TOWN OF SYLVAN LAKE RECREATION, PARKS & CULTURE RECREATION, PARKS & OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN (2010) JUNE 2010

Transcription

1 TOWN OF SYLVAN LAKE RECREATION, PARKS & CULTURE RECREATION, PARKS & OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN (2010) JUNE 2010 #200, Street, Edmonton, AB T5H 3H5 Tel: (780) Fax: (780)

2 Table of Contents 1. 0 BAC KG ROUND P L A N SCO PE & PU R POS E Plan Purpose Plan Scope PU B LI C CON S U LTAT I ON Public Open House Online Survey Sports Group Interviews Council and Administration Interviews I N V ENTO RY O F PA R K S, O PEN S PAC E & R EC R E AT I ON FAC I LI T I ES Curling Rink Community Arena Trails Four Seasons Park South Area Structure Plan OU TCOM E O F PU B LI C CON S U LTAT I ON Stated Desires for Outdoor Facilities Stated Desires for Indoor Facilities Recreation Facilities Parks T R EN DS I N R EC R E AT I ON & LEI S U R E S E RV I C E D E LI V E RY Trends for Indoor Recreational Facilities Trends for Outdoor Recreational Facilities I NNOVAT I ON S I N R EC R E AT I ON A L P L A NN I NG Integrating Parks, Culture and Recreation Programming and Festivals Toddler Parks (Ages 2 to 5) Teen-Oriented Play Structures Boundless Playgrounds Art and Performing Arts i

3 7.7 Passive Parks Extreme Sports Elements Other Innovations TH R ES HO LD A N A LYS I S R ECOMM EN DAT I ON S Short-term Priorities Medium-term priorities FU N DING S T R AT EG I ES Cost Sharing User Fees...31 A PPEN DI X A R ec r e at i on, Pa r k s & O pen S pac e Qu es t i onna i r e S u mma ry o f R esu lt s COPYRIGHT NOTICE Copyright 2009 by The information contained in this document is the intellectual property of (MMM). It is intended solely for use during the evaluation of this Recreation, Parks & Open Space Master Plan by the Town of Sylvan Lake. Reproduction of portions of this document for use by the Client during the project evaluation is permitted. Reproduction of any portion of this document or use of the intellectual ideas contained within it for any other purpose is prohibited unless MMM Group Limited is subsequently retained by the Client for the work described within this proposal. ii

4 VERSION HISTORY VERSION DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE iii

5 1.0 BACKGROUND The current Town of Sylvan Lake Recreation, Parks & Open Spaces Master Plan was adopted by Town Council in The 2004 Master Plan was intended to guide the development of recreation facilities, parks, open spaces and program services for the following ten years. A population growth of approximately 20% and increase of land mass through annexation has brought about the need to update and expand the scope of the document. The 2010 Master Plan Update is intended to be an addition to the 2004 Recreation, Parks & Open Spaces Master Plan and should not be incorporated as a stand alone document. The 2010 Master Plan Update is a necessary addition to the 2004 Master Plan to provide direction and set priorities for the future development of recreation, parks and cultural opportunities and associated facility development for the Town of Sylvan Lake for the next ten years. 2.0 PL AN SCOPE & P UR POSE 2.1 Plan Pur pose The purpose of the Recreation, Parks and Open Space Master Plan is to provide guidance and direction for Town staff with regards to the future planning and maintenance of indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and services. This document is an update to the 2004 Recreation, Parks and Open Space Master Plan that was prepared and completed by Randall Conrad & Associates Ltd. The 2004 Plan was a very comprehensive review and assessment of existing facilities at the time, and this Update is intended to augment the 2004 Plan, not replace it. This 2010 Master Plan Update will provide a basis on which to prepare annual capital and maintenance budgets, and it will assist planners and developers by providing expectations for securing and identifying the recreational needs of the community on a go forward basis. The public consultation program helps to ensure that the needs and priorities of Council and Town staff are consistent with those of the local citizens. This report provides the following: A review of trends in recreation services (section 6.3) Public Consultation Methods (Section 3.0) Community needs and priorities (Section 6.0) Threshold analysis (Section 6.4) Population Projections (Section 6.4) Recommendations for short-term, medium-term and long-term development (Section 7.0) Recommendations for location of a major recreational site and facilities (Section 7.0) 2. 2 P l a n S co pe In order to complete this review and update of the Recreation, Parks and Open Space Master Plan the following tasks were completed: Public consultation with the community through stakeholder meetings and public open houses; Individual consultations with Town staff, minor sport groups, cultural groups, and special interest groups; Consultation and review process will include the Town s Community Services Standing Committee through information reviews and presentation(s) at meetings; 1

6 Update of the inventory of existing recreation, parks and open space resources; Identification of future development priorities, including parks, outdoor facilities and indoor facilities; and, Incorporation of the South Area Structure Plan geographic area into the Recreation, Parks and Open Space Master Plan. Information review from the 2006 Impact Study: Non-Resident Use on Sylvan Lake Recreation Facilities and Programs that was undertaken by the Town of Sylvan Lake, Lacombe County, Red Deer County, and the Summer Villages of Birchcliff, Half Moon Bay, Jarvis Bay, Norglenwold, and Sunbreaker Cove. 3.0 P UB LIC CONSU LTAT ION 3.1 PubLIC OPEN HOUSE In June of 2009, a Public Open House was held in Sylvan Lake. The findings of this open house consultation process will help to define the development of the Town of Sylvan Lake Recreation and Parks Master Plan Update. It will also inform elected officials, administration, organized groups, and the general public as to where priorities and satisfaction lies with regard to Recreation and Parks facilities found in Sylvan Lake. During the public open house several interactive maps were set up to help assess missing links, items, and upgrades to the 2004 Recreation, Parks & Open Space Master Plan. Feedback regarding existing recreational services and the community s future needs was also gathered G EN E R A L O b S E RVAT I ON S Based on the comments and input from the Public Open House in June, the public seems to be satisfied with the current state of the Recreation, Parks and Open Spaces within Sylvan Lake. The majority of the comments were regarding: increasing the amount of trails and trail connections within the existing trail network; increasing passive park space; establishing an off leash area for dogs; building a water play feature (splash pad); and, development of a new curling facility and recreation centre for seniors. Many of the comments and input drawn forward from public open house are similar to comments from the online survey PA R K S & O PEN S PAC E Participants of the Open House were asked to provide general comments on the existing Parks and Open Space system within the town. The following comments were made on the interactive display: Need for new passive park within Memorial Drive area (complete with views of the Lake); We need to Increase passive park use by providing more picnic areas; Do not remove Lion s Park from parks system; and, We would like to see more off-leash dog parks. 2

7 R EC R E AT I ON A L FAC I LI T I ES A display board outlined the location of all existing recreational facilities within the Town, including the aquatic centre, arenas, ball diamonds and soccer fields. The following comments were written in the comment section of the display: Upgrade existing skate park facility to be a permanent concrete skate park; Develop a new splash park; Maintain two arenas within the community; Provide a new Curling Facility / Seniors Centre; and, Create an Arts facility which would include studio space, exhibition space, and theatre space T R A I L S YS T EM A display board identified the location of all of the existing developed trails within the Town of Sylvan Lake, and provided the opportunity for participants to write their comments about the existing trail infrastructure on the board. In addition, participants were asked to identify missing trail links and location of future trails by placing marks on the map. The comments that were written on the board are outlined below: Provide a connection to [the] regional trail system; Develop Trail system along old rail line; Increase waste containers throughout trail and park system; Create trail loop around outside of the town; Provide washroom facilities within parks and along trail facilities; and, Connect trail to a variety of recreation facilities. 3

8 3. 2 ON LI N E S U RV E Y An online survey was created using Survey Monkey ( a web-based survey application. A full summary of the results for this survey are included in Appendix A, attached to this report. Survey questions were based on the household survey conducted in the 2004 RPO Master Plan with the results compared to the results from the 2004 survey. It should be noted that the distribution of the survey was not nearly as extensive as the 2004 Study; however, the purpose of the survey was to provide an indication of recreational needs and priorities, using the 2004 results as a benchmark. The 2009 survey was a web-based online survey that was available through a link to the Town of Sylvan Lake website. Notification of the survey was communicated through direct contact with local organized sport and recreation groups and word of mouth. The survey was not intended to be statistically significant, but rather, another form of input to help assess the recreational needs of Sylvan Lake residents. The 2009 survey had 139 respondents (compared to 557 in 2004), and is not considered a statistically significant survey. 90% of respondents were from Sylvan Lake (87% in 2004), 9.1% from Red Deer County (7.4% in 2004), and 1% nearby summer villages (5.6% in 2004) S E L EC T E D R ESU LT S Following is a summary of selected questions from the questionnaire. A complete summary of the questionnaire results is attached to this report as Appendix A. Question 1: Activity Participation This question provided a list of indoor and outdoor activities, asking respondents to identify which activities that their family participates in. There were five activities that stood out with more than 50% of respondents participating: Swimming (79%); Soccer (61%); Skating (61%); Cycling (59%); and, Tobogganing (57%); Respondents were given the opportunity to identify any other activities not listed. Sailing, boating, walking, use of playgrounds, bowling, lacrosse and motor sports were just some examples of other activities that were identified. Question 2: Importance of Outdoor Facilities This question asked respondents to rate the importance of various types of recreational and open space facilities on a scale of 1 to 5, where a rating of 1 is least important and a rating of 5 is most important. The five facilities with the highest average rating were: HIGHEST RATED OUTDOOR FACILITIES Natural Areas 4.26 Playgrounds 4.24 Multi-use Trails 4.15 Picnic Areas 3.93 Outdoor Skating Areas

9 The five facilities with the lowest average rating were: LOWEST RATED OUTDOOR FACILITIES Grass Volley Ball 2.13 Sand Volley Ball 2.62 Cross Country Ski Trails 2.85 Tennis Courts 2.79 Outdoor Bandstands / Amphitheatre 3.12 Question 3: Frequency of Use This question asked respondents to indicate how often they, and their family, visit specific facilities throughout the community. The choices are listed in the table below, along with the frequency of use results for each facility identified. The curling rink, skate board park and multi-campus facility were identified as the least used facilities by respondents who participated in the survey. The provincial park/centennial park areas, aquatic center and Four Seasons Park appear to be the most frequently used facilities as identified by respondents. Facility Never/ Seldom Once per week 2-3 times per month Once per month Curling Rink Skate Board Park times / year Multi-Campus Facility Gymnasium Meeting Room, Fine Arts Center Sylvan Lake Community Center: Auditorium, Meeting Room, Craft Room, Commercial Kitchen Sylvan Lake Medican Multi-plex (Ice Arena) Four Seasons Park: Ball Diamonds, Tournament House, Batting Cage, Soccer Fields, Outdoor Rink, Picnic Shelter, Tennis Court Sylvan Lake Aquatics Center: Main Pool, Leisure Pool, Hot Tub, Party Room, Meeting Room Sylvan Lake Provincial Park / Centennial Park: Picnic Shelters, Pier, Beach courts

10 Questions 6 and 7: Willingness to Increase Taxes Question 6 asked respondents if they would be willing to pay more in taxes to support indoor and outdoor recreational resource development in Sylvan Lake. 53% of respondents stated that they would pay additional taxes if their needs were better met, 20.6% stated that they would not be prepared to pay additional taxes, while 26.5% indicated that they were unsure. Question 7 asked respondents to indicate how much more their household would be willing to pay on their annual taxes to support recreational resource development. 58% of respondents indicated that they would be willing to pay between $50 and $75, while 17% indicated that they would not be prepared to pay any additional taxes. The rest of the respondents (24%) stated that they would be will to pay between $75 and $150 per household. Question 11: Priority of Outdoor Facilities This question asked respondents to rank their top five priorities as to where town resources should be directed for outdoor facilities. Multi-use trail development was ranked the highest in terms of being the first, second and third priorities for use of town resources. Soccer fields were ranked as the second highest first priority, but then support seemed to drop off as a second or third priority. An outdoor water / spray park was ranked third as a top priority, second as a second priority, and third as a third priority. Interestingly, natural areas had an average to low ranking as a top priority, but were ranked third as a second priority, and second as a third priority, seemingly gaining importance once respondents had dealt with their top priorities. Question 12: Priority of Indoor Facilities This question asked respondents to rank their top five priorities for future indoor recreational spaces. An indoor track for fitness, jogging and walking ranked first as both a first priority and a second priority for respondents. Other high scoring facilities identified as a top priority were: indoor soccer and field sports centre (second ranking), indoor ice arena (third), and a performing arts centre and indoor child playground tied for fourth ranking as a top priority. Youth activity space did not rank highly as a first or second priority, but it came in first as a third priority, followed closely by an indoor soccer and field sports facility and an indoor court / gymnasium facility S po rt s G rou p I nt e rv i e ws The public consultation program for the 2009 RPO Master Plan Update involved interviews with Town Administration, Town Councillors and representatives from participating sport and recreation groups. Names and contact information for local community groups was provided by Town staff. Local sporting groups received notification of the Master Plan Update and interviews and the following is a summary of responses received via telephone and in person Aquat i c s : A representative of the Sylvan Nauticals Swim Club was interviewed about their club operations. The swim club has approximately 41 members and they are expecting growth of approximately 10% each year. The club began six years ago with six members and increased to over 40 members by The aquatic centre is the only public pool in Sylvan Lake and the Swim Club rated the facility high in terms of usage, maintenance and quality. The Swim Club rated the aquatic centre average in terms of accessibility, availability, functionality and location. It was noted that for holding swimming meets it was rated lower because there is insufficient room or facilities to host 3 or 4 swim clubs, which can include up to 300 children, not including coaches and parents. 6

11 S t r e ng t h s Apart from the space limitations, the aquatic centre was rated very highly by the Swim Club and the following strengths were noted: The facility is well maintained and is generally clean; It is a good stepping stone for beginners in the swim club; and, It is a good place for swimming lessons P r i o r i t i e s If changes or improvements were to be made then the following were recommended by the Swim Club as priorities: Increased viewing area for swim meets. More flexibility on the scheduling. (It was noted that 90 days notice was required in order to cancel a date and the opinion was that this is not very flexible) More meeting rooms for club meetings or anything else that is pertaining to the club Ot h e r Comm e n t s & O b s e rvat i on s : If future expansion were to occur, one person suggested that a diving tank and water slide would be welcome additions. It was also observed that parking can be a challenge during certain times of the year, particularly during hockey season Socc e r The Sylvan Lake Blizzard Soccer club operates year round and has 530 members participating in outdoor soccer, and 180 participants for indoor soccer. The season for indoor soccer begins in October and goes until the end of February, while outdoor soccer operates in May and June, and can run longer if teams make it to provincial playoffs. The main facilities for outdoor soccer include the fields at Four Seasons Park, Leader Field, and the fields at Fox Run School, H.J. Cody School, C.P. Blakely School (not available in 2009 due to school renovations) and Our Lady of the Rosary School. Indoor soccer is organized in the three gymnasiums at Fox Run School and, at the time of the interview, the club was investigating the possibility of scheduling time at the Community Centre. The Soccer Club representative was asked to rate the accessibility, availability, usage, maintenance, quality, functionality and location of each outdoor soccer field. Generally, each outdoor field was rated high in each category with the following exceptions: The competitive field at Four Seasons Park had an overall rating of high, but in terms of quality and functionality it was rated average. This is due to the fact that the field is somewhat crooked and could, or should, be straightened out; H.J. Cody fields were rated average in terms of accessibility and location. This is due to the fact that the field location is hidden behind the school and is not easy to find especially for visiting teams. It was also noted that there were no bathroom facilities available at this field; The use of the field at C.P. Blakely is being interrupted due to school renovations in 2009 and therefore is unavailable for use; and, The use of the Rider s Ridge Field at Our Lady of the Rosary is brand new and usage may be considered premature. Field conditions were somewhat lumpy, but it is expected that this will improve over time. 7

12 S T R E NG T H S The Soccer Club noted the following as strengths of the facilities: Adequate parking is available at all soccer venues; The Town works with the soccer club to help create the fields that are needed in a particular area; and Fields are well maintained with grass being cut on a regular basis P R I O R I T I E S If changes or improvements were to be made then the following were recommended by the Soccer Club as priorities: Marking of lines on outdoor soccer fields at least one week earlier in the year; More gym space should be allocated to hold indoor soccer; A central tournament location where up to five gymnasiums or indoor locations can be used simultaneously; A central location for outdoor soccer fields to accommodate an equipment shed and soccer wall; and Bleachers for people to sit and watch games and events OT H E R COMM E N T S & O b S E RVAT I ON S The soccer club has a long-term vision that includes construction of a large soccer facility. The proposed facility would include indoor and outdoor fields, a club house, offices, trophy display and a mezzanine for viewing S K AT E boa R D I NG Sylvan Lake Skateboard Association is a relatively new group that hosts two annual skateboard events. There is no formal membership requirement and, therefore, the size of membership is irrelevant according to the interviewees. However, they do have a Facebook page with 37 members and there are 50 to 100 skateboarders that attend each of two annual organized skateboarding events. It was noted that participation rates are becoming more mainstream and that membership, therefore, was not as important as accessibility. One indication of popularity is that two skateboard shops have opened up in the Town of Sylvan Lake over the past five years. There are two skateboard parks in town: an outdoor skatepark owned and operated by the Town of Sylvan Lake, and an indoor skatepark that is privately owned and operated. Even though the focus of this report is on facilities owned and operated by the Municipality, the skateboard representatives felt obliged to comment on the indoor park. The participants were asked to rate the accessibility, availability, usage, maintenance, quality, functionality and location of both the indoor and outdoor park. Both parks scored well in each category except for quality and functionality. Observations about the outdoor skatepark are that it is obsolete in terms of materials (the metal ramps are not the appropriate material for skateboarding and do not hold up well to wear and tear), concerns about safety, and it does not have the challenge that higher-level skateboarders are seeking. 8

13 S t r e ng t h s The Skateboard Association identified three main strengths for the outdoor skatepark: Very good location It is well used, still exists and, therefore, has local support It is visible, safe and secure P r i o r i t i e s If changes or improvements were to be made then the following were recommended by the Skateboard Association as priorities: To build a new modern skatepark that allows kids to progress from beginner to more advanced; To build a skate spot, or smaller facility, in residential areas, or to incorporate skateable elements into existing parks or smaller recreation facilities; and, To ensure that the location of a new skatepark be close to the centre of Town Ot h e r Comm e n t s & O b s e rvat i on s According to the Skateboard Association, if a new skatepark is built, it should be of modern design and it should be large enough to accommodate existing town residents and tourists. This facility should include a concrete design with minimal maintenance, featuring amenities such as washrooms, water fountains and park benches. It would be designed to fit into the local environment by actually adding to it M i no r Ba s e ba l l The Sylvan Lake Minor Ball Association has 17 volunteer directors and 150 to 180 players ranging in age from 4 to 17 years old, and includes both boys and girls. The association has seen strong growth over the past five years, growing from 120 players to up to 180 players at its peak. The greatest area of growth has been in the younger age groups, which have experienced recent growth of 25%, while there has been some decline in the older age groups. Local games are played at the five diamonds located at Four Seasons Park and Meadowview Park. T-Ball teams also use the diamond at Steffie Wioma School. When the Minor Ball Association was asked to rate the ball diamonds, Four Seasons Park received very high ratings in all categories. Steffie Wioma was rated average in terms of accessibility, functionality and location. It is considered difficult to get to because of its location right next to the school and it could use more maintenance. Meadowview Park was rated low on location and accessibility since it is behind the school and parking is minimal. It was suggested that this diamond could use some additional maintenance as well S t r e ng t h s The Minor Ball Association identified the following as strengths of the ball facilities: Strong interaction between ball teams and players at Four Seasons Park is a strength of having a central location; Steffie Wioma and Meadowview Park provide good space for t-ball and fore-pitch games; and, Accessibility at Four Seasons Park is very good. 9

14 P R I O R I T I E S If changes or improvements were to be made then the following were recommended by the Minor Ball Association as priorities: Facilities for dry training (indoor training); Bull pen with a roof on Diamond 4 at Four Seasons Park; and, Another raised pitching mound on one of the diamonds at Four Seasons Park OT H E R COMM E N T S & O b S E RVAT I ON S According to the Minor Ball Association there is a need, or interest, in developing a senior men s baseball field that is larger in size than the current fields M A RT I A L A RT S The Central Alberta Martial Arts & Wellness Centre is a non-profit organization with approximately 200 members ranging in age from 4 to 70. Membership has grown significantly in the past five years, from 60 students to 200, and is expected to see continued growth. The Centre teaches Traditional Goju Ryu Karatedo, Self Defense, Kata (forms), as well as Health and Fitness and Personal Development Themes. Students are also taught the tenets of courtesy and respect and to strive for goals that will better themselves, others and the community as a whole. The Centre operates in commercial leased space as well as Fox Run and Mother Theresa schools. In addition, they often use the Pier on Sylvan Lake for outdoor lessons. Facilities were generally ranked very high in all categories, except that the quality of the leased space and school space was ranked average. The commercial space is getting too small, the gymnasiums need better speaker systems, and the divider walls do not function properly. Availability and location of the gymnasiums was also rated average since school events take priority even if there are scheduled events for the Centre S T R E NG T H S The Martial Arts & Wellness organization identified strengths of the commercial space as follows: Location is good; Availability is good; There is an ability to personalize the space; and, There is no need to transport equipment. The Martial Arts & Wellness organization identified strengths of the School space as follows: Good size of space; Staff are good; and, Versatility of the space is good (there are three gyms available for rent). 10

15 The Martial Arts & Wellness organization identified strengths of the beach as follows: Close to nature; and, It is rewarding to have marshal arts classes outside P R I O R I T I E S In terms of priorities, the Marshall Arts Centre priorities are for additional space for expansion, additional parking, and a safe family friendly environment at the lake when holding outdoor classes OT H E R COMM E N T S & O b S E RVAT I ON S The Martial Arts & Wellness organization identified that although it is rewarding to hold martial arts classes outside, it was noted that there are often concerns with respect to interruptions and bad language from some of the beach goers SA I LI NG A representative of the Sylvan Lake Learn to Sail Program was interviewed. This is a one-week program associated with the Sylvan Lake Sailing Club, but it is not part of the sailing club. Laser sailboats are imported from Wabamun, Alberta each year to provide teaching opportunities for youth 10 to 17 years of age. Although the program is designed for youth, it was noted that there is growing interest at all age levels and, therefore, there is room for expansion. There is no real facility so the rating of accessibility, functionality, availability, usage, maintenance, and location were all relatively low. The location is not very good since the participants need to cross the main road with their sailboats to gain access to the beach S T R E NG T H S Out of the modest facilities that are used, the Learn To Sail Program noted the following strengths: Currently there is no fee for facilities Good location in terms of visibility, so it promotes itself The main pier provides good protection from north winds P R I O R I T I E S If changes or improvements were to be made then the following were recommended by the Learn To Sail Program as priorities: An area on the beach to build a boathouse Better location to launch boats OT H E R COMM E N T S & O b S E RVAT I ON S Sylvan Lake is a great lake for sailing lessons. 11

16 C u r li ng The Sylvan Lake Curling Club represents approximately 350 members. Curlers range from young teens in junior high school to senior citizens, and the existing facility is actively used from October to the end of March each year, hosting regular league games five days a week and bonspiels on the weekends. During the telephone interview with the representative from the Curling Club, it was noted that the facility has been in operation since the 1950s and was nearing the end of its lifespan. Club members are hoping to see the construction of a new facility in the near future. When asked to rank the accessibility, availability, usage, quality and overall functionality and design of the existing curling rink, many of the rankings were quite low due to the age of the facility. At the same time, there were still some very positive comments. Accessibility was rated a 3 out of 5 due to concerns about safety issues, roof issues and water and ice problems. Overall quality was rated a 2, simply due to its age, as was functionality and design. The functionality and design concerns included observations that the facility is not handicap accessible; for example, there is no elevator. Also, there is no opportunity to view curling games from the lounge area. Other improvements that are required include development of dressing rooms and a secure locker area. On the positive side, the location was rated very high since it is centrally located within the Town area. Maintenance and availability were both rated a 4 out of S t r e ng t h s Although it was indicated by the Curling Club that the curling rink is outdated and old, it was noted that it has served the community and area very well over the past 55 years. Other strengths identified by the Curling Club were the strong organization and commitment from volunteers, and that it provides a central gathering place P r i o r i t i e s If changes or improvements were to be made then the following were recommended by the Curling Club as priorities: Construction of a new curling facility Development of an off-season friendly curling facility that offers multiple uses 12 months of the year Construction of an Olympic Standard curling rink to develop an Olympic training facility Ot h e r Comm e n t s & O b s e rvat i on s Additional comments and observations from the Curling Club were directed at design standards for a new curling facility. If a new curling rink is to be built, it is recommended that the ceiling height be a minimum of 24 feet to accommodate badminton and volleyball in the summer months. In addition, the facility should include men s and women s dressing/locker rooms, as well as meeting space for the club executive and other community groups. 3.4 Counc i l a n d A dm i n i s t r at i on I nt e rv i e ws Council and staff of the Town of Sylvan Lake were consulted in four separate group interviews ranging in size from one person to a maximum of four. In all, five members of Council were interviewed, along with five members of Administration. These interviews were broader in scope when compared to interviews with specific sports groups. General observations by the Council and Administration groups were that the Town of Sylvan Lake has a good cross section of recreational and open space services that is provided to residents and, with the exception of a few facilities, there is very 12

17 little lacking in terms of the range of delivery of services. It was acknowledged that some of the existing facilities (i.e. an indoor ice surface, the curling rink) have perhaps outlived their service lives and are in need of major upgrades, replacement or retirement. It was also acknowledged that ongoing upgrades and maintenance of existing recreation, parks and open space infrastructure was critical. Another key observation was that the full package of recreation and leisure opportunities available to Town residents were offered by the Province and private sector. For example, the Sylvan Lake Provincial Park, although it is under provincial jurisdiction, provides an extension of the overall trail system. In terms of this report on the Recreation, Parks and Open Space Master Plan Update, participants had a variety of expectations in terms of the outcomes. Common outcomes included a better, up to date, understanding of citizen expectations and priorities in recreation and park service delivery, as well as observations and opinions from MMM Group Ltd. with respect to these items. Other expectations include a better understanding of the cost for certain facilities, and use of the document as a tool for determining timelines and budgeting for new facilities R EC R E AT I ON A L FAC I LI T I ES The Council and Administration interviewees were asked to identify the top three recreational facilities that either they or their families used. The following list is a summary of responses: Aquatic Centre; Arena; Curling Rink; Community Centre; Library; and, Multi-purpose facility. Interviewees were also asked to identify the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for the current Recreational Facilities offered by the Town of Sylvan Lake S T R E NG T H S According to the Council and Administration interviewees, one of the key observations was that Sylvan Lake already provides a diverse range of the most common recreation facilities to its residents, and that half of these facilities are relatively new. In addition, it was observed that Sylvan Lake, being a destination resort area, has many privately owned and operated recreation facilities that complement public facilities. Examples of privately owned facilities include: outdoor waterslide park, climbing wall, two fitness centres, indoor skatepark, and two golf courses. According to the Council and Administration interviewees, other strengths include: Pool is well used and has many programs; There is an ability to access funding because of growth; Most of the major voluntary recreation facilities are centralized in a good accessible location; Medican Multiplex; Arena; Trails; Aquatic centre; 13

18 W E A K N E S S E S According to the Council and Administration interviewees, the weaknesses of existing recreational facilities were focused primarily on the age of facilities, service delivery, linkages and program delivery. For example, concerns were expressed with respect to the age of the curling rink, the arena and the Community Centre at Four Seasons Park. As indicated previously, the arena and the curling rink have outlived their service life and are in need of either major repairs or replacement. With respect to the Community Centre, it was indicated that the building was old, too small, does not meet current needs and it has evolved into more of a social centre rather than a recreational centre. Other perceived weaknesses identified by the Council and Administration interviewees are outlined below, but rather than weaknesses, they can be considered needs: The Community has outgrown the number of facilities; No indoor linkages between recreation facilities; Temporary flooring surface for Multiplex ice pad ; The Aquatic Centre needs longer hours; There is a perception that there is not enough to do; Existing undeveloped space is being underutilized; Provincial funding has dried up; Not enough public outdoor washrooms; Sylvan Lake needs a large exhibition park; Need to build a campground that can be used to accommodate ball players attending slo-pitch tournaments; The skateboard park is outdated and small; Tennis courts are over utilized; Most of the park space is comprised of school grounds; There is a high amount of utilization of schools and recreation facilities by the rural community with minimal funding contributed; Too much municipal reserve land is dedicated for school use; Better utilization of arena hours; and, We need to make better choices for park locations. For example, the Town should be securing higher quality land, rather than the lowest quality land provided by developers. 14

19 Opportunities Taking into consideration the discussion on strengths and weaknesses, Council and Administration interviewees felt that the number of new facilities being requested could make a multi-use facility that addresses current needs, and provide more diverse recreation opportunities, more viable. Other opportunities for recreation facilities were identified by the Council and Administration interviewees as follows: Facilities and complexes should be linked in order to share resources such as washrooms, staff rooms and mechanical rooms; Development of another major community centre; Share facilities with schools and other major cultural or institutional facilities. Examples would include: art gallery; and, a performing arts centre; Existing volunteer groups need to be better utilized for driving major recreational opportunities (i.e. skateboarders, ball associations, etc.); Reclamation and reuse of lands, currently used for sewage lagoons, for development of a campground associated with slo-pitch tournaments; Partner with other communities around the lake to get an around-the-lake trail; and, Development of a parks complex at Centennial Park to include: washroom / change room facilities, RCMP minidepot, concession stand, sports association sport sign up area, plaza, bike rentals, and other similar opportunities OUTDOO R PA R K S / O PEN S PAC E Similarly, the Council and Administration interviewees were asked to identify the top three Outdoor Parks / Open Space facilities that either they, or their family, used most often. The trail system was common to all interviewees and the use of the Lake, or lake shore and beach was also common to all. The most commonly utilized outdoor parks and open space identified by the Council and Administration interviewees were: Trails / Trail System; Lake / Beach / Lakeshore; Four Seasons Sports Park; Centennial Park; Lions Park ; and, Golf Course. 4.0 IN V EN TORY OF PA R K S, OPEN SPACE & R ECR E AT ION FACI LI T IES The 2004 Master Plan provided a comprehensive inventory and assessment of all existing developed recreation and open space facilities. The Plan includes a detailed assessment and recommendation of upgrades to these facilities to ensure the proper maintenance and longevity of these facilities. Since the 2004 Inventory and Assessment of the Indoor Leisure facilities was completed, updates to some facilities have taken place. The following outlines the significant projects that have been completed, and the current assessment of these facilities (as of 2009). 15

20 4.1 Cu r li ng R i n k Minor renovations to the lobby were completed to expand the entrance area and the coat and boot room, and a new chiller was added to the ice plant in Communit y A r ena The new Medican Multiplex was completed in The facility consists of an NHL-size ice sheet that is used for a variety or skating programs, public skating and ice-based sports including youth hockey, adult hockey, figure skating, ringette, and broomball. During the summer months the facility was used for trade shows, inline hockey and concerts. In early 2009, it was also the venue for the Alberta Scotties Tournament of Hearts women s curling championship T r a i l s The multi-use trails system has been expanding over the past three years. The largest addition to the trail system happened in 2009 with just over 2.5 km of trail being constructed and paved. Additionally, benches, garbage cans and dog-dropping containers have been added to the trail system 4.4 Fou r S e a son s Pa r k Four Seasons Park has seen the following improvements in 2008 and 2009: trail development; the addition of an accessible playground; the addition of a soccer practice wall; and, upgrades to the baseball diamond. As well, infield upgrades to the diamonds and exterior upgrades to the equipment garage and cook shelter have happened over the past three years 4. 5 Sou th A r e a S t ru c t u r e P l a n The annexation of seven quarter sections of predominantly undeveloped land were incorporated into the Town in 2007 and has added a significant amount of land to the overall land base for the Town of Sylvan Lake. The approved South Area Structure Plan, and its anticipated land uses, is shown on Figure 2. The South Area Structure Plan has been incorporated into all figures that form part of the Recreation, Parks and Open Space Master Plan, and the lands have been taken into consideration for the planning and development of future park space, playgrounds, recreational facilities and the trail system. 5.0 OU TCOME OF P UB LIC CONSU LTAT ION This section takes into consideration all of the public input, interviews and survey results, to determine the stated desires of the public. Although there is a desire to upgrade, expand and maintain all existing facilities, and to build new facilities, it is not feasible to undertake all of this over a short period of time. Therefore, along with identifying the stated desires of the public, this section tries to prioritize these stated desires to assist with the development of an implementation plan. Recreational desires for the Town of Sylvan Lake have been categorized into the two basic groups - outdoor facilities and indoor facilities. 16

21 5.1 S TAT ED D ES I R ES FO R OU T DOO R FAC I LI T I ES The following is a summary of the outdoor facilities that were identified as important to Sylvan Lake residents, and are not listed in any particular order: Baseball diamonds; BMX bicycle parks; Multi-use trails; Natural-areas; Off-leash dog walking areas; Outdoor water / spray pads; Playground and tot lots; Quiet park for relaxation; Skateboard parks; Sledding hills; Soccer fields; and, Special event grounds S TAT ED D ES I R ES FO R I N DOO R FAC I LI T I ES The following is a summary of the indoor facilities that were identified as important to Sylvan Lake residents, and are not listed in any particular order: Child play spaces / playgrounds; Fitness / wellness facilities; Gymnasium spaces / court; Ice surface; Performing arts theatre; Show facilities; Soccer and field sports; Track for fitness, jogging and walking; and, Youth activity spaces R EC R E AT I ON FAC I LI T I ES Although the current standard for the provision of sports fields in Sylvan Lake is consistent with, if not better than, the level of service in other comparable communities, both the public and several sport user groups expressed interest in the development of more fields to accommodate growth. While the Town will continue to accrue playfields in community parks and school sites provided as municipal reserve through the subdivision process, Town staff has indicated that there is a specific interest in developing a major sports field complex or athletic park. This complex would include relocating some of the adult ball programming from Four Seasons Park to new facilities that could accommodate other age groups as well. These facilities often focus on competitive play and tournaments, and often have amenities that are not conducive with sites located in residential neighbourhoods such as change rooms, food concessions and lights. As such, the potential location for an athletic field complex must be carefully selected by the municipality so as to minimize the impact on adjacent land uses. 17

22 There has been interest expressed by the public in the development of an indoor walking and running track and indoor field sports facility (soccer, lacrosse), and Indoor ice arena. There is opportunity for Sylvan Lake to development a multi-use or combined centre for indoor soccer, curling, running track, youth activity spaces, and gymnasium / field house. This type of development could be combined into one facility and would require a feasibility study to determine the exact requirements of the community. While the interest and expectation of upgrading and expanding existing recreational facilities in Sylvan Lake was referenced by user groups, none of these facilities were identified as a priority for investment by the public, at this time. The Town should, however, continue to support community initiatives associated with the enhancement of these other facilities including assisting the relevant user groups and organizations with the identification of possible capital funding sources such as provincial government grant programs, service clubs and foundations. 5.4 PA R K S Residents are generally pleased with the current parks and open space system in Sylvan Lake and place a high value on the variety of open space opportunities available. Formal parks, tot lots, picnic areas, playfields and natural areas are a few examples that have been identified. There is a strong desire to continue to protect and incorporate significant natural areas into the open space system such as water features and wetlands, natural vegetation, and scenic views. Public access and recreational use of the community amenities adjacent to Sylvan Lake, including the beach and water slides is also of major importance to residents. Adhering to the Town s policy of addressing community parks and open space requirements through municipal reserve dedication in the developing areas, will ensure that the parks system continues to grow and meet the needs of the increasing population. The public s stated desires indicate that future development of new community parks should look at the development of multi-use parks that could include a new skate board park, playgrounds, off-leash dog walking areas, sledding hills, natural areas, relaxation / serenity areas and splash pad / spray pad facility, while incorporating natural features into all parts of the parks system. Requiring developers to prepare environmental assessments for all developments and subdivisions, in accordance with current Town policy, and using the current provisions of the Municipal Government Act as it relates to environmental reserve, will also allow the Town to protect important natural features in growth areas and to incorporate these into the parks and open space system. Other tools for the protection of natural areas include environmental reserve easements and conservation easements. Furthermore, with significant residential development now occurring on the south end of Sylvan Lake, the Town should continue with its plans of developing passive parks and recreation areas that are connected by the regional pathway 18

23 5. 5 T R A I L S Improving and expanding the Trail System in the town is identified as a top priority for the residents of Sylvan Lake. Of particular importance is the need to address key missing links and provide for the safe crossing of major barriers, such as highways and railway tracks. Residents would like to see all areas of Sylvan Lake linked with a continuous system of walking and cycling trails. Given the importance that the residents have placed on the trail system and the sensitivities that must be addressed in pathway development, a comprehensive pathway plan that reviews and assesses the existing pathway system and identifies preferred options for addressing missing links and bridging major barriers should be developed. This Pathway Plan should also identify pathway access to all major community facilities (including recreational and culture facilities) and to ensure that, as new subdivisions are developed, the regional pathway system is expanded into these areas. Figures 7 and 8 provide a detailed program outlining the existing and future trail system within the town. 6.0 T R ENDS IN R ECR E AT ION & LEISUR E SERV ICE DELI V ERY The current trends across Alberta and North America are experiencing significant changes in terms of participation in activities and the development of open spaces and facilities. Research was conducted into trends affecting the recreation and culture sector to gain a broader perspective of key issues that should be considered in the development of open spaces and leisure facilities in Sylvan Lake. In general, emerging trends in recreation, culture and leisure services fall into the following broad categories: Developing multiple sport facilities for both indoor and outdoor use; Usage of artificial turf fields is increasing across Canada; Installing more permanent skateboard parks; Providing comprehensive outdoor splash pads or water parks; Providing unique, and safer, playgrounds; Natural play opportunities. 6.1 T R EN DS FO R I N DOO R R EC R E AT I ON A L FAC I LI T I ES When analyzing the trends further and specific to indoor facilities, the following concepts emerged: Indoor facilities are expensive to build and often costly to maintain, yet they are an important part of the community fabric, providing opportunities for individual and team sports and recreation. Recent trends around Alberta have seen an emergence of multi-use sports facilities that include a variety of sports and leisure services depending on the identified needs of the local community. Year round use of arena complexes is common place. Summer uses include in-line hockey, box lacrosse, basketball and volleyball. In order to take full advantage of year round recreational usage for arenas, municipalities need to consider multi-purpose flooring and air conditioning or air movement equipment. 19

24 The general public is showing preferences for multi-purpose facilities. Facilities that offer a variety of programs and services that target several age groups (i.e. multi-generational). Operational efficiencies and revenue generation opportunities are realized through the development of multi-purpose complexes. Single ice pads are rarely being built. Instead, twinned or multiple arena combinations are preferred due to cost efficiencies in operations and programming such as hosting tournaments, and sharing of ice plants. Leisure ice surface with full sound and lighting capabilities are generating considerable interest when developing new ice facilities. Recreation/entertainment destinations are generating considerable public interest for facilities that combine traditional recreation amenities, such as swimming pools, libraries and arenas, with retail and entertainment options like hotels and theatres. Most multi-purpose recreation complexes are accommodating health services such as physiotherapy clinics, and massage therapy, in their designs. The advent of indoor facilities in Canada has encouraged growth in soccer and other field sports like lacrosse. The popularity of these sports is also motivated by their affordability and cross gender appeal T R EN DS FO R OU T DOO R R EC R E AT I ON A L FAC I LI T I ES When analyzing the trends further and specific to outdoor facilities, the following concepts emerged: Increase in demand for artificial fields which extend playing season from March to November in most communities. The demand is for FIFA two star fields for soccer. The trend is also to incorporate other sport into lines on the play field. Increased demand for splash / spray pads are being seen across the country with its smaller capital investment. One of the attractive elements associated with this type of facility is that there are often fewer operating costs, including maintenance and staffing (i.e. no lifeguard legally required to be on duty). Increased demand for permanent skate boarding parks is being seen across country. Many of the facilities are cast in concrete. Increase in numbers of abandoned railways being converted into trails and incorporated into existing trail network. With the increasing cost of maintenance for many communities, there is a trend toward naturalized passive park land. Newer sports fields are also being designed with natural native plants in order to keep watering and mowing to a minimum. In order to increase the number of playing hours at existing soccer / football fields, lighting is being provided. On natural turf fields, the increase in number of playing hours leads to increased costs for maintenance or reconstructed fields for greater sustainability. More urban facility development is being accomplished through Public- Private Partnerships. This is primarily useful to achieve operational efficiencies, and the desire to capture the tournament market. 20

25 7.0 INNOVAT IONS IN R ECR E AT ION A L PL ANNING According to the Town of Sylvan Lake Growth Strategy, which was adopted in 2008, the residential population was 10,729 (referencing the 2007 municipal census) with an average household size of 2.43 persons, which includes the occupants of seasonal/non-permanent dwellings who were resident at the time of the municipal census. According to the 2006 Federal Census, the median age of permanent residents in Sylvan Lake was 31.2 years, compared to the median age of 36 years for Alberta. Therefore, Sylvan Lake would be considered a relatively young community in terms of its population when compared to the Provincial average, which is also reflected in the number of families with children, which is also higher than the average for Alberta. The threshold analysis in the following section takes into consideration the level of recreational needs for Sylvan Lake on a per capita basis, when compared to other select Alberta municipalities. However Given the relatively young, family oriented, population base of Sylvan Lake, this section discusses opportunities for innovative approaches to recreation, parks and open space planning directly relating to Sylvan Lake s population and unique aspect as a resort town. The success of a recreational facility, park or open space depends on whether it is meeting the needs and expectations of the target market, and as was seen in the public consultation phase, there is a broad range of passive and active desires and many target markets (i.e. sports groups, different age groups, etc). Given the younger than average median age of Sylvan Lake, the traditional target markets may be more open and accepting of new and different approaches to sports, recreation and culture. Therefore, the following is a sample of innovative programming and integrated park design: 7.1 I NT EG R AT I NG PA R K S, CU LT U R E A N D R EC R E AT I ON Parks and open space that provide both the passive and active spaces will have the broadest appeal. And when you introduce arts, culture and programming into the mix, either by establishing new integrated sites or through naturally flowing linkages, the interest and success of the park areas are enhanced. Often the successful urban spaces integrate the various elements of programming, art, culture and recreation. ArtsPark at Young Circle, Hollywood, Florida, USA The ArtsPark at Young Circle is a unique melding of art, public space and a traffic circle. ArtsPark is located in a ten-acre circular park that includes interactive, family-oriented cultural experiences, blending art, landscape, and an interactive children s play area. Future plans are being made to establish a new amphitheatre. The concept does not require a large traffic circle, however it does demonstrate an innovative approach to blending recreational and cultural uses. One of the challenges of bringing this particular concept to Sylvan Lake is finding the space. Ideally, an Arts Park would Figure 1: Hollywood, Florida Arts Park (Used By Permission) 21

26 connect the Provincial Park beach area to the central business district as one option, as referenced in the Waterfront Area Redevelopment Plan Preliminary Design Brief for the pier within the Sylvan Lake Provincial Park. Such uses that could be incorporated into the Arts Park include a band shell, amphitheatre, water fountain, children s playground, sculptures, a promenade, and other similar uses. Additional information about the ArtsPark in Hollywood Florida may be found at PROG R AMM I NG A N D FES T I VA L S Programming is an important aspect of any successful park or open space. Setting aside festival space close to the main beach area will provide the opportunity for special events programming such as live music events, festivals, competitions and other creative and cultural programming. Festival space is an ideal location for integrated activities including: Sand sculpture competition in the summer Yo-Yo Festival / Competition Ice / snow sculpture competition in the winter Live music 7. 3 TODD LER PA R K S (AG ES 2 TO 5) Elements of play within each park should be directed towards its target market, providing a challenge for the intended group. Many of the play areas are often targeted towards 5 to 10 year olds, often leaving out both younger and older age groups. Grounds for Play is a playground equipment company out of Texas that specializes in play equipment for toddlers. According to their literature, they believe that there are at least three four important components to environments that support dramatic play (for toddlers): Built elements (child-size playhouses and vehicles) with appropriate enclosure Contiguous placement of the built elements along a complex trike track Various loose parts like trikes, dramatic play props, parachutes, and large blocks like our Inter+Blocks ; and Built in music. 7.4 T E EN - O R I ENT ED P L AY S T RU C T U R ES According to Wicksteed Playscapes, a playground manufacturer from the United Kingdom, teenagers as a group need to have playgrounds that include areas for sport, socializing and a spot of privacy. 2 Multi-use sports areas that offer a range of activities will provide teenagers with an opportunity to challenge themselves and set them apart from younger children Extreme climbing walls, and outdoor gym concepts will help to keep them active. A teen shelter can provide a much-needed hideout for older kids; a place to chill out and - as an increasingly technological-savvy generation - play computer games, listen to music on ipods or text, chat and take photos on mobile phones. 3 1 Grounds for Play, Creative Play Environments, 2 Wicksteed Playscapes, Teenage Play Playground Eqwuipment Targeted especially for Teenagers, 3 Ibid 22

27 Grafitti Wall Beach Volleyball Court Teen Shelters Skateboard elements in neighbourhood parks Outdoor gym apparatus; and Exercise circuit with various work out elements 7. 5 boundles S P L AYG ROUNDS Boundless Playgrounds is a non profit organization in the United States that promotes fully inclusive community playgrounds for all residents and children, especially those with special needs and disabilities. The Boundless Playground would include design elements that maximize play for everyone, regardless of their abilities, providing plenty of space to allow children of all activity levels to play side-by-side. 4 Design elements of a Boundless Playground include: Elevated gazebos that allow children with disabilities to be up high Play panels where children can gather Swings with high backs and unitary surfacing 7. 6 A RT A N D PE R FO R M I NG A RT S Performing arts venues do not need to be big or even indoors to be effective. Outdoor band shelters, amphitheatres or stages provide excellent opportunities for local artists to display their art be it music, plays or paintings they provide a versatile space for structured and unstructured events and even festivals. Greek Town on the Danforth, Alexander the Great Parkette, Toronto, Ontario MMM Group completed an analysis of existing streetscape elements along Danforth Avenue between Chester Avenue to Jones Avenue and provided urban design guidelines for improvements. The detailed design component involved turning the centrally located Alexander the Great Parkette into a focal area within the Greek Community and creating an event place for various festivals. Along with an elaborate main fountain, MMM introduced a Greek-themed amphitheatre complete with Doric columns, an elaborate architrave, concrete seating with Greek Keys, a statue of Alexander the Great and a stage. The very successful design is frequented by shoppers, tourists and many within the community, even on days when there are no festivals. Children from the neighbourhood can often be seen on stage acting out a play or performance from their imagination. Other Opportunities have been mentioned in other sections, but include: Band shelters; and Amphitheatre. 4 Press Release, Boston Parks and Recreation Department and CVS Caremark Open City s First Boundless Playground for Children of all Abilities at Harambee Park, May 21, 2009, Boston, Mass., 23

28 7. 7 PA S S I V E PA R K S Often overlooked, passive parks provide an equally important role for the recreation needs of a community. Passive parks provide an inclusive communal space for all ages that typically focus on nature, visual surroundings, mental health and lowimpact physical recreation. Examples of passive parks for Sylvan Lake include: Butterfly gardens; Fishing dock; Wooden boardwalk along beach or along natural park areas; Picnic shelters E X T R EM E S PO RT S E L EM ENT S Extreme sports are becoming more mainstream and have a broad appeal, particularly with the younger population. Examples of such activities include: Adding skateable elements into existing park space (rails, small concrete ramps) Rock Climbing features large scale and small scale walls, indoor and outdoor. BMX Racing 7.9 OTH E R I NNOVAT I ON S Willow branch sculptures Gymnastic facility Outdoor ice rinks with skate rental nearby and hot chocolate 8.0 T HR ESHOLD AN A LYSIS A threshold analysis was conducted by comparing the relative populations of other similar and larger sized, municipalities in Alberta. We examined the existing population levels and the number of parks and recreation facilities in these municipalities and compared it to the population and potential future population of Sylvan Lake to establish recreational capacity and thresholds to determine the point at which new recreation facilities would be required. The past five years have seen exceptional growth in population of approximately 20% per year. It is not expected that this kind of growth is sustainable and, therefore, for the purposes of projecting future population the modified growth scenario from the Town of Sylvan Lake Growth Strategy has been selected. Table 8.1 illustrates the anticipated population for Sylvan Lake in five year increments. 24

29 Table 8.1: Population Projection YEAR Based on Modified Growth Scenario as adopted in Town of Sylvan Lake Growth Strategy Total Population Population Increase Increase in Dwellings , ,358 3,629 1, ,325 7,596 3, ,295 11,566 4,626 These assumptions will provide a realistic baseline for the implementation of new recreation, park and open spaces facilities within Sylvan Lake based upon per capita ratio s from similar communities of size and similar size growth projections. Table 8.2 compares the number of major recreational facilities found in Sylvan Lake with the number of indoor and outdoor recreation facilities in the following Alberta municipalities: Leduc, Spruce Grove, Medicine Hat, Camrose, Grande Prairie, Okotoks, Cochrane, Airdrie and Red Deer. These communities were used to identify appropriate population standards for Alberta s mid sized cities. It should be noted that many municipalities may appear to be underserved regarding some facilities based purely on population ratios. The number of indoor and outdoor recreation facilities was based on the information provided by the respective municipalities and their parks and recreation master plans. Table 8.3 is the Threshold Analysis that compares existing number of recreation facilities with the required number of facilities based on average and median populations of the selected Alberta municipalities in Table 8.2. Table 8.3 also identifies at number or specific facilities that should be considered based on the Town Sylvan Lake s future population. Table 8.3 shows the existing number of recreational and open space requirements for Sylvan Lake, the required number of facilities when compared to other Alberta municipalities, and the existing deficit (shown as a positive number) or surplus (shown as a negative number). If the existing number of facilities shows a zero (0), then, based on population averages, the Town of Sylvan Lake is meeting the current need. Table 8.3 also shows the population levels that may be targeted for introduction of additional facilities R EC R E AT I ON FAC I LI T Y D E F I C I T Compared to other Alberta municipalities that were used in the Threshold Analysis, as outlined in Table 8.2, Sylvan Lake at its current population is underserviced in the following areas: Trails (shortfall of 6 km) Ball Diamonds (shortfall of one) 25

30 TABLE 8.2: Parks and Open Space Inventory/Provincial Comparison Population Aquatic Centres Community Centres Arenas (Sheets) Outdoor Rinks Tennis Courts Indoor Soccer Fields Outdoor Soccer Fields Indoor Pools Outdoor Pools Splash Pad Trails (km) Parks (ha) Playgrounds Sylvan Lake 11, Leduc 16, Spruce Grove 21, Medicine Hat 51, Camrose 12, Grande Prairie 44, Okotoks 17, Cochrane 13, Airdrie 28, Red Deer 82, Population Aquatic Centres Community Centres Arenas Outdoor Rinks Facility / Population Ratio Tennis Courts Indoor Soccer Fields Outdoor Soccer Fields Indoor Pools Outdoor Pools Splash Pad Multiplexes Skatepark Trails (km) Parks (ha) Playgrounds Multiplexes Skatepark Sylvan Lake 11,115 11,115 11,115 11,115 2,779 5,558 1,235 11, ,115 11,115 1,853 Leduc 16,967 16,967 16,967 8,484 3,393 5,656 8,484 2,828 16, ,542 16,967 16,967 2,121 Spruce Grove 21,500 21,500 21,500 21,500 1,955 10, ,500 10, ,500 1,792 Medicine Hat 51,000 25,500 51,000 7,286 2,429 5,667 51,000 1,020 17,000 12, ,000 1,041 Camrose 12,039 12,039 6,020 4,013 1,003 4,013 12,039 1,720 12,039 12, ,039 12,039 1,505 Grande Prairie 44,631 22,316 44,631 8, ,959 22,316 1,395 44,631 44,631 22, ,631 1,313 Okotoks 17,145 17,145 17,145 8,573 17,145 2,858 1,072 17, ,145 17,145 1,429 Cochrane 13,760 13,760 13,760 6,880 13,760 2,752 13, , ,760 1,147 Airdrie 28,927 28,927 28,927 9,642 5,785 5,785 14, ,927 28, ,927 28,927 1,315 Red Deer 82,971 20,743 20,743 11,853 1,537 6,914 41,486 2,074 16,594 82,971 27, ,743 2,766 Avg. Population/Facility 30,006 19,001 23,181 9,827 5,422 4,612 21,787 1,363 19,968 46,784 20, ,896 16,659 1,628 Median Population/Facility 19,323 18,944 18,944 8,749 2,779 5,258 14,112 1,153 16,984 44,631 22, ,743 15,364 1,467 Combined Avg and Median Ratio 24,664 18,973 21,062 9,288 4,101 4,935 17,949 1,258 18,476 45,708 21, ,820 16,011 1,547 Ball Diamonds Ball Diamonds Current Number of Facilities Facility Needs for Sylvan Lake Sylvan Lake Deficit / (Surplus)

31 TABLE 8.3: Parks and Open Space Facility Population Thresholds Population Aquatic Centres Community Centres Arenas (Sheets) Outdoor Rinks Tennis Courts Indoor Soccer Fields Outdoor Soccer Fields Splash Pad Trails (km) Playgrounds Skatepark Ball Diamonds Sylvan Lake 12, Avg. Population/Facility 30,006 19,001 23,181 9,827 5,422 4,612 21,787 1,363 20, ,659 1,628 Median Population/Facility 19,323 18,944 18,944 8,749 2,779 5,258 14,112 1,153 22, ,364 1,467 Combined Avg and Median Ratio 24,664 18,973 21,062 9,288 4,101 4,935 17,949 1,258 21, ,011 1,547 Sylvan Lake Requirements Sylvan Lake Deficit (Surplus) Threshold Year Population Aquatic Centres Community Centres Arenas (Sheets) Outdoor Rinks Tennis Courts Indoor Soccer Fields Outdoor Soccer Fields Splash Pad Trails (km) Playgrounds Skatepark , , , , , , , , , , Ball Diamonds

32 R EC R E AT I ON FAC I LI T Y S U R P LU S Table 8.2 indicates that Sylvan Lake, at its current population, is over serviced in the following areas: Aquatic Centre Community Centre Outdoor Rinks Outdoor Soccer Fields Park Space Playgrounds Skate Park However, the community expectation for playgrounds and outdoor rinks has been established, so a reduction of these services or increase in population without maintaining the present level of these services is not recommended R EC R E AT I ON A L FAC I L I T I ES I N ba L A N C E The initial facility comparison shows that Sylvan Lake meets the ratio in the following areas: Indoor Arena (sheets) Tennis Courts Indoor soccer Fields (has not met the threshold) Outdoor Pools (has not met the threshold) Splash Pads (has not met the threshold) Current usage numbers show that an additional tennis court is recommended and that an additional indoor ice surface would be feasible for the winter months only. 26