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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-10-2021 Parks and Recreation CommissionIowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Wednesday, November 10, 2021 5:00 P.M. IOWA .,,. Robert A. Lee Recreation Center — Meeting Room B AGENDA ITEM 1 CALL TO ORDER ITEM 2 APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 13, 2021 MEETING MINUTES ITEM 3 PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA ITEM 4 EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT PROPOSAL: BIRDHOUSES FOR IOWA CITY —TREY HOTSENPILLER ITEM 5 2022 CHADEK GREEN PARK CIP PROJECT DESIGN REVIEW - DON MARNER, SNYDER & ASSOCIATES a) Consultant Presentation b) Public Comments c) Commission discussion & recommendation ITEM 6 2022 COURT HILL PARK CIP PROJECT DESIGN REVIEW - DON MARNER, SNYDER & ASSOCIATES a) Consultant Presentation b) Public Comments c) Commission discussion & recommendation ITEM 7 2022 WHISPERING MEADOWS PARK CIP PROJECT DESIGN REVIEW - DON MARNER, SNYDER & ASSOCIATES a) Consultant Presentation b) Public Comments c) Commission discussion & recommendation ITEM 6 REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF a) Parks & Recreation Director —Juli Seydell Johnson b) Recreation Division Superintendent —Brad Barker c) Parks Division Superintendent —Tyler Baird ITEM 7 CHAIRS REPORT ITEM 8 COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ITEM 9 ADJOURN If you will need disability -related accommodations in order to participate in this program/event, please contact Tammy Neumann, Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department at 3191356-5210 or tammy- neumann@iowa-city.org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs. IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION PRELIMINARY MINUTES OCTOBER 13, 2021 ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MTG ROOM B Members Present: Stephen Bird, Alex Hachtman, Chris Odinet, Ben Russell, Melissa Serenda, Angie Smith Members Absent: Boniface Penandjo Lemoupa, April Schmidt, Brianna Wills Staff Present: Tyler Baird, Brad Barker Others Present: Gavin Brown, Will Brown CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Bird called the meeting to order at 5 p.m. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action): None OTHER FORMAL ACTION: PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA: None EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT PROPOSAL: Gavin Brown presented his proposed Eagle Scout project to the Commission. Brown is requesting the approval of Commission to construct and install interpretive signage for Hunters Run Park. The signage would address monarch seasonal migratory patterns and diet. He is proposing three signs with two near the prairie and one near the pond. Serenda asked Brown how he came up with the idea. Brown explained that he saw similar signage while on vacation. Russell asked what his timeline would be. Brown said he would like to have them installed by the end of April or early May 2022. Bird asked what type of material would be used for the signs. Brown answered that the signs proposed would be 36" x 24" signs made of power -coated aluminum which is durable and weatherproof. Barker explained that Morgan Gerdes, Communications Supervisor for Parks & Recreation, would review the final design for the signs. Baird said that the signage would be like what Project GREEN has installed at the Ashton House. and diet of migrating monarchs. Motion passed 6-0 (Lemoupa, Schmidt & Wills absent). FORESTRY UPDATE — TYLER BAIRD & BRAD BARKER: Baird presented an update of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), the Tree Advisory Committee meetings, 2021 tree planting and plan for tree planting in 2022. Baird's PowerPoint presentation is included in the archived October 2021 Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda packet. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION October 13, 2021 Page 2 of 4 In summary, Baird shared that EAB continues to impact Ash trees throughout the urban forest. He shared statistics of trees that are currently being treated. Staff consulted with Mark Vitosh, District Forester with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to determine which trees are treatable. Bird asked what a property owner should do if they can't afford to have an infected Ash tree removed. Baird noted that he is not sure if there is a program to assist in the cost of tree removal, however it is not a part of the Parks & Forestry budget to cover these costs for homeowners. Hachtman asked if there are steps that private homeowners should be aware of such as disposal of the infected tree to assure that the disease is not spread. Baird said that the wood is not to be transported across state lines. Serenda asked if there is a point where the City determines to cut losses versus treatment of an Ash tree. Baird said that it could be possible should City Council determine that it is no longer feasible to fund the treatment of the Ash trees. Barker shared the Annual Program Report of the Root for Trees program from fiscal year 2021 (October 2020 — May 2021). Barker reminded Commission that the Root for Trees program was created in an effort to increase the tree canopy diversity and coverage within Iowa City. Iowa City residents and businesses were eligible to apply for each property they own. If approved, applicants received a voucher for 50% off the retail purchase price of a tree up to a savings of $125. Residents who met income -eligibility requirements received a voucher for 90% off the retail price of a tree up to $225. Parks and Recreation is again partnering with Earl May Garden Center and Iowa City Landscaping and Garden Center to offer the Root for Trees program again in FY22. Applications are currently available online at www.icgov.org/rootfortrees. Barker's full presentation is archived with the October 2021 Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda packet. RECREATION MASTER PLAN UPDATE — BRAD BARKER Barker reported that Recreation Department staff have planned many community input gatherings. These include Rec N' Roll events at various parks in the community as well as being present at already scheduled events including the Iowa City Farmers Market and the Downtown Soda Fest. Staff will continue these public input gatherings through the end of November. The ETC Institute has created a statistically valid survey that will be mailed to 400-500 random community members as well. To date there have been 550 surveys completed. The information gathered will be used to inform and develop the "Gather Here Recreation Master Plan." The community is encouraged to share their thoughts, ideas and opinions by filling out surveys that are available on the project website called Social Pinpoint. This site can be accessed at www.ic og vorg/recreation. Focus group meetings will be held on November 2, 3, & 4. REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF Recreation Division Suuerintendent — Brad Barker: Mercer/Scanlon Dehumidification Project: Barker announced that Mercer Pool is currently closed through November 22 to facilitate repairs to the air handling system. Annual pool pass holders may ask for an extension due to the pool closure. Halloween Carnival: Recreation staff are currently planning the return of the annual Halloween Carnival. This year's event will be held in an open-air environment under the Chauncey Swan parking garage. Recreation is partnering with The Children's Museum, the Iowa City Library Book Mobile, as well as FilmScene who will be showing the movie "Hocus Pocus" in Chauncey Swan Park that evening. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION October 13, 2021 Page 3 of 4 Parks Division Suuerintendent — Tyler Baird: Iowa River Trail Update: Due to damage caused by heavy rains and failure of a storm water structure, a portion of the trail has been closed spanning from Highway 6 south to McCollister Blvd. Staff expects repairs to be complete by the end of October. Athletic Facilities: The second phase of the City Park baseball fields fencing project will resume soon. There have been several softball tournaments of late at Napoleon Park as well as cross country meets at the soccer park. Park Projects: Public input meetings are scheduled to go over park designs for Whispering Meadows, Chadek Green and Court Hill Parks. Glendale Park work has begun, and the contractors are on schedule. The shelter has been ordered; however, delivery has been delayed. At this time, the shelter is expected to arrive in late December. CHAIRS REPORT: No report COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: At the September commission meeting, Odinet asked for more information regarding the Montgomery - Butler house. He specifically asked if the roof was paid for out of the Parks budget and what the Historic Preservation Commission's interest is in the house. Seydell Johnson was absent from tonight's meeting and will report on this topic at the November Commission Meeting. Smith reported that she did look at the Butler House and noted that it is very overgrown. She mentioned that while it may be a nice place to rent, however, with it being up on a hill likely presents not be best or approved for access. Hachtman asked if there are other ways to reach out to specific groups within the community in order to get a broader feedback for the Recreation Master Plan. Barker said that staff has a list of nonprofit organizations who will assist in reaching a broader audience. Alex suggested that perhaps the QR codes be added to signs. Moved by Hachtman, seconded by Russell to adjourn the meeting at 5:45 p.m. Passed 6-0 (Lemoupa, Schmidt & Wills absent). PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION October 13, 2021 Page 4 of 4 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD NAME. NNX ~MX TERM N O M zis EXPIRES ;4 o Steve Bird 1231/21 X NM X X X X X X NM Alex 12/31/24 X NM X X X X X X X XXChristopher Hachtman 12/31/24 X X X X X /E X Odinet Boniface 12/31/23 X NM X O O O O O/E X O Penandjo Lemou s --X Ben Russell 12/31/21 X Ng X X X X X NM X X X April 12/31/22 * * * * * * * X NM X X O Schmidt Melissa 12/31/23 X NM X X X X X X NM X X X Serenda Angie Smith 12/31/21 X NM X X X X X O/E NM X X X Jamie 12/31/20 X NM Venzon Brianna 12/31/22 X NM X X X X X X NM X X O/E Wills KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member now TO: Parks & Recreation Commission FROM: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation DATE: November4,2021 RE: Chadek Green 2022 Park Project Design Review Don Marner, Landscape Architect from Snyder & Associates, will present a design concept of the Chadek Green Park Renovations for Commission review, comment, and recommendation to proceed with project construction documents and bidding. This project proposes to add accessible parking spaces, paved paths to east garden, a restroom, shelter, and small playground. The park was acquired by the City from the Chadek family in 2014. It is 5.02 acres and is located at 1920 Friendship Street. The site was previously used for the Chadek landscaping business. Neighborhood meetings were held in 2014 and again in 2018 to discuss future development of the park. The primary use, to date, has been to host 116 rented garden plots. Specific questions that the Commission is asked to consider for this project include: 1. Should the project include the accessible parking spaces, paved path to east garden and raised bed? 2. What other items should be included to support the community gardens? a. Additional water hydrants? b. Additional gates around fenced gardens? c. Storage for mulch and compost? d. Counter space and water source for washing produce? e. Community tool storage shed or container? f. Other? 3. Should the project include the permanent restroom? 4. Should the project include a shelter? What size? 5. Should the project include a playground? 6. If a playground, then which of the five proposals should be chosen? 7. Should the project include planning for additional community garden plots? The 2018 public input meetings were contracted to Backyard Abundance who met with neighbors and garden renters in a series of three meetings in 2018. The plan conceptualized a number of improvements to the site include fenced gardens, shady gathering spaces, public art, and children's play area. The budget at the time allowed only for the expanded second garden plots, fencing surrounding the garden plots and public art was provided by the City's Public Art Committee. The remaining items were paused until a larger CIP project could be funded. It is now funded for 2022 with $390,000 for design and construction. Schematic from Backyard Abundance's 2018 community meetings. Chedek CemmenRy GatdM I N�sm�e sa.:r ie�:�in o.+m.�+.���� xrspe�ue tdyaer rim ww+dmrewee� � A neighborhood input meeting was held from 4:30-5:45 p.m. on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at Chadek Green Park. Postcards were sent to residents living within .5 miles of the proposed project site, email notice was sent to 2021 garden plot renters, a press release was issued, and NextDoor and Facebook posts were made on both the Parks & Recreation and City of Iowa City social media pages. Following the October 20 meeting, project information and an on-line survey were available on the City website through Friday, October 29. The on-line option was also advertised through a press release and social media posts. Comments received from the public are summarized in a separate memo. Some of the more prominent points of discussion from the public input are: • Some respondents want to keep the park just as it is with no development. Their preference is "open space" which is currently mowed turf grass. Chadek Green Park is 5.0 acres in size. Approximately .7 acre of this space has the garden rental plots. The proposed parking, restroom, shelter and playground would cover an additional .3 acre. A third sections of garden rental plots would cover .5 acre. If all proposed items were included in the project, the park would continue to have 3.4 acres of space without improvements. In comparison, here are the sizes of other, non -developed space in a few other parks: o Creekside Park - ,8 acres o Fraunholtz-MIIIerPark -.9acres o Cardigan Park —1.Oacres o Scott Park — 6.6 acres o Pheasant Hill Park — 2.4 acres (steep slope for a large portion) o Calder Park - .7 acres (steep slope for some) o College Green Park —2.0 acres • Some respondents do not want additional parking or paving in the park. Staff recommends that the project continue with paving of accessible parking spaces with a paved path to the east gardens, restroom, shelter and playground. This supports the City's goal to increase accessibility to park amenities. The addition of rentable raised garden beds would also support this goal. • Garden renters who responded to the survey have a number of requests to improve the general conditions and ease of gardening at the site, These will be reviewed at the meeting and most have been included in the project concept. • There are mixed reviews regarding the need and desirability of a restroom and shelter. These items are typical in neighborhood park developments. Staff recommends that these be included in the project as there have been requests for them from gardeners since the creation of the garden plots at this site. There are concerns about the amount of lighting that would be provided. Typically, the restroom and shelter would Include security lights that would turn off with a timer. • There are mixed reviews about including a playground at the site. Staff requests the commission consider and make a recommendation regarding including or not including a playground in this project. Surveys received included 22 in favor of adding a small playground and 7 who registered opposition. Nearby park playgrounds include McPherson Park (.2 mile), Court Hill Park (.7 mile), Pheasant Hill Park (1.0 mile) and Glendale Park (.7 mile). Distance is calculated based on walking. It should also be noted that the walk to each one includes a barrier of crossing a heavily traveled street. • Many respondents voiced concerns regarding expanding the number of rental plots for gardeners. The master plan depicts what a third bank of gardens would look dike on the site. Chadek Green Gardens are the most popular rental site for gardens in Iowa City. All 273 available rental plots in City parks were rented within the first three hours of availability in 2021. Staff recommends the consideration of expanding the plots at Chadek Green to support the City's climate action and local foods goals. Current inventory of garden rental plots: o Chadek Green- 100 medium plots + 16 minis = 116 o Kiwanis Park- 30 mediums o Reno Street- 16 mediums o Wetherby Park- 37 large+74 medium = 111 o Total = 273 Five proposals were received for playground structures. After review by the project team, all are acceptable for the size of the site. The choices were presented to the public at the neighborhood meeting and through an on-line survey. Options 1, 4 and 5 received 6 or 7 votes each. Staff recommends Option 1 because of the circle layout which provides a variety of connected play elements. Option 1: 9 Option 2: CNAOEK GREEN PARK 04 play&park .:.� IOWACM,M (ONN[IOtIIUIlIII0llltflLLlf(5 structures � wavesn»....„.....,,.......�......�.........,...00.»..�...�.o. �...»...., .,»: .,�..........�... .. _.._._ vuw�coY Option 3: Option 4: CFadek Green Park 9111 Option 5: Chadek Green Park -Playground Proposal -Park Planet-10AB.21 -EMAIL ROYpdf Chadek Green Park Public Input Open House CITY OF IOWA CITY Wednesday, October 20, 2021 1 4:30 - 5:45 p.m. 1920 Friendship Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Iowa City Parks and Recreation 220 South Gilbert Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Chadek Green Park Public Input Open House Your voice matters, we want to hear from you Park project Improvements include: ADA Access Improvements I New Restroom New Shelter I Parking Area Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021 4:30-5:45 p.m. 1920 Friendship Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Can't Make the Open House? No worries, for more information about the Chadek Green Park improvement project and to submit your feedback survey visit icgov.org/ParkProjects IS SNYDER IOWA I MISSOURI I NEBRASKA I SOUTH DAKOTA I WISCONSIN &ASSOCIATES eamrarn+nc smcMrr s�aea>; vms oa mwirnma..— PROJECT: Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input PUBLIC COMMENT SUMMARY LOCATION: Chadek Green Park MEETING DATE: October 20, 2021 TOTAL RESPONDENTS: 22 public comment forms received 2 email comments 8 post meeting comments 17 online responses TOTAL VOTE RESULTS PLAY EQUIPMENT OPTIONS COLOR PALETTE OPTIONS AMENITIIES Playground Public Online Color Public Online Amenity Public Online Option Meeting Palette Meeting Meeting Option 1: 5 1 Earth 15 9 Drinking 17 5 Tones: Fountain: Option 2: 1 0 Primary 5 8 Playground: 13 6 Colors: Option 3: 1 1 Secondary Colors: 4 0 Park Shelter: 17 5 Option 4: 3 4 Off-street 6 2 Parking: Option 5: 4 2 Restroom: 22 5 (Option 6: Raised NO 7 0 Garden Beds: 7 2 la round Open Play 20 4 Space: Additional 1 1 Garden Plots: Other: 2 5 Comments: 1. Name: Jon Kimmel Address: 2025 Friendship St Phone: 319-321-2990 Email: jonathan.kinnnenl@mercyic.org Option 4, Secondary colors WS.iR�Z3'1'_4Y�`'25>.A6$E4S;•i%fg';'�:?_+'ew<w^A�aT1$.bYX. =0.u.PS�.>.sRXh3; '••—.•49 2727 SW SNYDER BOULEVARD I P.O. BOX 11591 ANKENY, IA 50023-0974 P: 515.964-2020 1 F: 515-964-7938 1 SNYDER-ASSOCIATES.COM v:\pmjects\2021\ 121.0884.01 \ndministrali on\chndek-green_meolingSobliccomments_2021-10-20.doex Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 2 of 9 Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: Potentially an addition spigot. Other Comments: Please no light pollution. Please preserve a very large open space area. 2. Name: Joan Hayward Address: 2020 Friendship St Phone: 319-351-1073 Option 2, Primary colors Park Neighbor Name: Mary Russell Address: 631 2nd Ave Phone:650-862-6461 Email: marybede@hotmail.com No Option ideally, if needed #4. Earth tones Park Neighbor Amenities: Other: As much open space as possible. Less is more! Other Comments: Please keep as much green space and trees as possible. I use the park to take long walks and to cross country ski and the open space is necessary to make that appealing. So, less is more in my opinion. 4. Name: Bob Beall Address: 2025 D Street Email: redlilwaesn nanhoo.corn Option 1, Earth tones Park Neighbor A lot of gardens are neglected as is. Garden Enhancements: More gates into the gardens. Water in each garden area. Other Comments: The City comes with preconceived plans that leaves few options for change. No lights! 5. Name: Jeannette Chadek Fulton Secondary colors Park Neighbor Other Comments: With only gardens it is not a true neighborhood park. When we sold the 5 acres to the City we were under the impression that gardening areas were not going to be the main thing that would be available. Curb cuts off Friendship St so easier to access the area. 6. Option 5, Secondary colors Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: Playground please! Better access to plots. Clearing of walkways. More water access points. Option for perennial beds. v:\proiecls\2021\ 121.0884.01 \admi nistration\cbadek-green_meetingyubliccomments_2021-10-20.docx Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 3 of 9 7. Name: Kristi Abuissa Address: 416 Grant St Phone: 319-594-3686 Email: kristi c,abuissa,net Option 4, Earth tones Park Neighbor Other amenity: water source for gardeners, possible lockers that could be rented to keep tools on -site. Garden Enhancements: I like the idea discussed tonight of a higher fee (which can be waived for low-income folks) that would support more programming/garden helpers. Other Comments: The folks whose back yards front on the park are only part of the community and should not have their fears given outsize importance Yes we should have green space but the city is growing and this should be a community resource. 8. Name: Laura Whitmore Address: 1813 B St Phone:319-230-5063 Email: barefootbiology gmail.corn If there has to be a play place (I would rather not) I would prefer a natural small playscape. Only natural playscape. WOULD RATHER LEAVE IT AS IS I Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Addition garden plots: No, the current ones need to be used better. Garden Enhancements: Water spickets in the gardens. A bathroom, I would definitely prefer to leave wide open play area. Better maintained paths in the current gardens. I would prefer no shelter, playground or other large structures. This is a place for people to relax, picnic, do yoga, without the noise, etc. brought by extra things. Also, would rather not have the current fences, but if they have to stay, they need more gates. Other Comments: The unique thing about Chadek Green Space is the Green Space. We want a place to bring our four young children to fly a kite, kick a ball, etc, without the distraction of a playground. They are happy to play and run while we garden. We can easily walk to MacPherson Park when we want a playground. I would like to see a bathroom and am fine. with ADA accessibility. Please DO NOT put in more gardens here and take away the green area 9. Name: Becky and Tim Svatos Address: 510 2nd Ave Phone: 319-466-1752 Email: beckiowa@gmail.com Option 3, Earth tones Park Neighbor Other amenity: Walking trail 10. Name: Nicole Ambrose Address: 26 Bluestein Phone: 563-639-0836 v:\pmjects\2021\121.0884.01 \administration\chadek-gran_mccling_publiecotmncnts_2021-10-20.docx Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October20,2021 Page 4 of 9 Email: nini mbrose gmail.com Option 5, Earth tones Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: Improvement on water for gardens. Other Comments: Really love Chadek! 11. Name: S. Scott Whitmore Address: 1813 B St Phone: 319-290-3387 Email: steven-whitmore cr uiowa.edu I would prefer a nature-scape type play area — low with natural colors. Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: 1)No more garden spaces please. Preserve the open green character of the space. My children love running, playing, flying kites in this space. 2) More water in the existing spaces. 3) Restrooms. 4) Please remove the fence, The fence lowers access to plots, does not keep out deer or rabbits, creates a weed border around the plots and disrupts the open aesthetic. Other Comments: Thank you very much for allowing us to rent garden space and for holding these meetings. 12. Name: Sabri Sky (Stuffs) Address: 26 Bluestem Ct Phone: 319-850-6838 Email: sabriclaysky.@gmail.com Secondary colors Garden Enhancements: More water spouts and/or allow hoses. Water, water, waterl It's prohibitive how the water is now for watering the gardens. Maybe a shed to put tools in. Other Comments: Julie — garden plots clean up chew cans, plots (think #97 & 98 half plots). Did you find our camouflage tarp we could come get, please? 13. Name: Susan Mellecker Email: susan.mellecker((Umail.com I do not desire a playground at this park. Garden Enhancements/Other Comments: I would like to see this park remain a green space as much as possible. It would be nice for the gardeners to have water and a bathroom (for everyone!) I do not think a playground is needed. Encourage people to use this "green space" to play frisbee, yard games, etc. versus a concrete playground. 14. Name: Nancy Footner Address: 2008 Dunlap Phones: 319-338-2674 Email: nfootner(cr�,gmail.com I do not want play equipment! Earth tones Park Neighbor Open play space: yes, keep the park natural open play for kids. v:\projects\20211121.0884.01\administration\ehadek-green_Mocting-publiecomments_2021.10-20.docx Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 5 of 9 Garden Enhancements: Add more spigots inside garden areas. 15. Name: Susan Young Address: 1720 Muscatine Ave Phone:319-338-3935 Earth tones Park Neighbor Addition garden plots in the future Other Comments: Keep the copse areas — multiple islands of trees. Allow garden areas (inside fences) used for dog nuns like non -plant growing seasons (winter). 16. Name: Theresa Carbrey Address: 4110 Winter Eagle SE Phone:319-471-0042 Email: tearbrey0gmail.com Option 1 Earth tones Garden Plot Renter Other amenity: vehicle access to plot to load and unload Garden Enhancements: Water and hoses convenient for all. 3 faucets in west bedl 2 in east bed! (hoses allowed) City compost delivered on "compost Saturday", soil testing and report to gardeners, amendments as needed. Make a path that allows vehicular access to plots. Provide way to mulch plots; piles of leaves, group buys of straw. Think how to make gardening easy and fun, classes, materials on -site. Other Comments: No need to expand gardens when current garden plots are mostly not actually used. Charge $50/person, thin out the "stars in their eyes" /spring people who abandon plots and leave big weeds. Kick them outl Parking and garden access is a challenge now. Doubling the size of gardens will create further congestion. 17. Name: Gary Klein Address: 628 2nd Ave Phone:319-621-6073 Email: gsu iyklein mail.c:onl Option 4, Earth tones Park Neighbor Other amenity: Playground with musical elements (for ASK kids and music lovers). Dog enclosed park area. Garden Enhancements: Raised beds for accessibility. Other Comments: Solar powered shelter/restroom combination. Concept 2 but flip shelter east/west and solar powered roof. Enclosed dog area''/1 of the 2nd garden space (open to dog park off-season). Small library as part of shelter complex. v:\projects\2021\121.0884.01 Win inistration\ehadek-green_meetingyubliccomments_2021.10-20.doex Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 6 of 9 18. Name: Martha Boysen Address: 514 Garden St Email: marthabo sen cr�eentulylink.net Option: no opinion, don't have kids. Earth tones Other amenity: native plants/pollinator gardens, solar panels for shelter/restrooms, open space for neighborhood activities (bike club, etc) Other Comments: Add pollinator or native prairie/savannah weeds so the whole park isn't paving/manicured/lawn. A dog run would be nice — maybe a winter use of garden plots? 19. Name: Catherine Stewart Address: 1815 B Street Phone:319-594-6371 Email: cstewart(a,cornellcolle e.edu NO playground, Keep Chadek Green Green! The is a playground 2 blocks away Our next door neighbors with 4 kids also just want green open space! Park Neighbor Other amenity: Green space and trees! NO more additions please. 20. Name: Roxane Mitten Address: 2116 Friendship St Email: nuitten57Oe—mnail.com Option: None. The most minimal naturescape? Earth tones Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: Green waste city bins for weeds. I like composting, not sure people will manage it unless there is supportive programming. WATER HYDRANTS. I at each end of W garden, 2 in E garden. Border garden edges, native flowers like original backyard abundance design. Other Comments: 1) Meter Rewater, use debit card, like parking or showers at campgrounds. Reasonable price. 2) Greater fee for garden — way too cheapl Include a deposit for negligent gardeners and also applicable to next year. 21. Earth tones Park Neighbor Other amenity: water available at both ends to gardens, Garden Enhancements: Keep it geared toward gardeners. Penalty for gardeners chosen but not used so other can have them. 22. Name: Barb Gartner Address: 711 Kimball Rd Phone: 319-325-5756 Email: Barbara- artner ,uiowa.edu Option 6: No playground Garden Enhancements: Compost bins the city pickup great idea. v:\projects\2021\121.0884.011administration\cltad ek-green_meclbw—pub liecomments_2021-10-20.doex Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 7 of 9 Email Comments: I attended the Court Hill meeting last night on Park Improvements and have some questions. - Are larger pictures of the options available on-line that show the detail of each option? It was difficult to see detail of the large pictures last night as it was getting dark. - There are three color options listed. When my daughter in Madison, Wisconsin helped choose a color option for the new play structure in their park, the designer told them the earth tones would weather better. Is that true for the earth tones in our proposal? - It looks like the belt swings and toddler swings are all together, not separate units. Thank youl ! This is great when you have a toddler and a 4 year old to keep track of on the swings. - Please have at least 2 toddler swings offered in all of the options. A parent with twins or a 3 and a 2 year old would appreciate two toddler swings to avoid tantrums over who gets to swing first. 116 - Swing for parent holding little one is a nice addition. Sincerely, Linda Diggelmann diggelfa@gmail.com Post Meeting Comments: I believe there should be limited renovation to Chadek Green Park Please do NOT add any more garden plots[ Doing so will not only be an eyesore to the lovely open space but bring more traffic, congestion and garbage. Sometimes It seems like the city enjoys cleaning up after others. The purpose of a park has been (or should be) to get away from all of that, Many of the plots which are rented out sit idle all summer and fill up with weeds. How about making each Individual plot smaller to Include more people in the original space? Or slightly adjusting the dimensions of the total area? Any additional fencing around a large space will create more of an obstacle course for those of us who like to walk through Chadek on the way to (HyVee), for example. The proposed new garden plots are also very close to beautiful mature trees which have provided shade, housing and protection for wildlife for many years. They are also just a few yards from people living on 5th Avenue and B Street. Two very large garden plots are more than enough for this park, Fenced -in areas such as these should be spread throughout the city, not concentrated in one spot. There are many other locations In Iowa City - north, south, east and west - which have plenty of land for this purpose, and if I know gardeners as I do ... they will gladly come) Project GREEN should be consulted if you plan to add any raised garden beds. This organization Is not only knowledgeable but also very aware of design, beauty and types of flowers and plants that do well in this soil and climate. Environmentally savvy tool I hope these surveys are taken seriously when decisions are made. Oftentimes those who are most affected (those of us who live next to or nearby) are listened to the least, if at all. If too many "improvements" are added to Chadek Green, the original purpose of the park will be lost forever. vAprojects Thank you. Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 8 of 9 2. Name: Dorothy M. Lulming Address:1838 B Street Email: dorolunning n earthlink.net No option or color palette chosen. Park Neighbor Parking: If you add more plots, you will need to build a parking garage! There is not enough space for adequate parking for gardeners and families who want to use the playground and park shelter. Garden Enhancements: Project GREEN should be conducted in your plan to add any gardens, they are not only knowledgeable but also very aware of design, beauty and types of flowers and plans that do well in this soil and climate, environmentally savvy too! Other Comments: Please do NOT add any more garden plots to this property. Doing so will not only be an eyesore to this lovely open space but bring more traffic congestions and garbage. The purpose of a park has been (or should be) to get away from all of that, Many of the plots which area already there remain unused and fill up with weeds. Any additional fencing around a large space will create more of an obstacle course for any of us who like to walk through Chadek on the way to (HyVee). Two very large garden plots is more than enough for this space. Fenced in areas such as these should be spread throughout the City not concentrated in one spot. There are many other locations — north/south/east and west which have plenty of land for this purpose. And if I know gardeners as I do, they will gladly come! If too many "improvements" are added to Chadek Green Park, the original purpose of the park will be lots — probably forever. 3. Name: Bruce Maurer Address: 610 2"d Avenue Phone 319-530-1524 Email: b maurerplus5(c)yahoo.com Option 1 and Option 5 tied Earth tones Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: Need to figure out a better option for the pathways. They were really full of weeds this year. Other Comments: We have enough garden plots at this site. It's time to focus on the other amenities above and not take up any more space with garden plots. More garden plots should be placed in other parts of the City so that more people have them closer to where they live. 4. Name: Grace Maurer Address: 610 2"d Avenue Phone: 319-383-9737 Option 1 Earth Tones Garden plots: Have enough!! v:\projects\2021\121.0884.01 \aidnrini strat ion\chadek-green_meeting_publiecomments_2021.10.20.docx Chadek Green Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 9 of 9 5. Name: Ben Bessman Address: 2215 Friendship St Phone: 319-541-2755 Email: benbessmanCii4hotmail.com Option 1 Primary Colors Park Neighbor 6. Name: Michelle Bessman Address: 2215 Friendship St Phone:319-541-0820 Option 5 Earth Tones Park Neighbor Garden Enhancements: Can we make some of the garden with raised garden beds: Other Comments: Please put the garden options at other parks. 7. Name: Jonathan Haas Address: 513 5" Ave Phone:319-471-7859 Email: trespatoma58(@,Rinail.com No Option or color palette chosen Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: It would be nice if the city prepped the gardens with a little more tilling or perhaps facilitated plot renters who may want to hire someone offering tilling service, Other Comments: I like the park as it is. If a playground is building, I would prefer something more "rustic" and unlike the options presented here. 8. Name: Deb Wollard Address: 513 5th Ave Phone: 319.333-5843 Email: dwollard(rx),gmail.com No Option or color palette chosen Park Neighbor and Garden Plot Renter Garden Enhancements: I enjoy the park the way it is. It would be nice to have a pump for water closer to the second garden that was installed. If you have to put a playground in for children it needs to be accessible to all children. Other Comments: I don't think having a playground near the garden plots is a good idea. Gardeners need to garden. Parents need to supervise their children while they're at the playground. Gardeners do not need to use a playground as a babysitter while they garden. If a playground is installed it should be away from the garden plots. v:\projects\2021\121.0884.01 \administration\chadek-grocn_meeting_publiecommenls_2021.10-20.docx Chadek Green Park — On line comments Is it important to have any of the following included In this project? Other (Please Specify) • playground for kids!!l year round garden plot options (higher rent, self managed) • Handicapped Parking Only • Benches, ball diamond, tennis courts. • Back when the Chadek property was first purchased, there was a neighborhood meeting where residents discussed designing a play area that would honor the historic use of the property: that is --soil. The Chadeks used to store large mound of soil on the property. The idea of having a less traditional playground, perhaps something more like the playground at Kiwanis park is so much more appealing. Something that engages kids with earth forms and soil seems appropriate to a park that has public garden plots. I admit I am not a huge fan of the modern, plastic playground. • bike repair kit, sidewalks, native plantings, picnic tables What garden -related enhancements would you like to see at the park? • Better maintenance of the walkways (accessibility). Easier access for water. Year round garden plot options. • A native pollinator garden and paw paw trees • 1 would love to have some water sources closer to the garden plots so that we don't have to carry water so far and also a small shed for storing garden equipment. • Compost bins and tool shed for common tools • Sign up for end of the year gleaning program to benefit table to table and food banks. • Again, see above comment regarding engaging folks/kids with soil. Soil as a living thing, as having components of different sizes and materials —rock, gravel, sand, clay, etc. Perhaps connect the play space with fun pathways around the perimeter of the garden. • limestone edging, native plants, teaching/learning gardens, walkway lighting, art/sculpture (local artists), birdhouses • Bathroom • As a garden plot renter, I would like to see additional water sources for the garden areas. I have no preference to the development concepts, as both seem well planned. I would vote for more parking. The park can see many cars when the gardens are in full swing, and Friendship street is fairly busy at that location, resulting in traffic flow issues when cars are parked on the street. Other thoughts: more refuse containers, a dogie bag post, a paved walkway around the circumference of the park.Disc golf baskets, fruit/nut trees, pollinator plantings. and... Planned events to promote the park. • 1 think that if parking is added it sould be put as close to the gardens as possible. That's where people predominate park as is and where the heavy equipment was stored by previous owners. B Street and 5th are crazy with traffic and putting the parking space along b would only add to the congestion. 0 A small dog park would be nice. Also a water feature such as a fountain. All parking should be inside the park. Street parking makes traffic more dangerous to people crossing the street. The people gardening, are keeping their car doors open on Friendship, and not watching for cars.There should be access to the park where there is currently already a driveway on fifth. People walking cannot even go through that way, which is currently blocked by a fence. It was always a roadway, when Chadek was operating there. It should still be a roadway.[ appreciate the gardens, BUT 2 is enough. They are an eyesore. The proposed new garden plot is way too big and not necessary at all. Just my opinion 1 love the multi -use, open green space this park provides. I would prefer to see as much green space preserved instead of creating more community garden space. • 1 like the idea of keeping the shelter and the restroom separate and having the restroom more accessible to gardeners. Hope that you will also include some benches under the trees, for older visitors like us. We visit the park often and enjoy it very much -- thank you for asking for our input on all this. The park is a wonderful resource for our neighborhood. • 1 like concept 2 better than concept 1. 1 have concerns with both concepts however in that there does not seem to be any ADA accessibility to some actual plots and I don't see any raised beds for people who have physical disabilities. Leave some open areas for dogs to run around in instead of just playground! • please put a pump track in this park. central location and will get a lot of children using it, https://pumptrack.com/ to view possibilities. Other Comments • Thanks for improving this park. It is a great location for the addition of a playground (surrounded by residential community), and gives gardeners with children a place for the kids to play while parents tend to their plot. We appreciate itl • Please do not add so much pavement. Use permeable materials. One of my favorite things about Chadek is the wide-open green space. It's great for playing games like kickball or frisbee. I would strongly advocate for leaving some dedicated green space that isn't taken up by structures or too many garden plots. While I am in favor of having a few more garden plots, I am opposed to taking up almost the whole grassy area (as the current plans show). I would advocate for leaving a large enough space so that kids can play soccer or other free -play activities that need open grass. Balance is the key word. We already have enough community garden plots at Chadek Green Park. If there is more demand in Iowa City for more community garden plots then please add them at every neighborhood park that can host them. They don't have to be big but should be walkable from every neighborhood in the city. Chadek Green Park needs to protect more open space for park use. I like to play frisbee and play catch at the park. Please do not add any more community gardens here. I make my living in regenerative ag and local foods but again I urger balance, Thanks and I look forward to the park upgrades. • 1 would like there to be a bench to commemorate Carl and Freida Chagall. 1 wish the park did not have the galvanized chainlink fences. Even a black fence would be better. It just does not feel have a neighborly, welcoming look. Not crazy about any of the playground designs. • 1 think more than 4-5 parking spots would be needed... maybe extras in the NW corner of the park, where there's already an access point in the curb/cement. • Thanks Ao n PtirV. 'N\rti�\-ec Oar, Chadek Green Park Acquired 2014 1920 Friendship St. Item Type Dty Cond. Note ADA? Community 1 Cond. NA no accessible route Modern Signage 1 Good Notes: Curb Access at Street Development: Coordinate with Iowa City Curb Access Program (no truncated domes) GATHER HERE. SG Signage CG Community Garden PARK INVENTORY: CHADEK GREEN PARK No accessible routes to open lawn No accessible routes to open lawn No accessible routes from street No accessible routes to open lawn TO: Parks & Recreation Commission FROM: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation DATE: November4,2021 RE: Court Hill 2022 Playground and Shelter Project Design Review Don Manner, Landscape Architect from Snyder & Associates will present a design concept of the Court Hill Park Renovations for Commission review, comment, and recommendation to proceed with project construction documents and bidding. This project replaces the playground and two shelters in Court Hill Park, 2825 Friendship Street. This project was reviewed as part of the 2016 Park Master plan and recommended for playground and shelter replacements due to age and condition. The current playground was installed in 1993 while the park shelters were constructed prior to 1979. Staff recommends keeping the playground and nearby shelter in approximately the same location. Staff further recommends that the shelter in the north portion of the park be moved to a location closer to the basketball court with a paved path constructed to provide access to both. There is a storm drain tile that will be repaired during the project to better drain the basketball court. A neighborhood input meeting was held from 6- 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at Court Hill Park. Postcards were sent to residents living within .5 miles of the proposed project site, a press release was issued, and social media and Next Door posts were made on both the Parks & Recreation and City of Iowa City social media pages. Following the October 20 meeting, project information and an on-line survey were available on the City website through Friday, October 29. The on-line option was also advertised through a press release and social media posts. Comments received are summarized in a separate memo from Snyder & Associates. Five proposals were received for playground structures. After review by the project team, all are acceptable for the size of the site. The choices were presented to the public at the neighborhood meeting and through an on-line survey. Option 1: Option 2: couarxtu _ -•-• iowxcm,u mxxnnn nannntemmn^"" —""'•^' ��� � j14 Shuctures eoo.rn�� y a _ Option 5: C CA a,t H.11 PeM- Playground PrepeeeI Perk Plelet -101831 EMAIL RM p4f V Staff Recommendation: Based upon public comments received and recommendations of the Park Master Plan, staff recommends the following: 1. Layout Option 2 for Playground/Shelter as this will increase access and flow from park trail. 2. Move shelter in north portion of park to location closer to basketball court. Be cognizant of recently placed memorial benches. 3. Purchase playground Option 3, from Cunningham Recreation in earth tone colors. Inquire if additional "monkey bars" can be added and if room for a spinner. 4. Consider solar lighting for the shelters. 5. Consider adding signage to mark public access from Friendship Street to playground along west side of creek. Iowa City Parks and Recreation 220 South Gilbert Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Court Hill Park Public Input Open House Your voice matters, we want to hear from you Park project Improvements include: ADA Access Improvements I Playground Replacement I Shelter Replacement Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021 6 - 7:30 p.m. 2825 Friendship Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Can't Make the Open House? No worries, for more Information about the Court Hill Park Improvement project and to submit your feedback surveyvisit icgov.org/ParkProjects Public Information Meeting October 20, 2021 COURT HILL PARK PARK IMPROVEMENTS INPUT PROJECT SCOPE The City of Iowa City will be making improvements to the park soon and this is an opportunity for you to provide input. The existing play equipment and shelters will be replaced with new play equipment and shelters. PLEASE SELECT A PLAY EQUIPMENT OPTION YOU LIKE THE BEST ❑ OPTION 1 ❑ OPTION 4 �SNYDER B ASSOCIAT ES Contact Nicholas H. Streng, PLA Snyder & Associates, Inc. 320 E Prentiss Street Iowa City, IA 52240 nst reng@s nyder-associates.com ❑ OPTION 2 `:tea ❑ OPTION 5 ❑ OPTION 3 MORE INFORMATION ON BACK OF PAGE "irk} To view information concerning all current park 'III "" projects please access the following website: CITY FIOWACITY www•icgov.org/parkprojects Please Print flame, Address. Phoi ie E ail COURT HILL PARK PLEASE SELECT THE COLOR PALETTE YOU DESIRE MOST FOR THE PLAY EQUIPMENT ❑ Earth Tones ■ ■ ❑ Primary Colors ■ ■ ❑ Secondary Colors ■ ■ ■ (Green, Tan, Brown, Lime) (Red, Yellow, Blue) (Orange, Green, Purple) OTHER COMMENTS SN Y D E R IOWA I MISSOURI I NEBRASKA I SOUTH DAKOTA I WISCONSIN &ASSOCIATES PROJECT: Court Hill Park: Park Improvements Input PUBLIC COMMENT SUMMARY LOCATION: Court Hill Park MEETING DATE: October 20, 2021 TOTAL RESPONDENTS: 15 public comment forms received 23 online comments received TOTAL VOTE RESULTS PLAY EQUIPMENT OPTIONS COLOR PALETTE OPTIONS Public Public Option Mtg Online Color Palette Mtg Online Option 1: 2 2 Earth Tones: 6 9 Option 2: 1 2 Primary 3 6 Colors: Option 3: 7 12 Secondary 4 8 Colors: Option 4: 0 0 Option 5: 3 7 Comments: 1. Name: Cicelia Ross -Gotta Address: 3001 Clover St Phone: 406-529-4467 Email: rossgottac@gmail.com Option 1, Primary colors Other Comments: We love monkey bars. 2. Name: Sally Owens Address: 430 Upland Ave Email: renataowensAhotmail.com Option 3, Earth tones Other Comments: Higher monkey bars for older kids. Equipment for different aged kids. More slides (and bigger slides). Equipment geared toward courses. 2727 SW SNYDER BOULEVARD I P.O. BOX 1159 1 ANKENY, IA 50023-0974 P: 515-964-2020 1 F: 515.964-7938 1 SNYDER-ASSOCIATES.COM v:\projects\2021\121.0884.011administmtion\courthill meetingpubliccomments_2021-10-20.docz Court Hill Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 2 of 4 3. Name: Renata Owens Address: 430 Upland Ave Email: renataowens@hotmail.com Option 3, Earth tones Other Comments: Solar panel on top of shelters that could power lights for evening use. (of shelter and playground would be ideal.) Thank you we use this park often! Appreciate playgrounds that are fun for older kids too — they still like to play, they love playing America Ninja Warrior and erecting courses so a playground that lends to that is so cool. Kind of fun to have a safe way to get down to the creek for kiddos who like to play down there. Zipline would be awesome. 4. Name: Erin McCuskey Address: 3035 Stanford Ave Phone: 319-693-1076 Option 2 or 3, Primary colors Other Comments: Please consider solar panels for the electricity in the shelter. Please keep it wood chips or soft (not sand) surface. A lot of the new equipment is only for littles and we hope that there is something for toddlers and something for older kids — zip line or more challenging monkey bars. Thank you for this event! 5. Name: Vivian Gustafson Address: 3035 Stanford Ave Phone: 319-693-1076 Email: Gustafsonjunevivian@gmail.com Option 3, Earth tones Other Comments: I hope that there will be more slides and monkey bars that are higher and there should be a little kid playground and a big kid playground. I think that there should be a part for people who have disabilities. There should also be an American Ninja Warrior course. 6. Name: Kathie Gonzales Address: 614 Brookside Phone:319-270-9082 Email: kgonzales@gmail.com Option 1 (parents), or 5 (kids), Earth tones Other Comments: Please add a spray pad behind the restrooms or by the basketball court similar to Tower Court Park. This would be a wonderful and needed addition/feature. My son would like a zipline. Bike and stroller parking please. 7. Name: Lawrence Harney Address: 49 Norwood Circle Phone: 319-338-8563 Email: larryjb4963@gmail.com v:\proj mts\2021 \ 121.0884.01\administration\courthill_meetingpnbliccomments_2021-10-20.do" Court Hill Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 3 of 4 No Option selected, Secondary colors Other Comments: 1) Will new shelter by basketball courts impact the current park bench that my family just had placed, 2) A stage area near playground/shelter for music in the park events. 3) Playground shade? 4) A historical marker above the old railroad bridge and limestone blocks would be really neat, 8. Name: Mary Jo Daly Address: 532 Meadow St Phone: 814-844-3771 No Option selected, no color selected Other Comments: Please plan something that maximizes our enjoyment of the creek. Any water feature. Generally young children access the creek along the south end of the walking bridge. Even a bench facing the creek would be a lovely addition. We do enjoy this park almost daily. 9. Name: Jessica De Haan Address: 3580 Vista Park Dr Option 5, Secondary colors Other Comments: I appreciate playgrounds that have age -appropriate equipment for all ages/stages. It's hard to find playgrounds that accommodate both toddlers (i.e. no longer gaps b/w equipments, swings/rings that connect one half to another) and older elementary kids. Thanksl 10. Name: Amanda McFadden Address: 5 Norwood Circle Phone:319-830-5411 Email: atnwilson03@gmail.com Option 3 1' choice: I like how it is spread out, promotes movement. Shade is also valued. Option 1 2nd choice, Secondary colors: blue and green Other Comments: Prefer concept 2 for shelter and sidewalk. Please label the pathway west of the creek that leads to the playground. Pleas add a drain to the basketball court. Please remove the baseball fencing and install soccer goals/field. Please emphasize shade on the playground, Please keep a double side by side slide, fun for all ages. Tube slides/tube crawling space are hard to keep clean and prone to vandalizing, also hot, and obstruct view, do not recommend. Grouping all swings together instead of separate is better. Spinning wheel currently installed is very popular, so is the double slide! Create safer access to the creek for children (the are doing it either way), you can post an "at your own risk" sign or something. 11. No Option selected, Primary colors Other Comments: Circle spinner currently there is popular and good to keep. Prefer more flex playground that promotes independent/exploratory play. Shaded playground area ideal. Would like swings, including toddler swings. Can you capitalize on the creek in your design? Great if shelter had outdoor fireplace and lights. If it costs a lot to move shelter, not worth it. It's minimal change, invest elsewhere. v:\projects\2021\121.0884.01\administration\oourthill_meeting_pnbliecomments_2021-10-20.docx Court Hill Park: Park Improvements Input Public Meeting Comments October 20, 2021 Page 4 of 4 12. Name: Joe and Carol Galbraith Address: 3021 Raven St Phone: 319430-3574 Email: josephgalbraith7838@gmail.com No Option selected: No children or grandchildren so no strong opinion. Guess one with most variety of activity use, Earth tones or Secondary colors Other Comments: Adult exercise equipment with signage for suggested use. 13. Name: Andrew De Haan Address: 3580 Vista Park Dr Phone: 712-463-2107 Email: ndrwdhn9@gmail.com Option 3, no colors selected Other Comments: Swings from #4 are the best to me with handicap -friendly and small child friendly options. 14. Name: Beth Beadle Legue Address: 3014 Pinecrest Phone: 319-325-8920 Email: blegue@midwestche.com Option 3, Earth tones Other Comments: One of my primary concerns is shade. I like the options of 5 and 3 because of the coverage. I'd like to see more. I would actually prefer a playground that looks more natural in this area. Like the Riverwalk Park by Big Grove. Thanks. 15. Name: Carl Richmand Address: 2817 Friendship St Phone: 319-631-4654 Option 5, no colors selected Other Comments: My son Hunter requests the following: 1. Seesaw 2. Sandbox 3. Slides 4. Zipline 5. Climbing wall 6. Concert stage. Shade on the playground is desirable. v:\proj ects\202 1\1 21.0884.0 1 \administration\courthill_mee6ng_publicco=cnts_2021-10-20.docx Court Hill Park —Online Comments Any future desired park Improvements or additional comments? Would love to see an exercise station along the trail towards Meadow in that area that doesn't get utilized. Park Iights.Mini splash pad by the basketball court or behind the restroom like Tower Court. It would be an asset to our neighborhood, we have kids of all ages and people frequently stop on walks and bike rides. The splash pad by the basketball court would increase rentals of the pavilion so that more of the park was utilized. Would like to see more community art on the drains to show how we should watch what is sent down the drain. Our neighborhood would love to help with anything to improve this park, please include us. Leveling of the turf by the baseball and football field, it's pretty difficult to run around as it's so lumpy. Something accessible to smaller kids would be great. My two year old specifically requested "steps, slides, and swings." Also, no sand please) For the shelter, I choose preliminary concept #1. 1 live directly across the stream from the playground. We have done much to establish a natural and native plant environment. When we first moved here there was only a gravel path through the park. There has been a progressive replacement of what used to be a beautiful peaceful woodland park with more and more concrete and larger glossy equipment. In the summer, the deciduous trees block much of this view, but the rest of the year we must look at this while it is largely not used (winter). I realize that the city needs play and gathering spaces and am happy to have my family play at the park but I don't want it expanded. There is a high volume of walkers mixed with bicycle traffic that is more and more motorized without enforcement of speeds. The lights on the bathroom are already an eyesore and I would not like to have more lighting. It would attract more night parties and greatly reduce our enjoyment of our backyard in the evenings/nights. I ask that no new access roads or parking be added. In a word, less man-made structure and more nature. Dan Phillips, MD. 2816 Brookside Dr. Iowa City, 52245 1 believe that some form of scavenger hunt or Geocache being available at Court Hill Park would be a good idea. With the size of Court Hill park it would be fun to have something similar to the Fairy Trail in North Liberty. My son likes to look for things while walking on trails and playing in the park. I prefer preliminary concept 1 for the new shelter. I would like to volunteer to remove invasive garlic mustard and honeysuckle on the stream banks. I am trained and experienced in this work. I would like to see and/or help plant native shrubs and understory plants along the stream banks. Also, the mowers got too close to the streams this year and destroyed too many Elderberry shrubs and native plants. Can we have some native plant pollinator gardens in the park? Please put me in contact with someone at the city who can help me volunteer. Ginnypaulson@hotmail.com or 319-330-7565. While it is important for children to have options and challenges for development, I do not understand the play structures in the parks that do not allow for children to change their minds or for adults to access them at all points of play. A child (of any age or physical ability) should not be relegated to a smaller slide (for example) because there is not a basic walkway/stairway leading to the bigger slide. Children can be in distress for physical, mental, emotional reasons, and it is not helpful to those children if they cannot be accessed easily by parents or others trying to help them. I have observed adults with growing children testing their readiness for activities and sometimes the children get right to the edge of the activity and are not ready to go through with it. This is an important development for children to be able to recognize without fear and that cannot happen if they cannot access these activities. I have also observed adults injuring themselves trying to help smaller/less able bodied children access points on play structures they cannot access alone and without an easy way for adults to help them up or get them down if needed. Structures should be made so children of all ages have options to access all points of play and adults should not be concerned about helping children if needed. I look forward to the improvements to Court Hill Park and taking my children to play on the new equipment. Thank you. • Safe equipment for toddlers. A lot of the parks are geared for older kids. We also like the co -swings with the baby seat and the mom swing. • Move the play space over by the limestone towers and incorporate a small drive along the creek with some parking where the old play set used to be. • Please consider adult heights for any overhead structures. My wife wrote this, but I agree with it as well: Please make sure the play structure is appealing and safe to both 2-5 year olds and 5-12 year olds. Please put in both types of swings for toddlers and older kids. Other stand alone toys like a wiggle seat or a spinning toy would be wonderful. Please include a structure with a ramp as well as steps. I couldn't tell which of the above options had ramps and stairs. Thank you! • We (grandparents and grandchildren) like: 1. the proposed added arch walk path that joins the large limestone blocks to the play area 2. a better shelter. Current one is gloomy. One like the shelter at James Allan McPherson Park would be great 3 shelter should sit on a slab that Is larger than the drip line of the roof of'shelter 4 include the bike air pump/repair such as at McPherson and Willow Creek, perhaps in the proposed arch area of path 5 perhaps a small number of well -placed solar powered lights Regarding plan 1 vs plan 2 above, I prefer the small shelter in the north side of the park in plan 1. For the larger shelter I think I like the orientation from plan 2, but I don't like the amount of cement and horseshoe sidewalk by the rocks. I would prefer to keep the playground and structure tucked back in the corner and keep as much green space as possible. Regarding the playground structure, my kids zeroed in on #3 & #2. However, I would say the playground equipment overall was presented horribly and seemed like an afterthought. Also, the current spinning ring is really popular with kids of all ages. It would be great to have something similar in the new scheme if possible.) am ecstatic that the rocks are staying. They are the iconic feature of the park. One thing to consider with the rocks is thinking about stabilizing them a bit. It seems like they were adjusted a year or two ago and one of the upper stones rocks back and forth. I don't know if some sand or something can be added to dampen that. As far as other improvements, I'd like to see 2 things. One, it would be great to have an adjustable basketball hoop to serve younger kids. Either replace the existing goal or adding one to the other end. I would be willing to contribute funds to this project. Most of the kids in the immediate neighborhood are on the younger side. Also, the driveways along Friendship are not conducive to hoops. (As an aside, I wish there was feedback solicited when the current hoop was installed.) The second thing I'd like to see is to make a creek crossing in the opening near the playground. Finally, I understand the efficiency gains of removing the trash by the main shelter, but aside from dog walkers I don't think the current placement works for how the park is actually used. • Please make sure the play structure is appealing and safe to both 2-5 year olds and 5- 12 year olds. Please put in both types of swings for toddlers and older kids. Other stand alone toys like a wiggle seat or a spinning toy would be wonderful. Please include a structure with a ramp as well as steps. I couldn't tell which of the above options had ramps and stairs. Thank youl • Thanks for the park upgrades. Please make sure there are upgrades to the restroom and water fountain • Option 5 looks a lot like the footprint of the playground structure at Pheasant Hill Park on Green Mountain Road. For that reason, please do not use Option 5, it is too close to Pheasant Hill to replecate it. Please have a minimum of 2 toddler swings which will help parents with two younger children avoid conflict over which child gets to swing and which one has to wait. Toddlers do not wait very well. • Prefer Layout Concept #2 - circle entry makes for more appealing entry off the main trail. Prefer equipment option #2. Appreciate the recent attention to the trail repair on the east side of the bridge near the restroom building and the efforts for tree replacement. Keep a lookout for vegetation growth along the trail at the neighborhood cross streets - tall plants/volunteer trees can block the view for peds and bikers to the streets. Nice job but could have been helpful at little earlier in the season. With the increased use of the trail during these COVID times, the users need good visibility to vehicles and vis-versa Thanks for the survey and your support to the recreation needs of Iowa City. • This area of the park provides a wonderful, healthy walk/bike in nature along the creek. It's also quite narrow and seems best suited to smaller playground equiupment. Would it make sense to have a larger playground situated in the bigger open space on the other side of Frelndship (near the current basketball court)? • Disk golf practice baskets • Disc golf practice baskets would really be a nice addition to court hill park. Please consider adding this as they are relatively inexpensive and maintenance free. • Please keep the limestone blocks.) like the Preliminary Concept 1, it appears to have less usage of concrete increasing the green space and play area versus #2. • No • Replace/renovate the main shelter next to playground. It's prone to flood/collect standing water as is, so maybe grade or elevate the base? Keep and improve/upgrade the basketball court on the north section. Kids are always playing there. • No comments. • *For the playground equipment, It's very difficult to see these small pictures. So, I'll just say that I strongly prefer pieces that have some more flexibility so that kids of multiple ages can use their imagination as to how best to play (e.g., not just a slide and swing, but some things that spin or that you can climb on or build with, etc.) *1 also like the playgrounds that are more spaced out, and less compact, so kids aren't right on top of one another (this is something covid has taught us!) *Anything you can do to provide some shade would be much appreciated *The spinny thing that is currently on the playground (separate from the slides/swings) is very popular so it would be nice if it stayed or something similar was introduced. It gives bigger kids something to do since the slides can be a bit small (i.e., better for younger kids) *1 appreciate the toddler swings where there's also an attached swing for the adult to sit on and face the child *In thinking about the shelter location and cement work, I think its important that there's still green space for the kids to run back and forth (or throw a ball). That currently happens near the climbing rocks area and should be kept (along with the climbing rocks). I know there's a lot of green space on the other side of the bridge near the bathrooms, but this again, let's bigger kids play near the playground/shelter where their parents (and younger siblings) might be. So, I worry that design 2 will eliminate that green space. *It would be great if the shelter had some amenities, like electricity, lights, and heat lamps so that we can use it earlier in spring and later in autumn. If the pandemic taught us anything, it's that we need more usable outdoor gathering locations for a better part of the year. *This is a neighborhood park so the design should be for families and people of all ages. TO: Parks & Recreation Commission FROM: Jul! Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation DATE: November 4, 2021 RE: Whispering Meadow 2022 Pocket Park Project Design Review Don Marner, Landscape Architect from Snyder & Associates will present a design concept of the Whispering Meadows Pocket Park for Commission review, comment, and recommendation to proceed with project construction documents and bidding. This project adds a small playground, shelter, drinking fountain and entrance path to the larger Whispering Meadows Park. The site is located at between 2637 and 2655 Indigo Court. This project was a priority in the 2016 Park Master plan due to a lack of playgrounds in this area of the community. The site for this project is small includes stormwater structures and easement that limit the project design. Designers were able to include a playground, shelter, path, benches, and drinking fountain. However, there was only one layout that would allow for all elements on the site. A neighborhood input booth was available to residents from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, October 17, 2021 at Wetherby Park during a Rec & Roll event. Postcards were sent to residents living within .5 mile of the proposed project site, a press release was issued, and social media posts were made on both the Parks & Recreation and City of Iowa City social media pages. Following the October 17 event, project information and an on-line survey were available on the City website through Friday, October 29. The on-line option was also advertised through a press release and social media posts. Comments received are summarized in a separate memo. Beyond the anticipated addition of playground and shelter, residents had questions about other areas of the park. The questions and staff response were as follows: • Concerns about condition of bridge & boardwalk —The boardwalk over the wetlands is leaning in several places due to natural settling into the wetlands. However, staff did not feel that this provides a safety hazard. Staff will keep a watch on the condition of the boards and structure on a regular basis In case conditions get worse. • Concerns about trail conditions, especially area behind Blue Stem Court — Staff will add gravel to the trail (hopefully) later this fall to remedy some of the muddy areas. • Concerns about trash & abandoned bicycles in wetlands. —Staff has removed the abandoned bicycles and trash. Five proposals were received for playground structures. After review by the project team, all are acceptable for the size of the site. Commission input is asked for selection of this playground as the public comments were not conclusive concerning a choice for this site. Option 1: Option 2: piay&park Zuctues vrom 7 Jjp'!�� Option 5: Whispering Meadows Park Public Input Open House Sunday, October 17, 2021 3 - 5 p.m. Hosted at Wetherby Park 2400 Taylor Drive Iowa City, IA 52240 Iowa City Parks and Recreation 220 South Gilbert Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Whispering Meadows Park Public Input Open House Your voice matters, we want to hear from you. Park project improvements include: ADA Access Improvements i New Playground New Shelter I Trail Connections Pocket Park on Indigo Court Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021 3 - 5 p.m. Input meeting hosted at wetherby Park 2400 Taylor Drive Iowa City, IA 52240 Can't Make the Open House? No worries, for more information about the Whispering Meadows Park improvement project and to submit your feedback surveyvisit icgov.org/ParkProjects Parks �" Rccreatum Public Information Meeting October 17, 2021 WHISPERING MEADOWS WETLAND PARK PARK IMPROVEMENTS INPUT The City of Iowa City will be making improvements to the park soon and this is an opportunity for you to provide input. Proposed improvements include a small shelter, play equipment, sidewalk, drinking fountain, benches and park sign. PLEASE SELECT YOUR PREFERRED SHELTER e .n D ❑ OPTION 1 ❑ OPTION 2 PLEASE SELECT THE COLOR PALETTE YOU DESIRE MOST FOR THE PLAY STRUCTURE ❑ Earth Tones ■ ■ ❑ Primary Colors IN ■ ❑ Secondary Colors ■ ■ ■ (Green, Tan, Brown, Lime) (Red, Yellow, Blue) (Orange, Green, Purple) ANY FUTURE DESIRED PARK IMPROVEMENTS OR COMMENTS: S N Y D E R ^r Kiir '� To view information concerning all current park 3 &ASSOCIATES "—�+�i�projects please access the following website: CITY OF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org/parkprojects Please Print Nicholas H. Strang, PLA Name: Snyder & Associates, Inc. 320 E Prentiss Street Addres& Iowa City, IA 52240 dpmarner@snyder-associates.com Phone: Email: a Blue Stem C wo WHISPERIN6, MEADOWS WEt,I AND PARK ef, NIS fp Park 1% Improverne AWL% WOOL - Site 0 F a 6 0 z 5 N 3 0 0 z z a W d 0) 2 CE M. W: o� V W. � 11 SN Y D E D IOWA I MISSOURI I NEBRASKA I SOUTH DAKOTA I WISCONSIN &ASSOCIATES PROJECT: Whispering Meadows Wetland Park: Park Improvements Input PUBLIC COMMENT SUMMARY LOCATION: Wetherby MEETING DATE: October 17, 2021 TOTAL RESPONDENTS: 3 public comment forms received 1 email comment TOTAL VOTE RESULTS PLAY STRUCTURE OPTIONS COLOR PALETTE OPTIONS Option 1: 1 vote Earth Tones: 3 votes Option 2: 2 votes Primary Colors: 0 votes _ Secondary Colors: 0 votes Comments: 1. Name/Address: Paula Miller, I I I Primrose Ct. Email: kosmildua@yaboo.com yahoo.com Option 1, Earth Tones A lot of trash collects in the nearby wetlands which is blown in off of Indigo Dr — regular attention and clean-up would be welcome. 2. Name/Address: James H Pobst, 2801 Hwy 6.E Lot 267 Phone:319-621-6446 Email: simulacrajna,gmail.com Option 2 (comment: this would benefit more people), Earth Tones I support this project but I do have a few concerns: A. Ensure that the local wildlife population (ducks, geese) is not overly disturbed. B. Repair the boardwalk in the middle of the park. C. Oversee the vandalism/littering in the park — try to control it more. Name/Address: Nichole Ambrose, 26 Blue Stem Phone:563-639-0836 Email: niniambroase(a)gmail.com Option 2, Earth Tones Looks good for that plot. Discouraging to hear nothing about the rest of the park. Clean it up? Especially the pond. Thank youl 4. General Comments Received: A. Three people commented verbally that they support the proposed park improvements B. The dock was mentioned and concerned with the condition and possible repairs. 2727 SW SNYDER BOULEVARD I P.O. BOX 1159 1 ANKENY, IA 50023.0974 P: 515-964.2020 1 F: 515.964.7938 1 SNYDER-ASSOCIATES.COM v:\projects\2021\121.0884.01 \administration\whisperingmeadows_meetu)g_publiecomments_2021-10.17.dm Whispering Meadows Park —On Line Comments Any future desired park improvements or additional comments? Park events for the community, outdoor activities for kids to sign up and join for free or a very small fee, sport or play equipment rental (18 or older to be responsible for its return and condition), live music on Saturday nights, winter outdoor activities for families or children and teens (something positive to do for them), water bottle refill fountain, cleaner and safer bathrooms This park has a lot of potential, new trails, shelter, and playground would all do a lot to make it a more desirable park to visit. • I would like to see more rock/gravel put on the trail around the meadow. It is all washed away and gets very mushy when spring comes around or there is heavy rain. The meadow/water also needs to be cleaned up. There is a lot of trash and debris around the perimeter that gets blown in or shows up after the winter. The bridges and wooden dock are falling apart. They are not sturdy or level. I think the park will be a nice addition to the whispering meadow trails, but the trails need some work too. 1 live in Bon Aire, on the side of Whispering Meadows, and I walk the trail on a regular basis. Although I welcome some of the planned improvements from the standpoint of human amenities, I'd be highly concerned with how welcoming Whispering Meadows will continue to be for the local wildlife population, in particular ducks and geese, but also other animals. I'd really hate to see any of the animals be driven off by a design that leads to a lot more human traffic, particularly in the middle marsh area. And speaking of that area, I would really like to see the elevated boardwalk and platform above the wetland improved, its in poor shape - at the very least, please replace some of the boarding. Thank you for considering my comments. • 1 didn't realize this was a park even though I go by there several times a month. Since there is no designated parking and I am disabled, I am unsure I would ever visit, even though I strongly prefer parks by water. Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission Packet November 2021 Upcoming Events • Holiday Markets— November 13 and December 18, 8 am —1 pm; Robert A. Lee Recreation Center • 10 Minute Play Festival—November19, 6-8 pm; Robert A. Lee Recreation Center • Open Roller Skating —September 18 through December 11; Saturday evenings 6-7:45 pm; Robert A. Lee Recreation Center • Winter Solstice — Sunday, December 19;1:30 —4 pm; RobertA. Lee Recreation Center Notable from Parks & Recreation Staff Parks: • Restrooms, drinking fountains and irrigation are being winterized. • Final mowing and leaf mulching are occurring throughout the parks. • Staff have been aerating high use and compacted turf areas. • The trail along the Iowa River just north of Napoleon Park is open for use. • 100 trees were planted by Rotary volunteers between Kiwanis, Willow Creek and Villa Parks on October 23,a • Staff are assisting Public Works during the month of November to help with leaf collection. • Prep work for upcoming prairie establishments is underway at Terry Trueblood Rec Area and Peninsula Park. • Work continues at Glendale Park on the improvements. The shelter and playground are experiencing manufacturing delays. Recreation: • Staff continues to work with Berry -Dunn on strategizing for the recreation master plan, most specifically as it pertains to community engagement, facility tours, statistically valid surveys, the Social Pinpoint website and focus groups. • The Halloween Carnival event was moved indoors to Robert A. Lee Recreation Center due to wind conditions. All recreation division full-time staff worked at the event and there were well over 1,000 that participated. • Recreation staff are planning Winter/Spring programming, hiring and training in anticipation, and putting together the seasonal activity guide. • The Root for Trees program continues to show strong interest. Over 270 vouchers have been distributed. Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City Cemetery: • Interviews for the Cemetery MWII position will take place on 11/05 & 11/08. • Staff borrowed the new stump grinder from the Parks dept. and ground 15 tree stumps around the cemetery. Staff will get the last couple of stumps this next Spring. Facilities: • Staff are still finding that we are going through hundreds of disposable masks weekly. • The demolition in the HVAC mezzanine is complete for the Mercer Dehumidification Project. The City, consultants and contractor are working closely with the unit supplier on the delivery date. Presently, the supplier has updated the unit ship date to November 10th. The ship date was moved back due to equipment supply chain issues. Top Staff Issues Parks • Increasing prices on equipment and materials are impacting current budgets and budget forecasting. • Utility locating delays by private utilities are not meeting their mandated timeframes and slowing projects dependent on utility locates. Recreation • Applications for many positions, particularly aquatics, have been slower than usual to come in. • Staff continue to do a nice job with ensuring that facility users are in compliance with the mask requirements. • Interviews for the Recreation Assistant position will begin in November. Cemetery • Leaf collection/mulching is in full swing at the cemetery. • Staff shut down all the water hydrants at the cemetery. Facilities • Staff have completed winterizing the downtown ped mall Weatherdance fountain. • With Mercer Pool closed for the Dehumidification Project the maintenance staff continue to work on organizing materials and equipment, and deferred maintenance projects primarily at City Park Pool, Mercer Aquatic Center and Scanlon Gym. • Staff are nearly complete with winterizing facilities, planning for switching operations and systems over. This includes HVAC equipment and draining exterior water systems at City Hall, Recreation Centers, Senior Center, TTRA Lodge, Ashton House and Fire Stations. Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City • Our weekend part-time permanent custodial staff position is presently open, applicants have been interviewed and background checks are taking place. City of Iowa City Facility Sustainability Projects One of the seven City of lotvo sly Strategic Gaols: Promote Envinsnmentol Sustoinobili ry r�y�- Description Corwroctor Cost Rebore a Metric/paybeck ;;* A=b*,wd TuckFoirnng knproe air quality and it exchange n Shive-Mar.ry lac, consultant Tnmfe, pVorebaz BEdn6 lude iKvporation BAS controls the MCroerNamsoriumto mrrent code. climate upsoamillionSailon- SM.= of water will be aged & pan ofthe recoxry City Hall Boiler Repbce�nent and SAS p"ceti0.11M 1.=IBMWSoikr/poolw shw'Har:" W730D $11905fWW& 99%complete $5,613 anrwal cost temp/AHUs Inc/pmdng total•• baler. awngo. 8.9year payback incentive (or City Nall; 6.Byear with inoendx' •' Mener/Scar, n Exterior LID lighting Reyacemert Shive4t=ey pereirg Incentive pend,; coan-atns incentive pending Pep ace t;yl halide L' -with LED Ise/ -din Merin Aquatic Center Natatorium tigWrg Repsc+e-t Pea ace o-Sisal halide tights wdh LEDs Shive-tbray $155.ADD Na Carpet. Metal Halide to LID Ine/Cereanl 6ghtiK- life eyde will Electric see a AOti to SM redxtion in energy u<. Public%*4;a Mrnteanco Facility LEED cert6ed bvil6ng New Facility as houee public Works Neumann S10978,700 LED Ling rebate, Ca v=j n Faclity received an IP39W Divisions of Street•. Traffic Engiieerire, Mon:orvWkrit $23274 aM acucmm 99•f corry'rte E.oellence in Deign Water D'uTnbu Con.-Uvctien enerptmem'. Award, with a SM abategC nebaa efF,6eM ratingwnh 53759=, for total canparableb6k!irg acorn,. ed S60.868. typologic. P'"ic Works Sabr prefect PPA Solar pojeet on row R:b(c Works Neumann Mors. pending n,a pending RFP Structve. Terry Tnxbbod Recta>on Area Solar Project r/a PendingRW Neurronn Maven r� Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City Oakland Cemetery FY 19 Revenue Report ** shaded areas represent previous Syr average Revenue from Lot Sales Lot Sale Syr Average # of Interments Interments Syr avg. Revenue from Interments 5-year Avg. on Interments Total Revenue Syr Avg. on total revenue July $1,275.00 $5,641.00 4 7.4 $2,610.00 $4,200.00 $3,885.00 $9,841.00 August $10,097.50 $4,723.00 10 6.4 $6,337.50 $3,405.50 $16,435.00 $8,128.50 Sept $13,900.00 $7,781.75 11 7.6 $5,992.50 $4,532.75 $19,892.50 $12,314.50 Oct $25,007.50 $10,031.00 12 5.6 $8,167.50 $3,141.50 $33,175.001 $13,172.50 Nov Dec Jan Feb March April May June Totals 1 $50,280.00 $28,176.75 37 27 $23,107.50 $15,279.75 $73,387.50 $43,456.50 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City The following documents were handed out during the meeting. Juli Seydell Johnson From: Sent: To: Subject: A Dear Juli Seydell Johnson: David Strass <David.Strass@kirkwood.edu> Wednesday, November 10, 2021 2:16 PM Juli Seydell Johnson Chadek Green I'm very sorry for submitting this so last-minute, but I know that Chadek Green is on the agenda of the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting tonight and wanted to voice my opinion. Due to schedule conflicts I wasn't able to attend the open house and won't be able to attend the meeting tonight to speak, Briefly, I believe I speak on behalf of many residents in the neighborhoods around Chadek Green in asking respectfully that the City resist making any "improvements" to the park or refraining from embarking on any project beyond the absolute minimum. For many, many years (yes, going back to the long time when Mr. Chadek owned the land) it has been enjoyed as a very simple greenspace, and aside from the garden plots that have already been put in place, every inch of the park should remain plain grass and trees. If anything, it could be enhanced by restoring it as a miniature native -species prairie grass area with a simple looped path (something like wood -chip or gravel, not concrete). We have a deep concern that plans to add anything to the park are being driven by efforts from Snyder and Associates to sell products and services to the City, and anyone's commercial interest should not motivate any unneeded work. Thank you very much for entering my comments into the discussion if you are able. Best David David Strass Librarian/Library Coordinator Kirkwood Community College, Iowa City Campus 319-887-3619 https://guides.kirl<wood.eduZiibrary