
is maintained without the use of landscape chemicals due to its
location within a wellhead protection area.
The park includes a paved trail that is approximately ¼ mile in length.
Open turf area is well maintained.
OPPORTUNITIES
Crack-seal areas of the path that are showing cracks in the paved
trail.
Update signage on the site to include interpretive signage about the
wellhead and the prairie grass.
Prairie Meadow Park
Entrance Sign
Open turf area and paved
trail
Prairie and Wellhead
28
RIVER HERITAGE PARK
Location: 11813 River Road
Size: 39.5 Acres
Classification: Community Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Accessible Drinking Fountain Good
Accessible Playground (2-12 Ages) Good
Amphitheater Good
Benches Good
Historic Silo Good
Open Turf Area Good
Parking Good
Paved Pathway Good
Picnic Tables Good
Restroom Fair
Sand Volleyball Court (2) Good
Shelter Good
STRENGTHS
River Heritage Park includes a large, wooded area with frontage
along the White River.
New nets have been added to the sand volleyball court.
Paved pathway is in good condition.
Shelter sufficient space for large events.
Small amphitheater is in good condition.
Landscape beds are well maintained.
Open turf area is well maintained.
OPPORTUNITIES
Everybody's Playground needs upgraded to comply with current ADA accessibility guidelines.
Ensure ADA accessibility to amenities near parking lot, shelter and restrooms.
Consider the installation of lighting around parking area, restrooms and picnic area.
Improve playing surface around playground area.
Consider a paved parking lot.
River Heritage Park
Entrance Sign
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Improve restroom fixtures (currently stainless steel) and install lighting within restrooms using
solar power, if feasible.
Develop trail system through woods with river overlooks consistent with original master plan.
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Everybody’s Playground; Sand
volleyball courts; Shelter and picnic area; Restrooms; Historic silo; Amphitheater
30
WEST PARK
Location: 2700 W. 116th Street
Size: 119.2 Acres
Classification: Community Park
Amenity / Asset Condition
Benches Good
Boardwalk Good
Large Shelter Good
Open turf area Good
Parking Area Fair
Paved Path (ADA Accessible) Good
Picnic Tables Good
Playground Good
Prairie Garden Good
Restrooms Fair
Sledding Hill Good
Small Shelters (3) Fair
Water Feature/Splash Pad Fair
STRENGTHS
West Park is a large park featuring an assortment of
amenities on site.
Farm theme throughout most of park connects with
history of farming both on this property and within the
area.
Large shelter is in good condition.
Farmed themed playground area is well maintained.
Open turf area is well maintained.
Trails throughout the park are in good condition.
Boardwalk is in good condition with minimal boards in need
of replacement.
Viewing area near water feature and playground is large and well-maintained.
The park includes a wetland/pond, managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources,
where fishing is allowed.
West Park Entrance Sign
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
OPPORTUNITIES
Expand parking area and add lighting. Also, crack-seal and restripe.
Repaint large shelter.
Add trail markers along trail. Consider marking the paved trail as a “Heart Healthy” trail.
Replace large aggregate rock pathway near boardwalk as it is too large.
Update farmed themed playground as it is outdated.
Small shelters are too far away from the playground and water feature. Consider redesigning
these structures as they are uninviting or installing new shelters closer to play features.
Water feature/splash pad area should be updated due to age.
Consider adding a large corporate shelter at the park to allow for more events.
Add sport courts (e.g., basketball, volleyball, tennis, etc.) at the site to allow for additional
activities.
Consider adding a band shell to encourage larger festivals and events.
The addition of a nature center on the east-side of the park could be an added amenity and
expand program opportunities in the park.
Update restrooms.
Establish a dedicated maintenance plan to replace boardwalk decking.
Explore feasibility of a dog park when developing updated master plan.
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS
Updated master plan, incorporating undeveloped property acquired after adoption or original
master plan (2013-2014)
Photos this page (left to right): Large shelter and restrooms; Farm themed
playground
32
Photos this page (clockwise from top left): Water feature/splash pad in need of
replacement; Wetland pond and boardwalk; Three small shelters; Signage near water
feature/splash pad; Aggregate rock pathway in need of smaller rock; Sledding hill
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
WHITE RIVER GREENWAY
Location: 13410 River Road
Size: 13.1 acres; 2.5 miles of paved trail
Classification: Greenway
Amenity / Asset Condition
Paved path Good
Prairie Good
Signage Good
STRENGTHS
White River Greenway features 2.5 miles of paved trail and
interconnects into Hamilton County's River Road Park and trail
network.
Trail (10.5’ wide) is in good condition and is mainly utilized by
homeowners.
The area features excellent views of the White River and offers
opportunities for fishing.
Trees are well maintained.
OPPORTUNITIES
Consider adding a center line to the paved trail.
Establish a maintenance schedule for tree maintenance along the
trail.
Add distance markers along trail and update signage.
Crack-seal pavement on an annually.
River Trail Entrance Sign
Paved Trail in Good Condition View of White River
34
APPENDIX 2 – DRIVE TIME MAPPING
COMMUNITY PARKS
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LOCAL PARKS
36
MONON TRAILHEADS
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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SIGNATURE PARKS (30 MINUTE)
38
SIGNATURE PARKS (60 MINUTE)
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
APPENDIX 3 – NORTHSIDE SERVICE AREA MAPPING
AMPHITHEATERS
40
AQUATIC CENTER
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
BALL FIELDS
42
BASKETBALL COURTS
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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COMMUNITY PARKS
44
LOCAL PARKS
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
MULTIPURPOSE FIELDS
46
PICNIC AREAS
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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PLAYGROUNDS
48
SIGNATURE PARKS
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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SKATE PARKS
50
SOCCER FIELDS
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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SPRAY PADS
52
TENNIS COURTS
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
VOLLEYBALL PITS
54
APPENDIX 4 – CCPR PROGRAMMING PLAN
INTRODUCTION
The Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) Program Planning Guide provides the long term framework
for creating, planning, and implementing the innovative and inspiring programs demanded by the high
expectations of our the Carmel and Clay Township community. The long term goals are guided and
determined by the current CCPR Master Plan and basic underpinnings of the concepts of play, recreation,
and leisure, the needs and other opportunities within our community, department philosophy and goals,
and true experiences we desire for our customers. CCPR programming is broken down into the following
groups:
Adult Youth
Tween/Teen Preschool
Parent/Child Adaptive
Aquatics Fitness
The purpose of this plan is to ensure the department is providing mission-driven and guest focused
recreation programming, which will enhance the quality of live for all who live, work and visit the City
of Carmel and Clay Township.
The Recreation programmers and supervisors with CCPR are responsible for the development,
implementation and evaluation of the various program areas.
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) was originally established in August 1991 through an Interlocal
Cooperation Agreement between the City of Carmel and Clay Township. A distinct, political subdivision
under Indiana law, CCPR is governed by a Park Board, which serves as the policy-setting body and
fiduciary guardian for the park system. The Park Board consists of nine members appointed by the Mayor
(4), Township Trustee (4), and the Carmel Clay School Board (1). CCPR manages over 500 acres of
parkland, has an annual operating budget of more than $11 million, and employs over 600 full-time, part-
time, and seasonal employees during peak operations.
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT MISSION
The mission of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is to strengthen our community and serve residents
through the acquisition, development, and management of high-quality, innovative parks and facilities
for recreation, preservation, and programming.
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT VISION
We envision an accessible system of vibrant community parks, diverse recreational facilities, sustainable
park resources, and engaging programs that contribute to healthy individuals and families, an active
and tightly-knit community, a thriving economy, and a high quality of life in the City of Carmel and
Clay Township.
STATEMENT OF ACCESSIBILITY
Adaptive programs are exclusively offered to individuals with special needs and we encourage
participation by individuals of all ages and abilities within this community. The instructor to participant
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
ratio is appropriate to accommodate the needs of the participants. We believe that all individuals should
be provided leisure opportunities that allow for performance at their highest level. If you or a family
member has special needs and would like to participate in programs or use our facility, we are happy
to make reasonable accommodations to meet those needs.
While CCPR has been in existence for over two decades, the Department experienced tremendous growth
in its programming and services between 2004 and 2008. Beginning with the 2006/2007 school year,
CCPR was awarded a contract to manage and operate the Carmel Clay Schools before and after-school
program. This program, called Extended School Enrichment (ESE), operates in 11 elementary schools
and now has an enrollment of over 2,100 students with approximately 1,200 participants served daily.
The Monon Community Center (MCC) opened in May 2007 and has amenities and program offerings
unsurpassed anywhere in the Hoosier state. This state-of-the-art facility includes indoor and outdoor
aquatic centers, a 3-court gymnasium, fitness center, and 1/8 mile indoor track, child-care service for
facility users, and a variety of program and multipurpose rooms.
Prior to 2004, CCPR had only nine full-time employees and typically peaked at 50 total employees
including part-time and seasonal staff. Today, the Department has 64 full-time positions and employees
over 600 employees during the peak summer season.
The Department is comprised of four Divisions. The Administrative and Parks Maintenance Divisions are
located within the northern portion of the Central Park campus, while the Extended School Enrichment
and Recreation Divisions are housed at the Monon Community Center.
REVENUE GUIDELINES
STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
The underlying principal of financing public parks and recreation is to provide an efficient and balanced
offering of parks, facilities, programs, and other services (collectively referred to as "Services") within
the community while ensuring that all residents have equal opportunities for access and choice of
participation. Frequently, the demands placed on parks and recreation resources by the individual user
and user group are greater than the tax revenues available to support demands. Therefore, it is necessary
to charge User Fees for selected Service Classifications, particularly in instances where a Service is
directly consumed by the individual or organization for his/her personal benefit.
User Fees shall provide only one source of revenue for the Board. A system of User Fees designed to
supplement other resources available to the Board can minimize the financial burden to resident
taxpayers and help create a sustainable park system.
The Board and its Department shall comply with all applicable State Law and State Board of Accounts
rules and regulations pertaining to the implementation and administration of this Policy.
SERVICE CLASSIFICATIONS AND COST RECOVERY EXPECTATIONS
PUBLIC SERVICE
A Public Service is provided by the Board for the benefit of the general public to contribute to the high
quality of life in the Carmel Clay community. Public Services are openly available for public use, typically
at no charge, with minimal restrictions.
It is the intent of the Board to fund and provide for Public Services through tax revenues, impact fees,
grants, donations, endowments, and other available revenue sources. User Fees shall not be used to fund
56
Public Services, with the exception of special events. The cost recovery expectation for Public Services
is 0%.
The Director or Assistant Director is authorized to approve the charging of a nominal User Fee on a case-
by-case basis for special events classified as a Public Service. A special event fee shall only be charged
to assist with crowd control due to high demand, assist in defraying expenses when other funding sources
are not sufficient to fund the event, and/or to benefit the Department's scholarship program or Gift
Fund.
Public Services include, but are not limited to, the following:
Signature, Community, and Local parks
Special Use Areas
Greenways
Meeting House and other meeting facilities
Playgrounds
Spray parks
Skate parks
Trails within parks
Restrooms
Parking lots
Ponds/wetlands
Unscheduled practice fields/courts for sports
Reasonable accommodations provided to people with disabilities for participation in services, in
accordance with applicable federal and state laws
Special events (i.e., Arbor Day, Tour de Carmel, Movies in the Park, etc.) designated by the
Director or Assistant Director
MERIT SERVICE
A Merit Service is provided by the Board for the benefit of the individual user or user group and to the
greater community. Merit Services are generally available to all residents but space, time or consumptive
use restrictions may limit an individual's ability to participate. Merit Services would likely not be
available for the Community if not provided by the Board.
Users shall be expected to pay at least a share of the cost to provide a Merit Service in recognition of
the individual benefit received. Merit Services shall be funded through a combination of tax revenues,
User Fees, and/or other available revenue sources.
The Director or Assistant Director is authorized to recommend and/or approve User Fees for Merit
Services in accordance with this Revenue Policy. All revenue and expenses shall be posted to the Non-
Reverting Program Fund. User Fees shall be reviewed at least annually by the approving authority in
conjunction with the Annual Budget process to ensure cost recovery expectations are being met.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
The following Merit Services and minimum cost recovery expectations are established by the Board
consistent with available revenue sources and the Community's values:
The Monon Center at Central Park (80% of Direct and Indirect Costs)
Shelter rentals or fee areas within parks {100% of Direct Costs)
USER SERVICE
While contributing to the quality of life in the community, a User Service most directly benefits the
individual user(s). User Services provided by the Board may be available to the general public, but
significant time, space, consumption, and operating costs limit the number of users at any one time.
User Services are expected to recover at minimum 100% of the Direct and Indirect Costs associated with
provision of the Service. Revenue may include User Fees, grants, sponsorships, donations, endowments,
or other available revenue sources. Tax revenues shall not be used to cover operating costs of a User
Service unless otherwise approved by the Board. Capital Expenditures related to User Services may be
funded through tax revenues or other available revenue sources. Net revenues shall be reinvested in the
User Service (i.e. funding of a capital replacement or upgrade, provision of scholarships to qualified
users, etc.) and/or used to subsidize Introductory, Merit or Public Services.
The Director or Assistant Director is authorized to recommend and/or approve User fees for User Services
in accordance with this Revenue Policy. All revenue and expenses shall be posted to the Non-Reverting
Program Fund. User Fees shall be reviewed at least annually by the approving authority in conjunction
with the Annual Budget process to ensure cost recovery expectations are being met.
User Services include, but are not limited to, the following:
Recreation, fitness and aquatic programs
Before and after school programs
Summer camps
INTRODUCTORY SERVICE
An Introductory Service is a new or experimental service offered by the Board, which may be offered for
a specified period of time as designated in this section or otherwise authorized by the Board. By or before
the end of the introductory time period, an Introductory Service shall be moved to another Service
Classification or discontinued.
The ultimate goal for Introductory Services is to recover at minimum 100% of the Direct and Indirect
Costs associated with provision of the Service through User Fees, grants, sponsorships, donations,
endowments, or other available revenue sources. During the introductory period, Introductory Services
may be partially subsidized through tax revenues, net revenue from User Services, and/or other available
funding sources.
The Director or Assistant Director is authorized to recommend and/or approve User Fees for Introductory
Services in accordance with this Revenue Policy. All revenue and expenses shall be posted to the Non-
Reverting Program Fund. Prices shall be reviewed at least annually by the approving authority in
conjunction with the Annual Budget process to ensure cost recovery expectations are being met.
The maximum introductory time period for Introductory Services, unless otherwise authorized by the
Board, is one (1) year from the original start or opening date of the Service.
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TYPES OF USER FEES
User Fees shall be approved as identified below, unless otherwise prescribed by State Law, local
regulations, and/or Board action. The Department is authorized to use the following fees and charges to
achieve the cost recovery expectations for Services:
Admission Fee: Charged for entry into a building, facility or park or designated portion thereof.
Admissions Fees shall be approved by the Board.
Sponsorship Fee: Paid by a business or organization for the privilege to advertise in or at a Service
in compliance with the Partnership and Sponsorship Policy. Sponsorship Fees shall be approved
by the Director, or his/her designee, on a case-by-case basis, and reported to the Board.
Contingency Fee: Charged to cover unexpected Service overruns, to provide sufficient funding
for new Service start-up costs, and/or to provide scholarship or gift funding. Contingency Fees
shall be approved by the Director, or his/her designee, on a case-by- case basis.
Custodial Fee: Charges for the set-up and break-down of a room based on the identified needs
of a specific user or user group using a reserved space. Set-Up Fees shall be approved by the
Board.
Licenses/Permit Fee: Charged for the privilege to conduct a particular action. The action may
be public and/or restricted access activities within a park or facility. Activities may be non-
profit or commercially oriented. License/Permit Fees shall be approved by the Director, or
his/her designee, on a case-by-case basis.
Processing Fee: Charged to help cover staff costs for processing a request by a user or member
of the public. Processing Fees shall be approved by the Director, or his/her designee, on a case-
by-case basis, and reported to the Board.
Program Fee: Charged for the right to participate in a Board and/or Department sponsored
program. Program Fees shall be approved by the Director, or his/her designee, on a case-by-case
basis.
Rental/Reservation Fee: Charged for the privilege of using exclusively tangible public property
without consuming or injuring it in any way. Rental/Reservation Fees shall be approved by the
Board.
Sales Price: Price for the unconditional transfer of ownership of food, merchandise or tangible
good from the Board to the user. Sales Prices shall be approved by the Director, or his/her
designee, on a case-by-case basis.
Special Services Fee: Charges for supplying extraordinary articles, commodities, activities or
services where the benefits are specific to the user. Special Services Fees shall be approved by
the Director, or his/her designee, on a case-by-case basis.
Surcharges: Charged for additional revenues to be used to cover specific improvements to the
Service. Surcharges must be of a limited term in nature and removed when a predetermined
revenue goal is achieved. Surcharges shall be approved by the Board.
Vendor Fees: Paid by a third party for the privilege of selling goods and services on Board owned
and/or managed property. Vendor Fees shall be approved by the Director, or his/her designee,
on a case-by-case basis.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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DIFFERENTIAL PRICING
To ensure all members of the public have equal opportunity to participate in Services when User Fees
are charged, this Policy recognizes that paying User Fees may result in inequities for certain individuals,
groups or situations. When feasible to achieve the cost recovery expectations of a particular Service,
the Department is authorized to use any of the following differential pricing methods:
Age: Youth (age 15 and under) and Seniors (age 65 and above) may receive reduced rates.
User Group: Government agencies and not-for-profit organizations may receive reduced rates.
Product: Extra services and options above the primary service that enhance the user experience
may be charged a higher rate.
Time: Services provided at peak or non-peak times of demand may be offered at differentiated
rate.
Quantity: User Fees may be reduced in recognition of the benefit received to the Board through
economies of scale.
Corporate Sponsorship or Partnership: Reduced rates may be offered to a business or
organization and/or its employees in recognition of an authorized sponsorship or partnership in
compliance with the Partnership and Sponsorship Policy.
Promotion: Discounts may be offered at the discretion of the Director or Assistant Director on a
limited basis with a defined start and ending date as part of a planned marketing effort to
increase participation in and/or revenue from a Service.
RECREATION PROGRAMMI NG GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Community needs for recreation were analyzed using the following methods:
Incorporating Program and Service Determinants: Along with the Vision and Mission
statements, the conceptual foundations of play, recreation and leisure, customer needs, other
community opportunities, and the total experience are what CCPR should desire for the Carmel
and Clay Township community, which will assist in carefully guiding and crafting programming
goals and processes.
Soliciting and Utilizing Participant Input
Offer Diverse Programs by Identifying Existing Resources: Existing parks and recreation
amenities in the community were identified and mapped, including those provided by Carmel
Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR), Carmel-Clay Schools, Hamilton County, local Homeowners’
Associations, and the Carmel Dads’ Club.
Using the 2003 Dads’ Club Strategic Plan, along with sports participation data, a sport fields
adequacy assessment was undertaken to determine guidelines for meeting sport fields needs.
Since CCPR is a minor player in the provision of sport fields, the Department will continue to
supplement the resources provided by others, where this strategy fits with other planning efforts.
Defining Program Area Objectives
Evaluating Recreation Demand and Level of Service (LOS): The community’s demand for
recreation opportunities was evaluated, including public preferences for parks and facilities,
recreation participation, and applicable trends in the provision of recreation services.
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The LOS provided by CCPR for park land and facilities was compared to the LOS in five benchmark
communities: Bloomington, IN; Dublin, OH; Henderson, NV; Scottsdale, AZ; and Westerville, OH.
Comparison to these outstanding communities helps determine where Carmel Clay is above and
below the norm.
Integrating specific goals, strategies and actions from the Master Plan
PROGRAM AND SERVICE DETERMINANTS
Conceptual foundations of play, recreation, and leisure – Has important developmental implications
for participants. Elements and characteristics of leisure experiences contribute directly to the
development of identity, autonomy, competence, initiative, civic duty, and social connections.
Programs offered by the Department have clearly stated objectives and goals, an element of choice, and
a future direction for continuance, improvement or change. Program planning elements address
physical, social, cognitive and emotional goals for participants.
Constituent Needs – Program needed by the community. Community currently lacks this program, or
there may be a strong desire to participate in this program if offered.
Key tasks include reviewing previous program plans, consideration of future population growth and
demographics, identifying potential partnership opportunities for additional recreation services and
researching current and future trends.
Community opportunity – New opportunity that could benefit the community based on demographic
information and current trends in Parks & Recreation.
The City of Carmel continues to be a hub for business opportunities in Hamilton County, Indiana and the
Indianapolis Metropolitan Area. With continued residential and commercial growth, the department
needs to ensure that it is continuing to offer adequate and evolving leisure opportunities. Other
opportunities with private businesses, local non-profit organizations and service clubs should also
continue to be sought out by way of partnerships.
Experiences desirable by clientele – The Mission of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is to strengthen our
community and serve residents through the acquisition, development, and management of high-quality,
innovative parks and facilities for recreation, preservation, and programming.
The Department also complies with a non-discrimination policy and encourages inclusion for all people
regardless of their ability, into all programs and services. This is evident by the department’s statement
of accessibility.
CCPR also strives to meet the needs of underserved populations through a multitude of programs for
seniors, adults, teens, youth, and fitness.
Agency philosophy/goals – Clearly meets a goal as determined by the five-year parks Master Plan, or
Recreation Implementation Plan. This could also be a program that is applicable to the CCPR
vision/mission statements.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
SERVING THE COMMUNITY
Quality parks, greenways, and opportunities for recreation and wellness contribute significantly to our
community’s quality of life. Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is dedicated to providing enriching,
enjoyable escapes through recreation, fitness, and nature.
EXTENDED SCHOOL ENRICHMENT
Established in 2006 through a partnership with Carmel Clay Schools, ESE provides before and after-school
care to approximately 1,200 students each day within the school district’s 11 elementary schools. Our
ESE program also offers a variety of traditional and specialty summer camps, providing opportunities for
summertime fun, learning, and exploration.
*By the numbers…
4,554: Summer camp enrollment (up 3% from 2011)
2,171: Before & after school enrollment for 2011-12 school year (5th consecutive year with increased
enrollment)
11: Before and after school locations, each site maintaining the Darkness to Light Partner in Prevention
distinction, signifying our ongoing commitment to protect children from sexual abuse
MARKETING & COMMUNITY EVENTS
Historically park systems have functioned on a “build it and they will come” mentality. With a $10 million
operating budget and expectations for high self-sufficiency, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation recognizes
success can only be achieved through effective marketing and promotions. Our successful community
events and growing volunteer program also help build and support our brand within the community.
*By the numbers…
$95,965: Value of the 4,493 hours contributed by over 700 volunteers to help assist with park clean-ups
and other events
11,939: Attendance at community events, such as the Tour de Carmel and new Luminary Walk
4,872: Views of the YouTube Video of Director Mark Westermeier riding the FlowRider®
MONON COMMUNITY CENTER
With amenities and program offerings unsurpassed anywhere in the state, the Monon Community Center
is the community’s one-stop source for recreation, fitness, and family fun. This award winning facility
features The Waterpark, indoor aquatics, a fitness center, 3-court gymnasium, program and meeting
rooms, and so much more.
*By the numbers…
591,296: Total membership and pass attendance
48,548: Registered participants in recreation programs
9,369: Monthly and annual memberships (up 7% from 2011)
2,490: Types of classes offered
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PARKS & GREENWAYS
A nationally recognized park system of parks, nature preserves, and greenways supports activities such
as picnicking, playing on playgrounds, splashing at spray parks, walking or biking on trails, playing sports,
fishing, and enjoying the outdoors.
*By the numbers…
502: Acres of parkland owned or managed by the Park Board
21.7: Miles of developed trails within the park system
12: Number of parks (all but one has developed amenities)
4: Number of greenway trails, including the Monon Greenway, which is designated a “Hall of Fame Trail”
by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
*By the numbers (2012 CCPR Annual Report)
PROGRAM AREA OBJECTIVES
The Department recognizes the need to approach recreation programming in a way that emphasizes
managing for specific individual, social, environmental and economic benefits, rather than just focusing
on the recreation activities themselves. It is the Department’s philosophy that we design our program
offerings around the direct needs of the community and national trends. When determining the need to
offer a program, we first look to see if that need is being met by another community organization,
department, or company. The Department will only offer a program if it finds that need unmet in the
surrounding area. The Department then creates area specific objectives based on these needs.
National trends are analyzed and reported in our Comprehensive Master Plan. Please see chapter 3.2 of
the Comprehensive Master Plan for a breakdown of our Trend Analysis.
PROS Consulting conducted an assessment of CCPR’s program offerings. The aim of the assessment was
to identify core program areas, gaps and overlaps in services as well as system-wide issues such as
customer feedback, performance measures and marketing that is vital to the success of CCPR’s program
growth.
The consulting team based their findings on information derived from:
Discussions with staff members
Program assessment forms
Community wide statistically-valid survey
Website review
RECOMMENDED CORE PROGRAMS
Currently, the core program areas highlighted on the website include:
Adaptive Programs
Adults Programs
Aquatics Programs
Extended School Enrichment (ESE) and Summer Camp Series
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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Fitness Programs
Preschool Programs
Youth Programs
RECOMMENDED NEW PROGRAM AREA – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Based on nationwide trends, an area witnessing continued growth in participation includes Outdoor
Adventure programming. All versions of adventure and obstacle racing are hugely popular, activities in
natural or artificial environment such as ropes courses, rock climbing or climbing walls will also continue
to show growth trends.
CORE ESSENTIAL PROGR AM
The cost for providing mission aligned services is solely or largely supported by general fund and tax
contribution from the city. The level of benefit is the same to all users. These types of programs fall in
the category of: We must offer this
Core Essential Program examples:
o Open public access to use a park, playground, trail or non-reservable picnic area or park
space
IMPORTANT PROGRAM (SHOULD OFFER THIS)
Services identified as important and help support the organization’s mission. The user receives a higher
level of benefit than the general taxpayer but there is also a broader taxpayer benefit because the
service provides a more livable community. Pricing for these services could include partial overhead
pricing. Partial overhead pricing recovers all direct operating costs and/or a portion of fixed indirect
costs. The portion of fixed costs not recovered by price represents the tax contribution.
These types of programs fall in the category of: We Should offer this
Important Program Examples:
o Family Pool challenge, Inclusion opportunities etc.
VALUE ADDED PROGRAM (WOULD BE NICE TO OFFER THIS)
This includes services that only individual users or visitors benefit from. Pricing of private services should,
at a minimum, recover all direct costs associated with the service.
These types of programs fall in the category of: It would be nice to offer this
Value Added Program examples:
o Banquet Rentals at MCC, Princess Ball, Scuba Classes etc.
SHORT TERM PROGRAM GOALS
ADAPTIVE PROGRAMS
Conduct needs assessment to determine programming with utilization of prior program
evaluations, Master Plan Community Survey results and Department seasonal guest satisfaction
survey results.
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Develop and provide participants with the opportunity to enjoy activities of interest to them in
the categories of sports, health & wellness, arts & culture, social & community, and therapy.
2014-2017 main programming objective is to develop a stronger arts & culture program offering
through activities such as community theater and art gallery events.
Create the opportunity for participants to socialize and interact in a safe and comfortable setting
at the Monon Community Center and other CCPR park facilities; ensure risk management and
prevention are addressed; ensure emergency procedures are in place.
Provide guests and their families/caregivers with community resource information.
Educate participants on the physical, social, mental, emotional and recreational values inherent
in an activity.
Enhance the opportunity for participants to develop a positive attitude toward participation in
the activity on a regular basis and throughout life.
Teach participants the fundamental skills, tactics and strategies regarding the activity to enable
the participant to play, appreciate and enjoy it now and in later years.
Achieve required cost recovery goals.
Evaluate programs and activities and analyze feedback to aid in future planning.
ADULTS/SENIORS PROGRAMS
Conduct needs assessment to determine programming with utilization of prior program
evaluations, Master Plan Community Survey results and Department seasonal guest satisfaction
survey results.
Develop and provide participants with the opportunity to enjoy activities of interest to them in
the categories of sports, health & wellness, arts & culture, social & community, and outdoor
adventure.
2014-2017 main programming objective is to develop a stronger outdoor adventure program
offering through activities such as camping trips and outdoor survival classes.
Create the opportunity for participants to socialize and interact in a safe and comfortable setting
at the Monon Community Center and other CCPR park facilities; ensure risk management and
prevention are addressed; ensure emergency procedures are in place.
Provide guests and their families/caregivers with community resource information.
Educate participants on the physical, social, mental, emotional and recreational values inherent
in an activity.
Enhance the opportunity for participants to develop a positive attitude toward participation in
the activity on a regular basis and throughout life.
Teach participants the fundamental skills, tactics and strategies regarding the activity to enable
the participant to play, appreciate and enjoy it now and in later years.
Achieve required cost recovery goals.
Evaluate programs and activities and analyze feedback to aid in future planning.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
AQUATICS
Conduct needs assessment to determine programming with utilization of prior program
evaluations, Master Plan Community Survey results and Department seasonal guest satisfaction
survey results.
Develop and provide instructional classes such as American Red Cross (ARC) learn to swim
programs through group and private/semi private lessons, as well as classes such as ARC Water
Safety Instructor Training and Lifeguard Training.
Provide wellness classes such as water exercise, lap swim and aqua therapy that provide fitness
opportunities in a unique modality.
Offer specialized and competitive programs such as masters swim team, youth swim team and
triathlon training.
Create the opportunity for all to enjoy open recreational swim in a safe, fun and relaxed setting.
Educate participants on the physical, social, mental, emotional and recreational values inherent
in an activity.
Enhance the opportunity for participants to develop a positive attitude toward participation in
the activity on a regular basis and throughout life.
Teach participants the fundamental skills, tactics and strategies regarding the activity to enable
the participant to play, appreciate and enjoy it now and in later years.
Achieve required cost recovery goals.
Evaluate programs and activities and analyze feedback to aid in future planning.
EXTENDED SCHOOL ENRICHMENT & SUMMER CAMP SERIES
Conduct needs assessment to determine programming with utilization of prior program
evaluations, Master Plan Community Survey results and Department seasonal guest satisfaction
survey results.
Develop and provide participants with the opportunity to enjoy activities of interest to them in
the categories of health & wellness, academic enrichment, physical fitness, nature, arts, music,
science, drama and technology.
2014-2017 main programming objective is to develop enhanced youth-centered enrichment
programming thru youth focus groups and reflective planning with youth program participants.
Create the opportunity for participants to socialize and interact in a safe and comfortable setting
at the Carmel Clay Schools and CCPR parks and/or facilities; ensure risk management and
prevention are addressed; ensure emergency procedures are in place.
Provide guests and their families/caregivers with community resource information.
Educate participants on the physical, social, mental, emotional and recreational values inherent
in an activity.
Enhance the opportunity for participants to develop a positive attitude toward participation in
the activity on a regular basis and throughout life.
Teach participants the fundamental skills, tactics and strategies regarding the activity to enable
the participant to play, appreciate and enjoy it now and in later years.
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Achieve required cost recovery goals.
Evaluate programs and activities and analyze feedback to aid in future planning.
FITNESS PROGRAMS
Conduct needs assessment to determine programming with utilization of prior program
evaluations, Master Plan Community Survey results and Department seasonal guest satisfaction
survey results.
Develop and provide participants with the opportunity to enjoy activities of interest to them in
the categories of health & wellness and group fitness.
2014-2017 main programming objective is to develop a stronger outdoor adventure program
offering through activities such as adventure race training.
Create the opportunity for participants to socialize and interact in a safe and comfortable setting
at the Monon Community Center and other CCPR park facilities; ensure risk management and
prevention are addressed; ensure emergency procedures are in place.
Provide guests and their families/caregivers with community resource information.
Educate participants on the physical, social, mental, emotional and recreational values inherent
in an activity.
Enhance the opportunity for participants to develop a positive attitude toward participation in
the activity on a regular basis and throughout life.
Teach participants the fundamental skills, tactics and strategies regarding the activity to enable
the participant to play, appreciate and enjoy it now and in later years.
Achieve required cost recovery goals.
Evaluate programs and activities and analyze feedback to aid in future planning.
PARENT & CHILD/PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS
Conduct needs assessment to determine programming with utilization of prior program
evaluations, Master Plan Community Survey results and Department seasonal guest satisfaction
survey results.
Develop and provide participants with the opportunity to enjoy activities of interest to them in
the categories of sports, health & wellness, arts & culture and social & community.
2014-2017 main programming objective is to develop a stronger family oriented nature program
offering.
Create the opportunity for participants to socialize and interact in a safe and comfortable setting
at the Monon Community Center and other CCPR park facilities; ensure risk management and
prevention are addressed; ensure emergency procedures are in place.
Provide guests and their families/caregivers with community resource information.
Educate participants on the physical, social, mental, emotional and recreational values inherent
in an activity.
Enhance the opportunity for participants to develop a positive attitude toward participation in
the activity on a regular basis and throughout life.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Teach participants the fundamental skills, tactics and strategies regarding the activity to enable
the participant to play, appreciate and enjoy it now and in later years.
Achieve required cost recovery goals.
Evaluate programs and activities and analyze feedback to aid in future planning.
TEENS/TWEEN PROGRAMS
Conduct needs assessment to determine programming with utilization of prior program
evaluations, Master Plan Community Survey results and Department seasonal guest satisfaction
survey results.
Develop and provide participants with the opportunity to enjoy activities of interest to them in
the categories of sports, health & wellness, arts & culture, social & community, and outdoor
adventure.
2014-2017 main programming objective is to develop a stronger outdoor adventure program
offering through activities such as camping trips and outdoor survival classes.
Create the opportunity for participants to socialize and interact in a safe and comfortable setting
at the Monon Community Center and other CCPR park facilities; ensure risk management and
prevention are addressed; ensure emergency procedures are in place.
Provide guests and their families/caregivers with community resource information.
Educate participants on the physical, social, mental, emotional and recreational values inherent
in an activity.
Enhance the opportunity for participants to develop a positive attitude toward participation in
the activity on a regular basis and throughout life.
Teach participants the fundamental skills, tactics and strategies regarding the activity to enable
the participant to play, appreciate and enjoy it now and in later years.
Achieve required cost recovery goals.
Evaluate programs and activities and analyze feedback to aid in future planning.
MASTER PLAN GOALS, STRATEGIES AND ACTIONS
The Master Plan identifies several goals, strategies and actions for the CCPR over the next 5 years which
will continue to help guide the recreation opportunities made available to the residents of Carmel and
Clay Township.
The goals, strategies and actions are listed in the “Community Assessment” Appendix 1 of this plan.
LONG TERM PROGRAMMING GOALS
The following programming goals have been developed for the period 2014-2018 for Carmel Clay Parks &
Recreation programming:
Develop more public awareness of programs for pre-teens, teens, adults, seniors, and families.
Provide a balance of program offering across the City of Carmel
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o A majority of CCPR programming takes place within the Monon Community Center,
however there are many opportunities that have not been tapped into at all department
owned parks.
Pre-Teens- 2014: Program analysis of community interests with specific locations
identified (continue identification of interests every three years). 2015:
Implementation of two new programs at parks outside of the MCC. 2016- 2018:
Five new programs in place at CCPR facilitated parks, with annual run rate
exceeding 80%
Programs continuously evaluated to eliminate over-saturation of market.
Teens- 2014: Program analysis of community interests with specific locations
identified (continue identification of Interests every three years). 2015:
Implementation of two new programs at parks outside of the MCC. 2016-2018:
Five new programs in place at CCPR facilitated parks, with annual run rate
exceeding 80%
Programs continuously evaluated to eliminate over-saturation of market.
Adults-Program analysis of community interests with specific locations identified
(continue identification of interests every three years). 2015: Implementation of
two new programs at parks outside of the MCC, specifically focused on addressing
a cultural need. 2016- 2018: Five new programs in place at CCPR facilitated
parks, with annual run rate exceeding 80%)
Programs continuously evaluated to eliminate over-saturation of market.
Seniors- Program analysis of community interests with specific locations
Identified (continue identification of interests every three years). 2015:
Implementation of two new programs at parks outside of the MCC, specifically
focused on addressing a cultural need. 2016-2018: Five new programs in place at
CCPR facilitated parks, with annual run rate exceeding 80%)
Programs continuously evaluated to eliminate over-saturation of market.
Families- Program analysis of community interests with specific locations
identified (continue identification of interests every three years). 2015:
Implementation of one new family EVENT specifically focused on addressing the
need to get outdoors and spend time as a family. 2016-2018: Five new events in
place at CCPR facilitated parks, with annual run rate exceeding 80%)
Programs continuously evaluated to eliminate over-saturation of market.
Evaluate service performance to support program needs and facility management requirements
Provide more programs that focus on nature and outdoor recreation
o While most urban cities do not have programs that focus on nature, Carmel has a unique
opportunity to set itself apart from other cities because of its one-of-a-kind natural
resources.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Provide more programs that focus on active adult/senior fitness
o Current demographics for the City of Carmel indicate that it expects to see increases in
the 65+ age group. Because of improved health and fitness, as well as lifestyle changes,
the baby boom generation is participating in recreation activities to older ages. People
are also retiring at younger ages with relatively higher disposable incomes than
generations before.
Develop programs that focus on youth development to improve the social issues youth face in
today's society.
Create a number of diverse special events from small neighborhood events to city-wide and
regional festivities to help create a sense of pride while bringing the community together.
STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS
Based on public input and the current mission and vision of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, ten strategic
directions were identified for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. These directions will help CCPR
achieve the community’s vision for parks and recreation.
Include a variety of facilities to provide diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation, including
active and passive activities, organized and self-directed experiences, and year-round (winter
and summer) options.
Support increased trail use in Carmel Clay by providing trail-related recreation opportunities in
existing parks, extending trail development in the White River Greenway, facilitating
connectivity to City and regional trails, and promoting trail programming and events.
Provide quality recreation programs and special events that foster community gatherings and
social interaction, provide opportunities for life-long learning, promote personal health and
community wellness, and enhance community livability.
Provide inclusive, innovative, quality recreation services that reflect community pride as well as
the distinctiveness and excellence of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation.
Promote community cohesion by remaining open to partnerships with other providers, seeking
innovative solutions to serve underserved or un-served areas, and coordinating with others to fill
future gaps in service.
Expand partnerships with local sports groups to provide field maintenance or preparation.
Coordinate with the Nature Conservancy for the joint preservation of additional greenways and
natural areas in Carmel Clay for nature programming and interpretive trails.
Collaborate with the Indiana Wildlife Federation to assess habitat and native plant preservation
and integration in CCPR parks.
Coordinate with various nature organizations to incorporate interpretive signage into all CCPR
parks.
Continue partnerships with Carmel-Clay Schools to develop specific facilities at school sites and
to provide school-age programming (Extended School Enrichment).
Assess water launch opportunities provided by others to determine if the proposed new
community parks are appropriate watercraft put-in and/or take-out points.
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Partner with public, private, and non-profit sectors to satisfy community needs for facilities with
high construction and/or operational costs.
PROGRAM SERVICE AREAS
An evaluation of the programs provided by CCPR and other providers noted needs in the following service
areas. In some cases, other providers may be better poised to meet these programming needs in the
future. For this reason, the following discussion includes ways in which CCPR can play a role in these
service areas.
Sports: Sports are a very popular in Carmel Clay. There are a number of organizations that
provide recreational and competitive sports activities with a primary focus on youth, such as the
Carmel Dads’ Club. CCPR is a strong provider of adult sport programming. While there appear to
be adequate athletic programs for youth and active adults, there may be some need for sport
programming for older adults and seniors. CCPR could consider ways to meet adult and senior
sport needs, for example, by providing badminton and pickleball or other low-impact events.
Cultural Arts and Special Events: Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation and other providers offer
several specialized programs for cultural arts. However, there are opportunities to expand,
particularly in the area of special events and community festivals. While the City of Carmel is
building a Performing Arts Center, CCPR could offer concerts in the park, movies in the park, and
community festivals, which were the types of cultural programs most widely desired by survey
respondents.
Environmental Programming: Hamilton County provides fairly extensive nature programming in
the planning area. For example, River Road Park has amenities and facilities to support outdoor
programming, such as paved trails to explore wetlands and prairies and an interpretive building
designed to educate about Native American life. Additionally, the County hosts a variety of
programs at the Cool Creek Nature Center, just north of the planning area, and the County is re-
designing the Coxhall Gardens into a children's garden, conservatory, and gardens with
belltowers, reflecting pools, and a museum. Results of the community survey indicate that both
youth and adults in Carmel Clay desire additional opportunities for nature programs. In fact, a
nature center was on of the top desired facilities in Carmel Clay. CCPR should explore ways to
address this demand, while not duplicating County offerings. These may include providing self-
directed interpretive programming, which can be facilitated by interpretive signage, trail guides,
kiosks, demonstration gardens, etc.
Outdoor Programming: CCPR offers outdoor events, such as a family campout and fishing derby.
However, there is an expressed need for increased outdoor and trail-related programming. CCPR
should consider needs for active outdoor opportunities, which can be met through challenge
courses, non-motorized boating/water safety classes, mountain biking and/or cross-country
skiing clubs, hiking and walking groups, geocaching competitions, etc. Trails, viewpoints, and
nature centers can support of a variety of passive programming as well, such as wildlife
watching/bird watching groups.
Volunteerism: Being involved in the community is important to Carmel Clay residents. Carmel
Clay Parks & Recreation encourages school, civic and religious organizations, scouts, seniors, and
park neighbors to help at special events and in parks, trails and greenways. In addition, an
independent website, Carmel CAN! coordinates local community volunteers. Through this
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
initiative, citizens looking for volunteer opportunities are matched up with those organizations
that are in need of volunteers.
Communities are recognizing that many people volunteer during their leisure time. For this
reason, many recreation departments support volunteerism as a program service area. CCPR
should investigate opportunities to expand and better market volunteer opportunities. This
includes identifying volunteer opportunities that would appeal particularly to seniors and teens,
but also for youth, adults, and families. Since residents expressed a desire to spend more time
outdoors, outdoor projects for volunteers may be needed. One way to market volunteerism is by
advocating the benefits of being a volunteer. For example, through volunteerism, community
members can:
o Be physically active;
o Meet people;
o Learn something new;
o Invest in community pride;
o Promote environmental and resource stewardship;
o Create healthy, happy childhoods for children;
o Support a social cause or interest;
o Leave a legacy;
o Memorialize or honor a loved one;
o Make Carmel Clay a safer place; and
o Give a tax deductible gift to the community.
For Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, increased volunteerism will expand resources for
maintenance, environmental restoration, and recreation programs. In a time of increased
competitiveness for funding, volunteers greatly benefit the community by augmenting the work
of park and programming staff.
PROGRAMMING COLLABORATION
As indicated in the park and facility analysis, there are a number of opportunities for Carmel Clay Parks
& Recreation to collaborate with other providers for recreation programming. CCPR should consider the
following:
Facilitate partnerships to maximize programming efficiency and opportunities for residents.
Seek business and corporate partners to endow scholarships for programming.
Work with the Hamilton County Visitor’s Bureau and interested sports organizations to discuss
ways to co-host sports tournaments as a type of expanded special events programming.
Discuss opportunities to promote community gardening, such as at school sites for education and
HOA open space areas for recreation. Community gardening is growing trend in recreation, which
may include developing and maintaining vegetable gardens, orchards, flower gardens, and other
specialty gardens.
Work with Carmel CAN, youth groups, senior groups, and other special interest groups to
encourage volunteer activities in parks. Develop a program for volunteer coordination of
procedures, liability and conduct conformity, recruitment, training and recognition. Allow for
the day-to-day efficient volunteer program management to occur at the facility or department
level, depending on its size.
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PROGRAM EVALUATION
Evaluation of programs throughout the department is a critical component to the short and long-term
success of the department. The two primary sources of evaluation are electronic surveys (completed by
program users) and hand-written program evaluations (once again completed by program users). At the
conclusion of each program season the evaluations are collected, then reviewed for short and long-term
program planning. Please see Program Evaluation Example
Examples of the evaluation collection timelines are as follows:
MONON COMMUNITY CENTER (CONCLUSION OF…)
Fall
Winter/Spring
Summer
EXTENDED SCHOOL ENRICHMENT & SUMMER CAMP SERIES (CONCLUSION OF…)
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Summer
Personnel involvement in the review stage is key to the implementation of program adjustments and/or
new programming within the department. A sampling of the adjustments resulting from program
evaluations are as follows:
Hours of Operation (increased number of hours open to summer campers) based upon feedback
from an electronic survey
Additional program offerings (i.e. pickleball, badminton, table tennis) based upon feedback from
both an electronic survey and hand written evaluations
Adjustment of program instructor (external contracted instructor) based upon hand written
evaluations
SERVING THE UNDERSERVED
With a commitment to providing high quality programming to the underserved populations, Carmel Clay
Parks & Recreation places an emphasis on focused program planning to meet the needs of the
underserved. In doing so, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation has offered programs ranging from adult to
teen, special events, as well as adaptive. The chart below details the breakdown of programs offered
the underserved populations in 2013.
Please see Underserved Populations Report
PARTNERSHIPS
Carmel and Clay Township have a wealth of resources and organizations that clearly value the role of
parks and recreation in improving community livability and quality of life. Carmel Clay Parks &
Recreation works with many public and private groups to provide outstanding services in meeting the
community needs. Maintaining an awareness in alternative providers in the Carmel and Clay Township
community is valuable to the department in order to minimize duplication, reduce competition, and to
optimize recreational opportunities for our community. Additionally, the Parks Master Plan identifies
community organizations and opportunities in areas such as arts, community events, community
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
resources, museums, recreation, and youth and children’s events and programs. In many instances, CCPR
cooperatively programs with public, commercial, and non-profit entities. Examples Include:
Partnerships
o Carmel Clay Historical Society
o Citizens for Greenspace
o Easter Seals Crossroads
o Hamilton County Convention & Visitors Bureau
o Hamilton County Sports Authority
o Girl Scouts of America
o Hoosier Mountain Bike Association
o Indiana Pacers
o Indiana Department of Natural Resources
o Indiana Park and Recreation Association
o Indiana Wildlife Federation
o Special Olympics Indiana
o Booth Tarkington
o Carmel Clay Public Library
Outsource/Contracts
o Carmel Clay Schools – Before and After School Program
o Sports Associations
o 100% Hoops
o Indiana Basketball Academy
o SkyHawks
o Motions, Incorporated
o Carmel Marathon
CCPR has initiated partnerships with various providers in the community, and been open to establishing
relationships with other providers as well. Through the timeframe of this plan and into the future, CCPR
should look strategically at the use of partnerships to help meet community needs. Arrangements should
be formalized when necessary. Recommendations for the development of partnerships include the
following:
Nurture partnership relationships to encourage formal and equitable partnership agreements
with public, non-profit and private agencies to help meet community needs.
Foster and seek partnership with other public, non-profit, private and community agencies to
align with CCPR’s vision and mission.
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Assign staff to coordinate partnership efforts.
Adopt partnership policies that focus on equitable collaborative/joint relationships. Cultivate
partnerships that support the Department’s mission while leveraging community resources and
reducing duplications.
Establish partnership policies to address the following:
o Articulation of mutually-agreed upon priorities, well-defined costs and benefits for all
partners involved, as well as the benefits to the community.
o Determination of the decision-making authority, such as the level or type of approval
required by each partner.
o Management and procedures for regular review of partnership agreements, including the
determination of key joint decision points, mitigation measures if any partners fail to
meet their obligations and types of exit strategies.
Administer, execute and monitor partnership agreements. Manage and regularly assess outcomes
and cost-benefits of partnership agreements.
MARKETING
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation established a Strategic Marketing Plan and editorial calendar in order to
help promote the Department’s programs and activities. The overall goal of the Strategic Plan is to drive
participation, increase revenue, and continue to create brand awareness of the many offerings available
to the public. The Strategic Plan and calendar are distributed and reviewed with staff on an annual basis.
Several tactics and strategies are utilized in order to promote the Department’s programs and events, in
order to obtain the goals set forth by each subdivision.
The Marketing Department advertises and promotes Department-wide programs (recreation and before
and after school) and services in a variety of ways each season, including:
Department website
Escape Guide (tri-annual brochure)
Social media including Facebook and Twitter
Department-wide electronic newsletters
o Monthly eNewsletter sent to entire database
o Monthly eNewsletter sent only to parents/participants of the Extended School
Enrichment program
Electronic advertisements
o on 3 TV kiosks throughout the Monon Community Center
o on Program registration page of Department’s website
Printed flyers
o throughout the Monon Community Center
o on 3 trailhead community boards along the Monon Greenway
Banners hung at major intersections within Carmel, IN
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
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Pitches and photo opportunities sent directly to the media outlets
RISK MANAGEMENT
The Department places great emphasis on risk management and as such has established a formal Risk
Management Plan and Emergency Action Plan. The benefits to a comprehensive risk management plan,
and a commitment to constant vigilance in this area, pay significant dividends. Risk management provides
good stewardship of taxpayer dollars as financial, human and physical resources are protected and
conserved. In addition, it provides cost-effective operational strategies to reduce the frequency and
severity of potential liabilities and subsequent associated costs. The participant’s experience is improved
in direct relation to the limiting of exposure to unreasonable risks. Undoubtedly, an effective risk
management approach increases participant and staff safety, confidence and productivity.
Please see the Risk Management Plan for additional details.
PLAN REVIEW
This Plan will reviewed annually during the winter, prior to budget planning for the coming fiscal year,
and in conjunction with the preparation of the Department’s Business Plan for the coming fiscal year.
The focus of this planning meeting is to review budget performance, including participation trends,
analyze emerging trends within recreation and identify unmet and ongoing community needs. A review
of the Plan will help ensure that the Department is responding to the anticipated growth of the
community. Department staff also participate in seasonal program planning meetings, which include a
review of evaluation data for all programs and services and progress of Plan goals/objectives. Many
Department staff members participate in these meetings, including the Executive Director, COO, ESE
Director, MCC Director, MCC Assistant Director, Recreation Manager, and Recreation Programming
Supervisors.
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APPENDIX 5 – 2015-2019 STRATEGIC PLAN
STRATEGIC PLAN FOUNDATIONAL FRAMEWORK
The following outlines the foundational framework for CCPR including vision, mission and guiding
principles:
THE BIG ROCKS | TOP 5 PRIORITIES
1. Achieve at least 80% cost recovery on operating budgets for entire park and recreation system.
2. Enhance West Park, incorporating undeveloped areas.
3. Invest 3-4% of asset value annually to fund current and future capital repairs and replacements.
4. Expand White River Greenway to more fully engage neighbors and provide connections to
surrounding communities.
5. Acquire parkland in underserved portion of northwest Carmel.
STRATEGIC PLAN | PARCS 5-YEAR GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
1. PARKS: Provide diverse, attractive, and inspiring parks and greenways that enhance quality of life
and economic vitality of the community.
1.1. Expand White River Greenway to more fully engage neighbors and provide connections to
surrounding communities. (Big Rock #4)
1.1.1. Property acquired and easements secured to extend trail from 96th to 146th Street.
(Ongoing)
1.1.2. Plan for greenway linkage to Fishers developed. (Ongoing)
1.2. Acquire parkland in underserved portion of northwest Carmel. (Big Rock #5)
1.2.1. Continue working with City of Carmel, Department of Community Services, to identify
potential land in target area. (Ongoing)
1.2.2. At least 25 acres of contiguous property acquired. (2019)
Vision
•Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation envisions an accessible system of vibrant parks, diverse
recreation facilities, sustainable park resources, and engaging recreation programs that contribute to healthy individuals and families, an active and tight-knit community, a thriving economy, and a high quality of life in the City and Carmel and Clay Township.
Mission
•The mission of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is to strengthen our community and serve our residents through the acquisition, development, and management of high-quality, innovative parks and facilities for recreation, preservation, and programming.
Guiding
Principles
•Enhance park and recreation opportunities within the community
•Provide exceptional customer experiences
•Ensure the long-term sustainability of the park and recreation system
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1.3. Explore partnerships with Hamilton County Parks & Recreation, Nature Conservancy, Central
Indiana Land Trust, or similar organizations to preserve disappearing natural areas within the
community.
1.3.1. Maintain communication with potential partners to identify preservation opportunities.
(Ongoing)
1.4. Identify appropriate use for undeveloped Cherry Tree Park.
1.4.1. Best use for park determined. (2016)
2. AMENITIES: Develop and maintain high quality, cost-effective recreation facilities and amenities to
address underserved needs of community.
2.1. Enhance West Park, incorporating undeveloped areas. (Big Rock #2)
2.1.1. Updated master plan developed for West Park. (2015)
2.1.2. Phased implementation of updated master plan. (2016-2019)
2.2. Expand trail networks within parks and greenways.
2.2.1. Locations for new trails within existing parks identified. (2016)
2.2.2. Trails constructed. (2017-2019)
2.3. Develop dog parks on east and west side of community.
2.3.1. Locations for dog parks identified. (2016)
2.3.2. Dog park on east side of community constructed. (2018)
2.3.3. Dog park on west side of community constructed. (2017)
2.4. Conduct feasibility study for west side recreation center.
2.4.1. Feasibility study completed. (2019)
3. RECREATION SERVICES: Provide inclusive, innovative, and distinctive recreation programs aligned
with core competencies.
3.1. Develop outdoor recreation and environmental education programs into core services.
3.1.1. At least four sessions offered per season. (Ongoing)
3.1.2. Contributes at least 5% of total recreation program revenue annually for Monon
Community Center. (2017-2019)
3.2. Increase program offerings for underserved populations.
3.2.1. Establish fitness reimbursement program for active seniors age 65 and above (2015)
3.2.2. Annual net increase of 5% in number senior memberships from previous year. (2015-
2019)
3.2.3. Increase total number of adults age 55 and above served through memberships and
program registrations by 50%. (2019)
3.2.4. Complete ADA Transition Plan. (2015)
3.2.5. Provide annual inclusions training to all ESE and MCC staff. (Ongoing)
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3.3. Explore partnership opportunities to provide signature community events that highlight the
park and recreation system.
3.3.1. Maintain communication with potential partners to identify opportunities for new or
existing events. (Ongoing)
4. CONTROLS: Manage the park and recreation system through measurable outcomes.
4.1. Achieve at least 80% cost recovery on operating budgets for entire park and recreation system.
(Big Rock #1)
4.1.1. Minimum 100% cost recovery each year for Extended School Enrichment. (Ongoing)
4.1.2. Minimum 100% cost recovery each year for Monon Community Center. (Ongoing)
4.1.3. Monon Community Center membership rates reviewed annually. (Ongoing)
4.2. Attain at least 90% customer satisfaction rates for all parks, amenities, and recreation
services.
4.2.1. Standard met on ESE parent/guardian survey administered each semester. (Ongoing)
4.2.2. Standard met on MCC membership survey administered annually. (Ongoing)
4.2.3. Standard met on Community Survey administered every 5 years. (2019)
4.3. Serve at least 40% of residents through programs and services.
4.3.1. Standard met on Community Survey administered every 5 years. (2019)
4.4. Provide at least 10 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.
4.4.1. Standard met including parkland maintained by CCPR, City of Carmel, and Hamilton
County Parks & Recreation within Clay Township. (Ongoing)
4.5. Maintain national accreditation though CAPRA.
4.5.1. Annual reports submitted to CAPRA. (Ongoing)
4.5.2. Self-assessment report and reaccreditation visit completed. (2019)
5. SUSTAINABILITY: Ensure the long-term sustainability of the park and recreation system for the
benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
5.1. Invest 3-4% of asset value annually to fund current and future capital repairs and
replacements. (Big Rock #3)
5.1.1. Total annual expenditures for capital maintenance plus new money set aside for future
capital maintenance equals at least 3% of asset value of constructed facilities and
amenities identified in current Zone Improvement Plan. (Ongoing)
5.2. Develop and implement a comprehensive customer service program aligned with the culture
and values of the park and recreation system.
5.2.1. Program developed and implemented. (2015-2016)
5.3. Continue implementation of natural resource management plans developed for every park.
5.3.1. Progress reports completed annually and reviewed by management. (Ongoing)
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5.4. Increase opportunities for volunteers within the park and recreation system.
5.4.1. Annual increase of 500 volunteer hours from previous year with at least 5,500 total
volunteer hours in 2019. (2015-2019)
5.5. Enhance earned income by pursuing grants, donations, and sponsorships.
5.5.1. At least one LWCF grant secured. (2019)
5.5.2. Development Manager hired. (2017)
5.5.3. Annual funding secured equals at least 5 times Development Manager’s annual
compensation after first full year. (2018)
5.5.4. Annual funding secured equals at least 7 times Development Manager’s annual
compensation after second full year. (2019)
5.5.5. Annual funding secured equals at least 10 times Development Manager’s annual
compensation beginning the third full year and thereafter. (after 2019)
STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS
Utilizing the Vision & Mission, Guiding Principles and the PARCS Goals & Objectives outlined above, CCPR
annually revisits these at the Employee, Division and Department level to ensure all three are aligned.
This process is outlined below:
Vision & Mission Guiding Principles
5+ Year
PARCS
Goals & Objectives
Annual
Department Goals
& Objectives
Annual
Division
Goals & Objectives
Annual
Employee
Goals & Objectives
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APPENDIX 6 – PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
As part of the planning process, approximately 75 members of the community and stakeholders were
contacted throughout the planning process to provide input regarding the park system in Clay Township.
This included meetings with the Park Board, Carmel City Council, Clay Township Board Members, the
Mayor of Carmel, and the Clay Township Trustee to understand key issues and their vision for the park
system. Also, a joint meeting was held between the Park Board, Clay Township Board and the City of
Carmel City Council. These public input processes served as the driving force for development of the
Master Plan and the recommendations that are outlined in throughout the plan. Including these
individual stakeholder meetings, CCPR also completed three open public Park Board meetings to solicit
input from the community, which were held on April 23, 2013, June 15, 2013, April 22, 2014, October
27, 2014, and February 10, 2015 to present the final plan prior to Park Board adoption in March.
STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS & PUBLIC WORKSHOPS
Below is a listing of the key leadership interviews conducted as part of the plan. Meetings identified as
being broadcasted on public access channels were aired on Carmel government Channel 16 and CHTV
Channel 99 (Carmel High School TV Station):
DATE(S) EVENT PARTICIPANTS
August 10-15, 2012 Stakeholder Interviews: Solicited input
to identify strengths, weaknesses, and
vision for future of park system
Ron Carter, City Council
Sue Finkam, City Council
Kevin "Woody" Rider, City
Council
Carol Schleif, City Council
Eric Seidensticker, City
Council
Rick Sharp, City Council,
President
Luci Snyder, City Council
Doug Callahan, Clay
Township Trustee
Paul Bolin, Clay Township
Board
Mary Eckard, Clay Township
Board
Matthew Snyder, Clay
Township Board
Donna Cihak Hansen, CCPR
Park Board
Jim Engledow, CCPR Park
Board, President
Wendy Franklin, CCPR Park
Board, Vice President
Joshua Kirsh, CCPR Park
Board, Plan Commission Rep.
Pam Knowles, CCPR Park
Board, School Board Rep.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Jenn Kristunas, CCPR Park
Board
Richard Leirer, CCPR Park
Board, Secretary
Linus Rude, CCPR Park Board
Rich Taylor, CCPR Park
Board, Treasurer
April 23, 2013 Special Park Board Workshop: Presented
summary of planning process, findings,
and solicited input on action plan
Donna Cihak Hansen
James Engledow
Wendy Franklin
Kathie Freed
Joshua Kirsh
Jenn Kristunas
Richard Leirer
Linus Rude
Rich Taylor
Michael Klitzing
Audrey Kostrzewa
Debra Grisham
June 15, 2013 Special Park Board Workshop: Facilitated
extensive discussion on goals, objectives,
and action plan
James Engledow
Wendy Franklin
Joshua Kirsh
Jenn Kristunas
Richard Leirer
Rich Taylor
Mark Westermeier
Debra Grisham
April 22, 2014 Regular Park Board Meeting: Presented
proposed action plan and solicited
feedback
James Engledow
Kathie Freed
Joshua Kirsh
Jenn Kristunas
Richard Leirer
Linus Rude
Mark Westermeier
Michael Klitzing
Audrey Kostrzewa
Debra Grisham
**Broadcasted on public access
channels
October 27, 2014 Joint Meeting with Park Board, City
Council & Township Board: Presented
summary of planning process, findings and
recommendations, and solicited feedback
Donna Cihak Hansen
James Engledow
Wendy Franklin
Joshua Kirsh
Jenn Kristunas
Richard Leirer
Linus Rude
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Rich Taylor
Mark Westermeier
Michael Klitzing
Audrey Kostrzewa
Debra Grisham
Paul Bolin, Clay Township
Board President
Douglas Callahan, Clay
Township Trustee
Ron Carter, Carmel City
Council
Sue Finkam, Carmel City
Council
Kevin Rider, Carmel City
Council
Carol Schleif, Carmel City
Council
Eric Seidensticker, Carmel
City Council
Rick Sharp, Carmel City
Council President
Luci Snyder, Carmel City
Council
Matthew Snyder, Clay
Township Board
**Broadcasted on public access
channels
February 10, 2015 Regular Park Board Meeting: Presented
summary of final draft of plan and
solicited feedback
James Engledow
James Garretson
Wendy Franklin
Kathie Freed
Joshua Kirsch
Jenn Kristunas
Linus Rude
Debra Grisham
Michael Klitzing
Audrey Kostrzewa
Mark Westermeier
Kurtis Baumgartner
Katie Hohn
Shauna Lewallen
Sean Roberts
**Broadcasted on public access
channels
NOTE: All Park Board and Joint Meetings were advertised and open to the general public.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
STAFF FOCUS GROUPS
DATE(S) EVENT PARTICIPANTS
November 29, 2012 MCC Supervisory Staff: Aquatics Manager,
Facility Maintenance Manager, Food
Service & Rentals Manager, Recreation
Manager, Recreation Supervisors,
Assistant Recreation Supervisors
MCC Staff: All non-supervisory full-time
staff and all part-time staff
MCC Supervisory Staff
Kurtis Baumgartner,
Recreation Manager
Matthew Bush, Facility
Maintenance Manager
Michelle Compton, Food
Service & Rentals Manager
Eric Mehl, Aquatics Manager
Nichole Haberlin, Aquatics
Supervisors
Matt Leber, Recreation
Supervisor – Adults
Brooke Taflinger, Inclusion
Supervisor
Mike Normand, Recreation
Supervisor – Preschool
Lindsay Willard, Fitness
Supervisor
Jordan Hill, Assistant
Recreation Supervisor
Mandy Spady, Assistant
Recreation Supervisor
Holly Perlin-Grubb, Assistant
Recreation Supervisor
Tami Powell, Assistant
Recreation Supervisor
Toby Bourdo, Assistant
Recreation Supervisor
MCC Staff
Sean Roberts, Aquatics
Arline Morrow, Aquatics
Nick Barratt, Recreation
Assistant
Brendon McAvoy, Recreation
Attendant
Nik Krause, Food
Service/Rentals
Mimi Brookie, Fitness
Instructor
Amy Doman, Fitness
Instructor
Efrain Galdamez, Facility
Maintenance
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November 30, 2012 Park Maintenance: All full-time and
available part-time staff, excluding
Division Manager
ESE Facilitators: All part-time staff
ESE Supervisory Staff: Assistant
Managers, Site Supervisors, Assistant Site
Supervisors, Administrative Assistant
Administrative & Marketing Staff:
Business Services, HR & Marketing staff,
except senior managers
Senior Management: Business Services
Division Manager, ESE Division Manager,
MCC Division Manager, Park Maintenance
Division Manager, Human Resources
Manager, Marketing Manager, Office
Administrator
Park Maintenance
Andrew Burnett, Park
Maintenance Technician
Shawn Hart, Park
Maintenance Technician
Craig Smith, Greenways &
Trails Technician
Courtney Schlaegel,
Administrative Assistant
Todd Snyder, Park
Maintenance Manager
ESE Facilitators
Patricia Sigh, ESE Facilitator
Carol Koch, ESE Facilitator
Mollie Whitmer, ESE
Facilitator
Misty Gutierrez, ESE
Facilitator
Monika Awad, ESE Facilitator
Leslie Wimberly, ESE
Facilitator
Cherrie Palmer, ESE
Facilitator
Emily Janecek, ESE
Facilitator
Latoya Neely, ESE Facilitator
Megan Bowker, ESE
Facilitator
Michelle Gillim, ESE
Facilitator
Gail Strong, ESE Facilitator
ESE Supervisory Staff
Trina Floyd-Messer, Site
Supervisor
Monica Haddock, Assistant
Site Supervisor
Shandi Bray, Assistant Site
Supervisor
Valeska Simmonds, Site
Supervisor
Amanda Gillim, Assistant
Site Supervisor
Jennifer Holder, Site
Supervisor
Meagan Storms, Site
Supervisor
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
Doug Snelling, Assistant Site
Supervisor
Joey Castillo, Assistant Site
Supervisor
Jessica Richards, Assistant
Site Supervisor
Jess Ballinger, Assistant Site
Supervisor
Linda Acosta, Administrative
Assistant
Cyndi Canada, Site
Supervisor
Tia Russell, Assistant Site
Supervisor
Jennifer Brown, Assistant
Manager
Administrative & Marketing
Staff
Helen Ballinger, Revenue
Coordinator
Paula Schlemmer, Accounts
Payable Coordinator
Dawn Koepper, Purchasing
Administrator
Tiffany Jennings, Special
Projects Coordinator
Lisa Berry, Human Resources
Assistant
Jeff Kramer, Training
Manager
Lorena Lane, Graphic
Designer
Camille Nelsen, Volunteer
Coordinator
Traci Pettigrew, Events
Supervisor
Senior Management
Audrey Kostrzewa, Business
Services Division Manager
Ben Johnson, ESE Division
Manager
Susan Beaurain, MCC Division
Manager
John Gates, Park
Maintenance Division
Manager
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Lynn Russell, Human
Resources Manager
Lindsay Labas, Marketing
Manager
Sandi Young, Office
Administrator
Parks and Recreation Master Plan | Appendices
iii
APPENDIX 7 – ACCESSIBILITY COMPLIANCE SIGN-OFF SHEET
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APPENDIX 8 – SIGNED RESOLUTION OF MASTER PLAN ADOPTION