HomeMy WebLinkAboutPEC130012 Ford Park Packet 072213DRAFT
2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Update
April 30, 2013
revised May 16, 2013, July 2013
Chapter 1 - INTRODUCTION
"Whereas, President Gerald R. Ford has brought to the Town of Vail his
interest and encouragement; has shown through his private life and public
life a commitment to recreation, the environment and places set aside
therefor; and believes that a statement of the community's appreciation
and respect for Gerald R. Ford is appropriate and called for; that the
property commonly referred to as the Anholtz Ranch is hereby named the
Gerald R. Ford Park."
Resolution approved by Vail Town Council, January 18, 1977
Purpose of this Plan
The Town of Vail acquired the 39 acre Anholtz Ranch in 1973 for the stated purpose of
"improving the quality of life in the community ". Since that time the property has
evolved into one of Vail's primary community focal points, providing recreational and
cultural facilities and programs that serve the needs of residents and guest of Vail. This
evolution was originally outlined by one of Vail's earliest planning efforts:
"The intended use program is a comprehensive one and eventually the
park will include an impressive number of facilities in addition to extensive
open turf space and the delight of the natural earth forms and mature tree
growth adjacent to Gore Creek ".
The Vail Plan, 1974
The goal of this effort is to create a plan that will maintain the essence of what Ford
Park is today and what was envisioned for the Park in 1974 — a combination of natural
open space along the Gore Creek corridor coupled with recreational and cultural uses
and facilities that serve the needs of residents and guests of Vail.
Over the past forty years the Town has completed four planning efforts for the Park. To
varying degrees these plans have directly influenced the development of Ford Park and
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 1
each has contributed to the role of the Park in how it serves the community. These
previous planning efforts were:
1974 Vail Plan — While the primary purpose of this plan was to address a
broader discussion of Vail's growth and development, it did include a
chapter on recreation and defined at a very broad level the role Ford Park
could play in providing recreational, cultural and community- oriented uses.
1985 Gerald R. Ford Park /Donovan Park Master Plan Development Final
Report — At the time this plan was prepared ballfields, tennis courts,
parking had already been developed and construction of the an
amphitheater had commenced. The purpose of this plan was to "guide the
future development of the park and establish guidelines for the
implementation of improvements ".
1997 Ford Park Management Plan — This plan was initiated in response to
several development proposals for the Park. The plan was a product of
extensive focus group and public input sessions and in essence served as
an amendment to the 1985 plan.
2012 Update to the Final Report Ford Park Management Plan — This plan
was done to acknowledge new ideas for improvements to the Park that
were initiated when Vail voters approved funding by re- allocating a portion
of the Convention Center Funds to Ford Park.
More detailed summaries of these previous planning efforts are found in Section 3 of
this Plan.
The impetus for each of these planning efforts may have been prompted by different
factors. However, each of these planning processes involved community input, debate,
and sometimes controversy, but in all cases was done with great passion for the Park
as the Vail community has worked toward finding the appropriate mixture of
development and use of the Park along with the preservation of the Park's special
natural features and the unique role it plays in the community. The outcome of each of
these each planning efforts were meant to implement the original vision for the park as
outlined in the statement above from the 1974 Vail Plan.
The 2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan presents a compilation of these previously
planning efforts along with new direction and ideas that have evolved from this latest
planning effort. The primary objectives of this planning effort are to:
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 2
• Incorporate key elements of previously completed plans for Ford Park into one
document, specifically those guiding principles that have successfully shaped the
development of the Park from its inception,
• Establish clear expectations for the future land uses, development and
management of the Park,
• Define effective tools for decision - making regarding the future of the Park, and
• Provide a single, comprehensive document to serve as the master plan for Ford
Park.
With the adoption of this 2013 Plan previous plans for Ford Park will be archived and no
longer used as guides for future decision - making or planning for the Park. The 2013
Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan will serve as the Town's sole master plan for the Park.
Elements of this Plan
This Plan includes the following chapters:
1. Introduction
The section provides an introduction to the plan, the purpose of this planning
effort and outlines the major elements of the 2013 Ford Park Master Plan
2. Site Assessment and Existing Conditions
The Ford Park site assessment and summary of existing conditions is based
largely on the site assessment from the 1985 Plan and current observations of
the Park.
3. History of the Park and Previous Planning Efforts
The 1997 Plan has provided the basis for this history and background of the Park
and the summaries of the four previous planning efforts that have taken place.
Site plans of the Park produced during these planning efforts are to provide a
history and context for how the Park has evolved over the years.
4. Goals, Objectives, Policies and Action Steps
While the 1997 Plan provided a framework for this section, the goals, objectives,
policies and actions steps have been re- organized and refined to better express
the current direction for the future of the Park.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 3
5. Ford Park Sub -Areas
Seven sub -areas of the Park have been defined and are used as a forum for
discussion of how specific areas of the Park will be managed and to establish
expectations on potential future improvements within the Park.
6. Illustrative Plan
The 2013 Illustrative Plan is a refinement of the illustrative plan from the 2012
Plan, it depicts existing improvements and at a diagrammatic level improvements
that may occur in the future.
7. Design Criteria
The 1985 Plan included design criteria to be used to evaluate building, site and
landscape improvements proposed for the Park. The 2013 Plan expands and
refines these design criteria.
8. Park Management
Park management is provided in this section, along with discussion of how the
Town will review proposals for new uses or buildings within the Park.
9. Appendix
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Part 4 - GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTION STEPS
The community's goals for Ford Park are summarized in six major goal statements and
within each goal statement are objectives, policies and action steps. Each goal
statement focuses on particular aspects of Ford Park that were discussed during
previous master planning efforts for the Park and the 2013 Ford Park Master Plan
update process. These prior planning efforts include:
The 1974 Vail Plan
A portion of this town -wide plan addressed Ford Park and while the plan did not include
formal goal, objective and policy statements, it did describe community expectations
regarding the purchase of the Anholtz property and provides broad goal statements for
the Park.
1985 Ford Park Master Plan
This plan did not include formal goal, objective and policy statements. A number of
goals and objectives for the Park can be drawn from the narrative of the Plan and these
were reaffirmed by the Town Council in 2013.
1997 Ford Park Manaaement Plan
This planning effort was the first to include formally stated goals, objectives, policies and
action steps. These statements were an outcome of input received from stakeholders
and from the community during the preparation of the 1997 Management Plan and they
provided the framework from which the goals, objectives and policies in the 2013 Plan
were created.
2012 Ford Park Management Plan Update
This update did not include any changes to the goals, objectives and policies from the
1997 Management Plan.
Goal, objective and policy statements from the 1997 Plan have been expanded to
reflect the intention of the 1974 and 1985 Plans and to incorporate the outcome of Town
Council and community input from the 2013 update process. The goal statements were
written to be consistent with and complementary to each other. They are to be used to
provide a framework, or direction, for decision - making regarding the management and
future uses of Ford Park. A series of objectives following each goal statement outline
specific steps that should be taken toward achieving each stated goal. Policy
statements are intended to guide decision - making in achieving each of the stated
objectives. Action steps involve specific actions to be taken in implementing the goal
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 1
and objective statements. It is expected that during the review process for any new
development or improvements within the Park, such development or improvements will
be deemed to comply with all applicable goals, objectives and policies of this Plan.
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Goal #1:
Protect the natural environment along the Gore Creek corridor and establish
appropriate controls and review procedures to ensure that any new or expanded
use or building does not adversely affect the character of the Park or the overall
experience of park users.
Objective 1.1: Limit uses and future development to that which is consistent with these
goals, objectives and policies and consistent with the Ford Park Sub -Areas and
Illustrative Plans.
Policy Statement 1: Proposals for new or changes to existing facilities or uses
that curtail existing public uses within the Park will not be permitted unless there
is either a compelling public interest or adequate alternative facilities can be
provided.
Policy Statement 2: The existing variety of uses and facilities in the Park will be
maintained.
Action Step 1.1.1: Draft a new ordinance to exclude those uses listed in
Ordinance No.6, Series of 1973, now considered to be inappropriate, and
to redefine the allowable uses within Ford Park. The following uses that
are allowed and prohibited for Ford Park shall take precedence over
Section 12 -9C -2 of the Town Code concerning the General Use Zone
District:
Allowed Uses
Park and greenbelt
Bicycle and hiking trails
Children's playground
Outdoor amphitheater
Botanical gardens
Environmental, educational, and historical centers
Picnic areas
Recreation and athletic facilities
Public utility easements
Parking (surface parking /structured parking)
Administrative offices for the operation of uses occurring within the park
Public Art Display
Concerts and Special Events
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 3
Prohibited uses
Ski lift and related facilities
Exchange or trade
Civic center, convention /conference center, public schools, gymnasium,
and assembly hall
Swimming pools
Equestrian trails
Type III and IV employee housing
Action Step 1.1.2: Review legal descriptions of existing lease areas for
the Vail Recreation District, the Vail Valley Foundation and the Betty Ford
Alpine Garden and modify, as deemed necessary, so legal descriptions
correspond with existing and proposed improvements and uses.
Objective 1.2: Establish standards for existing facilities and uses in the Park; and
establish review procedures, criteria and design standards for evaluating new
development proposals or other proposed changes to Park facilities or uses.
Policy Statement 1: Any proposed development or change to Park facilities or
uses shall be deemed to conform to the Plan's goal, objective and policy
statements.
Policy Statement 2: Any proposed development or change to Park facilities or
uses shall be deemed to conform to the recommendations of the Plan's Sub -
Area and Illustrative Plans.
Policy Statement 3: Any proposed development or change to Park facilities or
uses shall be reviewed for compliance with Ford Park Design Criteria, as well as
other Town regulations.
Policy Statement 4: Any proposed development or change to Park facilities or
uses shall be determined to provide a needed recreational, educational, cultural
or social benefit to the community.
Policy Statement 5: Existing facilities, uses and functions within the park will be
maintained and operated at a high standard of quality.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 4
Action Step 1.2.1: With participation of other Park stakeholders, Town
staff to prepare a manual which outlines expectations regarding the
maintenance, and operation of facilities within the Park.
Objective 1.3: Preserve and protect the 100 year floodplain, riparian and wetland
habitat along the Gore Creek Corridor.
Policy Statement 1: Uses and improvements within the Gore Creek Corridor
shall be limited to those outlined in the Gore Creek Preservation Sub -Area.
Policy Statement 2: No new buildings should be permitted within the Gore
Creek Preservation Sub -area.
Action Step 1.3.1: Evaluate the need for and feasibility of strengthening
preservation controls within the Gore Creek Preservation Sub -area by
establishing a conservation easement or by establishing the "Open Space"
designation via the Natural Area Preservation Zone District.
Objective 1.4: Enhance the use and ensure the preservation of the Historic School
House.
Policy Statement 1: Maintain public access to the School House and continue
the utilization of the building in accordance with the terms of the lease with the
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
Action Step 1.4.1: Evaluate future alternative uses for the School House
that will maintain public access and potentially involve the display of
historic photos and artifacts or other activities in keeping with the historic
nature of the building.
Action Step 1.4.2: Complete a historic architectural assessment of the
School House and establish a plan to protect and enhance the historic
character of the building.
Objective 1.5: Enhance the Nature Center building and the natural character of the
surrounding area and promote the use of this asset for environmental and other
educational programs.
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Policy Statement 1: Vehicular access to the Nature Center will be minimized
and the landscape surrounding the building will be restored and enhanced.
Policy Statement 2: New uses proximate to the Nature Center should be limited
and shall be consistent with the Gore Creek Preservation Sub -Area.
Policy Statement 3: The architectural integrity of the Nature Center building
should be restored.
Action Step 1.5.1: Work with the Vail Recreation District to evaluate
potential expansion of uses and programs for the Nature Center.
Action Step 1.5.2: Complete an architectural inventory of the Nature
Center building and initiate a plan to restore the historic character of the
building.
Action Step 1.5.3: Define a list of appropriate uses for the Nature Center
that are consistent with the goals for the preservation of the Gore Creek
Preservation Sub -Area.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 6
Goal #2:
Provide open space, facilities, and programs within Ford Park to meet the passive
and active recreational, educational and cultural needs of residents and guests of
Vail.
Objective 2.1: Maintain areas within the Park for the passive enjoyment of nature and
open space and preserve significant view corridors to the Gore Range, Gore Creek, and
Vail Mountain in order to reinforce the Park's connection to the natural environment.
Policy Statement 1: The Gore Creek Preservation Sub -Area of the Park shall be
maintained for the "quiet enjoyment of nature ".
Policy Statement 2: The uses and activities shall be strictly limited to those
prescribed by the Gore Creek Preservation Sub -Area.
Policy Statement 3: The primary use of the open turf area within the Lower
Commons Sub -Area should be to provide a place for un- programed, informal
passive recreation. The use of this area for special events should be limited in
frequency and scope in order to minimize impacts on the primary use of this area
Objective 2.2: Utilize Ford Park to meet the community's needs for active recreation
and formal team sport activities.
Policy Statement 1: Active recreation and team sport activities shall be
concentrated within the Active Recreation and Soccer Field Sub -Areas and
limited in other sub -areas of the Park.
Policy Statement 2: Landscape berms and buffers should be maintained and
enhanced to mitigate potential impacts of noise and activity on other sub areas of
the Park.
Objective 2.3: Maintain, and enhance where appropriate, the Park's role in providing
facilities for the enjoyment and exploration of the arts, music, dance, education and
other cultural pursuits.
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Policy Statement 1: Maintain the Ford Amphitheater as the primary summer-
time performing arts facility in the Town of Vail.
Policy Statement 2: Support Art in Public Places in their efforts to continue
public art programs (i.e. interactive events, projects, installations, educational
activities, etc.) within the Creek Corridor of the Lower Commons Sub -Area (and
other areas of the Park as may be deemed appropriate).
Policy Statement 3: Support the educational programs provided by the Nature
Center and the Betty Ford Alpine Garden.
Objective 2.4: Support Betty Ford Alpine Garden's efforts to grow and expand
educational opportunities through the construction of a botanical gardens education
center within the Park.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 8
Goal #3:
Reduce vehicular intrusions into the interior of the Park and minimize to the
greatest extent feasible the impact of vehicular activity on users of the Park,
particularly on the passive use areas of the Lower Bench and along pedestrian
walkways.
Objective 3.1: Reduce the frequency of vehicular trips into the Lower Bench (the Lower
Commons, Gardens, Amphitheater and the Gore Creek Preservation Sub - Areas) of the
Park.
Policy Statement 1: Prior to approving any new facility or use or the expansion
of any existing facility or use in the Lower Bench it shall be demonstrated that the
proposal will not result in an appreciable or unnecessary increase of vehicular
activity in the Lower Bench area of the Park.
Policy Statement 2: Uses in the Lower Bench shall operate in a manner that
limits vehicular traffic to the greatest extent possible. Vehicular access to the
Lower Bench of the Park should be limited to: maintenance; delivery of goods or
materials too large or too heavy to be carried by non - motorized means; access
for people with limited mobility; special transportation; and emergency services.
Policy Statement 3: Require all delivery vehicles to utilize East Betty Ford Way
to enter and exit the Lower Bench. Due to difficulties in maneuvering, large
(semi's) trucks shall access the Lower Bench via East Betty Ford Way and may
exit via West Betty Ford Way.
Action Step 3.1.1: Establish a system for managing truck movements
proximate to the Amphitheater loading dock and for coordinating truck use
of East Betty Ford Way.
Objective 3.2: Reduce the presence of passenger vehicles in all areas of the Park, with
the exception of the Parking /Transit Sub -Area, and minimize conflicts between
service /delivery vehicles and park users throughout the Park.
Policy Statement 1: Passenger vehicle access to the Alpine Gardens, the
Amphitheater or other uses in the Lower Bench shall not be permitted other than
those used to provide access for people with limited mobility or to deliver goods
or materials too heavy to be carried by non - motorized means.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 9
Action Step 3.2.1: Coordinate delivery schedules to reduce the frequency
of delivery and service vehicles into the Lower Bench during peak use
time periods.
Action Step 3.2.2: Encourage stakeholders to utilize on -site storage
facilities to reduce and control the frequency of delivery and service
vehicles into the park.
Action Step 3.2.3: Improve traffic gate operations and restrictions on both
the east and west ends of Betty Ford Way to eliminate unnecessary and
unauthorized vehicular intrusions into the Park. Consider closing the
western access point of Betty Ford Way.
Objective 3.3: Concentrate vehicular activity within the Parking /Transit Sub -Areas by
improving vehicular access from the South Frontage Road and improving parking lot
design to maximize the number of parking spaces, aesthetics, and safety while
mitigating environmental impacts.
Policy Statement 1: All stakeholders are required to adhere to the Parking and
Transit Management Plan.
Policy Statement 2: A "no -net loss" of the +/ -200 parking spaces within the
Parking /Transit Sub -Area and the +/ -65 spaces at the Soccer Field Sub -area
shall be maintained. Any net loss of parking spaces shall be off -set by a
demonstrated improvement or enhancement of public transit use or alternate
means of transportation to the Park.
Policy Statement 3: Provide parking for Park users within the Parking /Transit
Sub -Area and facilitate the use of the Vail Village Parking Structure to satisfy
peak parking demands of the Park.
Action Step 3.4.1: Town Staff, with coordination from Park stakeholders
shall prepare a Parking and Transit Management Plan, to include, but not
be limited to the use and access of parking lots, fee structures, transit
operations, etc.
Action Step 3.4.2: Evaluate the feasibility of expanding the In -Town bus
route beyond Golden Peak to provide service along Vail Valley Drive.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 10
Action Step 3.4.3: Implement an improved wayfinding sign program
directing pedestrians from the Village Parking Structure and Slifer Square
in Vail Village.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 11
Goal #4:
Ensure compatible relationships are maintained between all venues and all uses
within Ford Park
Objective 4.1: Coordinate with leaseholders on their scheduling of events in order to
prevent overlapping or simultaneous events that exceed the availability of community
parking or other park infrastructure.
Policy Statement 1: The Town of Vail through its designee shall coordinate an
overall schedule for events and uses at all Ford Park venues.
Policy Statement 2: No one event or type of use will be allowed to dominate the
usage of the Park.
Policy Statement 3: The Park is a Town of Vail community facility and in the
case of conflicting uses, functions that best serve the interests of the community
will have the highest priority. In all cases, final decisions regarding the use of the
Park shall rest with the Town of Vail.
Policy Statement 4: The day -to -day management and coordination of activities
in the Park will be assigned to the Town of Vail. The Town of Vail, through its
designee, will coordinate as necessary with a representative of the Vail Valley
Foundation, the Betty Ford Alpine Garden and the Vail Recreation District.
Action Step 4.1.1: Expand the master schedule kept by the Town Clerk to
include all venues within the park.
Action Step 4.1.2: Hold preseason event /activity coordination meetings
with all affected stakeholders.
Action Step 4.1.3: Hold semiannual (2x per year) coordination and input
meetings with the Town of Vail, leaseholder representatives, and
neighborhood and adjacent property owner representatives.
Objective 4.2: Maintain and where necessary improve existing berms and landscape
buffers between facilities and uses
Policy Statement 1: The adequacy of berms and landscape buffers between
different facilities and uses shall be considered when evaluating proposed
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 12
changes to the Park. The type and extent of buffers to be provided shall be
determined based on the nature of the use and site design of the proposed
facilities or uses, and the design parameters outlined in the Ford Park Sub -Areas
and the Illustrative Plan.
Action Step 4.2.2: Enhance existing buffers throughout the Park with the
addition of landscape planting and berming.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 13
Goal #5:
Provide a safe, enjoyable and efficient pedestrian circulation system both within
Ford Park and between Ford Park and Vail Village.
Objective 5.1: Provide clear and effective directional and informational signs to and
within Ford Park.
Action Step 5.1.1: Develop a comprehensive sign plan to direct Ford Park
visitors from central sites in ail Village and from each level of the Village
Parking Structure to destinations within Ford Park.
Objective 5.2: Improve pedestrian routes to Ford Park.
Policy Statement 1: The five existing pedestrian access points to the Park from
Vail Village and Golden Peak should be maintained and be managed to
maximize their effectiveness in providing access to the Park.
Action Step 5.2.1: Implement improvements to the Gore Creek Trail that
will improve safety, correct grading, surfacing, and lighting.
Action Step 5.2.2: Provide rest/sitting areas along pedestrian routes to
the Park.
Action Step 5.2.3: Establish gateways or portals (signage, monuments,
landscape elements, etc.) at the main entries to the Park (Frontage Road,
Gore Creek Trail, Manor Vail, Slifer Plaza, Vail Valley Drive,
Parking /Transit area).
Objective 5.3: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford Park.
Policy Statement 1: New developments or other improvements in the Park shall
not diminish the quality of the pedestrian circulation system and when
appropriate shall include provisions to improve pedestrian circulation.
Objective 5.4: Encourage leaseholders in Ford Park, through their marketing efforts, to
promote walking or riding the bus as an alternative to driving to the Park..
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 14
Goal #6:
Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park leaseholders and the Town
of Vail for both on -going maintenance /operation and capital improvements.
Objective 6.1: Formalize cost sharing arrangements with lease- holders for costs
associated with the Park's management and operation costs.
Policy Statement 1: All Ford Park leaseholders shall participate in cost sharing
with the Town of Vail for common operating costs at a level proportionate to the
leaseholders benefit from or relationship to said operation or management cost.
(or as may be outlined in current lease or license agreement). Management and
operations cost may include but are not limited to, electrical for pedestrian path
and parking lot lighting, trash removal, and parking lot and pedestrian path
maintenance costs.
Action Step 6.1.1: Research current lease, license and use agreements
to determine existing financial responsibilities of each lease holder.
Action Step 6.1.2: As may be necessary, modify existing leases to
correct any inequities in utility billing procedures and distribution systems,
current utility use, and cost sharing relationships.
Objective 6.2: Create a cost - sharing agreement for Capital Improvement costs.
Policy Statement 1: Ford Park leaseholders desiring to make capital
improvements within their respective lease areas shall be required to provide
funding for those improvements and for any modifications outside of the lease
area necessitate by such improvements.
Policy Statement 2: Services, functions, and programs provided by Ford Park
leaseholders, bring visitors to the community who generate sales tax revenues
which in turn contribute to the General Fund. Residents of the community which
participate in those programs contribute to the Real Estate Transfer Tax through
real estate transactions. Both of these funding sources can be utilized by the
Town of Vail to pay for capital projects and improvements within Ford Park,
reducing the need for contributions from the leaseholders.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 15
Action Step 6.2.1: Create and maintain a five year capital improvements
program for Ford Park.
Action Step 6.2.2: Establish the benefit /cost relationship for capital
projects to determine appropriate cost sharing agreements.
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2013 Gerald R. Ford Park Master Plan Page 16
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Topics for Discussion
Why we are here
Scope of project /Goals of Update
PEC role in review of Plan
'74/'85/'97/'12 = 2013 Update
Overview of 2013 Plan
Goals /Objectives /Policies /Action Steps
Ford Park Sub -Areas
Project Schedule /Next Steps
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 3 RALI N
7/22/13 PEC Work Session 10�N
TOWN OF URIL, �
Why we are here
2013 Ford Park Master Plan RALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session
TOWN OFD Awl
Scope of project /Goals of Update
The goal of this (2013 Master Plan) effort is to create a plan that
will maintain the essence of what Ford Park is today and what was
envisioned for the Park in 1974 — a balance of open space
coupled with recreational and cultural uses and facilities that serve
the needs of residents and guests of Vail.
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
Four points from plan (more clear direction, etc.)
"givens" — we are happy with major uses in park
Major aspects of update — design guidelines /creek /sub areas /goals and obj /circulation
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
7/22/13 PEC Work Session
10�N'
TOWN OF UR
A01p,43 RALI N
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Scope of project /Goals of Update
• Incorporate key elements of previously completed plans for Ford
Park into one document, specifically those guiding principles
that have successfully shaped the development of the Park from
its inception,
• Establish clear expectations for the future land uses,
development and management of the Park,
• Define effective tools for decision - making regarding the future of
the Park, and
• Provide a single, comprehensive document to serve as the
master plan for Ford Park 2013 Ford Park Master Plan
2013 Ford Park Master Plan gp4l ALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session .IIIF' �'
TOWN OF URIL�
Scope of project /Goals of Update
List of givens —
• Happy with current uses, no desire to eliminate any existing use
• New uses /change to existing uses may be "ok" but only if .. .
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 3 RALI N
7/22/13 PEC Work Session O�N
TOWN OF URIL�
Scope of project /Goals of Update
Anticipated focus of PEC Review:
• Goals and objectives
• Subareas
• Illustrative plan
• Design guidelines
• Gore Creek Corridor
• BFAG Education Center
• Circulation
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 3 RALI N
7/22/13 PEC Work Session O�N
TOWN OF URIL, �
PEC role in review of Plan
• Advisory to TC
• Review /respond to Plan presented
2013 Ford Park Master Plan '�RALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session F' 11,
TOWN OF URIC
'74/'85/'97l'12 = 2013 Update
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2013 Ford Park Master Plan RALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session a f'ClilF.,.I
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Outline of 2013 Plan
Introduction
Site Assessment and Existing Conditions
History of the Park and Previous Planning Efforts
Goals, Objectives, Policies and Action Steps
Ford Park Sub -Areas
Illustrative Plan
Design Criteria
Park Management
Appendix
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 3 RALI N
7/22/13 PEC Work Session 10�N
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Outline of 2013 Plan
Introduction
Site Assessment and Existing Conditions
History of the Park and Previous Planning Efforts
Goals, Objectives, Policies and Action Steps
Ford Park Sub -Areas
Illustrative Plan
Design Criteria
Park Management
Appendix
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 3 RALI N
7/22/13 PEC Work Session 10�N
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Goals /Objectives /Policies /Action Steps
Goal Statements
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
7/22/13 PEC Work Session
Objectives
Policies
Action
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Steps
1A I2AUN
1974 Vail Plan
Goals /Objectives /Policies /Action Ster)s
• Town's objective in '73 — "a major recreation facility for the total town is essential"
• Town Council criteria in park site selection process — walking distance to Village,
adequate space within a single parcel for a large meadow -like turf area, proximity to
Frontage Road for direct access for cars and transit, natural beauty such as Gore
Creek, connection to bike /pedestrian trails
• Anholtz /Ford Park is ideal for creating a sense of open space
• Intended use is comprehensive and eventually park will include an impressive
number of facilities in addition to open turf space and the delight of the natural earth
forms and mature tree growth adjacent to Gore Creek.
• Uses to include:
Place for showing and creating art, crafts, sculpture,
Theater for music, dance, etc. (indoor space and an outdoor amphitheater seating 800 people)
Meeting rooms and community workshops
Wide outdoor terraces and natural landscapes
Indoor ice arena
Tennis and handball courts
Children's play facility
Headquarters for Vail Symposium and local television
Possible location for ecologium
200 parking spaces "major parking to be in Village Structure"
Bus access
Grammar School
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 3 RALI N
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1985 Ford Park Master Plan
Goals /Objectives /Policies /Action Steps
Ford Park is intended to meet the recreational needs of the community
Care is to be taken to conserve and enhance natural areas
Active recreation elements are to be consolidated and located away from the meadow
and creek
The park will be protected from over - development
Locate high use facilities away from more passive uses
Stepping of structures into the existing topography
Locate parking areas adjacent to the Frontage Road and away from areas with children
Utilize berms and landscape buffers to separate uses
The Master Plan provides guidelines for which future development will be evaluated
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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1997/2012 Ford Park Management Plan
Goals /Objectives /Policies /Action Steps
Goal #1 — Preserve and protect Ford Park
Goal #2 — Reduce vehicular intrusions in, and their impact on, the
Park
Goal #3 — Reduce conflicts between all Ford Park venues
Goal #4 — Resolve parking and South Frontage Road access
problems
Goal #5 — Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford Park
and the pedestrian connections between Ford Park and Vail
Village
Goal #6 - Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park
leaseholders and the Town of Vail
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 10�N
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Goal #1
Protect the natural environment along the Gore Creek corridor and
establish appropriate controls and review procedures to ensure that any
new or expanded use or building does not adversely affect the character
of the Park or the overall experience of park users.
Replaces Goal #1 — Preserve and protect Ford Park
2012 Management Plan
Goal #1 Objectives /Policies Overview
• Protect the creek and protect the park from "over- development"
• Existing uses in the park are to remain
• Changes to existing uses will only be considered if there is compelling public
interest or alternative facilities can be provided
• Any changes shall provide recreational, educational, cultural or social benefit
• Uses in Park to be limited
Master Plan to provide standards /criteria for decision - making
No new buildings in Gore Creek Corridor
Preserve /enhance use of School House
Enhance Nature Center /promote use
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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Goal #2:
Provide open space, facilities, and programs within Ford Park
to meet the passive and active recreational, educational and
cultural needs of residents and guests of Vail.
New Goal /Replaces Goal #2 - Reduce vehicular intrusions in, and their impact on, the
Park.
2012 Management Plan
Goal #2 — Objectives /Policies Overview
• Maintain Gore Creek corridor for "quiet enjoyment" of the Park, limit uses
• Open Turf area to be predominantly un- programmed space
• Provide for active rec /team sports, concentrate these uses in Active Rec and Soccer
Field Sub Areas
• Continue /enhance Park's role in arts, music, dance and education (support AIPP,
BFAG, Nature Center, GRFA)
• Support BFAG efforts to development education center
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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Goal #3:
Reduce vehicular intrusions into the interior of the Park and
minimize to the greatest extent feasible the impact of
vehicular activity on users of the Park, particularly on the
passive use areas of the Lower Bench and along pedestrian
walkways.
Combines Goals #2 and #4
Goal #2 — Reduce vehicular intrusions in, and their impact on, the Park.
Goal #4 — Resolve parking and South Frontage Road access problems.
2012 Management Plan
Goal #3 Objectives /Policies Overview
• No new uses in Lower Bench that would generate appreciable increase in traffic
• Lower Bench uses to limit vehicular traffic, manage truck traffic
• Reduce visitor car traffic to Lower Bench
• Maintain /manage existing on -site parking
• Maintain /enhance transit
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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Goal #4:
Ensure compatible relationships are maintained between all
venues and all uses within Ford Park.
Replaces Goal #3 - Reduce conflicts between all Ford Park venues.
2012 Management Plan
Goal #4 Objectives /Policies Overview
• Coordinate leaseholders scheduling of events to prevent overlap, over use of Park
• Maintain /enhance buffers between uses
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 3 RALI N
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Goal #5:
Provide a safe, enjoyable
system
Village.
both within Ford
and efficient pedestrian circulation
Park and between Ford Park and Vail
No significant change to Goal #5 — Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford
Park and the pedestrian connections between Ford Park and Vail Village.
2012 Management Plan
Goal #5 Objectives /Policies Overview
• Town -wide directional /informational signage
• Improve pedestrian routes to Park, establish "portals or gateways"
• Improve internal circulation
• Encourage leaseholders to promote their patrons waking, biking, busing to Park
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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Goal #6:
Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park
leaseholders and the Town of Vail for both on -going
maintenance /operation and capital improvements.
No significant change to Goal #6 - Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park
leaseholders and the Town of Vail.
2012 Management Plan
Goal #6 Objectives /Policies Overview
• Formalize leaseholders cost - sharing of Park management /operational costs
• Funding of capital improvements
2013 Ford Park Master Plan 10�N
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Ford Park Sub -Areas
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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Purpose of Sub -areas — better define expectations for specific areas of the Park
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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Gore Creek
Prewvalion
Gore Creek Active Recreation Parking] Transit
^�. y Preserv( 4ian
2933 Gerald R. Pard Park Master Plan
Alpi'ne
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Lower
Gammons Gore Creek
Preservation
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Amphitheot&r
soccer Field
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2013 Ford Park Master Plan RALIN
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Considerations /Potential Improvements
• Plays key role in how the Park "works
• "No net loss" of parking,
• Continue special events /concerts in parking lot,
• Monument -type entry features at the two pedestrian portals from the parking lot into
the Park, and
• Traffic control devices at Betty Ford Way.
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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Active Recreation
_ 10 1 '�
t
Considerations /Potential Improvements
• Recent improvements address active recreation needs for foreseeable future,
• Monument -type entry features at west end and at two pedestrian portals from the
parking lot into the Park, and
• Enhanced landscape buffer around the perimeter of the sub area.
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
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2013 Ford Park Master Plan
7/22/13 PEC Work Session
Children's playground
Open turf area
Creek corridor
Considerations /Potential Improvements
• Maintain basic "footprint" of playground,
• Maintain size and "un- programmed"
use of open turf area,
• Limit use of open turf area for special
events,
• Maintain AIPP use along Creek,
• Upgraded restroom facilities at the
children's playground, size limited to
meet needs of park users, otherwise no
new buildings envisioned for Sub -Area,
• Further enhance the buffer between the
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athletic fields and the children's
playground.
,*V41 RALI N
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
7/22/13 PEC Work Session TOWN OF vast
Considerations /Potential Improvements
• Town /VVF to continue efforts to
minimize vehicle trips to
Amphitheater,
• Limit new uses /expansions that
would appreciably increase vehicle
trips,
• Development of a "Public Plaza" at
the entry to the Amphitheater,
• Landscape enhance of creek
bank /ADD parking area, and
• Potential sound mitigation.
L' RALIN
Considerations /Potential
Improvements
• Potential development of an
alpine garden educational
center,
• Expansion of the gardens into
the area immediately east of
the "old school house"
2013 Ford Park Master Plan '�RALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session `l,,,��, 1, "
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Gore Creek
Preservation
Considerations /Potential Improvements
• No new buildings within creek corridor,
• Enhance nature Center facility, use,
• "Low- impact" uses /improvements (soft surface trails, creek bank restoration) may be
permitted,
• Utilities, drainage, creek crossings only if no practical alternative is available,
• Enhancement /restoration of vegetation along corridor,
• Seating, art installations along "western" creek corridor (Vail Village connector), and
• Removal /reduction of parking at Nature Center.
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
7/22/13 PEC Work Session TOWN OFD
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plow
Considerations
• Maintain active recreation uses,
• Potential expansion of volleyball courts, and
• Management of parking lot.
2013 Ford Park Master Plan
7/22/13 PEC Work Session MITE Of VAft�
Next Steps
• Overall project schedule
• Next PEC meeting
2013 Ford Park Master Plan '�RALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session F' 11,
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2013 Ford Park Master Plan
7/22/13 PEC Work Session
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End of Presentation
2013 Ford Park Master Plan RALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session
TOWN OFD Awl
2013 Ford Park Master Plan '�RALIN
7/22/13 PEC Work Session 4 „,��, 1, ”
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