Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Analysis

CORONA CITY PARK REUTILIZATION PLAN

ANALYSIS - Bringing Families Back to City Park

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

City of Corona

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400 June 8th, 2010

Acknowledgments

City of Corona City Council Steve Nolan Karen Spiegel Eugene Montanez Jason Scott Stan Skipworth Richard O. Haley Parks Commission Edward Carrillo Mike Hickey Brian Lenning Nancy Martin Dave McDougall City Project Team Gabe Garcia Steve Lawson Mark Wills Ray Cota Henry Esqueda Eileen Harter Cynthia Lara Tracy Martin Jason Moquin Nelson Nelson

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

table of contents

Executive Summary

1

Introduction

2

Project Background and Process

2

Park History

3

City Inventory and Analysis

5

City Development

5

Demographics

7

Site Inventory and Analysis

10

Climate

10

Hydrology

11

Soils

12

Plant Material

13

Circulation and Access

14

Amenities

17

Structures

18

Park Use

19

Community Input

21

Opportunities and Constraints

23

Backstory Summary

25

Conceptual Design

27

Concept Statement

27

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

ii

Executive Summary

City Park is a fixture in the City of Corona, at the center of civic and recreational activity since 1913. It has gone through many changes, but has remained an integral part of the community.

particular parts of the park. A full scale master plan has not been developed to this point. The goal of this plan is to unify and reinvigorate the park for the community, bringing the community back in to their park.

The master planning process comes at a time when the park is struggling with the issues of safety, continuity and lack of community involvement; while it yet remains an integral part of City events. The park has evolved organically over the years, with small improvement projects addressing

The concept plan for City Park strives to create new opportunities for a variety of activities. These include a new adventure play area, with a range of engaging play features under the canopy of trees on the west end of the park. A formal garden area harkens back to the cactus garden and planters

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

from the early years.

A new gym and community center establish a central core of activity, providing space for informal games, classes, or community services. New basketball courts and a stage complete the east end of the park. The stage will be set amongst the trees for small performances, with larger activities occurring on the large central field, preserved as the ‘Great Lawn’. Safety has been prioritized throughout, as there is a strong perception the community that the park is currently not a safe place to take children.

Introduction

Project Background and Process Background Nearly a century old, the park has experienced many changes as community needs and interests have shifted over the years. The piece meal means of improvement has led to a site that is inconsistent in architecture and disconnected in use.

The primary goal of this project is to prepare a park master plan that cohesively unifies the park by identifying present and future uses and the features that will support that activity, while remaining mindfull of the complex layers of history, community and park resources.

Methodology The project has been accomplished through the implementation of three process elements: collaboration, backstory, and design. The history and complexity of the park necessitated a clear understanding of existing site conditions so that future opportunities could be folded within the existing framework.

Collaboration Working with City Staff, City officials and community members has assisted the design team in clarifying the needs of current and future park users. A staff survey provided initial information to help the team direct research and identify stakeholders. Two community meetings were held to gather input from specific stakeholder groups as well as the general public. The Parks

Commission was also consulted early on to identify opportunities, issues and future needs based on their experience and opinions. This collection of information was useful in gathering a broad spectrum of ideas regarding the present and future of City Park.

Backstory The backstory comprises a summary of research exploring the park’s physical, historical and cultural resources.

Establishing an understanding of these elements affords the design team, as

well as the community, an in-depth view of how park features function, how people use the park, and how the park fits within the city.

Design The design phase drew on the information gathered in the backstory, utilizing the identified opportunities and constraints to formulate design strategies. This is an exploratory phase, focused on the development of creative solutions to existing issues while fulfilling future recreation needs.

Collaboration

Backstory

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

Design

Park History

Established as a public grounds park in 1913 thru city acquisitions of multiple parcels of private land, the City Park remains as one of the oldest continual use elements within the city of Corona.

The advent of this public grounds was directly linked to the hosting by Corona of an automotive Grand Prix that drew competitors from around the world.

Following the large crowd use during the first decade after the parks completion, the 1920’s and 1930’s saw a shift in nature of the public space.

The park became more neighborhood and community oriented as sheltered areas, play equipment and public wading pools were built.

Community sensibilities and ownership began to increase through major renovations such as historical designations, demonstration gardens, and a municipal plunge. From the 1930’s thru the 1950’s and thereafter, the park was a favorite gathering place for public community events ranging from scrap rubber drives to support the war effort, to Thanksgiving Day public

It is estimated that during these road events which occurred in 1913, 1914, and in 1916, the population of the city would inflate by as much as 3 fold in the days and weeks surrounding the events. The grounds of the park were used by visitors as staging areas as well as an informal gathering space for locals.

meals and parades.

The park has shifted along with the culture of the City of Corona throughout the years. At times, new venues have been added while older ones have been removed so that the park could respond to the needs of the community. Sports activities have been prominent from the early 1920’s when the first baseball diamond was built through the 1990’s when the skate park was commissioned.

Both programmed and informal activity areas have been heavily used throughout the years.

Corona City Park WWI 1920 1920 1913

1930 1930

WWII 1940

1950 1950

1960 1960

1970 1970

First Play Equipment Installed Corona’s 1st City Hall

Municipal Plunge Baseball Diamond Wading Pool converted to cactus garden by the Corona Garden Club

1990 1990

2000 2000

2013 2013

Major Park Shelters Renovated Bandshell Skate Park City Pool

First Shelters Built Second and Third Shelters Built Wading Pools

1980 1980

Armory Site (lease expires in 2024)

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

Park History

The continual updating of children’s play equipment and play zones have concentrated most of the current informal family activities near them.

While more wide open and passive areas have long been the areas of choice for the staging of community events and large group gathering.

The social context and fabric of the park has gone through some major shifts in the nearly 100 years since the

Park Gathering (c. 1940)

The Municipal Plunge (c. 1931)

park’s inception. Once being situated along a major through traffic highway that ran from the coastal cities all the way out toward Palm Springs, the nature of the park’s patrons changed with the development of the 91 and the 15 Freeways, making it less of a “visitors” park and far more of a “neighborhood” park.

transient population and local crime became noticeable elements within the park. While relatively newer developments like the fiesta bandshell have sought to draw back in a tight neighborhood connection, other aging and disconnected elements have hampered the re-emergence of the park as a community center.

Evening and sustained use began to taper off in the 1980’s as a growing

Enjoying the Park (c. 1925)

Picnic (c. 1950)

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

City Inventory and Analysis

City Development The early agricultural nature of

to include urban infill, adaptive reuse

of the 6th St. commercial corridor as a

Corona began to change in the 1960s

of existing structures, and continued

link between these two important city

and 70s after the 91 Freeway was

conversion of agricultural land to

areas provides opportunities for events

built, providing greater access to

housing and commercial development.

and community connections.

Residential development increased

As the city looks towards revitalizing

contributing to the shift from agriculture

downtown and reconnecting it with the

to a bedroom community, where

major commercial corridors of 6th St.

lower housing prices drew a migration

and Main St., the redevelopment of

into Corona and nearby inland cities.

important civic resources such as City

After construction of the 15 freeway,

Park will support these improvement

development further increased with the

efforts.

The area surrounding City Park is of varied character. Land uses range between low density and high density residential, commercial and light industrial uses, but are primarily residential. In some ways this is a benefit to the park, with nearby activity occurring throughout the day, rather than in an area where one land use dominates. Such a situation may provide eyes on the park for a greater time frame during the day.

Orange and Los Angeles Counties.

added connections to coastal areas.

Bus lines and bikeways provide a link Since much of the developable land

between the park and the Corona Civic

has been built on in recent years, the

Center and access to the park via

nature of city development has shifted

alternative transportation. Emphasis

Zoning in Downtown Corona

City Park

Source: City of Corona General Plan

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

CITY INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS

City Development A weak point occurs on the frontage to Grand Blvd. where the portion of park reaching the street is surrounded on either side by varied development including residences, a gas station and a car repair business. Park access from Grand feeds into the lease area leased building and the Aquatic Center.

The parking lot on that side of the park is also close to a tot lot. However, the presence of a large historic park is not evident from this side.

Single Family Residential near City Park

General Commercial near City Park

Zoning Near City Park

Source: City of Corona General Plan

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

City Inventory and Analysis

Demographics Citywide Corona is a city with diverse demographics, similar to that of many Southern California cities, after many years of immigration and migration from other parts of the country. Many families have also been in Corona for generations, taking part in the historical changes that have come with agriculture, industry and city development.

Corona began to grow as a bedroom community after the construction of the 91 Freeway, providing low cost housing to those working in Orange and Los Angeles Counties. This is still an advantage for many residents of Corona many of whom commute to work in coastal cities.

City Park Local Area City Park functions both as a neighborhood park for local residents and as a community park serving all of Corona, particularly during large events. As a neighborhood park it provides close access for a variety of age groups. The 2000 census shows that children under 18 and seniors over 65 are present in high numbers in the area surrounding the park, thus providing an important resource for those who typically don’t travel far for recreation.

Individuals Under 18 Per Census Block

City Park

Sources: US Census 2000, City of Corona GIS

Parks

69-150 individuals 151-296 individuals

0-24 individuals 24-69 individuals

0

0.125

0.25

0.5

0.75

Miles 1

Individuals Over 65 Per Census Block

City Park

Parks 0-7 individuals 8-33 individuals

Sources: US Census 2000, City of Corona GIS

34-99 individuals 195-402 individuals 0

0.125

0

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

0.25

0.5

0.25

0.75

0.5

Miles 1

0.75 miles

CITY INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS

City Recreation Corona’s park system is comprised of 41 parks. Of these 7 are community parks, 29 are neighborhood parks, and 5 are special use parks. The City of Corona seeks to provide active and passive park facilities as well as recreation programs that service all ages, income levels, ethnic groups, and physical capabilities, while promoting community health and fitness through active recreation.

Corona’s parks fall into four categories and vary in size from small mini-parks less than 2 acres to large community parks from 20-50 acres. Mini-Parks

provide small pockets of recreational space for the nearby neighborhood.

Neighborhood Parks, between 5 and 20 acres, also serve the local area near the park, providing facilities close enough to walk or bike to. Parks over 20 acres are designated as Community Parks, providing larger facilities that may draw from across the city.

courts, etc.), playground equipment, and picnic areas. City Park is well positioned with its history and proximity to downtown to provide alternate facilities for Corona’s park system (table on next page).

City Park operates as a Community Park, providing a wide variety of amenities for users, and playing host to citywide events. The majority of the parks in the city provide very similar features like sport activity areas (fields,

Corona Parks and City Park User Area City Park 1 mi. user area Community Parks Neighborhood Parks Mini Parks

Sources: City of Corona General Plan; City of Corona GIS

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

CITY INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS

City Recreation Corona Parks Amenities Park Butterfield Park

Acreage

Sports

Tots

Picnic

Skate

History

Nature/ Garden

Arts

Aquatics

64.0

Community Parks 20-50 Acres Citrus Community Park

20.0

City Park

17.0

Eagle Glen Community Park

13.0

Mountain Gate Community Park

21.0

Promenade Park

20.0

Santana Park

45.0

Neighborhood Parks - 5-20 Acres Brentwood Park

13.0

Griffin Park

13.0

Jameson Park

13.0

Buena Vista Park

10.0

Parkview Park

6.3

Rock Vista Park

6.0

Clearwater Sports Fields

5.7

Chase Park

5.2

Cresta Verde Park

5.4

Fairview Park

5.0

Fresno Canyon

5.9

Lincoln Park

5.0

Ontario Park

5.0

Ridgeline Park

5.0

Rimpau Park

7.1

River Road Park

5.0

Serfas Club Park

5.0

Spyglass Park

5.0

Stagecoach Park

11.9

Village Park

5.0

Mini Parks - Less than 5 Acres Mangular Park

4.0

Tehachapi Park

4.0

Kellogg Park

3.5

Husted Park

3.3

Sheridan Park

3.0

Border Park

2.5

Victoria Park

2.5

Auburndale Park

2.0

Contreras Park

0.3

Joy Park

0.3

Merrill Park

0.3

Sources: City of Corona General Plan; City of Corona GIS

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

Site Inventory and Analysis

Climate

Average High Temperature

Average Annual Precipitation 3.0 2.5

100

2.0 1.5

80

1.0 0.5

December

November

October

August

September

July

May

June

April

March

February

December

October

November

September

July

August

June

May

April

January

0.0

60

March

Though Corona experiences a climate typical of Southern California, local variation is present due to the city’s location near the Santa Ana River, the Prado Flood Control Dam, and the mouth of Santa Ana Canyon. As the city is on the westerly edge of the inland valley, it exists within a transition zone between the coastal cities to the west of the Santa Ana Range and the inland cities to the east of the range.

The concentration of precipitation in the winter and spring months presents a challenge but also an opportunity.

Rainwater harvesting and stormwater management can play important roles in water conservation efforts, providing supplemental irrigation for the dry season.

January

Part of the Chaparral Biome, this habitat covers about 8.5 percent of California, receiving from 10 to 32 inches of precipitation per year.

Although chaparral is commonly referred to as one community there are two distinct types; hard chaparral and soft chaparral, more commonly referred to as chaparral and coastal sage scrub respectively.

occurring from November through March. Annual vegetation such as wildflowers and grasses are active during this period, with slowed growth as the summer progresses. Wildland fires become a greater danger for many in Southern California as these annuals live through their life cycles and dry out in the drought of summer.

February

Corona exists within a Mediterranean climate, characterized by a precipitation pattern of dry summers and wet winters. This pattern stresses plants in the summer, but native vegetation has developed ways of surviving the dry times.

Temperature Average temperatures in Corona fluctuate from summer highs and lows of 93° F and 61° F in August, to December highs and lows of 68° F and 40° F. Precipitation The annual average precipitation in Corona is 12 inches per year, primarily

Winter Rains

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

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site inventory and analysis

Hydrology Surface Water Surface creeks and washes course through Corona and terminate at the Prado Flood Control Basin, which in turn drains to the Santa Ana River. These surface channels collect stormwater runoff and carry it downstream. Some is trapped at the flood control basin and infiltrated for groundwater recharge, the rest continues downstream and either infiltrates along the riverbed, or empties into the Pacific Ocean.

may include nitrates from fertilizer, motor oil, and pet wastes. Limiting the transmission of these materials to water resources is important for public health and resource availability.

Though this runoff contributes water to the creeks and rivers, it also contributes pollutants transported from our city streets, residential driveways, planters and other areas. These

Groundwater The City of Corona relies on groundwater resources for 45% of its potable water supply. This is pumped from multiple groundwater basins throughout the city, including a site within the park. Two abandoned pump stations are located on the site.

One is located on the west side of the park, formerly used to provide water to the Plunge. The other is located approximately 100’ west of the existing well site.

City Park Groundwater Pump Station

Surface Water Flow QUARRY ST

COMMUNITY POOL

LEASE

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT PICNIC SHELTER

LOW RETAINING WALL

PLAYGROUND

ARMORY YARD

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT

PICNIC SHELTER PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER

BASKETBALL COURT

HORSE SHOE PITS

REST ROOM

POOL BLDG

COMMUNITY POOL

LEASE POOL BLDG

GRAND AVE

GRAND AVE

PAVED PARKINGPICNIC SHELTER LOT/DRIVEWAY

AMPHITHEATRE

LEASE

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

REST ROOM

LOW RETAINING WALL ARMORY YARD

PICNIC SHELTER

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

RIMPAU AVE

REST ROOM

PAVED PARKING LOT

LEASE

HORSE SHOE PITS

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

AMPHITHEATRE

VOLLEYBALL COURT

UTILITY BLDG

BASKETBALL COURT VOLLEYBALL COURT

REST ROOM

UTILITY BLDGS

PAVED PARKING LOT

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

QUARRY ST

MAINT. BLDG

RIMPAU AVE

UTILITY BLDG

UTILITY BLDGS

MAINT. BLDG

ARMORY

PLAYGROUND PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

WELL/ RESERVOIR

WELL/ RESERVOIR

PICNIC SHELTER

PAVED PARKING LOT

PAVED PARKING LOT

SKATE PARK

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

ARMORY

PICNIC SHELTER

SKATE PARK

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER REST ROOM

REST ROOM

PLAYGROUND

PLAYGROUND

6TH ST 6TH ST

Surface Water Flow Flow Surface Water

N

Surface Water Flow

Temescal Wash Temescal Wash

Temescal Wash

0’

Groundwater Pumping Station

Groundwater Pumping Groundwater Pumping StationStation

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

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11

site inventory and analysis

Soils Soils were created as the mountains weathered, and seismic activity shifted the land. As the city developed, these resources were utilized in the construction industry with clay material for tiles and gravel for concrete, roof tiles and other uses.

Soils on site are comprised of material derived from alluvium parent material.

The City of Corona is located in an alluvial fan area, where sediment was transported from mountain areas by streams and rivers down slope to create the soils in the flood plain, resulting in a soil with high contents of sand and gravel.

Soil and Organic Matter This is the case throughout Corona and on the City Park site as well. The soil type is a Garretson gravelly very fine sandy loam and is consistent throughout the park.

Variation in soil composition may be due to site alterations that have occurred including agricultural uses prior to park development, initial park development, and additional site changes that have occurred throughout the last 90 years such as the development of the plunge and the skate park.

Local Soils

Garretson Gravelly Sandy Loam

City Park

Source: NRCS Web Soil Survey

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

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site inventory and analysis

Plant Material HIstoric Vegetation Historic vegetation maps were obtained that indicate the area around the park was used for agriculture as early as 1934. This made it difficult to determine what types of native vegetation would have grown here, yet surrounding local vegetation is coastal sage scrub. The site probably contained this plant community with riparian vegetation along Temescal Wash before agriculture was established and the wash was channelized.

Existing Plant Material Existing plants in City Park are the result of nearly 100 years of planting and horticulture. Demonstration gardens were planted in the 1930s,

replacing the wading pools which were difficult to keep clean and thought to harbor disease. The gardens that took their place were planted with cactus and other succulents, along with other common plants of the time. Early park plantings were also probably responsible for many of the large trees on site including: oaks, carob, sycamore, ash and others. A formal estimation of age has not been completed for the park’s trees. Two plant lists describing the early plantings from the 1920s were obtained from the Corona Public Library’s Heritage Room. These provide an idea of the early visioning of park plantings, and suggest what may remain from this era.

The plants that remain on site are dominated by both new and old trees, turf grass, and sporadic shrub plantings. The shrub types and design are not organized or of a unified theme. There are three areas of tree plantings that appear to have design intent: the oak allée along the central drive, the palm allée at the pedestrian entry at the corner of 6th and Rimpau, and the palm grid west of the Armory.

These are of note because they create structure and character. The two allées are of greater interest for preservation because they are defining features on the ground. The palm grid creates a large shaded area with palms, but does not provide a highly usable space.

Planter area and turf

Vegetation layering

Historical planter

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

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site inventory and analysis

Circulation and Access Park users access the site by car, bus, bicycle, and on foot. There is more than ample parking space for everyday park use. Large events drawing people from across Corona require much more parking than is currently available within the park itself.

Bus stops service the south end of the park along 6th Street with points of access for pedestrians and vehicles primarily on the long north and south sides of the park. Access is also available on the Grand Blvd. entry providing access to the lease area on the West side of the park, as well as the tot lot and aquatic center.

Vehicular Exit

QUARRY ST

UTILITY BLDG

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

REST ROOM

PAVED PARKING LOT

HORSE SHOE PITS

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

AMPHITHEATRE REST ROOM

Park Access and Circulation

UTILITY BLDGS

MAINT. BLDG

QUARRY ST

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

REST ROOM

PAVED PARKING LOT

HORSE SHOE PITS

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

REST ROOM

PICNIC SHELTER

POOL BLDG

WELL/ RESERVOIR

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

LOW RETAINING WALL ARMORY YARD

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

PLAYGROUND

PAVED PARKING LOT

PICNIC SHELTER

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

WELL/ RESERVOIR

RIMPAU AVE

PLAYGROUND

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

COMMUNITY POOL

BASKETBALL COURT VOLLEYBALL COURT

UTILITY BLDG

UTILITY BLDGS

POOL BLDG

LOW RETAINING WALL

PICNIC SHELTER

GRAND AVE

MAINT. BLDG

COMMUNITY POOL

AMPHITHEATRE

GRAND AVE

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

REST ROOM

SKATE PARK

PLAYGROUND ARMORY

SKATE PARK PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER

PAVED PARKING LOT

REST ROOM

6TH ST

PLAYGROUND

6TH ST

LEGEND

Pedestrian Circulation Minor Vehicular Circulation MAJOR VEHICULAR CIRCULATION Major Vehicular Circulation BUS BusROUTE Route CLASS II BIKE ROUTE Class II Bikeway CLASS III BIKE Class III ROUTE Bikeway

PEDESTRIAN ACCESS POINT Point Pedestrian Access

PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION

LEGEND

MINOR VEHICULAR CIRCULATION

PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION

PEDESTRIAN ACCESS POINT

MINOR VEHICULAR CIRCULATION

VEHICULAR ACCESS POINT

MAJOR VEHICULAR CIRCULATION

BUS STOP

VEHICULAR ACCESS POINT Vehicular Access Point BUS STOP Bus Stop

N

0’

100’

200’

300’

BUS ROUTE

CLASS II BIKE ROUTE

CLASS III BIKE ROUTE

CITY PARK REUTILIZATION MASTER PLAN CITY PARK REUTILIZATION MASTER PLAN Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

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site inventory and analysis

Circulation and Access Vehicular access and flow is well dispersed through the park regions, however, the entries and exits for cars are confusing and problematic. There is no defining gateway to the park, and street signage is unclear as to where to park for which amenities.

Pedestrian movement from one end of the park to the other is limited as well.

This may be in part due to the size of the park, but it is also significantly limited by the lack of pedestrian pathways to connect the various use areas in the park. Additionally, there is no wayfinding system to direct users to these other areas. Improvement in both the manner of vehicular and pedestrian access and flow through the park would potentially increase use and movement through the park.

Isolated Features

User Flow

GRAND AVE

RIMPAU AVE

QUARRY ST

6TH ST

PARK NODE Activity

VEHICLEFlow FLOW Vehicle

N

USERFlow FLOW User

0’

CITY PARK REUTILIZATION MASTER PLAN Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

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site inventory and analysis

Safety Safety in City Park has become a significant issue. Restrooms are locked most days to prevent defacing and illegal activities. Many community members no longer use the park due to security concerns while recreating.

has shown to improve the situation, with the use of the field by a youth football league. Placing more eyes on a park that has had safety issues has had a positive effect on other parks as well.

The summer ‘Concerts in the Park’ series that was previously held at the band shell has been moved to the City Hall Lawn, where more people will feel secure at night. Increased regular use

Currently the visibility into park use areas is limited. The ability to see through the perimeter to the interior of a park can impact the perception

of safety and consequentially the actual use of the park. City Park has large areas that are not visible from the perimeter, due to a combination of vegetation density and structures that block interior areas. Designing new features, particularly access and circulation, with this in mind will improve the perception of the park.

Vegetation Density

Reduced Visibility QUARRY ST

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

REST ROOM PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

HORSE SHOE PITS

REST ROOM

AMPHITHEATRE

PICNIC SHELTER

POOL BLDG

GRAND AVE

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

RIMPAU AVE

PAVED PARKING LOT

COMMUNITY POOL

BASKETBALL COURT VOLLEYBALL COURT

UTILITY BLDG

UTILITY BLDGS

MAINT. BLDG

LOW RETAINING WALL ARMORY YARD

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

PLAYGROUND PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

WELL/ RESERVOIR

PAVED PARKING LOT

ARMORY

SKATE PARK PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER REST ROOM

PLAYGROUND

6TH ST

N

Site Line Blockage due to Structures and Vegetation REDUCED VISIBILITY AREAS AS VIEWED FROM THE PERIMETER

CITY PARK REUTILIZATION MASTER PLAN 310 NORTH JOY STREET CORONA, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 F: 951.737.6551

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

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site inventory and analysis

Amenities City Park amenities and structures are inconsistent throughout the park.

Multiple types of each amenity exist, having been added to the park at different periods over the years. Some appear older based on the materials or date stamped in the object, such as the older era streetlights and the blue drinking fountain dated 1919.

Picnic Tables

Trash Receptacle Bike Rack Light Post

Benches

Swings

Barbeque Drinking Fountain

QUARRY ST

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

HORSE SHOE PITS

REST ROOM

REST ROOM

AMPHITHEATRE

PICNIC SHELTER PICNIC SHELTER

COMMUNITY POOL

LEASE

POOL BLDG

GRAND AVE

LEASE

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT

LOW RETAINING WALL

RIMPAU AVE

PAVED PARKING LOT

BASKETBALL COURT VOLLEYBALL COURT

UTILITY BLDG

UTILITY BLDGS

MAINT. BLDG

ARMORY YARD

PICNIC SHELTER

PLAYGROUND PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

WELL/ RESERVOIR

PAVED PARKING LOT

ARMORY

SKATE PARK

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER REST ROOM

PLAYGROUND

6TH ST

N

Playgrounds 0’

Picnic Areas

100’

200’

300’

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

18 SEPTEMBER 23, 2009

NORTH

0'

50'

100'

150'

site inventory and analysis

Structures Many types of structures are present within City Park, from picnic shelters to restrooms to the skate park. They have been built and rehabilitated at various times through the history of the park, without a clear architectural style or master planned location.

Skate Park Unifying the style of the buildings, walls and other structures on site will create a more cohesive character for the park.

Stone Wall

Utility Building

Armory

Picnic Shelter Pump House

Old Pump Facility

Band Shell

QUARRY ST

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

HORSE SHOE PITS

REST ROOM

REST ROOM

AMPHITHEATRE

PICNIC SHELTER PICNIC SHELTER

COMMUNITY POOL

LEASE

POOL BLDG

GRAND AVE

LEASE

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT

LOW RETAINING WALL

RIMPAU AVE

PAVED PARKING LOT

BASKETBALL COURT VOLLEYBALL COURT

UTILITY BLDG

UTILITY BLDGS

MAINT. BLDG

ARMORY YARD

PICNIC SHELTER

PLAYGROUND PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

WELL/ RESERVOIR

ARMORY

SKATE PARK

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER

PAVED PARKING LOT

REST ROOM

PLAYGROUND

6TH ST

Activity Buildings

Maintenance/Utility

Pump Stations

Restrooms

Picnic Shelters

Armory

N

0’

100’

200’

300’

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

19 SEPTEMBER 23, 2009

NORTH

0'

50'

100'

150'

site inventory and analysis

Park Use City Park has been used for a variety of community events over the years.

In recent years the park band shell has been host to Family Movie Night, which has since been moved to the City Hall South Lawn.

Some large community events include the Day of the Child and Cinco de Mayo Parade and Celebration. These provide opportunities for people from throughout the city to come together.

Drawing 8,000 people in 2008, the Day of the Child is held to promote awareness of child abuse, creating activities and education for families in the park.

City Park, where the community can enjoy a classic car show, food, crafts, information booths and activities for children. Additionally, other single day events take place that are sponsored by outside groups, providing a forum for large group activities such as fundraisers and other gatherings.

Picnic shelters and the band shell are available for rent as well, providing a resource for family and other smaller group events.

The Cinco de Mayo Celebration begins with a parade down 6th St. ending at

The park also serves sports groups that have regular practices and competitions. The Panthers Youth Football team competes in City Park, and the Corona Aquatics Team holds practice and competition at the City Park Pool.

Swimming Pool

West Tot Lot

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

Daily park activity is centered within the structures of the pool, skate park and the picnic shelters. Swimming pool activity is high during the day due to the Aquatics Team and city summer aquatics programs. The skate park also tends to have a consistent use throughout the day. The tot lots are used sparingly during the workweek by families, with a few children playing at a time. Often there is no use on the structures however.

The majority of other use occurs as people gather under the picnic shelters. Some of the individuals or groups appear to be taking lunch at the park, while a large portion seem

20

site inventory and analysis

Park Use to be transients that spend the day at the park. The use of the park by the transient population is one of the significant issues in the park, along with illegal activity that has happened at night in the restrooms and within the park.

The homeless population is estimated by the Homeless Task Force of Corona at between 1,000 and 1,200 individuals, of all ages, ethnicity and educational background. One issue noted by the Police Chief was that the transients were not the homeless as usually defined. In his opinion the homeless desired assistance, where transient individuals did not and deliberately chose the encampments.

The daily presence of the transient population in the park has limited park use by other populations outside of the swimming pool and skate park because of the perceived lack of safety.

Homeless Use in Picnic Shelter

Crime Incidents Near City Park

Source: Corona Police Department

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

21

site inventory and analysis

Community Input A community meeting was held at the City Park Armory to engage individuals in discussion about how they use the park and how if could be improved for better use in the future.

Three community members attended, representing local business, radio and the swim team that utilizes the Aquatic Center. The meeting was facilitated by BMLA staff, while City staff were present to assist and answer questions.

Through informal discussion, those present provided input on existing park features and the related issues and improvements that could be made.

A summary of these comments is provided at right.

Community Comment Highlights Improvements 1. improve bandshell 2. revitalize plunge, reconnect with history 3. larger community facility 4. larger pool would accommodate regional swim meets 5. measured walking trails with good lighting 6. adequate field and basketball court opportunities for local residents 7. large plaza or gathering space 8. splash pad 9. senior activity center 10. retain historic feel 11. concessions would support improved amphitheater or aquatic center, or create a fun weekend activity, go to the park for a snow cone Problems 1. confusing entries, difficult to know where parking is 2. activity for young kids should be away from busy 6th st.

3. lighting should be improved for safety 4. homeless presence and crime have given park a poor image 5. skate park is not used much and should be removed

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

22

site inventory and analysis

Community Input The community input was similar in content to the initial staff survey that provided a starting point for the design team to begin backstory development.

This gave an initial insight into the park’s positive features as well as the issues to address. This breadth of information is important in the transition into design, providing local knowledge and experience to improve the Reutilization Plan.

Comparison of Feedback New Features

Community Members

City Staff

Parks Commission

Gym Larger Community Facility Larger Pool Measured walking trails Splash Pad Senior Activity Center Concessions Dog Park Features to Remove Band Shell Skate Park Baseball Field Features to Retain/Improve Lighting Bandshell Revitalize Plunge/Improve Aquatic Center Retain/Reconnect with Park History Armory Ingress/Egress Tot Lot Parking Lots Park Safety Connection to Downtown Preserve Trees Skate Park Picnic Shelters

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

23

site inventory and analysis

Opportunities and Constraints Opportunities and constraints were developed from the information gathered in the backstory so that this understanding may inform the conceptual design. Some are location specific, such as the opportunity to preserve mature trees. Others may be applied site wide, such as the opportunity to improve site access and circulation. The following page itemizes these opportunities and constraints based on each section of backstory.

Opportunities and Constraints

Opportunities and Constraints QUARRY ST

GRAVEL PARKING LOT

REST ROOM PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

HORSE SHOE PITS

REST ROOM

AMPHITHEATRE

PICNIC SHELTER

POOL BLDG

GRAND AVE

CELL TOWER & UNDERGROUND CONDUIT

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

RIMPAU AVE

PAVED PARKING LOT

COMMUNITY POOL

BASKETBALL COURT VOLLEYBALL COURT

UTILITY BLDG

UTILITY BLDGS

MAINT. BLDG

LOW RETAINING WALL ARMORY YARD

PICNIC SHELTER

LEASE

PLAYGROUND PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY

WELL/ RESERVOIR

PAVED PARKING LOT

ARMORY

SKATE PARK PAVED PARKING LOT/DRIVEWAY PICNIC SHELTER

PICNIC SHELTER REST ROOM

PLAYGROUND

6TH ST

N

Opportunities to Improve Visibility 0’

Opportunities to Improve Visibility

100’

200’

300’

Significant Trees Opportunitiesfor to Preserve Significant Trees Constraints Large Structures or Change in Use Constraints for Large structures

Opportunities to Retain Surface Runoff Opportunities to Retain Surface Runoff Both Opportunity and Constraint for Both Opportunity and Constraint for Visibility

and LargeREUTILIZATION Structures CITY Incorporating PARK Armory Builidngs MASTER PLAN

NOVEMBER 2, 2009

NORTH

0'

50'

100'

150'

CONCEPTUAL MASTER PLAN PREPARED FOR THE CITY OF CORONA 400 SOUTH VICENTIA AVENUE

310 NORTH JOY STREET CORONA, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 F: 951.737.6551

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

CORONA,CA 92822

PH:(951) 736-2241

24

site inventory and analysis

Opportunities and Constraints Opportunities History Climate Water Soils Access and Circulation Plant Material Amenities Structures Park Use Safety Constraints History Climate Water Soils Access and Circulation Plant Material Amenities Structures

Park Use Safety

bring historical elements back into the park water conservation through climate appropriate plantings water quality improvement by reducing surface runoff and reuse on site soil improvement for plant health and water conservation improve for site function and safety preserve significant trees, existing shade and character unify and improve safety and servicability of amenities expand the recreational offerings and update for access and maintainability provide new opportunities for multigenerational activities, city activities, passive and active uses improve the defensable space through park safety best management practices

unify iconic pieces of architecture, create links to city history water conservation by plant selection will be limited by park turf area retaining surface water for use on site may be limited by maintenance needs no constraints foreseen presently undefined cultural habits tree preservation may limit design solutions and development opportunities disjointed existing amenities, many in poor repair large tree specimens and existing use may pose challenge to siting, poorly planned and sited existing structures, Armory is visually powerfull at east end of site with little historical context the presence of the homeless community and crime activity create a challenge to drawing new users to the park homeless community and existing trees which provide amenities but block visibility in some situations, existing public perception that park is unsafe

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

25

site inventory and analysis

Backstory Summary The backstory provides a broad understanding of site conditions to inform and support the conceptual design of the Reutilization Master Plan.

The collected research also creates a storehouse of information for future works on the park, to allow for designers, planners and staff to consider the site from a common understanding. This is also true for city staff, council and community members,

creating a community bank of knowlege to support future discussions and decision making.

The opportunities and constraints that were developed from the backstory research are applied in the concept plan for the site, with a particular focus on aspects of the park planning that were identified by the community and staff.

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

These include: • A New Gym • Improved Aquatic Facility • Improved Access and Circulation • Improved Parking • Increased Perception of Safety The focus of the new concept for the park will be to bring the community back to this historic park that has become disused in recent years.

26

Conceptual Design

Concept Statement City Park serves as a historical storehouse and center of recreation and community events for the City of Corona. It is uniquely situated to play an integral part in the lives of city residents, both by its location near downtown civic buildings and also by its longstanding use as a site for the city to come together in community celebrations, fundraising efforts and other events.

The City Park Reutilization Plan makes use of the community cultural strengths and addresses the weakness in organization and thematic elements to increase both the community’s use of the park as well as its importance as a valued community resource.

City Park has seen many changes and improvements over the years, characterized by individual improvement efforts rather than a cohesive planning effort. Though beneficial, this piecemeal improvement has led to a park that lacks a unified theme and organizational structure.

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan

27

History and Culture

EXPRESSION

COMMUNITY

HERITAGE

HISTORY

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City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

28

Programmed Activity

ENGAGE

ESCAPE

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

PERFORMANCE

ATHLETICS

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

29

Adventure Play

EXPLORATION

ACTIVITY

MOVEMENT

DISCOVERY

IMAGINATION

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

30

Informal Activity

RELAXING

COMMUNITY

INTERACTIVE

ACTIVITY

INFORMAL

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

31

Architecture

HISTORY

CORONA

DETAIL

SPANISH

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

32

Schematic Layout

QUARRY ST

ACTIVE PLAY

OPERATIONS

AQUATIC CENTER

GYM

GREAT LAWN

COMMUNITY

ARMORY

STAGE

FORMAL GARDEN ENTRY

ACTIVE PLAY

RIMPAU AVE

GRAND BLVD

ADVENTURE PLAY

ENTRY

6TH ST

N

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

33

Conceptual Site Plan

Adventure Play Existing Restrooms

Basketball Courts Picnic Facilities Parking

Parking

Existing Pump House

Parking Maintenance

Existing Cell Tower

Rimpau Avenue

Grand Boulevard

Quarry Street

Gymnasium Great Lawn

6th Street

Pool Interactive Water Play

Plunge Building Parking Enhanced Entry

Nature Education Center Parking Existing Restrooms

Enhanced Entry Parking Armory

Existing Skate Park

N

Formal Garden Space with Fountain

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

Existing Tot Lot

Community Stage 0’

100’

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

200’

300’

34

Sections

Formal Garden with Fountain

Arts and Cultural Center

Existing Restroom

SECTION A-A

Gymnasium

Basketball Court Picnic Area

PL

PL

SECTION B-B Event Terrace Plunge Building

Picnic Area

Zero Depth Entry Play Pool

Gymnasium

Basketball Courts

A B

B

A 310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

35

Metered Walking Plan

Grand Boulevard

Rimpau Avenue

Quarry Street

6th Street

1/4 Mile Circuit 1/2 Mile Circuit

N

0’

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

100’

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

200’

300’

36

Gymnasium / Arts and Cultural Center Enlargement

Restrooms and Lockers Gymnasium

Gymnasium

Great Lawn Foyer Paseo

Courtyard Entry

Storage Dance Studio Gallery

Info Center Office Space Arts and Cultural Center

Event Terrace Class Room

Total Gymnasium = 17,500 sf Total Cultural Center = 12,000 sf Music Room

Craft Room

N

0’

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

30’

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

60’

90’

37

The Corona Plunge and Aquatics Center Enlargement Pool

Play Pool with Slide

Splash Pad

The Plunge Building 9,000 sf

Aquatics Courtyard

Drive Alley

N

0’

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

30’

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

60’

90’

38

Adventure Play Enlargement Tot Lot

Parking

Parking DG Pathways

Picnic and Shelter Structures

Open Space

N

Existing Restroom Building 0’

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

30’

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

60’

90’

39

Formal Garden Enlargement

N

0’

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

30’

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

December 14th, 2010

60’

90’

40

Graphics

310 North Joy Street I Corona, CA 92879 T: 951.737.1124 I F: 951.737.6551 www.bmla.net

City of Corona

Corona City Park Reutilization Plan Conceptual Development

400 S. Vicentia Ave. Corona, CA 92882 T: (951) 736-2400

February 23, 2010