2019 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan

INTRODUCTION 1

INTRODUCTION

Wylie continues to be a thriving community well-positioned in the northeastern portion of the DFW region. Even with a current population well over 50,000, the City has retained its small-town atmosphere that appeals to its residents and business owners. Being centrally located between Lavon Lake and Lake Ray Hubbard, Wylie also draws a wide range of regional activities and annual visitors to enjoy recreation at the lakes.

The City of Wylie is fortunate to be in a position economically that allows it to not only meet the critical needs of its community, but to focus on dynamic ways to enhance its quality of life. The parks system is a key part of this strategic focus. To be proactive in planning for the growth of the park system, the City commissioned Dunaway Associates to prepare a Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan. The team established a visionary process that involved City leaders, City staff, Park Board members, and Wylie citizens in the overall master plan process.

PURPOSE OF THE MASTER PLAN

The purpose of this Master Plan is to focus on identifying and preparing for implementation of the City’s parks and recreational needs for the next five-year to ten-year period. It addresses the entire City limits including existing, proposed, and future parks & recreation opportunities. The planning team interacted with a diverse Steering Committee, as well as various City staff, community leaders, and citizen groups during the planning process.

In preparing this plan, some of the key objectives for future direction of the Wylie park system include the following:

• Provide high-quality parks and recreation resources that offer a balanced variety of year-round recreational needs of the Wylie community;

• Determine a practical means of maintaining and upgrading existing parks and facilities to a prescribed standard and purpose;

• Improve the overall appearance and usability of park and recreation resources;

• Acquire park land and develop outdoor recreational facilities;

• Encourage cooperation and develop partnerships with the school district, governmental agencies, area corporations, and community organizations to assist with funding, development and maintenance of park & recreational facilities

• Obtain adoption of the Master Plan by City Council in order to provide direction to City officials, City staff, and residents for implementing the Master Plan

To ensure that these objectives were addressed, the Steering Committee worked closely with the Dunaway team through key steps of the planning process. They also helped facilitate communication between City staff and public officials and served as a sounding board for the Action Plan initiatives within the plan.

USE OF THE MASTER PLAN

This Master Plan provides direction for park expansion, park redevelopment, and new park development to serve the growing population of Wylie. Section 2 overviews the methodology and key steps within the overall planning process. Section 3 includes a complete inventory of existing parks and recreational facilities. Section 4 describes a brief analysis of current population and demographics. Section 5 outlines benchmarking of peer communities with comparable park system features. Section 6 provides a review of park industry standards and comparisons to the current park system. Section 7 documents the results of the needs assessment and public involvement process. In Section 8, the Master Plan identifies the recommended priorities and locations for actual park improvements. Section 9 provides implementation guidelines including potential funding sources for identified priorities. Finally, the Appendix includes back up documentation received during the citizen input phase and feasibility diagrams that depict potential development of several currently undeveloped parks in the Wylie park system.

As a guiding document, this Master Plan will serve as a strategic tool for fiscal planning and development of Wylie’s park system. Annual reviews of the Master Plan are important to ensure that the implementation is on course. These reviews will also allow City staff and City leaders to address specific changes in priorities and/or special needs that may arise. The key is to maintain a commitment for developing a vibrant, balanced park system that serves Wylie today and also builds in expectation of the generations to come.

METHODOLOGY 2

METHODOLOGY

The Master Plan was prepared using a two-phase planning process. Phase I was focused on the Inventory and Needs Assessment. Phase II involved preparing the Park Master Plan document. A detailed outline of the process is as follows:

PHASE I – INVENTORY AND NEEDS

Data Collection & Base Mapping

The team prepared a base map from the digital/GIS data provided by the City. The base map illustrated information such as existing park sites, schools, city facilities, drainage corridors, streets, etc.

Inventory & Supply Analysis

The team was provided a current inventory of the entire park system. Team members and City staff performed a tour of the existing parks and recreational facilities available in Wylie. Each site was documented for its existing conditions and amenities.

Population & Demographic Trends

The team obtained the latest updates of demographic and population data from City Staff and the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG). This included factors of population, race, housing, employment, income, and future growth.

Benchmark Analysis

The team selected peer city park systems in the North Texas region that coincide with some of the characteristics of Wylie. City staff and team members toured these cities to review park developments, recreational facilities, and maintenance levels.

Standards Analysis

The team utilized some of the published recommendations by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), as well as local DFW guidelines, for evaluating standards for both park acreages and facilities.

Public Input & Needs Assessment

With National Service Research leading this effort, a series of steps were utilized to determine the park and recreation needs of the community. This included four (4) visioning sessions with Wylie citizens, and then an online survey through the City's website. From the feedback, the team was able to quantify the specific needs of the citizens.

PHASE II – MASTER PLAN

Step 7 – Priority Rankings

The team developed a priority criteria system for ranking high, moderate, and low priority needs. From these criteria, a weighted priority ranking was established based upon input from the Citizen Survey, Park Board, City staff, and Dunaway team.

Step 8 – Action Plan

The team prepared specific recommendations in an Action Plan that outlines renovations and new development of parks and recreational facilities to meet future needs within the community.

Step 9 – Implementation Plan

To support the Action Plan, the team prepared an Implementation Plan for the projected budgets / capital costs within the Action Plan. This included funding recommendations that might be utilized over the next 5 to 10 years.

Step 10 – Preliminary Park Master Plan

The team prepared the Preliminary Park Master Plan document outlining the entire process, findings, and recommendations. This included preparing exhibits/maps for the items recommended with the Action Plan.

Step 11 – Final Master Plan

The team prepared the Final Master Plan document. This task included final presentations to the Park Board and the City Council.

INVENTORY 3

INVENTORY

Within their growing community and increasingly utilized park system, City staff has kept an excellent inventory of the recreational amenities in the Wylie park system. Using information provided by City staff, the Dunaway team compiled a complete inventory of existing parks, recreation facilities and open spaces in the system. From this inventory, Dunaway staff toured and photographed each park site throughout Wylie. Acreage and amenity inventories for each park were provided to Dunaway. The following pages provide a summary inventory of the existing parks and recreational facilities within the City including park location, size, list of amenities, etc. Each facility is also identified per its location in the East, West, or Central zone of Wylie. (See page 56 for full park map with zones)

COMPLEX

LOCATION: 300 Country Club Rd

ACRES: 164.7

CLASSIFICATION: Regional Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trails - 2.15 mi

Nature Trails - 0.21 mi

• Recreation Center - 1

• Benches - 9

• Drinking Fountain - 2

• Foot Bridges - 2

• Handicap Parking - 2

• Off-Street Parking - 32

W BROWN ST

CROSS CREEKDR

SELMA LN

FRIENDSHIP PARK

LOCATION: 1621 White Ibis Way

ACRES: 4.95

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Basketball Full Court - 1

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.3 mi

• Playgrounds - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 3

• Small Pavilion - 1

• BBQ Grills - 2

• Benches - 4

• Drinking Fountains - 1

• Handicap Parking - 1

• Off Street Parking - 12

QUAIL MEADOW DR

WHITE IBIS WAY

KINGSBRIDGE PARK

LOCATION: 2600 Irene Dr

ACRES: 17.16

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.3 mi

• Footbridges - 1

• Handicap Parking - 1

• Off-Street Parking - 12

WINDOMERE DR

ELAINE CT

IRENE DR

DALTON DR

ELAINE DR

CREEKSIDE ESTATES NORTH PARK

LOCATION:

300 Nathan Dr

ACRES: 28.2

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Playground - 1

• Covered Picnic Table - 1

• Benches - 1

WEST

JEFFERY DR

WINDOMERE DR

STONECREST TRL

PEGGY LOFTICE DR

CREEKSIDE ESTATES SOUTH PARK

LOCATION: 3105 Hinnant Ct

ACRES: 24

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Basketball Courts - 1

• Soccer Goals - 2

• Backstops - 1

• Hike / Bike Trails - 0.85 mi

• Playground - 2

• Benches - 8

• Foot Bridges - 1

• Off-Street Parking - 19

• Handicap Parking - 1

WEST LEWIS RD

HINNANT DR

JACOB DR

CREEK SIDE ESTATES DR

RIVERWAY PARK

LOCATION: 1200 Riverway Ln

ACRES: 4.2

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trails - 0.06 mi

• Playground - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 2

• Small Pavilion - 1

• BBQ Grills - 1

• Benches - 4

• Drinking Fountains - 1

SAGE CREEK PARK

LOCATION: 1109 Wooded Creek Ave

ACRES: 11.1

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.4 mi

• Playground - 1

• Benches - 2

ROCKTON DR

SAGE CREEK TRAIL

LOCATION:

2906 Ryan Dr

ACRES: 34.09

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.65 mi

• Nature Area - 34 acres

PRESETON LN

WOODED CREEK AVE

WOODED CREEK PARK

LOCATION:

2616 Spanish Oak Trl

ACRES: 0.8

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Undeveloped

SILVERY PINE AVE

SPANISH OAK TRL

LAKESIDE ESTATES PARK*

LOCATION:

300 Lakehurst Dr

ACRES: 2.05

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Basketball Courts - 1

• Soccer Goals - 4

• Multi-Purpose Practice Fields - 2

• Benches - 4

• Off Street Parking - 14

WEST

Soccer fields at Lakeside Estates Park are owned by the City of Wylie. The pond, parking lot, pool, and playground are HOA owned.

LAGOON DR LAKEHURST DR

SPRINGWELL PKWY

LAKEFIELD DR

PARKSIDE PARK*

LOCATION:

2106 Lakefield Dr

ACRES: 26.7

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Undeveloped

COUNTRY CLUB RD

LAKEFIELD DR

PARKWOOD DR

FOUNDERS PARK

LOCATION:

851 Hensley Ln

ACRES: 82

CLASSIFICATION: Community Park

AMENITIES:

• Softball Fields - 4

• Soccer Fields - 9

• Football Fields - 3

• Basketball Court - 1

• Volleyball Courts (Sand) - 2

• Hike / Bike Trail - 1.8 mi

• Playground - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 5

• Picnic Units - 5

• Bleachers - 18

• Drinking Fountains - 2

• Restroom Buildings - 2

• Concession Buildings - 2

• Off-Street Parking - 287

• Handicap Parking - 32

HENSLEY RD

COMMUNITY PARK

LOCATION: 800 Thomas St

ACRES: 39.7

CLASSIFICATION: Community Park

AMENITIES:

• Baseball Fields - 8

• Basketball Courts - 3

Backstops - 6

• Multi-Purpose Practice Fields - 5

• Hike / Bike Trails - 1.05 mi

• (Senior) Recreation Center - 1

• Playground - 1

• Covered Picnic Table - 11

• Large Pavilion - 1

• Small Pavilion - 1

• BBQ Grills - 4

• Benches - 5

• Bleachers - 16

• Drinking Fountains - 2

• Restroom Buildings - 2

• Concession Buildings - 1

• Off-Street Parking - 236

• Handicap Parking - 7

CLOUDCROFT DR

SILVER CREEK DR

OAKBROOK DR

LORENE DR ALFRED DR

THOMAS ST

OLDE CITY PARK

LOCATION: 112 S Ballard Ave

ACRES: 4.15

CLASSIFICATION: Special Use Area

AMENITIES:

• Playgrounds - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 8

• Gazebo - 1

• Large Pavilion - 1

• BBQ Grills - 3

• Benches - 6

• Drinking Fountains - 1

• Memorial / Monument - 1

• Restroom Buildings - 1

• Handicap Parking - 3

• Off-Street Parking- 15

CENTRAL

BALLARD AVE

VALENTINE PARK

LOCATION: 1202 Birmingham St

ACRES: 3.3

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Backstops - 2

• Hike / Bike Trails - 0.4 mi

• Playgrounds - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 2

• Small Pavilion - 1

• Picnic Units - 2

• BBQ Grills - 3

• Benches - 2

• Drinking Fountains - 1

• Handicap Parking - 2

• Off-Street Parking - 13

WILLOW WAY RD

MEMORIAL DR

BALLARD ST

STONE RANCH PARK*

LOCATION: 803 Moreno Ct

ACRES: 1.5

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Historic Stonehaven House - 1

• Hike / Bike Trails - 0.3 mi

• Playground - 1

• Picnic Units - 2

• Benches - 3

• Handicap Parking - 1

• Off-Street Parking - 9

CENTRAL

This park is owned by the City of Wylie and HOA maintained.

BALLARD AVE

MILFORD DR

VIRGINIA LN

DOMINION OF PLEASANT VALLEY TRAIL*

LOCATION: 111 Dominion Dr

ACRES: 2.1

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES:

• Planned Hike / Bike Trail - 3.9 mi

This park is owned by the City of Wylie and HOA maintained.

PLEASANTVALLEYRD

ROSEMARY DR

MUDDY CREEK PRESERVE*

LOCATION:

5351 Pleasant Valley Rd

ACRES: 37.7

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES:

CENTRAL

• Hike / Bike Trails - 0.5 mi

• Nature Area - 37 acres

• Benches - 3

• Off-Street Parking - 9

• Handicap Parking - 1

This park is owned by Dallas County and maintained by the City of Wylie.

PLEASANTVALLEYRD

SOUTHBROOK PARK

LOCATION:

231 Shadybrook Dr

ACRES: 0.7

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Playground - 1

• Benches - 1

SHADYBROOK

TWIN LAKES PARK

LOCATION: 326 Canyon Lake Dr

ACRES: 6.1

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Picnic Units - 2

BRADDOCK PLACE PARK - NORTH*

LOCATION: 1300 Elm Dr

ACRES: 13.3

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

CENTRAL ALLEN RD BRADDOCKWAY

ELMDR TIMBER FALLS LN

BRADDOCK PLACE PARK - SOUTH*

LOCATION: 1401 Cedar Point Dr

ACRES: 13.5

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES: • Undeveloped

CEDARPOINTDR

THOMAS & MATTIE BROWN HOUSE

LOCATION: 301 North Ballard Ave

ACRES: 0.7

CLASSIFICATION: Special Use Area

AMENITIES:

• Historic Brown House - 1

• Public Art - 1

• Off-Street Parking - 8

MEADOWVIEW ESTATES PARK

LOCATION: 406 Carver Dr

ACRES: 1.96

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES: • Hike / Bike Trail - 0.42 mi

MEADOWS OF BIRMINGHAM PARK (RETA ALLEN PARK)

LOCATION: Westgate Way

ACRES: 6.3

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.52 mi

LINDENAVE

ANN DR

JOEL SCOTT MEMORIAL PARK

LOCATION: 424 Westgate Way

ACRES: 12.2

CLASSIFICATION: Community Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.9 mi

• Skating Facilities - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 3

• Small Pavilion - 1

• Picnic Units - 8

• BBQ Grills - 5

• Benches - 11

• Drinking Fountains - 3

• Off-Street Parking - 8

• Handicap Parking - 1

BIRMINGHAM FARMS PARK

LOCATION: 725 Odenville Dr

ACRES: 5.6

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES:

• Playground - 1

• Benches - 4

• Hike / Bike Trail (Lighted) - 0.51

SADEN BLVD

ODENVILLE DR

KIRBY PARK

LOCATION: 300 Masters Ave

ACRES: 0.5

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Playground - 1

• Picnic Units - 3

• BBQ Grills - 2

• Benches - 1

• Off-Street Parking - 5

• Handicap Parking - 1

MASTERS AVE

PHEASANT CREEK PARK

LOCATION: 1705 Harvest Crossing

ACRES: 10.27

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Playground - 1

• Small Pavilion - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 1

BOZMAN FARMS ESTATES PARK

LOCATION: 1330 Valley Stream Dr

ACRES: 15

CLASSIFICATION: Linear Park

AMENITIES:

• Picnic Units - 2

VALLEY STREAM DR

CANYON CREEK RD

E STONE ST

COLLINS BLVD

KREYMER ESTATES PARK*

LOCATION: 101 Lyndhurst Dr

ACRES: 15

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Playgrounds - 1

• Hike / Bike Trail - 1.4 mi

• Small Pavilions - 1

• Benches - 5

This park is owned by the City of Wylie and HOA maintained.

E BROWN ST

LYNDHURST DR

ONCOR PARK

LOCATION: 961 East Brown St

ACRES: 13.6

CLASSIFICATION: Special Use Area

AMENITIES:

• 9-Hole Disc Golf Course - 1

• Handicap Parking - 2

• Off-Street Parking - 8

• Public Art - 1

E BROWN ST

AVALON NORTH

LOCATION: 1312 East Brown St

ACRES: 5.6

CLASSIFICATION: Community Park

AMENITIES:

• Backstops - 2

• Multi-Purpose Fields - 2

• Soccer Goals - 4

E BROWN ST

CAMELOT DR

AVALON SOUTH

GREYHAWK PARK*

LOCATION: 2301 Ray Hubbard Way

ACRES: 5.9

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Covered Picnic Tables - 2

• Benches - 4

• Small Pavilion - 1

This park is owned by the City of Wylie and HOA maintained.

EUREKA PARK

LOCATION: 351 Rutherford Ave

ACRES: 4.52

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Basketball Courts - 1

• Hike Bike Trails - 0.33 mi

• Playgrounds - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 3

• Small Pavilion - 1

• Picnic Units - 2

• BBQ Grills - 4

• Benches - 7

• Drinking Fountains - 1

RUTHERFORD AVE

LEWIS RANCH PARK*

LOCATION: 4050 Wylie East Dr

ACRES: 9

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Playground - 1

• Aesthetic / Fishing Pond - 1

• Covered Picnic Tables - 1

• Benches - 4

• Small Pavilion - 1

This park is owned by the City of Wylie and HOA maintained.

BENNETT RD

WYLIE DR

WYLIE LAKES PARK - EAST

LOCATION:

2124 Colby Ln

ACRES: 6.7

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.6 mi

• Playground - 1

• Benches - 6

• Aesthetic / Fishing Pond - 1

WYLIE LAKES PARK - WEST

LOCATION:

1916 Spencer Ln

ACRES: 1.1

CLASSIFICATION: Neighborhood Park

AMENITIES:

• Hike / Bike Trail - 0.15 mi

• Benches - 3

SPENCER LN

Park Inventory & Amenities - West Zone

Park Inventory & Amenities - Central Zone

Park Inventory & Amenities - East Zone*

* Fee-based parks owned and operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) include:

• East Fork Park

• Avalon Park

EAST WEST CENTRAL

Existing Parks

POPULATION & DEMOGRAPHICS 4

POPULATION & DEMOGRAPHICS

The population of a community can be evaluated in a variety of ways for purposes of park planning, both physically and financially. The offering of public facilities is based in part on the consumption characteristics of the residents. This is true in planning for recreational needs within the Wylie community. The location, size, and amenities of parks should be based on the density and distribution of the population as recipients of these services. In order to assist in forecasting the future park and recreation needs throughout Wylie, this section provides information on some particular characteristics over the past five to seven years. Data was obtained through the City of Wylie Economic Development Corporation using current ESRI (Environmental Systems Research Institute; international geographical information systems software and geodatabase) community profile reports.

Population Data

Trends by Race

Race of Population

Wylie Population Data

House Values

House Values

$2,000,000 +

$1,500,000 - $1,999,999

$1,000,000 - $1,499,999

$750,000 - $999,999

$500,000 - $749,999

$400,000 - $499,999

$300,000 - $399,999

$250,000 - $299,999

$200,000 - $249,999

$150,000 - $199,999

$100,000 - $149,000

*Data Note: Household population includes persons not residing in group quarters. Average Household Size is in the household population divided by total households. Persons in families include the householder by birth, marriage, or adoption. Per Capita Income represents the income received by all persons aged 15 years and over divided by the total population.

Household Income

Population in the Labor Force

Population by Age

Population By Age

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2010 Summary File 1. ESRI forecasts for 2018 and 2023 Esri converted Census 2000 data into 2010 geography.

BENCHMARKING 5

BENCHMARKING

Based upon the current park system in Wylie and the associated range of park types, the Dunaway Team conducted a benchmark tour with City staff and Steering Committee members to see select city park systems in the North Texas region. The team identified peer cities that have some of the same characteristics of Wylie. The group focused on seeing a range of park developments, recreational facilities, and current activities occurring at each location. Three cities were visited including Plano, Grapevine, and Coppell. A summary of parks visited and key features are documented in this section.

Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve

Plano, TX

• Highly Visible Nature Preserve / Civic Complex

• Balance of Open Space & Activity Programming

• Public / Private Partnerships

• Facility & Meeting Room Rentals

• Amphitheater & Outdoor Festival Space

• Diverse Trail Network

Jack Carter Dog Park Plano,

TX

• Resourceful Placement of Destination Facilities

• Citywide Trail Network Connection

• Durable Architectural Details

Jack Carter Outdoor Pool

Plano, TX

• Popular Aquatic Destination

• Utilized Open Space in Utility Easement

• Wide Range of Waterplay Features

• Positive Revenue Generation

• Citywide Trail Network Connection

Carpenter Park

Plano, TX

• Highly Active Community Park / Multi-Generational

• Range of Indoor / Outdoor Activities

• Competitive Sports Fields

• Citywide Trail Network Connection

The Vineyards*

Grapevine, TX

Revenue Generating Lake front Campground

Variety of Camping Opportunities

(RV Camping, Primitive Campsites, Rental Cabins)

Support Amenities (Playground, General Store, Restroom/Shower)

Lake Access

(Swimming Beach, Boat Ramp, Pier, etc.)

*Park closed due to flooding on day of benchmark tour

Oak Grove Park

Grapevine, TX

Lake District Sports Destination

Tournament Quality Fields

Upgraded Architectural Theming

Offers Lake shore Activities & Trails

Andrew Brown Park - West

Coppell, TX

Newly Updated Softball 4-Plex and Soccer Fields

Nice Mix of Neighborhood Park Amenities (Playground, Pavilion, Basketball, etc.)

Internal Trail Loops and Citywide Network Connections

Strong Architectural Identity Connects with Andy Brown East & Neighborhoods

Andrew Brown Park - East

Coppell, TX

• The CORE Recreation Center and Aquatic Center

• Large Civic Green with a Variety of Flexible Event Spaces

• Connected Water Features with Access Points

• Strong Architectural Identity Connects with Andy Brown West & Neighborhoods

• Hierarchy of Trails Within Citywide Trail Network

STANDARDS 6

STANDARDS

When the Dunaway team evaluated the current park system in Wylie, it was important to understand the range of parks, recreation facilities, and other open space areas utilized for recreational activities. A key part of this evaluation was comparing the needs of the present population as well as considering future growth. This Master Plan includes a selection of traditional standards established by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), especially applicable to growing communities like Wylie. The NRPA standards have been the most widely accepted and used standards for decades. This section includes a comparison of Wylie’s current park system to NRPA standards based upon park acreage per population, as well as recreational facilities per population.

Criteria for Standards

The most common standards for park planning, as recognized by park and recreational professionals, are the published standards by the NRPA. As acknowledged in their publications, the NRPA recognizes the importance of establishing and using park and recreation standards as:

A national expression of minimum acceptable facilities for the citizens of urban and rural communities

A guideline to determine land requirements for various kinds of park and recreation areas and facilities

A basis for relating recreation needs to spatial analysis within a community wide system of parks and open spaces

One of the major structuring elements that can be used to guide and assist regional development

A means to justify the need for parks and open space within the overall land use pattern of a region or community

The purpose of the NRPA standards is to present park and recreation space guidelines that are applicable for planning, acquisition, and development of parks systems. These standards should be viewed as a guide by those municipalities that use them. The standards are to be coupled with the expertise of park planners when evaluating a community to which they are applied. Variations in the standards can also be established to reflect the unique social and geographical conditions of the community.

Park Classification System

As the team evaluated Wylie’s park system, they slightly revised the classification of each park by type, size, service area, and acres per 1,000 population. The following five (5) NRPA classifications for parks were used for this Master Plan:

Neighborhood Park

Neighborhood parks serve a variety of age groups within a limited area or “neighborhood”. They range in size from 1-15 acres and generally serve residents within a ¼ to ½ mile radius. The neighborhood park is an area for active recreation such as field games, court games, playgrounds, picnicking, etc. Facilities are generally unlighted and there is limited parking, if any, on site. NRPA standards for these parks are 1 to 2 acres per 1,000 population.

Community Park

Community parks are larger than neighborhood parks and serve several neighborhoods. They range in size from 16-99 acres and serve the entire City. The community park may be a natural area or developed area for a variety of outdoor recreation such as ballfields, playgrounds, boating, fishing, swimming, camping, picnicking, and trail systems. NRPA standards for these parks are 5 to 8 acres per 1,000 population.

Regional Park

Regional parks are very large multi-use parks that serve several communities within a particular region. They range in size from 500 acres and above and serve those areas within a one hour driving distance. The regional park provides both active and passive recreation, with a wide selection of facilities for all age groups. They may also include areas of nature preservation for activities such as sight-seeing, nature study area, wildlife habitat, and conservation areas. NRPA standards for regional parks vary due to the specific site and natural resources.

Special Use Areas

Special use areas and parks are for specialized or single purpose recreation activities. NRPA defines these areas such as historical areas, nature centers, marinas, zoos, conservatories, arboretums, arenas, amphitheaters, plazas or community squares. There are no specific standards for size or acreage since each community will vary.

Linear Park

Linear parks are built connections or natural corridors that link parks together. Typically, the linear park is developed for one or more modes of recreational travel such as walking, jogging, biking, in-line skating, hiking, horseback riding, and canoing. NRPA does not have any specific standards for linear parks other than they should be sufficient to protect the resources and provide maximum usage.

NRPA PARK ACREAGE GUIDELINES

* The graphic on page 72 illustrates the service areas of each park facility in Wylie's existing system.

NRPA PARK ACREAGE GUIDELINES COMPARED TO CURRENT POPULATION

For its current population of approximately 52,500 the city of Wylie is above standards for providing neighborhood parks and is below standards for providing community parks.

NRPA PARK ACREAGE GUIDELINES COMPARED TO FUTURE POPULATION (2023)

For its projected population in 2023, the city of Wylie is expected to continue to exceed standards for providing neighborhood parks to its citizens. The deficit in providing community parks is expected to increase.

FACILITY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS APPLIED TO WYLIE

1 Dunaway recommendation for high use by Youth Sports.

2 Facility guidelines from NRPA guidelines as well as DFW area standards.

Parks Service Areas

NEEDS ASSESSMENT 7

NEEDS ASSESSMENT

The Needs Assessment is one of the most significant instruments in the development of a Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. The findings of the Needs Assessment provides a foundation for the direction of the Master Plan and provides guidance for developing priorities for park facilities and future parks and open space development. National Service Research (NSR), a full-service research firm, employed a multi-step approach in garnering opinions of the citizens of the City of Wylie. The Needs Assessment process was undertaken to meet the following objectives:

• Identify priorities of Wylie Citizens for parks, facilities and program needs

• Measure the interest in various activities, events and programs

• Identify support for funding options for future development

• Evaluate profiles of survey respondents by key demographic variables

Methodology

In order to complete this study, four visioning sessions were conducted. Two were held on September 27, 2018 at 6:00pm and 7:30pm (Wylie Senior Recreation Center). An additional two meetings were held on October 4, 2018 at 6:00pm and 7:30pm (Wylie Recreation Center). The results of these visioning sessions assisted NSR with the survey instrument design (see appendix for visioning session notes). The final survey instrument was available online through the City’s website and various social media sites. Additionally a postcard announcing the survey was mailed to 8,000 randomly selected households in the West, Central, and East regions of the city (see graphic below). The postcards were mailed October 29, 2018 and the survey closed December 14, 2018. A total of 1,470 responses were received. A total of 58 of the surveys were on paper and were received from the Senior Center and Recreation Center. The margin of error of this sample size data 95% confidence level is plus or minus 2.6%.

22%

39%

39%

West East Central

Area Zones - Wylie Survey responses received per zone.

Awareness of Parks, Recreation Facilities & Programs

About 45% of respondents find out about parks, recreation facilities and recreation programs through the City of Wylie website. Other prominent means were Facebook/social media, and Park and Recreation Department flyers/brochures.

Note: Percentages will total to more than 100% due to multiple responses allowed.

Existing Parks Rating - Quality

70% of respondents reported the quality of parks and recreation opportunities are excellent or good. 26% rated them somewhat unsatisfactory or poor.

The primary comments regarding why the quality of parks are somewhat unsatisfactory or poor:

• Athletic Fields and park maitenance lacks quality

• More variety of opportunities indoor and outdoor

• Park system lacks a pool, aquatic center, splashpad

• More trails and trail connections

• Enhance park maintenance

Existing Parks Rating - Quantity

60% of respondents reported the quantity of parks and recreation opportunities are excellent or good. 36% rated them somewhat unsatisfactory or poor.

The primary comments regarding why the quantity of parks are somewhat unsatisfactory or poor:

• Park system lacks adequate number of athletic fields

• More variety of activities

• Park system lacks a pool, aquatic center, splashpad

• More trails and trail connections

• Park system lacks a dog park

Frequency of Park Use

Within the last year respondents have reported that 52% use parks, 40% use athletic fields, 41% use playgrounds, and 32% use trails monthly or more.

Programs of Interest

Respondents indicated programs they and members of their households would be most interested in participating. Farmer's market, festivals/events, fitness classes/events, swim lessons and arts & crafts were programs of most interest to the respondents.

Most Needed Facilities

RANKING

Mean Score: all respondents rank every facility as 4-definitely needed, 3, 2, 1-not needed. The mean score column represents a calculation of the 4, 3, 2, 1 scores.

Rank: all respondents are also asked to rank their TOP THREE facilities only. The rank column represents these totals in order of importance according to respondents.

Funding Priorities

Almost half of respondents strongly support increased improvement fees from developers. 63% support paying increased user fees.

Funding Option Support

Almost half strongly support increased improvement fees from developers. 63% support paying increased user fees.

57% of respondents are willing to pay more in property taxes to fund the improvement priorities suggested in this survey.

57%

Are willing to pay more in property taxes to fund the

priorities suggested in this survey.

PRIORITY RANKINGS 8

PRIORITY RANKINGS

Establishing clear priorities for the park system is essential for guiding a successful Master Plan. This allows City leaders to understand the importance of annual budgeting and strategies that will meet the needs throughout the Wylie community. The priorities in this section are a result of incorporating the inventory of the current resources, benchmarking outcomes, and citizen survey into a ranking of priority needs.

Process for Rankings

At the completion of the citizen survey during the needs assessment phase, a method of ranking priorities was implemented. This method included using specific input from the citizen survey results, Park Board, City Staff, and the Dunaway team. The following weighted values were assigned to each:

Citizen Input / Survey Results (55%)

The specific needs and requests by the Wylie community as tabulated from the citizen survey

Steering Committee (20%)

The specific parks and recreation needs in Wylie as identified by the appointed Steering Committee members

Parks & Recreation Department Staff (15%)

The specific needs as identified by City staff based upon recreation programs and demands upon resources

Dunaway Team (10%)

The specific recommendations by the Dunaway planning team based upon assessing the unique needs of the Wylie community, current park resources, demographic profile, and future demands for recreational resources

The results of the priority ranking were tabulated into three categories: High Priority, Moderate Priority, and Low Priority. The table on the following page provides a summary of the priorities for Wylie.

Wylie Priority Rankings

9 IMPLEMENTATION

IMPLEMENTATION

Wylie has a tremendously large park system that has successfully served the community. Over time much of the infrastructure in the parks has aged and exceeded their life cycle. To increase capital dollars needed to implement Master Plan recommendations, Wylie has an opportunity to pursue a variety of other funding sources that would add to the City's financial resources. Some of the following sources can be a part of the overall implementation plan.

PARK DEDICATION ORDINANCE RECOMMENDATIONS

To meet needs identified for a growing park system, there are various methods for obtaining additional park land in the appropriate category. This includes land (or fees) donated by developers within the requirements of a park dedication ordinance. As part of this master plan, the Dunaway team reviewed the City's current park dedication ordinance and provided recommendations for revising the ordinance to City staff.

FUNDING SOURCES

One of the biggest challenges facing City leaders in implementing a park master plan will be prioritizing new capital dollars that will provide for needed park renovations, expansions, and new amenities. To achieve this, City leaders will need to outline an annual strategy for funding capital improvements across the entire park system. Some of the following sources can be part of the overall implementation plan and are keyed to priorities and park locations in the Implementation Plan on the following pages of this section.

Possible Funding Sources

Advertising

This funding source comes from the sale of advertising on park and recreation related items such as the city's program guide, on scoreboards, and other visible products or services.

Corporate Sponsorships

This funding source comes from corporations that invest in the development or enhancement of new or existing facilities. Sponsorships are also successfully used for special programs and events.

Fees / Charges

This funding source comes from fees for use of a facility or participation in a city sponsored recreational program.

Foundations / Gifts

This funding source comes from tax-exempt organizations who give donations for specific facilities, activities, or programs. These may include capital campaigns, fundraisers, endowments, sales of items, etc.

Friends Associations

This funding source comes from friends group that raise money typically for a single focus priority. This may include a park facility or program that will better the community they live in.

General Fund

This funding source is the primary means in providing for annual capital programs, improvements, and infrastructure upgrades.

General Obligation Bonds

This funding source comes from bond programs approved by the citizens for capital improvements within the parks system.

Grants - TPWD Outdoor Program

This funding source comes from grants for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreational facilities.

Grants - TPWD Recreational Trails Program

This funding source comes from grants for the development of new trails or trail extensions.

Grants - Transportation Enhancement (TCOG / TXDOT)

This funding source comes from grants for the development of new trails or trail extensions.

Hotel / Motel Funds

This funding source comes from taxes accrued for local hotels and motels in Wylie.

Interlocal Agreements

This funding source comes from contractual agreements with other local units of government for the joint-use of indoor or outdoor recreational facilities.

Irrevocable Trust

This funding source comes from individuals who leave a portion of their wealth for a trust fund. The fund grows over a period of time and is available for the city to use a portion of interest to support specific park facilities as designated by the trustee.

Naming Rights

This funding source comes from leasing or selling naming rights for new indoor facilities or signature parks.

Park Dedication Fee

This funding source comes from private developers who give land for public parks. This may include land along drainage corridors that can be developed for greenbelts and trails.

Park Improvement Fees

This funding source comes from fees assessed for the development of residential properties with the proceeds to be used for parks and recreation purposes.

Partnerships

This funding source comes from public/public, public/private, and public/not-for-profit partnerships.

Permits (Special Use Permits)

This funding source comes from allowing other parties to use specific park property that involves financial gain. The city either receives a set amount of money or a percentage of the gross from the service that is being provided.

Private Donations

This funding source comes from private party contributions including funds, equipment, art, and in-kind services.

Reservations

This funding source comes from revenue generated from reservations of parks and facilities. The reservation rates are fixed and apply to group shelters, meeting rooms, and sports fields.

Revenue Bonds

This funding source comes from bonds used for capital projects that will generate revenue for debt services where fees can be set aside to support repayment of the bond.

Sales / 4B Tax (1/2 Cent)

This funding source comes from a voter approved sales tax that goes toward parks and recreational improvements.

Special Fundraisers

This funding source comes from annual fundraising efforts to help toward specific programs and capital projects.

Volunteerism / In-Kind Donations

This funding source provides indirect revenue support when groups or individuals donate time to help construct specific park improvements (signs, playgrounds, nature trails, etc.)

HIGH PRIORITY ITEMS

9 Multipurpose sports fields (football, soccer, baseball, softball) $400,000 - $500,000 each

10 Multipurpose practice fields (football, soccer, baseball, softball)

- $1,000,000 (artificial turf)

$100,000 - $200,000 each

$750,000 - $1,000,000 (artificial turf)

11 Benches/Seating areas $1,500 - $2,500 each

MODERATE PRIORITY ITEMS

LOW PRIORITY ITEMS

Action Plan

HIGH PRORITIES

MODERATE PRORITIES

LOW PRORITIES

APPENDIX 10

APPENDIX

Visioning Session Notes

The following notes were recorded by the Dunaway team during round table discussions with Wylie citizens at each visioning session. In addition to providing round table discussion comments, citizens were asked to complete a short questionnaire at each visioning session. Questionnaire comments are also included below.

VISIONING SESSIONS #1 & #2 - SEPTEMBER 27, 2018 6:00 PM AND 7:30PM

Trails/Nature Areas

• Education stations (plant/wildlife) along trails

• Water stations along trails

• Longer trails – 5 miles or more

• Implement trails master plan

• Add more soft surface trails

• More trail connections – especially along the lakes

• Cycling trails connected to cities

• Take advantage of easements to add trails

• Flood plain areas can be used as open space/natural areas

• Bicycle and skate lanes along roadways

• Trails along creeks

• More trail access to lakes

• Need above ground crossing on 78

• More parking

• Restrooms along trails that are open year-around

• Nature trails

• Art along trails

• Exercise stations along trails

• Trails along lake ray hubbard

• More sidewalks

• Shaded areas along trails

• Emergency call stations along trails

• Lighting on some trails

• Maintenance and drainage needed along some trails

• Braddock park – trails, no sports, no playgrounds

• Make city more bike-able

• More trail connections

• Bike racks in some areas

• More neighborhood trail connections

• Fishing pond within the city for fishing

• Monarch butterflies, education/wildlife stations

Indoor Recreation – Senior Center

• Brookshires – use for expanded Senior Center (larger, more parking, safer, near Founder’s Plaza)

• Improved restrooms

• Fitness area currently too small – need a dedicated and larger space)

• Private areas for meetings

• Indoor walking track

• Larger place to put coats

• Room for Reelers

• Senior Center would like same size and quality as Library and Wylie Recreation Center

• Dedicated dining area

• Post office drop

• Covered outside area for outside activities

• More parking

• Want it classy like the Hilton

• Safe walk from parking (Bridge SRC Waterbrook)

• Golf carts

• Computer/lab instruction area

• Printer, copier, fax, scanner

• More buses

• Access to genealogy materials

• Notary on-site

• More room

• Outdoor seating

Indoor Recreation

• Need a second recreation center

• Event space (Dinner in the Dark) (Lions Club)

• Roller skating rink

• Food truck area

• Aquatics / aerobics (laps)

• Free to kids

• Basketball with no fee

• More fitness equipment (due to high use, very busy center)

• Bicycle friendly (less choppy, easy access, safety)

• Natural trails

• South of Dam – nature trails and parking

• Indoor pool with diving (deep area)

Athletics/Sports

• Sports wayfinding

• Football (artificial turf) x 4+

-Possible stadium

-Shaded seating

-Permanent restrooms and concession

-400 players registered

-Year-round

• Horseshoes (senior center)

• Baseball/softball – 4 plex with restrooms and concession

• Practice fields (usable fields)

• Full size soccer fields

• Pickleball

• Tennis courts

• Sand Volleyball

• American Ninja Warrior Course

• Multi-purpose practice fields

• Reserved practice fields

• Soccer

• Fishing

• Drive in theater

• Disc golf

• Dog park

• Interactive/hands on play (music) like Hope Park in Frisco

• Aquatics – lap pool, diving board

• Trails – lighting, emergency call areas, restrooms, drinking fountains

Civic Events/Special Use

• Dog park with dog water fountain – use USLOE property and for aquatics

• Amphitheater

• Multi-use water @ Kreymer Estates

• Trash cans @ Oncor park on course

• Vet memorial at Old City Park - Tall flag poles

• Large outdoor event space plus restrooms

• Skate park – larger/more active

• Sculpture park

• Community garden

• Neighborhood event space

• West entrance for trail @ Brown

• Community stage/amphitheater

Aquatics

• Pool – swimming /ex.

• Spray grounds

• Lazy river

• Competition (no swim team use)

• Indoor facility / natatorium

• Therapy pool and ramp

• Non-chlorine

• Neighborhood access

• Combined facility

• Pool at Recreation Center

• Indoor

• Events/organized activities/variety

• Deep water

Outdoor Park Facilities

• Dog park – off leash for small and large dogs, waste stations

• Pavilions

-Large – rental opportunities

-Downtown – always rented

• Community garden

• Soft surface trails in non-flood areas

• Mountain bike trails

• ATV tracks

• Veterans Memorial expansion

-Wall

-Plaques

-Flag poles

-DAR support

• Lavon Lake amenities

-Fishing piers

-Dam access

-Small cabin rental

-Kayak rental

-Swimming beach area

• Amphitheater

• Skate park (indoor and outdoor) (Allen, Brookshire’s acquisition)

• BMX track – combo track/facility

• Outer loops – cycling – community rides from Richardson

• Large pavilions at municipal complex

• Art walk/sculpture garden along trail

• Nature farm animal exposure for kids (petting zoo)

• Restrooms – keep open in winter

• Dual dog/people drinking fountain

• Looping trails in neighborhood

• Creekside utility easement (tree swing)

-Waking trail connections

-Linking neighborhoods

-Sidewalk connections

• Dated playgrounds (Hinnokt Court) Creekside

• Community creek clean up events with HOA partnership

• Lavon Lake

-Shoreline amenities

-Fishing piers – safe/clean

-Signage at late – times, cost, etc.

-Accessible

-Map for visitors

-Think of users without a boat

• Cat park

• Safe routes to schools

• Trees along trails everywhere – McKinney example

• Shade structures

• Amphitheater/small venue for concerts

• Pollinator gardens – community groups to support

• Missing links/connections to each neighborhood park

• Tree program (replant)

• Adult user amenities

-Exercise stations

-Call stations

• 3-5 mile trails with shaded rest stops

• Open nature/preserve south of Lavon dam

• Natural hiking areas/mowed paths

• CORPS land opportunities

• Neighborhood connections

Questionnaire Comments

What is the best thing about living in Wylie?

• Quiet and not congested

• Small town atmosphere

• Easy access – great park in Creekside

• Family

• The people

• The evolution

• Diverse community

• Small town feeling, moved here in 2006 when senior center was a very small library with hope for bigger things to come

• The variety of shops and vendors

• We haven’t lived here long (6 months) but find the people very friendly

• Family friendly, lots of things to do with families (young kids). Lots of public art

• Small town feel

• Community involvement

• I moved here from the east coast. The senior center has been great for me. The staff, programs – please continue and increase the size

• Senior recreation and travel

• Small town feel with community events

• Senior center

• Variety

• Senior center, small residential feeling

• Our community areas, our parks

• Small town neighborhood feel

• Active and growing

• The people

• Parks, size of town

• Small community, city government for community activities, Senior center

• Library, Old stone mansion, programs at senior center, Ballard St. Café, Wylie Opry

• Still has small town feel

• The people, sense of community

• Small town feel with conveniences, retail, medical, within easy access

• Small town feel, good schools, convenient to work

• Growing community with lots of possibilities

What are the best things about the park system as it exists today that you want to make sure are preserved/maintained?

• Bike trail and recreation center

• Recreation center

• Outdoor practice facilities – Brent is very helpful to Creekside

• Recreation center and municipal trails

• Preservation and maintenance

• Cleanliness

• Add walking trail around senior center and a bike path

• Open space, public art

• Number of parks close to people

• Ballfields, parks, senior center

• Senior center and recreation center

• Senior travel with our wonderful staff

• Easy access, major parks for athletics/sports spread out

• Shade trees, green spaces

• Walking paths

• Walking trails, Old City Park

• 3-Trails

• Discount rates for Wylie residents and senior center

• Programs at senior center, library

• Upkeep

• Senior activities, educational programs, walking trails, green spaces, recreation center

• Love the recreation center and senior center

• New trails behind recreation center

• Recreation center – add indoor pool

A re there things/issues that need to be addressed through the Master Plan or park department?

• Ensure no parking in residential areas

• Lake Lavon parks and fishing

• Safety

• Fishing lake/pond

• Football fields (Fields at Founders Park are in poor shape)

• Aquatics, civic events

• Continue upgrades

• Recreation center – one day pass is too expensive – need hourly pass

• Not offering the center to everyone – need a dog park

• Expand walking trails, build bridge to Waterbrook parking lot, add sidewalk from senior center to Waterbrook church, add postal mail box, expand senior center

• More soccer fields, more use of municipal complex, Wayfinding at Founder’s Park

• Trails

• Parking, expansion, growth

• More restrooms at Senior Center, more buses at senior center

• Aquatics facility, spread out sports activities at Founder’s Park

• Pool, skating rink, wading area for dogs

• Flower gardens, more preservation of green space, expand senior center, community garden

• Community center to hold large groups for events inside

• Less art, save city money

• More open parks area

• City owned park at Lake Lavon, trail connections, with beach

• Large outdoor event space, amphitheater at Municipal complex

• Conference center or enclosed arena/auditorium

• Senior center is too small, need a community garden

• Lap pool

• Dog park, better lighting in smaller parks, better announcement of events

• Safe routes to schools via cycling/walking, bike lanes and initially bike routes with City signage

• More or longer trails. Bicycle friendly connections between neighborhoods and downtown shops

What do you want more of, less or same of? MORE

• Nature trails

• Pool, events

• Updated playground in Creekside park

• Aquatics

• Connections to other parks

• Teen community events, summer camps, splash parks, civic centers

• Soft surface trails, amphitheater, aquatics, outdoor park facilities, Lavon Lake lake front use

• Public art, family friendly options

• Bike trails, nature areas, trees, restrooms, trash cans, recycling cans

• Larger senior center

• Dog park

• Aquatics, additional sports park, different trail options

• Activities for kids

• Future planning

• Outdoor grills, fishing

• Trail connections

• Indoor/outdoor aquatics

• Event areas, splash pad in existing park

• Dog park, trails that are longer, soft trails

• Shaded park area with a lot of seating, more parking at senior center

• Senior center facilities and programs, sidewalks

• Lap pool or regular pool, soft surface trails

• Dog park

• Senior trips and activities

• Safe streets for cycling and pedestrians, trails, trees

• Trails, pool

LESS

• Development in flood plains

• Sports areas

• Houses

• Football stadium

• Storage facilities, smoke shops, phone places

• Big trucks

What are your dreams, visions, desires, needs for the park system moving forward?

• Trails with trees, benches that are well lit, no sports park near residences

• Lake Lavon parks for fishing and picnicking

• Wylie to stand out and be known for something like the balloon festival in Plano

• Connecting walking and biking trails

• Recreation center and senior center activities

• Evolve as the city grows, weather that means building, improving technology

• Community pool inside the recreation center with trained lifeguards

• Not to be on wait list because people from other cities come and line up and get them

• Garden with benches, transport carts, dog park, pool for seniors, water spouts to draw geese and ducks, new parkland – purchase Brookshires and build a larger senior center, amphitheater

• Sculpture garden art walk at municipal complex with amphitheater, large outdoor pavilion, event space

• Implement trails master plan

• Larger senior center with water facilities

• Water park for all citizens, larger senior center

• Aquatics, exercise opportunities, youth sports, maintain green space

• More senior programs with indoor walking area

• Keep people informed

• An area to teach us about nature and animals in nature and how we humans impact them. Maybe collaborate with Texas Parks and Wildlife on this for ideas.

• Dog park

• Veteran’s Memorial

• Art along the trails or a sculpture park. The art fund will commission the art.

• Expand senior center in the same caliber as the library and recreation center

• Wide walking trails, pool, water park

• Longer trails, cleaner park system, address safety issues in parks, more sidewalks, indoor pool, don’t neglect the older sections of town.

• Bike lanes, farmers market, connect all of Wylie so residents can walk and cycle safely.

• Bicycle friendly commuting throughout Wylie

VISIONING SESSIONS #3 & #4 - OCTOBER 4, 2018 6:00 PM AND 7:30PM

Trails/Nature Areas

• Longer trails for biking and running

• Trails along lake/ponds

• Connect current trails

• Need crosswalks at intersections

• Have a trail system like Richardson

• Nature center near the lake with restrooms

• Soft and hard surface trails

• Hiking/mountain bike trails

• Utilize DORBA (Dallas Off Road Bicycle Association) volunteers who maintain trails

• Needs safe trails along 544/bike lane

• Connect trails with other cities

• Sage Creek Trail has drainage issues

• Needs bike lanes along streets

• Parkside Park – has 40 acres of open space – make it a nature preserve with trails

• Need kid friendly biking – add more sidewalks

• Trail system to connect with the schools so kids can bike to school

• Bozeman Park – connect with other trails

• Off leash dog area with trails

• Water fountains along trails

• Disc golf – add walking paths and improve drainage

• Add walking trail at the Dam

• Provide signage at each park – designate that it is a City of Wylie park (sometimes confusion as to whether the park is an HOA park or City park

• Work with Corp of Engineers on trail along lake property

• Create partnership with Avalon Park

• Kayak rental along lake

• Fishing piers at lake and at ponds

• Pheasant Creek – extend existing trail

• Nature area for birdwatching and wildflower planting

• Soft surface trails next to hard surface trails

Indoor Recreation

• Pickle ball (indoor)

• Pool table at Senior Center

• Ping Pong at Senior Center

• Gaming (in a social way)

• Board games

• Expand climbing wall

• Obstacle course

• Wrestling ring

• Ninja Warrior course

• Laser tag

• Pinstack

• STEAM activities – teen/tween (summer)

• Robotics

• All-day ply for teen/tweens

• Activities with friends

• Exploring/adventure

• Triathlons (club)

• Community chorus

• Pool at Rec Center

• Amphitheater at Center

• Bouldering

• Art classes

• Special events that are cheap

• Indoor tennis

• Racquetball

• Outdoor tennis

• Tennis center

• Longer child care hours

• Lower cost for membership

• STEM/STEAM

• Indoor trail with Ninja elements

• Dance classes

• Ballet

• Gymnastics

• Introduction classes for all sports/activities

• Archery

• Adult sports/leagues/tournaments

• Extend hours for gym (open at 4am)

• Indoor recreation center for east side of Wylie

• Small library on east side of Wylie

• Computer classes at Senior Center

• Senior center on east side of Wylie

• More buses at SRC

• More yoga class times

• More pilates

• More space to offer more classes

• Indoor sports – soccer – adults and kids

• Adult soccer leagues / tournaments

• Racquetball

• Indoor multi-sport facility

• Zumba

• Musical classes – piano, guitar, drums

• Squat racks and benches

• More free weights – 45 lb bars

• Power plates

• TRX

• Bosu and stability balts

• Circuit training area

• Tires for work outs

• Battle ropes

• Steam room

• Sauna

• Open walking track to kids with strollers – all ages

• Downstairs track open to all ages

• Indoor pool

• Classes to do with younger kids

• Family exercise classes

• Hang boards for climbing

Athletics/Sports

• More parking

• Spread sports out to different facilities

• Drainage on fields is poor (Russell Creek, Carpenter Park) Plano, TX

• Netting along soccer fields & any fields

• Better drainage

• Turf fields (football) Artificial turn – Founders Park

• Current football fields are poor (no restrooms/concession stand)

-Cover bleachers at turf fields

-Nee less rainouts

-Separate location for football/new complex needed

-Extra revenue for off season

• More fields

• Need adult sports fields

• Need separate complex for soccer and football

• Scheduling conflict for soccer forcing kids to play on Sunday

• Congestion at Founders Park

• Soccer needs show case fields

-Maybe perimeter fencing around Founders Park

• Soccer needs more practice space in Wylie

-More green space

-Schedule practices versus first come first served basis – baseball, softball, soccer

• Future expansion of all sports and complexes

• Athletics needs to grow with population growth

• Make fields we have now more playable

-Make some fields with artificial turn (priority the infields)

• Skinned fields at Dodd Park

• More Cricket fields in another location

• Baseball in the spring season is already at max at Community Park (have to play Wednesday and Sunday now)

• Soccer has over 1,500 kids and are maxed out at Founder’s Park

• More tournaments but need the facilities to handle the wear and tear

• Need to consider winter grasses

• Baseball and soccer suffer due to rain outs

-Need better drainage

-Need a new complex

• Indoor sports complex (like Plano)

• Improve parking at Founder’s Park

• Not enough practice fields for baseball

-Need to be able to reserve space for practice

-Current practice fields are in bad shape (Avalon Park)

• Need a large green space area that is maintained for sports, kite flying, picnicking, etc.

• Need more adult sports

• Restrooms at practice facilities

• Need more lit volleyball courts

-Expand the ones at Founder’s Park

-Improve drainage at Founder’s Park

-Need outdoor rinse station at Volleyball court

• Beach volleyball at Corp of Engineers lake

Civic Events/Special Use

• Larger skate park

• Amphitheater for outdoor musicals

• No art

• Dog park (behind college?)

• More 5K races

• Mountain bike pump track

• Dog park and dog trail along lake

• Splash pad

• More indoor rec to keep up with growth

• Farmers market

• DART station

• More art

• Enhancing lakes, camping, access for everyone, walking trails (No USACE involvement)

• Paddle trails, launching at Kraymer Park, Bozeman Park & Ray Hubbard

• Community Garden

Aquatics

• Indoor lap pool with multiple lanes

-Swim and tri training

• Natatorium – laps and leisure

• Multigenerational facility

• Pool with slides

• Pool at rec center

• Family aquatics

• Combo indoor and outdoor facility

• Outdoor recreation pool

-Family

-Support facilities – pavilions

-Water slides

-Diving

• Splash pads (at Old City Park and Recreation Center)

• Lazy river/beach area

• Potential partnership with ISD

• Water aerobics / indoor heated

• Intermediate depth water for laps and recreation

• Learn to swim lessons

Outdoor Park Facilities

• Outdoor skating rink

• Kirby Park and Valentine

-Swing and spider set – has outdated equipment

-Update existing playgrounds

• Founder’s Park – pirate ship dangerous

• Spraygrounds

• Larger shade structures (fabric)

• Need a tree program – shade in parks

• Lavon Lake Park – CORPS property/maintenance

• Pavilions – large, rentable, grilling stations

• Utilize floodway property

• Bozeman Park underutilized

• East Wylie has minimal park land

• Dog parks

• Need a small lake/pond in a public park (not in subdivision)

• Public fishing dock

• Fishing opportunities (bait and tackle shop)

• Trees at Dodd Park

• Celebration Park – multi-user (inspiration)

• Lack of restrooms at parks in Wylie

• Need for indoor or outdoor birthday kids gathering space

• Disc golf parking too small

-9-hole – room for trail or redesign for amenities along course

-Add pavilion

• Sidewalk connections and bike lanes needed

• Trail connections via greenways/belts – connectivity

• Centralized park system (dog park, skate park, etc.)

• Parkside Park needs trails

• Muddy Creek – Tyler trail floods, maybe need boardwalks

• Amphitheater

• Larger event spaces

• Dog park

• Lakefront amenities (Lavon, no CORPS operated)

• Larger pavilions/more pavilions

• Restrooms – upgrade existing and add more

• Limited restroom at Old City and Community Park – open all year

• Grilling stations

• Kayak launch at lake

• Lighting in parks (Stone Ranch example)

• LED lighting

• Parking at Founder’s Park

• Lighting along trails – Community Park creek

• Drinking fountains (filter, maintenance, with dog bowls)

• Shade trees at parks

• Restrooms at Community Park fields (porta pottie/shelter)

• Updated playground equipment across the system

• Friendship Park playground equipment variety in types for various ages

• Zipline (Rockwell example)

• Outdoor trampoline park

• Dedicated bike lanes for cyclist groups or off road

• Leather’s Community playground is not visible to find kids in

• Splash pads at Old City Park

Questionnaire Comments

What is the best thing about living in Wylie?

• It’s not Dallas

• Granddaughters

• Still has small town feel

• Opportunities

• Small town feel of the community

• Neighborly, good mix of country and city events

• Open spaces, quiet neighborhoods

• Schools – dual language program

• Plenty of amenities

• Amenities for the population especially families – like Halloween

• Active senior center

• The ISD and school personnel

• Wylie ISD

• Family friendly, downtown events, ball fields

• Friendly community in a safe environment with access to businesses and parks and recreation

• Small town feel

• My church is here, great community events

• Being part of a growing city and getting involved in its future

• Schools

• Small town feel

• Even with growth it still has a small town feel

• Ability to grow to fit the needs of increased population

• The library and schools

• Schools and atmosphere

• Family focused community

• The schools and small town feel. However, the small town feel is diminishing

• Location

• Safe communities

• Small town feel

• Family oriented, feel like a small town, community events that matter

• Safe, friendly community

• Amazing schools, really cool art, and that small town feel

• Small town feel

• Indoor recreation

• The community

• Close to family and the Wylie senior center

• Safe, friendly community

• They appreciate seniors

• The City appreciates its senior citizens

• Friendly senior citizens, attractive atmosphere

• Senior center, green space, small town feel

• Senior center

• Small town feel

What are the best things about the park system as it exists today that you want to make sure are preserved/maintained?

• Outdoor areas for gatherings, city events, adult sports

• Facilities

• Playground area

• Recreation center, playgrounds

• Well rounded for age groups and activities

• Activities for all ages, city events, trails

• Trails for walking/running

• Founder’s Park baseball fields, neighborhood parks maintained by the city

• Indoor sports

• Existing parks need to be maintained as well or better than today

• Fitness center with reasonable rates for us

• We live next to Hollow Creek Park entrance – more beautification of the park – flowers, cut grass, soil maintained-resodding needed

• They need to be up to date

• Rec center is a black hold for cell phones – I quit going because I need my podcasts

• Recreation center facility is excellent

• Parks and rec center

• Rec center

• Pavilions, shade trees

• A fairly decent mix of athletic facilities

• Solid ground work has been laid with land owned by the city to make future improvements

• Bike trails and parks

• Park updates, trails, library and rec center

• Excellent sports fields

• Walking trails – continue to expand

• Rec center

• Clean parks

• Walking trails

• Wide bike trails, rec center

• Not many options compared to Plano

• Not enough options currently, we go to Allen, Plano for many park related activities

• Nice sidewalks

• Many parks within walking trails

• Trails, nature areas

• Trails, sculptures, decorations

• The people and the staff

• Senior Center

• A good active senior center

• Senior center is good, free admission for all seniors

• Work out programs and rec center

• More work out programs

• Better parking at senior center

Are there things/issues that need to be addressed through the Master Plan or park department?

• Adult sports

• Maintenance of the smaller neighborhood parks

• Rec center membership too expensive, not enough athletic fields, no city pool or natatorium, better maintenance

• More athletic fields for groups/sports, dog park, running trails in the flood areas, develop existing parks that have no usage

• Public pool should be added, swim team, reservoir maintenance (behind Sage Creek)

• Include indoor pickle ball courts (2 or 3) with open play during the week and on Saturdays plus one or two evenings per week

• Dog park

• Disc golf area is junky and over grown

• Concerned about safety of bridge in Hollow Creek Park – after rains accumulation of debris around bridge support beam, parks need better lighting

• Football fields need to go to turf

• Bike trails – connect the parks, safe crossings across the major roads

• Trail at Sage Creek HOA is dangerous –always muddy, dirt covers trail when it rains

• Poor parking facilities, drainage of athletic fields is terrible, trail system is disjointed for cyclists, no aquatics

• Available paving at sports fields, separate sports fields

• Need aquatic center

• More sports fields – Kids under 10 should not be expected to play 10 games in 4 ½ weeks. No availability for practices and development

• Amphitheater – can bring life, family atmosphere to Wylie.

• Better lighting in parks

• Add a pool and sauna to the rec center

• More adult sports activities that don’t cost a fortune

• Parking – Founder’s park does not have enough sports to support Saturday morning activities

• Splash pad and a pool, make rec center track open to moms and kids – add family events and classes at rec center

• More walking trails – connect the trail behind Sage Creek and trail behind rec center-please deal with terrible flooding on this trail

• More enrichment programs; art classes at the rec center

• Lake front public use maintained by the city and not CORPS, use of dam bridge, possible walking trail like Cedar Hill did with theirs – more trail links to parks

• Lack of aquatics

• Senior center – more travel programs, more parking, bigger exercise room, more restrooms

• Enlarge senior center

• Aquatics, lockers, therapy pool, more trips

What do you want more of, less or same of?

MORE

• Adult sports

• Outdoor grills

• Trails

• Athletic fields, outdoor pool or natatorium, dog park

• Athletic fields, running trails, aquatics, dog park, basketball court

• Another playground like Pirate Playground at Founder’s park, trees

• Indoor pickle ball, ping pong, pool table for seniors

• Aquatics/water park, indoor activities, dog park

• Special use facilities for concerts

• Walking/bike trails, picnic area with grills, yoga, fitness classes for adults.

• Pool, water, nature trails

• Bike trails

• Rentable community pavilions, city playgrounds

• Parks, trails around the lake for biking, running

• Bike lanes, trails for running, 5K races

• Natural materials – stone, art

• Plano has multiple soccer fields at multiple parks and aquatics at Jack Canter Park

• Spray park, parking, use of Lake Lavon, shade around trails

• Bike trails to cross 78 and 544, restrooms in parks

• Community outdoor facilities, dog park

• Soccer fields

• Athletics, and group fitness classes, community pool, swim lessons, splash pad

• Covered pavilions at parks – the ones we have are not large enough

• More baseball fields that are maintained – Avalon Phase 1 is in bad shape

• Pool, splash park,

• Nature trails, walking trails, farmer’s market

• Improve Tyler trail behind Sage Creek HOA – unable to use when it rains

• Farmer’s Market, need DART station – traffic is getting bad

• Art in parks, swimming pool

• Water activities, splash park, pool with slides, public fishing ponds, kayak launch on Lake Lavon

• Aquatics

• Senior center – more parking, larger facility, more restrooms, more trips, walking track

• Green space, senior vacation trips

LESS

• Art in the park

• Sports parks

• Sports

What are your dreams, visions, desires, needs for the park system moving forward?

• If you build it they will come!

• Community Chorus

• Dog park with drinking water

• Dock where families can fish together

• Splash pad, music pavilion

• Large scale skate park – for bicycles, skateboards, roller blades, scooters

• Outdoor summer rec area with pool and activities, open soccer fields

• Dog park, aquatics, utilize lake, more in East Wylie

• Bike trails with trees (like Murphy)

• Splash pad

• Indoor pickle ball

• Indoor kid activities that are not sports related

• Swimming for kids

• Indoor pool next to rec center

• 18-hole golf course

• Trails that connect, clean accessible waterways, small lakes/ponds, more sculptures, community gardens, aquatics

• Preserve nature trails and expand them

• Something similar to Elon Park in Orlando for community events

• Football fields with restrooms and food court

• Plan for the future – connect parks, build pool or splash pad, adult oriented park activities

• Public pool

• Another small rec center

• Trail system around lake for running and biking, splash pads

• Trails that connect throughout Wylie

• Bike friendly trail system – so kids can get to school on their bikes

• Better drainage at athletic fields to avoid cancellations

• Water park like Jack Carter in Plano

• Better maintenance of weights and machines

• Parks for younger and older kids, nature center, splash pad, outdoor concert area, restrooms

• Trails that connect to Murphy, Richardson

• Pool

• Maintenance and upkeep needs to be part of the vision

• Improved drainage for existing sports complexes, more sports fields for game and player development use, development of a competitive soccer program

• Park on east side of Wylie

• Aquatic facility – needs to be budgeted far enough in advance so taxes aren’t raised

• Pool and splash park

• Rec center track open to parents with kids – can’t model how to exercise if they can’t be with us

• Pool, dog park, DART system

• Pool connected to rec center, expand senior center, dog park with areas for large and small dogs

• Kayak areas at lake

• Keep them nice and maintained

• Aquatics, outdoor park facilities and trails

• Expand senior center

Citizen Survey Document

Citizen Survey Comments

Question 15 of the citizen survey provided space for respondents to write in additional comments they would like to bring to the Parks & Recreation department's attention. Some of these include:

"It would be nice to have a pool."

"Keep up the great work, much appreciated."

"Swimming pool please!! And a splash pad for the little ones."

"The soccer fields need excavation for drainage."

Top Mentions

"Find and area to build another sports area for baseball, softball, soccer and football. "

"More parking at senior center. Need an aquatic center."

"It would be great to have more of our playgrounds completely covered. They need to be completely usable during every season. Wylie is a growing city with families moving in wanting more family oriented spaces. Playgrounds provide lots of stimulation and free entertainment for everyone, and if they could be utilized when it is raining or a million degrees outside, weathering all of the elements it would be awesome!"

"We need more adult fields for softball."

Other citizen comments referenced several common themes including:

• Taxes – 100 mentions

• Pool – 98 mentions

• Fields – 85 mentions

• Swim/swimming – 50 mentions

• Parking – 39 mentions

• Thanks – 36 mentions

• Soccer – 35 mentions

• Fees – 32 mentions

• Dog parks/dogs – 27 mentions

• Splash pad – 23 mentions

• Baseball – 20 mentions

• Playgrounds - 12 mentions

"A swimming pool is what I miss most! Even the small town of The Dallas, Oregon (population 13,000) has had an outstanding outside public pool for over 60 years!"

WATKINS ELEMENTARY SCHOO L Overhead Electric Transmission Lines

(+/-Parking 35 Spaces) Irrigated Play (+/- 40,000 sq. ft.)

• Trail Loop w/ Neighborhood Connections

• Pavilions / Rest Stops

• Non-Irrigated Open Play Areas

• Playground & Play Area (some irrigation)

• Pond Trail Loop & Footbridge*

ELMDRIVE Playground

• Off-Street Parking

Pavilion Existing Pond Pavilion Pavilion

Possible Trail Loop Trail Loop

Existing Transmission Tower

Group Pavilion Possible Footbridge

Braddock Place Park North Concept Plan FM 544 BRADDOCKWAY

Note: The photographs on the following pages represent samples of park program elements. They are not intended to depict actual construction features. *

Conceptual trail connection with approval of Braddock Place HOA.

Braddock Place Park North Concept Images

Playground

Braddock Place Park North Budget Projections

*Based on the Concept Plan on page 118

CAMLINCT

Braddock Place Park South Concept Plan

BERKLEYDRIVE

Note: The photographs on the following pages represent samples of park program elements. They are not intended to depict actual construction features.

• Playground & Fitness Hub at Tree-line

• Group Pavilion

• Nature Education Area

• Irrigated & Non-Irrigated Open Play

• Park Trail Loop

• Park Entry & Parking Lot

• Nature Trails w/ Trailheads

• Bridge Connection to Emerald Vista

Key Features: Existing Park

Braddock Place Park South Concept Images

Nature Trails

Educational Signage

Playground & Pavilion at Tree-line

Fitness Hub

Braddock Place Park South Budget Projections

*Based on the Concept Plan on page 122

Conceptual trail connection with approval of Collin County College.

Note: The photographs on the following pages represent samples of park program elements. They are not intended to depict actual construction features.

MaintenanceRoad

Parkside Park Concept Plan

Key Features:

• Interpretive Boardwalk & Overlook

• Trail Loop w/ Interpretive Signage

• Outdoor Classrooms

• Overlook Pavilion w/Deck

• Pavilion Bench Swings Entry

• Playground & Pavilion

• Trail Connection to the College*

• On-Street Parking

Existing Park

Parkside Park Concept Images

Native Meadow

Interpretive Boardwalk at Water

Outdoor Classroom

Overlook Pavilion

Parkside Park Budget Projections

*Based on the Concept Plan on page 126

Municipal

Key Features:

• Fire Station

•

• Aquatics Center

• Dog Park

• Community

• Festival Green

• Celebration Meadow

• Destination Playground

• Community Garden

• Nature Center

Municipal Complex Master Plan Images

Indoor / Outdoor Aquatics

Amphitheater / Civic Event Spaces

Destination Playground

Nature Center & Demonstration Gardens

Dog Park

Wylie Municipal Complex Budget Projections

*Based on the Concept Plan on page 130

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The City of Wylie provided ongoing support to the Dunaway Team throughout the Master Planning process. A special thanks to the following individuals who participated:

CITY COUNCIL

Eric Hogue, Mayor

Jeff Forrester, Mayor Pro Tem

Matthew Porter

David R. Duke

Candy Arrington

Timothy T. Wallis D.V.M.

David Dahl

PARKS & RECREATION BOARD

Joni Robinson, Chair

Emmett Jones, Vice-Chair

Phil Gilbert

Brett Swendig

Gloria Suarez

Brian Willeford

Matt Rose

4B BOARD

Eric Hogue

David R. Duke

David Dahl

Matthew Porter

Daniel Chesnut

Emmett Jones

Scott Hevel

CITY STAFF

Chris Holsted, City Manager

Brent Parker, Assistant City Manager

Renae Ollie, Assistant City Manager

Robert Diaz, Parks & Recreation Director

Brent Stowers, Parks Manager

Carmen Powlen, Recreation Manager

Janet Hawkes, Administrative Assistant

STEERING COMMITTEE

Dan Chesnut, Former Parks & Recreation Board

Robert Diaz, City Staff

Jeff Forrester, City Council

Phil Gilbert, Parks & Recreation Board

Jason Greiner, City Staff

Janet Hawkes, City Staff

Chris Holsted, City Staff

Emmett Jones, Parks & Recreation Board

Wes Lawson, City Staff

Renae Ollie, City Staff

Brent Parker, City Staff

Tim Porter, City Staff

Carmen Powlen, City Staff

Joni Robinson, Parks & Recreation Board

Matt Rose, Parks & Recreation Board

Sam Satterwhite, City Staff

Keith Stephens, Former City Council Member

Brent Stowers, City Staff

DUNAWAY TEAM

Philip Neeley, ASLA, Project Director

Elizabeth McIlrath, ASLA, Project Manager

Anita Beard, ASLA, Landscape Architect

Kourtney Gomez, Graphic Designer

Andrea Thomas, National Service Research