HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-04-17 Agenda and Support Documentation Town Council Evening SessionVAIL TOWN COUNCIL
EVENING SESSION AGENDA
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS
75 S. Frontage Road W.
Vail, CO 81657
6:00 P.M., APRIL 17, 2012
NOTE: Times of items are approximate, subject to change, and cannot
be relied upon to determine at what time Council will consider
an item.
1.
ITEM/TOPIC: Proclamation No. 3, Series of 2012 - 100th Anniversary of
the Girl Scouts (5 min.)
PRESENTER(S): Sarah Braucht, representing the Girl Scouts
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Council to read into the record a
proclamation supporting the 100th Anniversary of the Girl Scouts.
2. ITEM/TOPIC: Citizen Participation (15 min.)
3.
ITEM/TOPIC: Consent Agenda:
1) Approval of March 6 and March 20, 2012 meeting minutes;
2) Approval of Resolution No. 18, Series of 2012;
3) Approval and Award of Contract for Frontage Road Shoulder Widening
Project; and
4) Approval and Award of the 2012 Slurry Seal Project. (10 min.)
PRESENTER(S): Various
4.
ITEM/TOPIC: Town Manager Report:
1) Selection of two Council members to ACE subcommittee to review poll
questions and ballot language - Kelli McDonald
2) Naming of the LionsHead Welcome Center Community Space -
Pam Brandmeyer BACKGROUND: The subcommittee met Wednesday,
April 11, to make a recommendation for the naming of the LionsHead
Welcome Center Community Space. The committee (Kevin Foley, Kerry
Donovan, Kim Newbury, Rob Levine, Kelli McDonald and Pam Brandmeyer)
also went over to do a site visit of the space. Some conclusions they shared:
-The space itself doesn’t speak strongly of a particular personality
-If named after an individual, the individual should be deceased
-Rather than just a connection to LionsHead, it seems to pull the two villages
together
-The name must work on an invitation
-Is this the time to tie it into the Pioneer Weekend or to the Founders or to
the 50th Anniversary or should the town work to better “name” individuals
within the framework of public spaces that have already been designated,
e.g., Founder’s Plaza, Parker’s Green/Founder’s Garage, etc.
After viewing the space and ending up on the western deck, the committee
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unanimously agreed upon: The Grand View
Since this is a combining of a couple of nominations but not an exact
nomination itself, the committee recommends Council put all recommender’s
names in a hat, and draw for the 2012-13 parking pass.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Endorse the naming of this space as The
Grand View and select a recipient of the 2012-13 parking pass. (10 min.)
PRESENTER(S): Stan Zemler
5.
ITEM/TOPIC: Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012, a resolution amending the
Ford Park Management Plan, and setting forth details in regard thereto.
(PEC120006) (30 minutes)
PRESENTER(S): Todd Oppenheimer, Public Works Department and
Warren Campbell, Community Development Department
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: The Vail Town Council shall
approve, approve with modifications, or deny Resolution No. 17, Series of
2012.
BACKGROUND: On March 5, March 26, and April 9, 2012, the Planning
and Environmental Commission held public hearings to discuss the various
proposed park improvements and the associated management plan
amendments. On April 9, 2012, the Planning and Environmental Commission
forwarded a recommendation of approval to the Vail Town Council for the
proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan by a vote of 5-1-
0 (Pratt opposed).
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The Planning and Environmental
Commission recommends the Vail Town Council approves Resolution No.
17, Series of 2012.
6.
ITEM/TOPIC: Second reading of Ordinance No. 3, Series 2012 an
ordinance making budget adjustments to the Town of Vail General Fund,
Capital Projects Fund, Real Estate Transfer Tax Fund, Conference Center
Fund, Dispatch Services Fund and Heavy Equipment Fund. (15 min.)
PRESENTER(S): Kathleen Halloran
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve or approve with
amendments Ordinance No. 3, Series 2012
BACKGROUND: Please see attached memo
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve or approve with amendments
Ordinance No. 3, Series 2012
7. ITEM/TOPIC: Second reading of Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012, an
ordinance reestablishing "temporary business office" as a conditional use
within the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District, and setting forth details in regard
thereto. (5 min.)
PRESENTER(S): Warren Campbell
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: The Vail Town Council shall
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approve, approve with modifications, or deny Ordinance No. 6, Series of
2012, upon second reading.
BACKGROUND: On November 16, 2004, the Vail Town Council adopted
Ordinance No. 26, Series of 2004. This ordinance created the "temporary
business office" land use and established it as a conditional use within the
Lionshead Mixed use 1 District. Within the ordinance there was a provision
causing the land use to cease being a conditional use on December 31,
2008. The purpose of the text amendment was to provide adequate
temporary sites and locations for existing business offices currently in
Lionshead that are displaced for a period of time during construction in
Lionshead.
On March 5, 2012, the Planning and Environmental Commission
unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval to reestablish
"temporary business office" as a conditional use within the Lionshead Mixed
Use 1 District.
On April 3, 2012, the Vail Town Council unanimously approved Ordinance
No. 6, Series of 2012, upon first reading.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The Planning and Environmental
Commission recommends the Vail Town Council approves Ordinance No. 6,
Series of 2012, on second reading.
8.
ITEM/TOPIC: Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012 - Fee-in-Lieu for
Commercial Linkage and Inclusionary Zoning (5 Minutes)
PRESENTER(S): George Ruther
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve, modify or deny Resolution
No. 19, Series of 2012
BACKGROUND: The Town of Vail adopted Commercial Linkage and
Inclusionary Zoning Employee Housing requirements in April,
2007. A method of mitigation is payment of a fee-in-lieu. Annually, the Vail
Town Council adopts the fee-in-lieu amount for Commercial Linkage
and Inclusionary Zoning.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The Community Development Department
recommends the Vail Town Council approve Resolution No. 19, Series of
2012.
9. ITEM/TOPIC: Adjournment (7:35 p.m.)
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VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Proclamation No. 3, Series of 2012 - 100th Anniversary of the Girl Scouts
PRESENTER(S): Sarah Braucht, representing the Girl Scouts
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Council to read into the record a proclamation
supporting the 100th Anniversary of the Girl Scouts.
ATTACHMENTS:
Girl Scout 100th Anniversary
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Proclamation o. 3, Series of 2012
Girl Scouts Centennial Proclamation
A Proclamation Declaring 2012 as the Year of the Girl and
Celebrating 100 years of Girl Scouting
WHEREAS, March 12, 2012, marks the 100th
anniversary of the Girl Scouts of the United States of
America, which began in 1912 when Savannah, GA native Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low gathered 18 girls to
provide them the opportunity to develop physically, mentally and spiritually; and,
WHEREAS, for 100 years, Girl Scouting has helped build more than 50 million girls and women of
courage, confidence and character, who act to make the world a better place; and,
WHEREAS, this leadership model helps girls develop skills, such as critical thinking, problem solving,
cooperation and team building, conflict resolution, advocacy and other important life skills; and,
WHEREAS, core programs around Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM),
environmental stewardship, healthy living, financial literacy and global citizenship help girls develop a solid
foundation in leadership; and,
WHEREAS, Colorado Girl Scouts have developed nationally recognized signature programs in these areas,
including the STEM Squad, Power Up bullying prevention, Fight Like A Girl Scout self-defense instruction and
Earth Hour energy conservation events; and,
WHEREAS, through the dedication, time, and talent of 9,000 Colorado volunteers of different backgrounds,
abilities, and areas of expertise, the Girl Scout Program is brought to 30,000 girls in grades K-12 across the state,
with nearly 30% of the Girl Scouts served in Colorado from economically disadvantaged, underserved and at-risk
communities; and,
WHEREAS, in the state of Colorado, Girl Scouting reaches all 64 counties, with Girl Scout offices in
Colorado Springs, Denver, Durango, Fort Collins, Grand Junction and Pueblo, and mountain camp properties near
Bailey, Estes Park, Red Feather Lakes, Rye and Woodland Park; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Vail Town Council does hereby honor the Girl Scouts for
their 100 years of leadership and expertise as the voice for and of girls, and proudly proclaim 2012 as “Year of
the Girl” in the Town of Vail.
____________________________
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
Attest:
_________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
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VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Citizen Participation
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VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Consent Agenda:
1) Approval of March 6 and March 20, 2012 meeting minutes;
2) Approval of Resolution No. 18, Series of 2012;
3) Approval and Award of Contract for Frontage Road Shoulder Widening Project; and
4) Approval and Award of the 2012 Slurry Seal Project.
PRESENTER(S): Various
ATTACHMENTS:
March 6, 2012 Meeting Minutes
March 20, 2012 Meeting Minutes
Resolution No. 18 Series of 2012
Exhibit A
2012 Frontage Road Shoulder Widening
2012 Slurry Seal Award
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 1
Vail Town Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
3:45 P.M.
Vail Town Council Chambers
The regular meeting of the Vail Town Council was called to order at approximately 3:45 P.M. by Mayor
Andrew P. Daly.
Members present: Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
Kerry Donovan
Kevin Foley
Ludwig Kurz
Greg Moffet
Margaret Rogers
Susie Tjossem
Staff members: Stan Zemler, Town Manager
Matt Mire, Town Attorney
__________________________________________________________________________________
Kevin Foley arrived at 4:07 P.M.
The first item on the agenda was a discussion regarding naming of the Lionshead Welcome Center
community space, setting policy and direction for management of the Lionshead Welcome Center
community space including free and discounted use.
Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager, discussed possible names of the new Lionshead Welcome
Center community space. She had a couple of suggested names. Tjossem said she wants a name that
has historical significance to Vail as the 50th Anniversary of Vail is coming up. Daly suggested the
town make an announcement at the annual community meeting on March 13, 2012, that the town is
looking for public input on naming this space with a historical name and the winner could receive a
parking pass or something.
Rogers asked if selling sponsorship rights to the name would give the town money for offering the
community room to local community organizations for free and have the community room stand on its
own economically. Rogers said it could be called “The Founders Room” and a group of founders could
put together an endowment fund so it’s totally accessible to local residents.
Tjossem said when the Lionshead Center was discussed with Henry Beer, every bench and chair could
be purchased. Moffet said in the past the town has engaged firms and it didn’t work out so well.
Donovan said she is supportive of a community naming process.
Kurz said the public naming is the way to go and if someone wants to have the room named after them
it could happen. It would be available for naming rights for a considerable donation. Donovan is not
comfortable selling the name. Kurz suggested the naming of the room should be for someone that is
deceased. Daly said the town could begin using the name and open it to the public for use by the first
part of May.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 2
Brandmeyer said the second part of the discussion was asking Council to set policy and fee schedules
for the operations of the community room. She reviewed the memorandum and named the various
spaces in town that are rented for group use, managed by the town and by others, i.e. Betty Ford
Alpine Gardens, Vail Recreation District, and the rates for each.
Brandmeyer stated that initial calls and inquiries would be used for smaller groups. The town sent out a
Request for Proposal (RFP) last fall. The town received one response from Donovan Management
(DM). The fees were based on actual use at Donovan Pavilion which is a much larger space. Those
fees are out of the range for the community space use. She asked Council to give staff direction on
how they want to proceed. They have gathered lots of great information over the years from the
Donovan Pavilion as far as a process for free and discounted use and setting a rate structure. She
stated there are written policies in place that help direct the management of Donovan Pavilion. The
Donovan Pavilion subcommittee consists of Diana Donovan, Laurie Assmussen with the Donovan
Management and Brandmeyer.
Daly asked about the preliminary budget proposal by DM. Brandmeyer said DM is proposing 50
discounted uses per year at the Lionshead Welcome Center community space. Brandmeyer said
discounted fees could mean as an example, a Vail non-profit would automatically receive a 31%
discount. If it’s Monday through Thursday, there’s another discount. The type of event is also reviewed
as to whether cleaning fees and other fees are included. There is a list of criteria used to help
determine if an organization qualifies for a discounted or free use of the Donovan Pavilion and that
criteria could also be used at this space.
Daly said it would be helpful for Council to see the criteria. He said under revenues there were fees
regarding paid clients, discounted clients and management fees. He asked why the town would pay
Donovan Management $50,000 to manage the space. Zemler stated the management fees for the
Lionshead Welcome Center community center is based on Donovan Pavilion fees.
Brandmeyer said the Donovan Management contract was negotiated around nine years ago. The
proposal for the Lionshead Welcome Center community space was based on Donovan Pavilion’s
management policies and rates. She stated the Council now wants this community space to be run
and priced differently than Donovan Pavilion than when the RFP was sent out. She stated there will be
many other public requests for smaller groups to use the Lionshead Welcome Center community space
for little to no cost. The Council could look at this space as being similarly used like the Town Council
Chambers and the town’s administrative conference rooms.
Tjossem said the current proposal by Donovan Management should be taken off the table. There
needs to be a renegotiated proposal with a different fee structure and operation structure.
Daly said the Council that was in place when they approved the Lionshead Welcome Center wanted a
proposal to have a break even point. Brandmeyer said that was in the RFP.
Tjossem said the base management fee will drive the cost up. Daly said the space shouldn’t go over
and should generate revenue to cover the costs of running the space.
Rogers suggested the town could create a position in-house to manage the space for $50,000.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 3
Brandmeyer said only one proposal was submitted to the town in November, 2011. Tjossem said
maybe the town should lump the management of the information center on the first floor with the
management of the community room.
Zemler said the town is trying not to hire full time employees at this time and paying additional benefits.
He said if the Council desires, staff could revisit this item and build a case for having Donovan Pavilion
Management run this space versus someone else. Moffet suggested Council keep in mind that the
town can take this opportunity to hire a local small business to run this community room instead of
bringing it in to the town business. If less revenue is being made, the management company needs to
make money somehow. He asked staff and Council to take a look at what the objectives and policies
are for this space and let somebody else deal with the pricing to effectuate that policy. Zemler asked
Council what they had in mind for this space.
Rogers gave examples of weddings, Boy Scout meetings and art shows. Brandmeyer reiterated that
Daly requested staff have this space be revenue neutral and not to generate revenue. Rogers wants
the space to serve the community. Moffet said there should not be conflicting policies. He said to
shoot for a reasonable policy and revisit how it’s supposed to work financially.
Brandmeyer said she is hearing community first and anytime they are able, to fit in revenue producing
events in between. She said there could be a block of time during the week, like Monday through
Thursday, that is either free or greatly discounted and have the weekends for revenue producing events
to achieve a revenue neutral space. Moffet suggested an enterprise district and the district could
include the Donovan Pavilion and use the revenue from Donovan to support the Lionshead Welcome
Center community space.
Judy Camp, Finance Director, said they could accomplish getting a revenue neutral space and
offsetting the cost of the Lionshead Welcome Center community space with the Donovan Pavilion
revenue without creating an enterprise district. Daly said in the beginning, the town may have to
subsidize this space for a while.
Foley stated for a small space, $1,200 was steep. Brandmeyer said occupancy loads are still being
reviewed. Brandmeyer said she has received good direction from Council and staff will move forward
to bring back revised information to Council in the near future.
The second item on the agenda was Resolution No. 12, Series 2012, a resolution amending the 2012
Budget for the Vail Local Marketing District (VLMD).
Kathleen Halloran, Budget Manager, said at the afternoon session the Council was informed of the
VLMD request to amend the 2012 Budget of the VLMD. She reviewed the memorandum with Council.
Daly clarified that the $146,000 they requested came from the VLMD and they achieved 70% savings in
the budget and there is no additional impact on the town.
Moffet made a motion to approve Resolution No. 12, Series of 2012, and the motion was seconded by
Kurz. Foley said he usually wants money spent toward special events but the VLMDAC made a good
point on how the dollars would be spent and will bring returns to the town. Daly said Council agrees
that this will be successful in driving incremental business to Vail. A vote was taken and the motion
passed unanimously, 7-0.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 4
The third item on the agenda was Resolution No. 13, Series of 2012, a resolution allowing for an
administrative extension to the lapse of approval for certain approved development project approvals
and setting forth details in regard thereto.
George Ruther, Community Development Director, said on February 16, 2010, the Council adopted
Resolution No. 6, Series of 2012, which allowed for the administrative approval of an eighteen month
extension to the approved development plans for four projects. The administrative approvals for these
projects will expire in the spring/summer of 2012. The extension, in essence, granted certain
exemptions and all these projects are set to expire this spring. The owners have requested the town
grant a three year extension with the same terms that were in place and granted at the time of
approvals. This resolution allows for all the projects to expire on June 1, 2015, with some minor
exceptions. There is an obligation that all the projects would comply with all building codes in place at
the time they build the projects.
Rogers said the building code standards need to be current to when they are built, not when they
received the approvals. The changes are to allow compliance of life safety issues. Foley asked what
happens if they come back in another three years asking for another extension. Ruther said it will
depend on the sitting Council at the time of expiration. He said there are four viable projects that are in
process.
Daly asked how does the extension deal with inclusionary zoning. Ruther said employee housing
requirements as approved now will still be part of the approvals in three years and the construction use
tax exemptions end in year two. The construction use tax and the on-site employee housing are
exempted. Ruther said the inclusionary zoning would substantially change the project if they had to
have employee housing on site.
Greg Gastineau, with Timberline, thanked the Council for considering the extensions on these projects.
He said the first extension was for eighteen months. Tjossem asked why there was a one time
eighteen month extension and not three years. Ruther said at the time staff was optimistic about the
projects being built and the reality is that it may not be another eighteen months before the projects can
be built and so to prevent coming back in eighteen months, staff thinks three years is an appropriate
time to allow for the market to catch up.
Rocky Cortina, representing the Strata Group, thanked the Council for their consideration. They have
spent the capital to get the building up to code. He said in theory, if their group had the capital, they
could start building this summer.
Mauriello said he represents applicants, Cascade residences, Michael Hecht and Steve Lindstrom, and
said the applicant’s are supportive of this as well.
Rick Pylman, representing the Cornerstone project, appreciates the efforts of Council and staff in
recommending these extensions.
Tjossem asked if this timeframe may mean there will be construction disruptions during 2015. Ruther
said the expiration date is June 15, 2015. This allows the approvals to begin at the end of ski season
and shouldn’t be a problem. The start of construction would be in the summer.
Moffet made a motion to approve Resolution No.13, Series of 2012, as read and the motion was
seconded by Foley. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 7-0.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 5
The fourth item on the agenda was an update on the Lionshead Plazas Streetscape.
Tom Kassmel asked Council to provide staff with direction regarding the Concert Hall Plaza Boiler
Room and extending the streetscape along East Lionshead Circle. The Lionshead East Mall and
Concert Hall Plazas Streetscape Improvement Project is budgeted for this year and is currently out to
bid for construction. Two design issues came up during the final design process. The first is that the
contemplated boiler enclosure for Concert Hall Plaza was not accepted by the Design Review Board as
a stand alone building. The most practical location for the boiler enclosure is to relocate and build it
into the base of the south side of the pedestrian bridge stairs. They would have to deconstruct and
reconstruct the stairs and snowmelt the new stairs for safety reasons.
The second issue is the significant increase in shuttle van use along East Lionshead Circle. In order to
accommodate the number of shuttle vans, staff recommends extending the heated walk and a shuttle
van pull-off lane along East Lionshead Circle. Both recommendations would require an increase to the
project budget. He reviewed the memorandum and power point with Council in detail. Kassmel said
the additional engineering costs to build were roughly around $150,000 to $160,000.
Additional discussion ensued regarding the additional snowmelt extension and the estimated cost to
build and maintain the sidewalks if the snowmelt system was extended. Kassmel said the estimated
cost to add snowmelt would be approximately $60,000 to $70,000, plus approximately $2 per square
foot for operating costs.
Rogers asked if the snowmelt could be added later if they do not fund it now. Kassmel said the base
bid is without it being heated. Included in the base bid are snowmelt mains that are stubbed out only.
Moffet asked how much it would cost if it is not heated. Greg Hall, Public Works Director, said the cost
to shovel this area, if not heated, and has to be hand shoveled and would be expensive. He said there
is also a safety factor involved if this area is not kept clear.
Kassmel said there is one other issue of the East Lionshead bus stop area. There was not additional
shuttle use at the Lionshead Welcome Center bus stop area for the additional vans and shuttles. There
has been an explosion of shuttle van uses. There are up to eight to twelve shuttle vans/buses using
this site as the new hotels have their own shuttle buses and concierge vehicles. Seeing the influx of
shuttles and the congestion, there needs to be a solution. He said in the Lionshead Master Plan, there
was a plan for improvements to this area. There could be an extension of the shuttle lane by 230 feet
or so to gain room for about eight shuttle vehicles. The cost would be around $750,000 which includes
heating and the construction improvements. This could accommodate the existing shuttles. The staff
could have discussions with the hotels and others that provide these services to get input and provide
better guest services. Kassmel said there were about 173 shuttles in this area from 8:00 to 10:30 a.m.
and from 2:00 to 5 p.m.
Daly said there were two alternatives that the staff wants feedback on: one is about a $200,000 request
and the other is $750,000 request.
Donovan said the main goal was to solve pedestrian and vehicle conflict on the western end of the
structure. Now the proposal is to line up all the vans on the east end of the new building and crossing
the road there. She asked if there needs to be another solution as there is going to be another vehicle
versus pedestrian conflict.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 6
Kassmel said there could be gates added to make people go to the crosswalks to cross the road. The
reality is going to be difficult and if we are going to accommodate shuttles, we need to make a space for
them. There are a lot of factors to consider including having the shuttles stop elsewhere.
Rogers asked why the shuttles couldn’t use the drop off in the short term parking inside the garage.
Kassmel stated most of the shuttles buses are too tall to go in that area. To have the vehicles go on
top of the parking structure doesn’t work as the weight bearing load is too much.
Donovan asked about the hotel vans dropping off their guests at the top of the new Lionshead Transit
Center. Kassmel said the Lionshead Transit Center is about 1,400 feet away versus 900 feet if they
drop off on Meadow Drive below.
Moffet said he was on PEC when they discussed this issue in years past. He doesn’t have a problem
having the shuttles go to the Lionshead Transit Center on the Frontage Road. He doesn’t want to
exacerbate the traffic issues on Meadow Drive. He said the hotels that have sizable shuttles are on the
town bus route. This may seem less user-friendly but most hotels are on the in-town bus route. The
guests can take the town shuttle and have a shorter walk or take the hotel shuttle and have a longer
walk.
Rogers said the hotels should get more Suburbans to drop off their guests in the parking structure. She
agrees with Donovan, as the whole idea for this area was to get traffic off the street and eliminate to the
best we can pedestrian/vehicle contact. She said adding more snow melt encourages them to bring in
more vehicles. She is not in favor of having the vans drop off in this area at all. Further discussion
ensued.
Kassmel said the Lionshead Transit Center is currently used for ECO buses and charter buses, plus
future demand. Foley said the guests could use the elevator in the building to shorten the walk as well.
Daly asked if Council wants to see a regulatory solution versus a capital solution for this area.
Moffet said it’s been the policy to eliminate pedestrian/vehicle interaction and wants to see other
solutions. Daly said Council is sending staff back to the drawing board for another look at alternative
solutions, either regulatory or capital, for the shuttle accommodation.
Daly summarized the three options for the boiler system and Concert Hall Plaza area: 1) take the
recommended solution which included a boiler vault underneath the pedestrian stairs, rebuilding the
stairs and snowmelting the whole area; 2) redo the Concert Hall Plaza sidewalk, including snowmelt,
but not connect to the system to the boiler until a future date; and 3) delay or postpone the renovation
of the Concert Hall Plaza sidewalk area until the town knows if we are going to remodel the Concert
Hall Plaza building.
Kassmel said staff wants to move forward with the second option which is to do the paver
improvements including installing the snowmelt tubing, building the boiler shelter, but not connecting
the system until a future date.
Daly said there is another option, which is to appeal the PEC decision. He said staff could move
forward with the landscape plan for this area but not move forward with the bus shuttle issue.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 7
Foley said the Landmark had a small utility building near this area. He suggested the staff could ask
Landmark if the town could put a boiler there. Greg Hall said they could look into this option.
Daly said there were now four alternatives. Daly directed staff to do more research and come back with
more recommendations.
The fifth item on the agenda was a Council dinner break until 6:00 p.m.
Moffet made a motion to break for dinner and the motion was seconded by Foley. A vote was taken
and the motion passed unanimously, 7-0.
Council reconvened the evening meeting at 6:00 p.m.
The sixth item on the agenda was Citizen Participation. There was no public comment.
Daly reminded the community that the town’s annual community meeting will be held next Tuesday,
March 13, 2012, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Donovan Pavilion. He invited the community to attend as
there will be several entities involved including Vail Resorts, the Forest Service, Eagle River Water and
Sanitation District and the town staff to bring the community up-to-date with current and future
happenings in town.
Foley expressed the Council’s condolences to the Douglas family for the recent loss of Morgan
Douglas.
The seventh item on the agenda was the approval of the Consent Agenda.
The consent agenda included the request to approve the meeting minutes of February 7 and 21, 2012.
Kurz made a motion to approve the minutes of February 7, and the motion was seconded by Donovan.
A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 7-0.
Foley made a motion to approve the minutes as amended for February 21, and the motion was
seconded by Kurz. A vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0-1. Moffet abstained as he was absent
from that meeting.
The next consent item was a request to approve an Employee Housing Unit (EHU) exchange.
Donovan said she was going to vote against this exchange as she feels this program is having an
unintended consequence of removing units from the free market.
Rogers made a motion to authorize the Town Manager to execute a deed restriction release and to
approve the request for an exchange of employee housing units, pursuant to Section 12-13-5,
Employee Housing Unit Exchange Program, Vail Town Code, to allow for the release of an employee
housing unit deed restriction at Lot 1, Block 4, Vail Village Third Filing, in exchange for new deed
restricted employee housing at Bighorn Terrace Unit No. 22/4237 Columbine Drive (1,500 square feet)
and a fee in lieu payment of $1,443.90 (6 square feet x $240.65), and setting forth details in regard
thereto. The motion was seconded by Kurz. Foley agreed with Donovan and said the Council needs to
take a look at the unintended consequences of these EHU exchanges.
A vote was taken and the motion passed, 5-2, Foley and Donovan opposed.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 6, 2012 Page 8
The eighth item on the agenda was the Town Manager Report.
Judy Camp, Finance Director, updated the Council on the town’s new finance system with Council. She
said it was moving forward at an accelerated pace to facilitate moving out of the current municipal
building. She said this has been in planning to replace the system for 2012-2013. The AS400 is the
current system and is housed in the lower level of the municipal building. She stated the moving costs
and upgrades for the current system would be more than $40,000 and the system would still be
inadequate for the town’s needs. She said the new financial system will include automated time
tracking, reporting capabilities and automated on-line payment capabilities.
Daly asked if a request for proposal (RFP) had been done on this process. Camp said the staff looked
into a couple of systems and requested the staff do a request for information versus an request for
proposal (RFP). Daly asked if there were staff heading up this project. Camp said there are two
project managers: Mike Richards hired to be the consultant on software for the town through the IT
department will head up the system and equipment perspective, and the co-project manager for the
financial aspects is Kathleen Halloran. The current financial system is antiquated and doesn’t meet the
town’s financial processing needs. The have at least two systems they can review. She said there
were three companies reviewed and one couldn’t provide the basic needs of the town. She said there
are no cost estimates at this time. The cost estimates and models will be done for hardware and
software of the systems in the near future. The project managers will be looking at the whole cost of
the finance system over time, including hardware and updates.
The ninth item on the agenda was first reading of Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2012, an ordinance
amending Section 3-3-2 ("Appointment of Board Members"), and Section 3-3-3, ("Membership;
Terms"), of the Vail Town Code, relating to eligibility and terms of members of the Art in Public Places
Board (AIPP), and setting forth details in regard thereto.
Mire said there was a recommendation from the AIPP board and from Council’s last meeting, to change
the number of board members from eleven to nine; remove the required participation of Planning and
Environmental Commission and Design Review Board members; change the qualifications of members
to an interest or expertise in architecture, architecture criticism, education and history; and the terms
from three-year terms to two-year terms on an overlapping basis to be consistent with other town board
terms.
Rogers made a motion to approve first reading of Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2012, and the motion was
seconded by Donovan. A vote was taken and the motion passed, unanimously, 7-0.
The tenth item on the agenda was a request to table Ordinance No. 2, Series of 2012, an ordinance
amending Chapter 12-6, Residential Districts, Vail Town Code, pursuant to Section 12-3-7,
Amendment, Vail Town Code, to establish a new zone district, Vail Village Townhouse (VVTH) District,
and setting forth details in regard thereto; and Resolution No. 7, Series of 2012, amending Chapter VII,
Vail Village Sub-Areas, East Gore Creek Sub-Area (#6), Vail Village Master Plan, pursuant to Chapter
VIII, Implementation and Amendment, Vail Village Master Plan, to include recommendations related to
a new Vail Village Townhouse (VVTH) District, and setting forth details in regard thereto.
Warren Campbell asked Council to table to Ordinance No. 2, Series of 2012, the March 20, 2012,
public hearing.
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Donovan made a motion to table Ordinance No. 2, Series of 2012, to the March 20, 2012, public
hearing of the Council and the motion was seconded by Moffet. A vote was taken and the motion
passed unanimously, 7-0.
Zemler requested a ten minute break be taken as there were many people who wanted to participate in
the next three items on the agenda that were not in attendance yet. Daly announced a ten minute
break at 6:15 p.m.
The eleventh item on the agenda was first reading of Ordinance No. 4, Series of 2012, an ordinance
authorizing the sale of a portion of the real property located at 75 South Frontage Road, Vail, Colorado,
(the "Town Hall Property") to Vail MOB, LLC, for the purchase price of $5 million, and setting forth
details in regard thereto.
George Ruther, Community Development Director, said the first reading of this ordinance authorizes
the Town of Vail (TOV) to enter into the agreement to sell and the Vail MOB, LLC to purchase a portion
of the town municipal site. The TOV, in cooperation with the Vail Valley Medical Center (VVMC) and
the Steadman Clinic (SC), wished to redevelop and sell a portion of the town's property located at 75
South Frontage Road. To do so, the TOV, VVMC and SC signed a memorandum of understanding
(MOU), which in part, acknowledges the sale of a portion of town property, approximately one-half acre
in size, and transfer that property to VVMC and SC for a proposed purchase price of $5 million. The
purchase price was established based upon a “value of use” appraisal completed for the property. The
appraisal was done in August, 2011. One thing unique is this is based on proposed uses on the site
not based on highest and best use appraisal. Pursuant to the terms of the purchase and sale
agreement, the title to the property shall not transfer until such time as a building permit for the new
medical office building is ready for issuance and a construction loan guaranteeing the construction and
a completion bond guaranteeing the completion of the building is secured and ready for funding.
He said the ordinance has a condition in it that states the staff will continue to work with the VVMC and
SC to consider a resolution to authorize the town manager to enter into the agreement. He said the
MOU was signed by all parties on January 17, 2012, and it is time to move forward into the design and
development phase of the project.
Daly said there were two things that were a concern from the town’s perspective. Council is positive
about the town entering into this transaction for two purposes: the first is to insure that the VVMC, the
SC and the Steadman-Philippon Research Institute continue to operate within the Town of Vail for
many years to come. The economic drivers indicate that the number two business is the medical,
health and wellness business. The second purpose is to have the VVMC in our community instead of
moving down valley. The VVMC, SC and the town have come up with a plan to house the SC, Howard
Head and the Steadman-Philippon Institute in the medical office building. This project will insure these
economic drivers continue to be part of our community for a long time to come.
Moffet said this ordinance needs two readings and a resolution to move forward. Ruther said the
second reading is tentatively scheduled for March 20, and the resolution will be after the second
reading. The resolution will be in front of Council within sixty days or maybe simultaneously with
second reading. This will depend on the parties coming to terms on the purchase and sale agreement.
Donovan asked about the decision regarding selling the land versus leasing the land. Ruther said there
is a frequently asked questions memorandum (FAQ) packet on the town’s website and at the back of
the room with most of the questions asked by the community and Council. This FAQ addresses this
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question. He said the town’s goal for financial success of this project was based on selling the property
versus leasing the property. The goal was to see a successful project.
Daly said the town will not have any interest in the medical office building and no interest in their debt.
The new town hall will be built from the town’s current reserves and the town is not anticipating
incurring any new debt.
Matt Mire, Town Attorney, said the purchase and sale agreement itself will contemplate conditions that
need to be met prior to the closing, which is currently scheduled by March of 2013. Title to a portion of
the property will not be conveyed until March of 2013.
Lyon Steadman, Chief Executive Office of the Steadman Clinic, thanked the Council for their
participation, hard work and interest in working with the hospital group. He said they are totally
committed to this project and it will make a big difference to their future and allow them to grow. The
need to continue the growth they have had to this point. They will have to spend $11 million before a
shovel will go into the ground. They are solidly behind this project.
Rogers made a motion to approve first reading of Ordinance No. 4, Series of 2012, and the motion was
seconded by Moffet and Kurz.
Rob Levine, General Manager with Antlers and a member of the Vail Economic Advisory Council
(VEAC), said the VEAC is unanimously in favor of this project. He said it is personally gratifying and
exciting that the Council has embraced a new idea to insure our future economic success.
Daly said several letters and emails from the public, including one from Stephen Connolly, will be
added to the final agenda packet to be part of the record.
A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 7-0.
The twelfth item on the agenda was a presentation of the Town of Vail Municipal Office Design and
Construction Document Project Selection Committee’s recommendation for the award of a design and
construction document contract.
George Ruther said included in the packet was a recommendation from the selection committee for
design and construction documents. On February 1, 2012, the Town of Vail released a request for
proposals for professional design services in an open process to solicit responses for design and
construction document preparation services. On February 17, 2012, Town of Vail received nine
responses to the request for proposals for the Town of Vail. Following a detailed review and analysis of
the responses, three design teams were selected to move forward and participate in an on-site
interview process. On February 23, 2012, the selection committee held on-site interviews. Three
design teams were interviewed and evaluated based upon the following criteria: extensive design
experience with similar municipal office facilities; demonstrated ability to perform in the town’s
entitlement process; ability to advance sustainable design and energy efficiency strategies; completion
of similar projects with similar challenges, solutions and coordination; availability to complete the project
on budget and on time; a proven track record of collaboration with multiple stakeholders and teams; a
competitive fee for the project; and local preference provided the team is qualified and competitive.
He said this was a competitive process and Oz had experience working on similar projects and
complexity. The team assembled, the team finishing on time and coming forth with a sustainable
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project were considerations as well. The design selection committee also took into account, from a
programming standpoint, doing similar municipal projects.
Ruther said the selection committee is requesting the Council authorize the Town Manager to negotiate
and enter into a professional services contract with OZ Architecture, in a form approved by the Town
Attorney, to design and prepare the construction documents for the new municipal offices of the Town
of Vail, located at 75 South Frontage Road, pursuant to the scope of services outlined in the Request
for Proposals, dated February 1, 2012, and as maybe amended to reflect the recommendation(s) of the
selection committee. The selection committee recommends the Council award the municipal site
design and construction document project to the team lead by OZ Architecture.
Rogers asked if Zehren and Associates is going to be the architect for the medical office building
(MOB). Ruther said Zehren and Associates didn’t submit a proposal for the municipal building as the
time commitment and availability was not something they could do. Rogers asked who was going to
design the parking structure. Ruther said the medical office building architect will design it through
communication and coordination with the town’s architect. Ruther said assuming the Council approved
an architect, there will be a meeting this Thursday with team members from the MOB and the town to
discuss next steps and how to move forward. One of the requirements of the PEC submittal process is
that this project will go through as one project application, even though it has two separate owners,
buildings and architects.
Mark Donaldson, a principal of Victor Mark Donaldson Architects, stated his firm was one of the three
short-listed architects. He said he wanted to take the opportunity to speak to the Council and let them
know they are local and have over 35 years of experience with commercial projects. He stated he put
together a very talented team. He listed many of his firm’s experience with commercial projects in the
valley including, the Avon Municipal Building, the Vista Bahn Building, The Vail Daily, etc. He
requested Council consider using his team for this project as they are local, have local subcontractors,
are uniquely qualified and the fees are very competitive. His observation of the process is to consider
the local opportunities. Zehren and Associates was selected to work on the MOB and his firm has
several years of work connections with Zehren and Associates. He went into detail on how they could
accomplish various aspects of the municipal building. He said if they award this project to a firm that is
out of town, the costs would be more expensive.
Eduardo Ilianes, with Oz Architecture, said thanks for giving them the opportunity to present the vision
and goals of the town for the municipal building. He said when you are looking at substructures, there
are additional fees to consider plus the time to coordinate all the different systems that are connected to
a building like this. They need to consider the community needs and need to make the building last for
at least four decades. They have participated in designing other municipal buildings and know how they
function. He said they also need to work with the MOB and make them work together. He said the
mitigation of risk is also to be focused on and considered. They also need to know how to deal with
moving people out of the current building and into the new building. It needs to be seamless. Working
with the energy codes, and being sustainable, is also a consideration, as well as looking at managing
the budget and schedule.
Moffet made a motion to authorize the Town Manager to negotiate and enter into a professional
services contract with OZ Architecture, in a form approved by the Town Attorney, to design and prepare
the construction documents for the new municipal offices of the Town of Vail, located at 75 South
Frontage Road, pursuant to the scope of services outlined in the Request for Proposals, dated
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February 1, 2012, and as maybe amended to reflect the recommendations of the selection committee.
The motion was seconded by Donovan.
Moffet said he has been vocal about local preferences but he defined local as being from the Town of
Vail. Rogers said she feels the same way as Moffet about hiring local people when they can.
However, when hiring local, she thinks local is within Eagle County. Rogers asked why they aren’t the
least expensive and why was Oz chosen versus Victor Mark Donaldson Architects.
Ruther said this wasn’t a competitive process based solely on fees. The selection committee chose
who they considered was the most qualified and familiar with the complexity of the project, as well as
other factors and not because of the cost alone. He said this was a unanimous recommendation by the
selection committee.
Kurz said there were three very capable teams interviewed. He believes all three were qualified. They
all spoke with compassion and conviction about the project. He said, speaking as one member of the
committee, in general, the committee felt Oz understood the complexities including the moves that
needed to be made, better than the other teams. Beyond that, Oz was the only group that offered a
potential reduction of square footage, which caught the attention of the selection committee.
Tjossem said she also prefers to hire Vail Valley based businesses for the first crack at all town
business. She said it’s very difficult to second guess the selection committee as they spent over six
hours interviewing and deliberating. She preferred the selection committee award this project to a local
firm. She stated she was ready to vote against this recommendation but after listening to the some of
the committee members, they have swayed her to vote this recommendation, as this is in the best
interest of the town.
A vote was taken and the motion passed, 6-1, with Rogers opposed.
The thirteenth item on the agenda was the presentation of the Town of Vail Municipal Office Project
Management Selection Committee’s recommendation for the award of a project management contract
for the construction of the municipal building.
George Ruther, Community Development Director, said on February 15, 2012, the Town of Vail
released a request for proposals for professional project management services in an open process to
solicit responses. On February 24, 2012, the Town of Vail received eleven responses to the request for
proposals. Following a detailed review and analysis of the responses, five project management teams
were selected to move forward and participate in an on-site interview process. On February 28, 2012,
the selection committee held on-site interviews. Five project management teams were interviewed and
evaluated based upon the following criteria: extensive project management experience with similar
municipal office facilities; demonstrated ability to perform in the town’s entitlement process; ability to
achieve the goals/milestones identified for the project; understanding of the project and what is required
to get the job done; completion of similar projects with similar challenges, solutions, and coordination;
staff availability to complete the project on budget and on time; ability to develop and maintain
professional relationships through effective communication; a proven track record of collaboration with
multiple stakeholders and teams; a competitive professional fee based upon the scope and quality of
the work required; demonstrated ability to make progress on multiple tasks in a dynamic and ever-
changing process; and local preference was again considered, provided the teams were qualified and
competitive.
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Ruther stated the selection committee unanimously recommended the Council award the professional
services contract for project management to CP Vail. John Bills, Managing Principal, will be
responsible for the project from an overall standpoint. Chris Penney, Senior Project Manager, will be
responsible for the preconstruction process and the lead during construction. Bryan Carruthers,
Managing Principal, will be responsible for quality control to ensure the project is exceeding the town’s
and community’s expectations.
Ruther said the selection committee consisted of Andy Daly, Mayor; Ludwig Kurz, Mayor Pro-tem; Stan
Zemler, Town Manager; and himself. He said one of the major factors for recommending CP Vail was
experience with them on the West Vail Fire Station. He stated he contacted all the references supplied
by CP Vail and received very good references from all of them.
Rogers asked if this was a unanimous recommendation from the selection committee. Ruther said yes.
Daly said they received proposals from eleven firms and the committee chose to interview five firms.
He said looking at the cost and familiarity, the feedback from references and looking at inclusiveness of
fees, it was a unanimous approval for value and being able to bring the project in on time.
Kurz acknowledged all the work that Ruther did to get this process together. He said this was a
unanimous decision by the selection committee. He had a conflict in his mind with regard to using a
local company to do the job. However, one of the important pieces is to have a firewall that exists
between the VVMC and the town. He said with CP Vail that firewall would exist.
Moffet said he is comfortable with the recommendation. He said the selection committee put in the
work and the local firm was more expensive and provided less hours to the project.
Steve Virostek, with Triumph Development, said they were part of the process. He said the process
was fair and there was a diligent review. He looks forward to working with CP Vail. He said the
selection committee made a good choice.
Moffet made a motion authorize the Town Manager to negotiate and enter into a professional services
contract with CP Vail, in a form approved by the Town Attorney, to provide project management for the
development of new municipal offices for the Town of Vail, located at 75 South Frontage Road,
pursuant to the scope of services outlined in the Request for Proposals, dated February 15, 2012
reflecting the recommendation of the Selection Committee. The motion was seconded by Foley. A
vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 7-0.
Daly thanked all those who participated in both the design and project management process for this
project. Zemler seconded the acknowledgment by Kurz of Ruther’s work in getting the project design
and management process done to date.
The fourteenth item on the agenda was second reading of Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2012, an
ordinance approving a zone district boundary amendment, pursuant to Section 12-3-7, amendment,
Vail Town Code, for a rezoning from Ski Base Recreation District to Ski Base Recreation 2 District,
located at 598 Vail Valley Drive/part of Tract B, Vail Village Filing 7, and setting forth details in regard
thereto.
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Donovan recused herself from this item. She stated, as she did at the last meeting, that she has no
financial or other conflict of interest; however, she is very involved with the Ski and Snowboard Club of
Vail (SSCV) organization and didn’t think she could hear this item without bias.
Daly said there will be a work session in the near future to discuss the traffic issues and update
governing documents and efforts to mitigate the traffic congestion. Based on the tremendous amount
of feedback on this item, there will be an evening meeting to address this item. During the first Council
evening meeting in April, the Council will have additional public comment to begin developing a
framework to address traffic on Vail Valley Drive. He said that is a separate issue from the current
zoning application being heard from SSCV. If there is a zoning change for SSCV, there will have to be
a comprehensive and detailed development plan which will include mitigation of their impacts. Daly
said solving the traffic issues will involve several partners: Vail Resorts, SSCV, the town and several of
the properties in that area that are part of that community area. The town has taken to heart the
community’s comments to address this issue through a collaborative process prior to next ski season.
Rachel Dimond, Planner, stated this is second reading of Ordinance No. 1, series of 2012. She said on
February 21, 2012, the Council approved Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2012, upon first reading, (5-0-1,
Donovan recused), based on the review of the criteria and compliance with the findings outlined in the
January 30, 2012, memorandum to the PEC and the evidence and testimony presented. Since the
packet was issued there were additional emails sent to Council that will be added to the packet for the
record.
Kurz said the direction given to the applicant at the last meeting was to do some outreach to the
neighbors. He wanted to know what outreach or contact had been done since the last meeting. Tom
Braun, of Braun and Associates, representing the applicant, said they talked to a couple of the
neighbors and reinforced the message sent to Council and said they are looking forward to working
with them to be a part of the solution. He had no formal presentation but was there to answer any
questions the Council may have.
Daly asked why the rezoning application didn’t come with a development plan. Braun said the rezoning
doesn’t require a development plan as that is the process per the town code. He said a development
plan is costly. However once the rezoning is done and gets to that stage, they could supply a
development plan. If they tried to do one now, the SSCV could spend thousands of dollars without
knowing the code regulations. The applicant needs to know what underlying zoning is in place so they
can move forward.
Jim Lamont, Vail Homeowners Association (VHA), said he sent the Council a formal reply via email
from the VHA asking Vail Resorts and the town to provide overflow accommodation on this site. He
wanted the Council to deal with the traffic issues prior to second reading. He wants neighborhood
meetings set up and solutions incorporating traffic solutions off-site as well as on- site prior to approving
the second reading of the ordinance.
Daly stated for the record, that this letter is part of the permanent agenda packet.
Glenn Davis, President of SSCV, said the SSCV doesn’t have the funds to do a development plan. He
said a development plan would be cost prohibitive at this time. He said the rezoning needs to be in
place to develop a framework. Then they could get a development plan in place when they have funds
to move forward.
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Moffet and Daly each stated they had children involved with SSCV over the past years.
Moffet made a motion to approve second reading of Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2012, subject to the
findings in the memorandum and the motion was seconded by Kurz.
Tjossem said she will be voting in favor of this ordinance. She said by approving this rezoning this will
start the dialogue for the project. She stated there will be a development plan in the future. She said
the town’s planning process has served this community very well.
Daly said this is just the beginning of a comprehensive process. Council is also concerned about the
traffic. This will help move that process forward in discussing existing conditions. This will provide all
stakeholders opportunity to comment on that issue and process. The Council is committed to making
this a fair and comprehensive process, meaningful, effective and providing relief. He invited the
stakeholders and community to continue to plan on attending and participating in this important
process.
A vote was taken and the motion passed, 6-0-1, with Donovan abstaining.
The fifteenth item on the agenda was a discussion of the Ford Park Improvement Program.
Todd Oppenheimer, the town’s landscape architect, requested Council provide staff with specific
direction relative to the Ford Park Improvement Program to be included in the Updated Ford Park
Management Plan.
Zemler reminded Council the process has evolved. He said the conference center funds ballot
question went to the Vail voters in November of 2011 with the recommended disbursal of the $9.4
million in conference center funds. He stated the funding passed for the expansion and improvement of
the clubhouse at the Vail Golf Course and Nordic Center, including a multi-use community space; the
the field expansion and restroom renovation at the Ford Park Sports Complex; and Ford Amphitheater
improvements, including outdoor seating and restroom improvements. The goal of the Ford Park
planning effort is to efficiently utilize the funds approved by the voters to develop the intended projects
at Ford Park. There is $2.4 million in the town budget already, separate from the conference center
funds for the grand entry and improvements to the pedestrian path and the gardens. He said out the
$2.4 million in the budget, $600,000 was allocated for the grand entry and the gardens and $1.8 million
is allocated for the needed improvements of the pedestrian, bike and loading and delivery vehicle
circulation in Ford Park.
Zemler stated out of the $9.4 million from the conference center funds, $3.8 million is allocated for the
Vail Golf Course Clubhouse expansion/renovation; $3.5 million for the Ford Park field improvements
renovation and $2.1 for the Ford Amphitheater.
Oppenheimer said some projects that are not currently budgeted fit within a larger vision for Ford Park.
Initiated by the Vail Valley Foundation (VVF), these projects enhance the overall user experience of
arriving at and being within the park. Acknowledging that the larger vision for the park includes park
elements that are not immediately funded, along with the public sentiment toward protecting the park
and the long term goals of the organizations which operate within the park, it is necessary to evaluate
the proposals and update the current Ford Park Management Plan document. Keeping in mind the
goal of efficient utilization of available funds, the approval process for the Ford Park projects has been
outlined in two steps.
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Tom Braun, with Braun and Associates, reviewed the improvements for Ford Park in the attached
power point presentation to Council. He said the guiding document for the park is the 1997 Ford Park
Management Plan. He said many ideas and improvements that are already in the management plan
are being contemplated, as well as adding some new ones.
Oppenheimer discussed the improvements related to the Ford Park Management Plan, what is already
included and what improvements are tentatively suggested to be added. He said different plans for the
park included the realignment of the athletic fields to allow for three full-size softball fields, two full-size
soccer fields or lacrosse fields and any number of smaller fields. He discussed perimeter fencing,
backstop areas, moving the concession area, restrooms, retaining walls, netting usage, space for a
tournament director’s area, an umpire’s closet, a possible covered outdoor seating area for 50 people
and bus area. He said he talked to The Wren manager about all the Ford Park athletic field
improvements. They still need to address noise and sound conflicts between the fields and the
amphitheater. He said there was a lack of support of the television monitors in the amphitheater.
Improving the stream walk is included but there is no funding for this currently. He also discussed
having a thirteen foot wide platform, even grade and pull outs where pedestrians can move out of a
vehicle’s way if there are vehicles down in the lower bench of the park.
He reviewed the Alpine Garden Welcome Center concept which would be approximately 1,500 to 2,100
square feet, hold the garden offices, be open year around, be a multi-purpose space on two levels that
could be located near the existing school house. This concept is being included in the planning
process, but it is unfunded. It could be included in the management plan but not in the development
plan.
Oppenheimer said staff will do more research on the garden welcome center and building with pros and
cons, with an independent building and/or combined buildings. Staff will keep this in as a placeholder,
but if it moves forward, it will be more detailed. Donovan said she is not in support of any new buildings
in Ford Park.
Oppenheimer asked Council for support of items to be added to the Ford Park development plan. He
presented each question from the memorandum and asked if the Council was in favor of each item.
Question one was, “Is the Council supportive of the items listed to be included in the Development Plan
application?” Included under this question were the realignment of the athletic fields including:
replacement of the athletic field restrooms and concession building, and construction of a new
maintenance/storage building with restrooms. Improvements to the Ford Amphitheater including:
construction of a new social courtyard, enhancements to the existing restrooms, improved lawn seating.
Also, improvements to the park entry points and internal circulation pathways including: Betty Ford
Alpine Gardens entry, modifications and improvements to the bus drop-off, passenger vehicle drop-off
and parking lot enhancements, improvements to the existing stream walk, improvements to the eastern
portion of Betty Ford Way between the east parking lot and the amphitheater loading dock to allow
access by semi’s and delivery trucks. The park modifications above work within the context of the
existing Ford Park Management Plan and would be included in the Development Plan application to the
PEC.
Zemler said this list reflects some of the modifications that had evolved over the last few weeks.
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Rogers asked if the “spine” is still in the plan. Oppenheimer said yes, but they have backed off on how
important the space is to the overall park. He said the park is organized so that the athletic field is on
the upper bench and the gardens and amphitheater are on the lower bench.
Donovan asked which version of the social court yard is being referenced. Oppenheimer stated the
Council shouldn’t get bogged down on the details as they will have to take the application to the PEC
first and get placements on the management plan. Braun said there will be a description to attach to
each element.
Council stated they are in favor of all the bullet points in question one.
Question two of the memorandum was, “Is the Council supportive of the above being included in the
Development Plan application?” It has been suggested to include the following park improvements in
the development application including these that will require amending the existing management plan:
A covered area over the amphitheater social plaza; a Welcome Center for the Betty Ford Alpine
Gardens that includes offices and an education center; a tribute to the Ford family as an iconic feature
in the park; an expansion of the existing AIPP temporary art program to areas throughout the park; and
the expansion of the existing restroom/concessions facility.
The tribute to the Ford family is an undefined concept and would be a landscape feature and not a
building. It would be a monument and is currently not funded and will have a placeholder in the
management plan. Council agreed to have a placeholder for the Ford tribute concept.
He said there was a concept to expand the existing AIPP art program to temporary places in the park.
There could be an AIPP sculpture in the gardens or other appropriate places in Ford Park. He said the
flat, lower bench of Ford Park would be off limits to the temporary art placements. Council suggested it
be called a summer art program instead of a temporary art program.
The current sports field restrooms and concession building would need to be moved and replaced. The
new building would include space for the sports directors, covered seating area, and larger concession
area. Council was okay with adding a placeholder for this building.
Question three was: “Is the Council supportive of including the additional ideas attached in the Updated
Ford Park Management Plan and subsequent Development Plan application?”
Oppenheimer said over the past weeks several additional ideas have surfaced that require some
Council discussion and direction. These included elimination of the proposed pavilion covered area
over amphitheater social court yard. Council was okay with this.
Donovan said additional discussion would also be needed to discuss the need for the Betty Ford Alpine
Gardens to have a classroom and requested building.
Council agreed there should be the implementation of an internal park shuttle system to ferry people
between the upper and lower benches. Oppenheimer said he is still looking into this idea. Daly asked
who would run this service, what the potential costs would be and what type of vehicles would be used.
He said golf carts would probably not be the right vehicle to move lots of people in this area.
Oppenheimer said two electric vehicles cost approximately $40,000 to $50,000 and have operating
costs of approximately $50,000 for around 1,760 hours to operate. Further discussion ensued.
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Council agreed to keep it in the plan for now but said there was no commitment to funding at this time.
There was also a concept to include an extension of the stream walk near the south side of Manor Vail
and an addition of an aquatic center to the Updated Ford Park Management Plan for future possibilities.
The aquatic center was voted down in the past by voters; there is not a location in Ford Park to build an
aquatic center, would not be financially feasible and would need more parking as well as this facility
would displace current parking.
There was a no vote to the unfunded streamwalk idea and an aquatic center from Council.
Daly said another important element missing is addressing noise issues in Ford Park, traffic from I-70
and the noise from the playing fields during concerts needs to be addressed by building berms or walls.
He said there has to be a compromise between user groups to develop a sound mitigating system.
Daly feels strongly that this needs to be in the management plan.
Oppenheimer said noise is being studied with the lawn seating redevelopment.
Tjossem asked if there is a replacement of the restrooms in the playground area. Oppenheimer said
that is an unfunded item at this point. Greg Hall, Public Works Director, said the 5 year Real Estate
Transfer Tax (RETT) budget includes this replacement.
Rogers said she heard comments at a Bravo! meeting about closing off the eastern entrance to the
amphitheater and thought it didn’t make sense. She asked what the reasoning was to keep the east
gate closed.
Oppenheimer said that the changes operationally and eliminating two locations for a bag check and
ticketing were factors as well as trying to keep the focus on people having the whole experience into
the amphitheater are driving issues. Rogers said she wants to keep the east entry open unless there is
a compelling reason not to keep it open. A single point of entry was a concern for Council.
Zemler said Braun and Zehren will put into graphics the results of the discussion tonight for the March
20, 2012, meeting. Daly requested three to four slides be presented at the Community Meeting on
March 13.
The sixteenth item on the agenda was adjournment.
As there was no further business, Moffet made a motion to adjourn and the motion was seconded by
Foley. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 7-0. The meeting adjourned at 8:50
p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
__________________________________
Attest: Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
________________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
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Vail Town Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
6:00 P.M.
Vail Town Council Chambers
The regular meeting of the Vail Town Council was called to order at approximately 6:10 P.M. by Mayor
Andrew P. Daly.
Members present: Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
Kerry Donovan
Kevin Foley
Ludwig Kurz
Margaret Rogers
Susie Tjossem
Members absent: Greg Moffet
Staff members: Stan Zemler, Town Manager
Matt Mire, Town Attorney
Pam Brandmeyer
__________________________________________________________________________________
The first item on the agenda was Citizen’s Participation. Jonathan Levine, owner of Hummers of Vail,
stated he has made several phone calls to the Police Chief and Town Attorney and staff haven’t
returned his phone calls. He wants clarification on the cost of a sign that was taken down at the Vail
Transportation Center (VTC). He said he was not paying for the sign. He said he was talking to
attorneys as he continues to feel the limousine/taxi issues at the VTC are not fair.
Daly reminded Levine that at the last Council meeting he attended, the Council said they were no
longer going to discuss this issue until the fall. He said Levine should move forward with his legal
remedies. Daly said the issues and charges are between the Vail Police Department and Levine. Stan
Zemler, Town Manager, said Levine should send his check for the sign to the Town of Vail, to his
attention. Matt Mire, Town Attorney, requested a copy of any correspondence from Levine as well.
Levine said he had another issue with the police department. He said his business was robbed and he
has not had a response from the police chief to bring any charges forward. He contacted the District
Attorney’s office and they said the charges need to be instigated by a law enforcement agency. Levine
also said there was a recent incident at the VTC where over 50 people needed transportation late at
night. He said someone from Vail dispatch called him and asked him to send vehicles to the VTC to
help alleviate the problem. Daly said Council has requested the police chief and his staff monitor this
area.
Jill Ryan introduced herself and stated she is running for the District 1 County Commissioner seat this
fall. She is meeting with various towns in Eagle County to introduce herself and to see if anyone has
questions for her. She invited the Council to meet with her in the near future or go on her website
which has the topics she cares about. She dropped off her business cards for the Council.
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Paul Rondeau, a Vail resident, said he understands Ordinance No. 4, 2012, is being tabled this
evening. He is very interested in the municipal site redevelopment. He thinks the new municipal
building should be LEEDs certified. He said he heard at the community meeting on March 13, the
community was told this was a joint partnership between the town and the hospital. He then read in the
newspaper there was no formal partnership between the town and the hospital.
Daly said he may have misspoken at the community meeting and clarified that the town has no financial
liability on the Medical Office Building (MOB) site. However, the town will be sharing a parking garage
with the MOB. He said the MOB and the town offices will be sharing joint development design
coordination. Daly said there is an expectation of compatibility between the buildings. He said the
town processes with the Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) and the Design Review Board
(DRB) would not allow two distinct building designs on the one site.
Jamie Jones, the new director of the Children’s Garden of Learning introduced herself to Council. She
thanked the Council for the continued support and use of the building for the Children’s Garden of
Learning.
The second item on the agenda was the approval of the Consent Agenda.
The consent agenda included the Lionshead Streetscape Construction Bid Award.
Tom Kassmel, Town Engineer, said the East Lionshead Circle contract had three contractor bids on
March 9. Staff reviewed the final bids and has chosen B & B Excavating as the contractor. He said
there were currently four options. The base bid of $1.6 million does not include a boiler. The second
option includes the boiler and provides a preferred location near the bridge for just over $2 million. The
third option includes heating the bus loop areas and cross walks with a total of $2.2 million. He said it
is within the budget and will be beneficial to the pedestrians, guests, the bus service and removal of
snow in those areas. The fourth option is similar to the third option but has an acceleration component.
The third option is the preferred and recommended staff option. Staff speculates there will be an
additional two to three weeks needed in the fall to complete the project so they didn’t need to add
$40,000 extra to the cost.
Foley made a motion to award the contract to B&B Excavating in the amount of $2,190,270.70 in a
contract form approved by the Town Attorney and signed by the Town Manager, for the construction of
the East Lionshead Bus Stop and Concert Hall Plaza Streetscape Improvement Project including the
ELHC and CHP Base Bids and Alternates 1,2,3,4,5 and 6. The motion was seconded by Tjossem.
Daly said project was being funded by Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds.
A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The third item on the agenda was the Town Manager Report. There was nothing to report under this
item.
The fourth item on the agenda was Resolution No. 14, Series of 2012, a resolution adopting the Town
of Vail Strategic Plan 2012 – 2022 and Work Plan 2012 – 2013; and setting forth details in regard
thereto.
Stan Zemler, Town Manager, said staff incorporated the input received from Council from the meeting
two weeks ago and asked them to adopt it and put it in place.
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Donovan asked what the rationale was in adding Fire Chief Mark Miller on as the staff contact for
developing future leadership. Zemler said Miller is currently participating in a leadership program in the
valley and Police Chief Dwight Henninger has been a trainer and a participate and is involved in
leadership programs, both have good skill sets, involvement, contacts and processes for this.
Daly said Council wants to have more people participate in town boards and using it as a mechanism to
identify future leaders. The Council wants to add advertisements to the process for the board notices in
addition to placing our legal notices as required.
Tjossem said Donovan suggested in the possibility of seeing if one or more of the board meetings could
be changed to meet in the evening to encourage and attract more people that work during the day to
participate. Tjossem stated she knows staff is involved and supports these meetings and doesn’t want
them to spend more time but would like the possibility explored.
Daly suggested under Economic Vitality that the room nights suggested is not growth. He asked
Zemler to work with Kelli McDonald to come up with more substantial goals for this item.
He also stated under the Conference Center Funds staff has specified the beginning dates of the
projects but what Council is also interested in is the completion dates of the projects. He asked that the
completion dates be added to the document.
Kurz made a motion to approve Resolution No. 14, Series of 2012 and the motion was seconded by
Donovan. Daly asked if they could add the suggestions he stated. Kurz amended his motion to include
the suggestions by Daly, and the motion was seconded by Donovan. A vote was taken and the motion
passed unanimously, 6-0.
The fifth item on the agenda was a presentation by attorneys for Rothgerber, Johnson and Lyons
regarding lodging tax paid by Online Travel Companies (OTC’s) and current litigation regarding the
same.
Matt Mire, town attorney, stated the Council was advised by legal memorandum on this item. He
introduced Trey Rogers, an attorney for Rothgerber, Johnson and Lyons; they represent the Town of
Breckenridge and other municipalities and is here to answer questions.
Trey Rogers gave the Council background on the nature of the case. He said the OTC’s are not paying
adequate sales and lodging taxes. He gave an example of the OTC process and the hotel selling the
product online. When booked online, the consumer pays the tax to the OTC’s and then it pays the
taxes to the hotel. The town doesn’t get paid the tax. This has gone on since 2000. The damages
amount to millions of dollars including penalties and interest. More specifically, the litigation pertains to
how those amounts are calculated and whether the correct amount of excise and/or sales tax is
remitted based on the actual “Retail Rate” of the subject lodging. Based upon information and belief,
the OTC defendants have systematically failed to remit the correct amounts to the town and to other
Colorado municipalities. The Rothgerber firm has filed a suit on behalf of the Town of Breckenridge
based upon this theory and discussed the Town of Vail’s legal options to pursue these claims. He
asked the town to engage them as attorney’s and be part of the class action suit.
Daly asked him to explain the potential expenses of the firm, if the firm is successful and what would
happen if they weren’t successful. Trey Rogers said the town would pay a percentage for the
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attorney’s fees if they won, but if they lose, the firm would eat the fees. Mire asked if the town had to
go it alone what would the fees be. Trey Rogers said 25%.
Rogers suggested the town retain the attorneys for several reasons, financially, and retaining them the
town has more direct control over how it proceeds.
Rogers made a motion to have the town attorney prepare a resolution to move forward with the class
action suit and the motion was seconded by Foley. A vote was taken and the motion passed
unanimously, 6-0.
The sixth item on the agenda was the Golden Peak traffic discussion on Vail Valley Drive.
Greg Hall stated Council had requested staff to provide and review what traffic issues were happening
at the Golden peak area. Hall said other than 35 high traffic days at Golden Peak, the flow of traffic
works well.
He said high traffic volume happened during the time there are Devo programs, as well as an additional
eighteen days; fourteen days are on Saturdays when there are 600 kids in the Devo program. He said
the lower lot at Ski and Snowboard Club of Vail (SSCV), processes traffic in two groups, from 8:30 to
8:45 a.m. beginning around 8:15 a.m. or so. The Devo parking drop off is located at the parking
garage. Vail Resorts, Inc. (VRI) staffs the garage and the town runs two buses. There is a ski
instructor to greet people. He said there were 50 cars and 135 people that were in that process on
Saturday. In the lower lot, there is also a passport club with structured spaces where 140 parking
spaces were built. He said it is very rare that all 140 spaces get used. He said 15-20 people get their
parking spaces in the pool. There is a valley-wide system between the town, VRI and Mountain Valet.
There is an easement in the lower lot that is used for valet and storage at the west lot at Ford Park.
There is a long delay at the end of the day during peak times. The town gets 5% of the gross amount
from Mountain Valet.
The Devo program backs up traffic onto Vail Valley Drive. He said the town used to have hotel shuttles
in this area but removed them two years ago. They also moved the drop off at Golden Peak to the bus
lane. Those changes significantly reduced the traffic.
The upper lot at the Children’s Center is designated for the Children’s Ski School. Around 500 kids get
dropped off. It’s the only nursery in the VRI system that is open on Saturday and/or holidays. At this lot
during peak times VRI has three employees regulating and assisting. The worst times are the holiday
periods: Christmas, New Years, President’s weekend, as well as Saturdays and two weekends in
March during Spring Break. The Larkspur restaurant also has use of this lot for their patrons for lunch
and dinner. The lot is leased to the Vail Recreation District (VRD) in the summer. There are some
issues in this area when the Bravo! concerts are happening. During races there are also traffic issue
times.
Hall explained and reviewed the memorandum of the various components of when peak times are
happening and remedies. Manor Vail parking, when it is used as public parking, also contributes to the
traffic as vehicles back up outside of their gate and onto Vail Valley Drive. Recommendations are to
set up neighborhood meetings and meet in groups to help find solutions to the traffic concerns.
Jeff Babb, with VRI, pointed out that they have made tremendous strides over the last two to three
years in this area. He said this is a perception problem and is an issue less than 1/3 of the ski season
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and less than one hour a day. He said the local community doesn’t cooperate by not dropping off
people in this area. He doesn’t believe they will eliminate all the traffic on Vail Valley Drive, but they
can alleviate some of the traffic.
Tjossem asked Babb if Devo’s 50 cars are using the Vail Transportation Center (VTC). Babb said the
50 vehicle number ebbs and flows. He said he is reluctant to make it mandatory that they use the VTC.
He said there is a fine guest service line between forcing guests to use the VTC with negative
reinforcement and using the park and ride system. VRI routinely hands out flyers, posts on their web
site, and talks to guests face to face to alleviate some of the traffic. Tjossem said she heard it is very
successful. Babb said it is and this is the third year. VRI keeps tweaking the process to make it better
every year. The Devo traffic has been cut in half.
Daly asked Hall if there is an opportunity to reevaluate the valet system. Hall said they need to make a
decision prior to June 1st. Babb said he needs to notify his vendor 60 days prior to modifying the
contract, which is April 1st. Tjossem asked if there are opportunities in Lionshead with the new drop off
area. Hall said staff could look at Lionshead. He said if the town takes away the valet at Golden Peak,
parents may drive more.
Babb said the Golden Peak valet uses Manor Vail parking as well. Kurz said he spent Saturday on
Spraddle Creek watching the traffic with Hall and Babb. He agrees with Babb that there is a one to
one-and-one-half hours of peak traffic on Saturday. He said the community needs to have tolerance for
this period of time. He is hoping everyone can look at the bigger picture. He said it may be beneficial to
have a code enforcement officer at the entrance to the lower lot for the one to one-and-one-half hours.
He is impressed with the way VRI and staff understand how things work in this area.
Aldo Rademus, CEO of SSCV, said the traffic is a serious concern and the SSCV want to help
participate in solving this traffic area. He said there are things they could do better. He said the Devo
program process is to start at one time. Of the SSCV kids, up to half of them are athletes and are
away at competition. Each kid has to have several skis, plus other equipment. There would be a
challenge to get all their gear from the VTC to the SSCV. They are interested in working with VRI and
the town to help come up with solutions to this issue. He said there have been significant
improvements over the past year. The SSCV redevelopment plan will help address this issue as well.
Frank Loretti, from Minturn, said he wanted to push his idea of a ski lift from Minturn to Vail. He thinks
Minturn has an approved ski area in Minturn and wants to connect it to Vail. This will help with the
traffic and ski school.
Daly said he approached the Town of Minturn around 12 years ago to be included in the Forest Service
Plan and the town turned it down. The town would need to work with the Forest Service and change
the status with the Forest Service.
Peter Knobel said the skier drop off needs to be addressed at Mill Creek Circle as well.
Jim Lamont, representing the Vail Homeowners Association, said this was an opportunity to have all
the operators give an update on their services. Now dialogue can continue with input with potential
options to help alleviate the traffic issues. He spent the last three Saturday mornings at Golden Peak.
He said it’s almost like watching a choreographed ballet with the traffic. He said there needs to be a
police officer at this area during peak times to help, not just a code enforcement officer. He said the
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process will need to address entitlement issues. He said he observed vehicles stopping in the middle
of Vail Valley Drive three or four times. Also, Blue Cow Chute is also an area to avoid backups.
Daly suggested Hall, Babb, Lamont and SSCV work together for another 30 days and come back with a
recommendation.
Foley asked if the town made Vail Valley Drive a one-way street for a couple of hours if that would help.
Babb said yes he thought it would; however, they tried this in the past and he has gotten “flipped off” by
people in the vehicles.
Hall said the valet service is an automatic renewal if no notice is given.
Daly said staff should give notice to the valet company and then work on more solutions.
The seventh item on the agenda was second reading of Ordinance No. 4, Series of 2012, an ordinance
authorizing the sale of a portion of the real property located at 75 South Frontage Road, Vail, Colorado,
(the "Town Hall Property") to Vail MOB, LLC, for the purchase price of $5 million, and setting forth
details in regard thereto.
George Ruther, Community Development Director, said the Town of Vail (TOV), in cooperation with the
Vail Valley Medical Center (VVMC) and the Steadman Clinic (SC), wishes to redevelop a portion of the
town's property located at 75 South Frontage Road. To do so, the TOV, VVMC and SC signed a
memorandum of understanding, which in part, acknowledges the sale of a portion of Town property to
VVMC and SC for $5 million. The purchase price was established based upon a value of use appraisal
completed for the property. Pursuant to the terms of the purchase and sale agreement, the title to the
property shall not occur until such time as a building permit for the new medical office building is ready
for issuance and a construction loan guaranteeing the construction of the building is secured and ready
for funding.
Ruther stated the town staff recommends the Council approves Ordinance No. 4, Series of 2012, on
second reading, as read.
Daly said there are title issues to be cleared up. The Council had an opportunity to discuss the
purchase and sale agreement and will have comments to add and make sure this meets the town’s
long term goals and needs. He said keeping the hospital and Steadman in town for many years is a
long term goal.
Foley made a motion to table this item to the April 3, 2012, public meeting. The motion was seconded
by Donovan. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The eighth item on the agenda was Resolution 15, Series of 2012, a resolution approving the
conveyance of a portion of the real property located at 75 South Frontage Road, Vail, Colorado (The
Town Hall Property) from The Vail, Colorado, Municipal Building Authority and accepting such property.
Daly said this item needed to be tabled to the April 3, 2012, public meeting.
Donovan made a motion to table Resolution 15, Series of 2012, to the April 3, 2012, public meeting.
The motion was seconded by Foley. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
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The ninth item on the agenda was the appointment of members to the Art in Public Places Board
(AIPP), Design Review Board (DRB), Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) and the Building
and Fire Code Appeals Board (BFCAB) to fill vacancies on each board.
Daly stated the Council interviewed the interested applicant’s at the work session earlier in the day.
Four members needed to be appointed to the AIPP; three members to the DRB and four members to
the PEC. All the terms are for two year terms, which end March 31, 2014. The Council also appointed
one member to the BFCAB, for a five-year term ending March 31, 2017.
The Council voted to fill the vacancies for each board as follows:
Kurz made a motion to appoint Dorothy Browning, Kaili Chipman, William Pierce and Dan Telleen to
the AIPP board and the motion was seconded by Foley. A vote was taken and the motion passed
unanimously, 6-0.
Foley made a motion to appoint Mark Mueller to the BFCAB and the motion was seconded by
Donovan. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
Kurz made a motion to appoint Rollie Kjesbo, Elizabeth Maio, and Andrew Forstl to the DRB and the
motion was seconded by Foley. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
Rogers made a motion to appoint Susan Bird, William Pierce, Henry Pratt and John Rediker to the PEC
and the motion was seconded by Foley. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The tenth item on the agenda was second reading of Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2012, an ordinance
amending Section 3-3-2 ("Appointment of Board Members"), and Section 3-3-3,
("Membership; Terms"), Vail Town Code, Relating to Eligibility and Terms of Members of the Arts Board
and setting forth details in regard thereto.
Matt Mire, Town Attorney, stated this is second reading of Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2012.
Pursuant to a recommendation from the Town of Vail Arts Board (the “Board”), the Council desires to
amend the terms of the Art Board to two year terms, to reduce the Board’s members, to clarify Board
member requirements, and to eliminate required participation from persons serving on other Town
boards.
Rogers made a motion to approve second reading of Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2012, and the motion
was seconded by Donovan. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The eleventh item on the agenda was a request to table first reading of Ordinance No. 2, Series of
2012, an ordinance amending Chapter 12-6, Residential Districts, Vail Town Code, pursuant to Section
12- 3-7, Amendment, Vail Town Code, to establish a new zone district, Vail Village Townhouse (VVT)
District, and setting forth details in regard thereto; and Resolution No. 7, Series of 2012, amending
Chapter VII, Vail Village Sub-Areas, East Gore Creek Sub-Area (#6), Vail Village Master Plan, pursuant
to Chapter VIII, Implementation and Amendment, Vail Village
Master Plan, to include recommendations related to a new Vail Village Townhouse (VVT) District, and
setting forth details in regard thereto.
Donovan made a motion to table the first reading of Ordinance No. 2, Series of 2012, and Resolution
No. 7, Series of 2012, to the April 3, 2012 public meeting. The motion was seconded by Kurz.
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Foley asked why this item was being tabled. Zemler said this is at the applicant’s request.
The motion was amended and seconded to include the date of April 3, 2012 for the next public meeting.
A vote was taken and the motion passed, 5-1, with Foley opposed
The twelfth item on the agenda was a request to table the Ever Vail applications to the April 3, 2012
public meeting.
Donovan made a motion to continue the Ever Vail major subdivision and Ordinance Nos. 7, 8, and 9,
Series of 2011, to the April 3, 2012 public hearing. The motion was seconded by Rogers. Foley asked
why this item was being tabled. Zemler said this was going to be discussed at the executive session
but they ran out of time.
A vote was taken and the motion passed, 5-1, Foley against.
The thirteenth item on the agenda was the Vail Public Library (Vail Library) renovation project.
Greg Hall, Public Works Director, reviewed the staff memo with Council. In September, staff talked to
Council about combining Phase 1 and Phase 2. Council has taken a tour of the library space. Hall said
Council needed to approve this evening to move the project forward. Staff has moved through the DRB
and PEC process. The project is ready to go. He said the budget is not where it needs to be; however,
to bring the building up to code will cost $200,000. In the final design, all the bids came in significantly
higher. Staff has worked with the designers, and continues to value engineer the project. However,
continuing to cut items from the budget would not give us a library that would be up to Vail standards.
He said the library staff would be moved to the town owned Vail Village Inn space and will open a
limited library at a space within Dobson Ice Arena.
He said the Vail Library remodel project is a project which has been in the works over the last couple
years in different forms. In September of 2011, the Council directed the staff to prepare a project which
combines two previously separate phases into one project. The Town staff believes providing an
additional $350,000 to the Vail Library project budget at this time will allow the project to move forward
on a schedule which is the least disruptive to the community. It will allow a major upgrade to the Vail
Library, similar to the quality and technological upgrades taking place at the other Town buildings, e.g.,
the Lionshead Welcome Center, West Vail Fire Station and the anticipated New Municipal Building.
He said staff requests the Council authorize an additional $350,000 be added to the Vail Public Library
Renovation Project to be funded from the Vail Reinvestment Authority Tax Increment Fund Balance
and to authorize the Town Manager to enter into a contract with Evans-Chaffee Construction Group to
perform the remodel work. The staff, design team and contractor will continue identifying ways in which
the quality of the project is maintained, with cost savings to the town. The project will begin demo in the
lower portions of the Library the last week of March with the library closing for the week of April 3 to
establish a small limited library in Dobson Arena.
Staff wanted direction on how to proceed with this project based on the review of the information
provided on the Library Renovation Project. This included amending the budget by $350,000, entering
into contract with Evans-Chaffee Construction Group and scheduling the closing of the building, moving
staff and equipment, etc. out and setting up of a temporary “mini/limited" library during construction this
spring in the Dobson Ice Arena.
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Foley asked if the additional $350,000 is the bottom line. Hall said there are contingencies but staff
feels this could be a bottom line but can say never. Daly asked how much the town is spending to set
up the temporary library at Dobson. Hall said the cost is minimal and it’s mostly for wiring for
technology. He said the town is responsible to get wiring into Dobson anyway so this would still be
needed. Hall said this is a significant renovation of the library and not a total remodel.
Foley asked if this work is being done during ski season. Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager,
said e-mail stations and the Children’s Story Hour, held on the second floor of the Lionshead Welcome
Center. She said all their bases are covered. She said having it open by July 4th is more important for
our community and guests. Brandmeyer said the library will be open for business after the first the
week in April.
Daly asked about the bidding process. Hall said when staff put out the budget in September 2011, the
numbers were put together from sub contractor bids and technology needs, or lack there of. The bid
process for the subcontractors ended in February. However the general contractor is still Evans
Chaffee.
Jonathan Staufer, resident, said he is a frequent user of the Vail Library. He said he sees how people
use the library and it is an unsung cultural hero of the valley. The library provides communication links
for guests and many other services for locals. He said $500,000 or a million dollars is a bargain for this
facility and over the long term it is an asset to the town.
Judy Gold, another long time resident and library user, said the Vail Library is a gem for the community.
The asset it provides to guests is invaluable and reaches people in the resort community as well as the
locals. She said the town needs to keep this valuable entity healthy.
Dick Cleveland, previous Mayor and resident, said he has been involved since this process began. His
is disappointed about the piecemeal approach on this project. He said this is a valuable asset to the
town and it needs work. It’s 30 years old, the town has the money and it needs to be upgraded. He
said the additional costs are unfortunate, but its time to spend the money. Do the project right and get
it ready for 2015: spend the money, bite the bullet, do it now.
Daly said this cost is $600,000 more than originally budgeted.
Zemler said the direction Council gave two meetings ago, was to bring it on budget. Staff has worked
hard to keep the costs down. He is comfortable with where this has ended up. He said it time to stop
cheapening it out. There is $2 million in the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) fund and this project needs
an additional $350,000. This is not much for the project. He said other projects that may come up for
use of TIF funds are Sundial Plaza and the medians in the road. He said it is important to approve now
as it fits in the queue for work projects and if this doesn’t get done now, it wouldn’t be done for years
down the road.
Jim Lamont, representing the Vail Homeowners Association, asked if the flood mitigation has been
taken care of to help protect the asset. He also asked how far the town would be extending the life
cycle of the building with these improvements being done.
Hall said flood protection will be done this summer. Hall said the building is structurally sound, the roof
has been redone and the project will be doubling the life of the building to another 30 years.
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Town Council Meeting Minutes of March 20, 2012 Page 10
Lamont said this is well worth the investment. He said the Vail Library defines the community. If they
asked for double the cost, it’s well worth the investment for the community. This is an integral part of
the community. Give them what they need and then some.
Foley made a motion to authorize an additional $350,000 be added to the Vail Public Library
Renovation Project to be funded from the Vail Reinvestment Authority Tax Increment Fund Balance
and to authorize the Town Manager to enter into a contract with Evans-Chaffee Construction Group to
perform the remodel work. The motion was seconded by Rogers. A vote was taken and the motion
passed, 6-0.
The fourteenth item on the agenda was adjournment.
As there was no further business, Foley made a motion to adjourn and the motion was seconded by
Donovan. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0. The meeting adjourned at 8:20
p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
__________________________________
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
Attest:
________________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
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4/17/2012
Resolution No. 18, Series of 2012
RESOLUTIO O. 18
Series of 2012
A RESOLUTIO APPROVIG THE EMPLOYMET OF ROTHGERBER JOHSO
& LYOS LLP AS SPECIAL COUSEL; AD SETTIG FORTH D ETAILS I
REGARD THERETO.
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail (the "Town"), in the County of Eagle and State of
Colorado is a home rule municipal corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of
Colorado and the Town Charter (the "Charter");
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council (the “Council”) is authorized by Section
1-6C-1 of the Town Code to employ special counsel to serve under the direction of the Town
Attorney;
WHEREAS, the Council desires to employ Rothgerber Johnson & Lyons, LLP
(“RJ&L”) to serve as special counsel for the Town pursuant to Section 1-6C-1 of the Town
Code;
WHEREAS, a proposed form of contingent fee agreement for legal services (the
“Agreement”) between the Town and RJ&L has been prepared, a copy of which is marked
Exhibit “A”, attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference; and
WHEREAS, the Council has reviewed the Agreement, and finds and determines
that it should be approved.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF VAIL, COLORADO, as follows:
Section 1. The Agreement between the Town and Rothgerber Johnson & Lyons, LLP
(Exhibit “A” hereto) is approved; and the Town Manager is authorized, empowered, and
directed to execute the Agreement for and on behalf of the Town of Vail. Minor
changes to or amendments of the Agreement may be made by the Town Manager if the Town
Attorney certifies in writing that the proposed changes or amendments do not substantially affect
the essential elements of the Agreement.
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
INTRODUCED, PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council of
the Town of Vail held this 17th day of April, 2012.
__________________________________
Andrew P. Daly
Mayor of the Town of Vail, Colorado
ATTEST:
_______________________
Lorelei Donaldson,
Town Clerk
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{00967100 / 1} 2
Exhibit A
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To: Town Council
From: Public Works
Date: April 17, 2012
Subject: FRONTAGE ROAD SHOULDER WIDENING PHASE II PROJECT
I. ACTION REQUESTED
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with Icon, Inc. for an amount
not to exceed $408,548.72 to complete the project.
II. BACKGROUND
The project consists of widening the Frontage Road from Bald Mountain Rd to the East
Vail exit to accommodate 6’ wide paved shoulders in both directions and
shoulder/drainage improvements at the East Vail I-70 exit. This project is a continuation
of the 2011 project which completed the shoulders improvements from Ford Park to
Bald Mountain Road. Staff received 5 bids on April 2nd for the Frontage Road Shoulder
Widening Phase II project with Icon, Inc the low responsible bidder. The project is
within budget and is scheduled to be completed by June 29, 2012.
III. STAFF RECOMENDATION
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with Icon, Inc. for an amount
not to exceed $408,548.72 to complete the project.
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To: Town Council
From: Public Works
Date: April 17, 2012
Subject: 2012 SLURRY SEAL PROJECT
I. ACTION REQUESTED
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with Intermountain Slurry Seal
for an amount not to exceed $170,220.00 to complete the project.
II. BACKGROUND
The project consists of a maintenance slurry seal on roads in East Vail and Mill Creek
Circle. Staff received 3 bids on April 5th for the 2012 Slurry Seal project with
Intermountain Slurry Seal, Inc the low responsible bidder. The project is within budget
and is scheduled for a June 2012 construction.
III. STAFF RECOMENDATION
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement with Intermountain Slurry Seal
for an amount not to exceed $170,220.00 to complete the project.
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VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Town Manager Report:
1) Selection of two Council members to ACE subcommittee to review poll questions and ballot
language - Kelli McDonald
2) Naming of the LionsHead Welcome Center Community Space - Pam Brandmeyer
BACKGROUND: The subcommittee met Wednesday, April 11, to make a recommendation for
the naming of the LionsHead Welcome Center Community Space. The committee (Kevin
Foley, Kerry Donovan, Kim Newbury, Rob Levine, Kelli McDonald and Pam Brandmeyer) also
went over to do a site visit of the space. Some conclusions they shared:
-The space itself doesn’t speak strongly of a particular personality
-If named after an individual, the individual should be deceased
-Rather than just a connection to LionsHead, it seems to pull the two villages together
-The name must work on an invitation
-Is this the time to tie it into the Pioneer Weekend or to the Founders or to the 50th Anniversary
or should the town work to better “name” individuals within the framework of public spaces that
have already been designated, e.g., Founder’s Plaza, Parker’s Green/Founder’s Garage, etc.
After viewing the space and ending up on the western deck, the committee unanimously
agreed upon: The Grand View
Since this is a combining of a couple of nominations but not an exact nomination itself, the
committee recommends Council put all recommender’s names in a hat, and draw for the 2012-
13 parking pass.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Endorse the naming of this space as The Grand View and
select a recipient of the 2012-13 parking pass.
PRESENTER(S): Stan Zemler
4/17/2012
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012, a resolution amending the Ford Park
Management Plan, and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC120006)
PRESENTER(S): Todd Oppenheimer, Public Works Department and Warren Campbell,
Community Development Department
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: The Vail Town Council shall approve, approve with
modifications, or deny Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012.
BACKGROUND: On March 5, March 26, and April 9, 2012, the Planning and Environmental
Commission held public hearings to discuss the various proposed park improvements and the
associated management plan amendments. On April 9, 2012, the Planning and Environmental
Commission forwarded a recommendation of approval to the Vail Town Council for the
proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan by a vote of 5-1-0 (Pratt opposed).
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The Planning and Environmental Commission recommends
the Vail Town Council approves Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012.
ATTACHMENTS:
Town Council memo
Resolution No. 17
Resolution No. 17 Exhibit A
PEC memo
Ford Park Presentation 041712
4/17/2012
TO: Vail Town Council
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: April 17, 2012
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012, a resolution amending the Ford Park
Management Plan, and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC120006)
Applicant: Town of Vail
Planner: Bill Gibson
I. SUMMARY
Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012, a resolution amending the Ford Park Management
Plan, and setting forth details in regard thereto.
The proposed Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012, (Attachment A), Planning and
Environmental Commission memorandum dated April 9, 2012 (Attachment B), Planning
and Environmental Commission draft hearing results dated April 9, 2012 (Attachment
C), have been attached for review.
II. DESCRIPTION OF THE REQUEST
WHO IS PROPOSING THE AMENDMENTS TO THE FORD PARK MANAGEMENT
PLAN?
The applicant, Town of Vail, is proposing amendments to the Ford Park
Management Plan in collaboration with the Vail Recreation District, Vail Valley
Foundation, and Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
WHY AMEND THE FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN?
The Ford Park Management Plan was last updated on April 14, 1997. On
November 8, 2011, the Town of Vail electorate approved ballot question #1
which re-allocated conference center funds to Ford Park and Vail Golf Course
projects. The funding of these projects necessitates updates to the Ford Park
Management Plan.
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Town of Vail Page 2
WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE FACILITATED BY THESE AMENDMENTS TO THE
FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN?
The following is a summary of the future Ford Park capital improvements
associated with the management plan amendments:
• Park entry improvements at Vail Valley Drive at Gore Creek streamwalk,
Manor Vail, and Nature Center Bridge
• Frontage Road entry pedestrian improvements
• Frontage Road entry bus stop and shelter
• Frontage Road entry on-street/off-street parking and passenger drop-off
• Athletic field concessions/restroom building
• Athletic field expansion (alignment, bleachers, fencing, landscaping, etc.)
• Athletic field west restroom/storage building
• Lower Bench playground restrooms
• Lower Bench walkway path
• Gore Creek streamwalk
• Ford Family Tribute
• Betty Ford Way streetscaping and improvements
• Amphitheater social courtyard
• Amphitheater loading/delivery vehicle turn-around area
• Amphitheater ticketing , restrooms, and lawn seating
• Amphitheater / Athletic fields noise mitigation
• Betty Ford Alpine Gardens north entry
• Betty Ford Alpine Gardens expansion area
• Betty Ford Alpine Gardens education center
• Service and Delivery central trash enclosure
• Service and Delivery East Betty Ford Way access road
• Art in Public Places (AIPP)
• Way-finding and signage
• Delineating a park preservation zone
• Shuttle service programming
WHICH PORTIONS OF THE FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN ARE PROPOSED
TO BE AMENDED?
The applicant is proposing amendments to update the following sections of the
Ford Park Management Plan:
• Introduction
• Section 1: Executive Summary
• Section 2: Background of Ford Park
• Section 3: Process of Developing the Management Plan
• Section 4: Purpose of the Management Plan
• Section 6: Illustrative Plan Components
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Town of Vail Page 3
• Section 7: Capital Improvements Plan for Ford Park
• Section 8: Appendix
WHICH PORTIONS OF THE FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN ARE NOT
PROPOSED TO BE AMENDED?
The applicant is not proposing amendments to the following section of the Ford
Park Management Plan:
• Section 5: Goals, Policies, and Action Steps.
III. BACKGROUND
Since the 2011 election, the applicant, Town of Vail, has prepared the proposed
amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan in collaboration with the Vail
Recreation District, Vail Valley Foundation, and Betty Ford Alpine Gardens; met with the
adjacent property owners; held public open house events; and presented updates at
public hearings before the Vail Town Council.
On March 5, March 26, and April 9, 2012, the Planning and Environmental Commission
held public hearings to discuss the various proposed park improvements and the
associated management plan amendments. On April 9, 2012, the Planning and
Environmental Commission forwarded a recommendation of approval to the Vail Town
Council for the proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan by a vote of
5-1-0 (Pratt opposed). Commissioner Pratt noted his opposition to constructing a
storage building at the west end of the athletic fields and noted his concerns that for the
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens education building location should be discussed further.
IV. ACTION REQUESTED OF THE COUNCIL
The Planning and Environmental Commission recommends the Vail Town Council
approves Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012.
V. RECOMMENDATION
On April 9, 2012, the Planning and Environmental Commission forwarded a
recommendation of approval to the Vail Town Council for the proposed Ford Park
Management Plan amendments based upon a review of the criteria outlined in Section
V of the April 9, 2012, Staff memorandum and the evidence and testimony presented at
multiple public hearings.
Should the Vail Town Council choose to approve this resolution, the Planning and
Environmental Commission recommends the Council pass the following motion:
“The Vail Town Council approves Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012, a resolution
amending the Ford Park Management Plan, to facilitate the construction of
various improvements to the park as a result of the 2011 voter approved re-
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Town of Vail Page 4
allocation of conference center funds to Ford Park and Vail Golf Course projects,
and setting forth details in regard thereto.”
Should the Vail Town Council choose to approve this resolution, the Planning and
Environmental Commission recommends the Council makes the following findings:
“Based upon the review of the criteria outlined in Section V of Staff’s April 9,
2012 memorandum and the evidence and testimony presented, the Vail Town
Council finds:
1. That the amendments are consistent with the applicable elements of the
adopted goals, objectives and policies outlined in the Vail comprehensive
plan and is compatible with the development objectives of the town; and
2. That the amendments further the general and specific purposes of the zoning
regulations; and
3. That the amendments promote the health, safety, morals, and general welfare
of the town and promote the coordinated and harmonious development of the
town in a manner that conserves and enhances its natural environment and
its established character as a resort and residential community of the highest
quality.”
VI. ATTACHMENTS
A. Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012
B. Planning and Environmental Commission Memorandum April 9, 2012
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1
Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012
RESOLUTION NO. 17
Series of 2012
A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN, AND
SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN REGARD THERETO.
WHEREAS, the Ford Park Management Plan was last updated on April 14, 1997;
and,
WHEREAS, on November 8, 2011, the Town of Vail electorate approved ballot
question #1 which stated:
“Without increasing taxes, shall the Town of Vail use the remainder of the one
and one-half percent lodging tax revenues and one-half percent sales tax
revenues collected from January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2005 to fund the
following projects that will promote recreation, promote tourism and support the
economy in the Town of Vail:
Expansion and improvement of the clubhouse at the Vail Golf Course and
Nordic Center, including multi-use community space;
Field expansion and restroom renovation at the Ford Park Sports
Complex; and
Ford Amphitheater improvements, including outdoor seating and restroom
improvements?” ;
WHEREAS, the allocation of funding for projects at Ford Park by the November
8, 2011, election necessitates updates to the Ford Park Management Plan;
WHEREAS, the purpose of the amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan
is to facilitate the construction of projects funded by the November 8, 2011, election;
WHEREAS, the amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan do not alter the
objectives or policy statements of the plan as adopted on April 14, 1997;
WHEREAS, the amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan are proposed
by the Town of Vail in collaboration with the Vail Recreation District, Vail Valley
Foundation, and Betty Ford Alpine Gardens;
WHEREAS, on March 5, March 26, and April 9, 2012, the Town of Vail Planning
and Environmental Commission held public hearings on an application to amend the
Ford Park Management Plan;
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2
Resolution No. 17, Series of 2012
WHEREAS, on April 9, 2012, the Town of Vail Planning and Environmental
Commission forwarded a recommendation of approval for the proposed Ford Park
Management Plan amendments to the Vail Town Council;
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council finds and determines that the amendments
are consistent with the applicable elements of the adopted goals, objectives and policies
outlined in the Vail Comprehensive Plan and is compatible with the development
objectives of the town;
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council finds and determines that the amendment to
the Vail Village Master Plan furthers the general and specific purposes of the plan; and,
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council finds and determines that the amendments
promote the health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the town and promote the
coordinated and harmonious development of the town in a manner that conserves and
enhances its natural environment and its established character as a resort and
residential community of the highest quality.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO THAT:
SECTION 1. The Ford Park Management Plan is hereby amended as depicted
in Exhibit A attached hereto (text to be deleted is in strikethrough, text that is to
be added is in red).
INTRODUCED, PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the
Town Council of the Town of Vail held this 17th day of April, 2012.
__________________
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
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AN UPDATE TO THE
FINAL REPORT
FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN
An Amendment to the Ford Park Master Plan
April 14, 1997
Updated April, 2012
New text added to the Plan is in “red”
Text deleted is in “strikeout”
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AN UPDATE TO THE
FINAL REPORT
FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN
An Amendment to the Ford Park Master Plan
Prepare for:
Town of Vail
Public Works Department
Community Development Department
Administration Department
Prepared by:
Braun Associates, Inc.
AECOM
Zehren Associates, Inc.
Updated
April, 2012
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 1
April 2012
Introduction
The Ford Park Management Plan herein presented is to serve as an amendment
to the 1985 Master Plan for Gerald R. Ford Park. The Ford Park Management
Plan contains eight sections. Sections 1 - 4 introduce the plan: An executive
summary, a history and time line of Ford Park, a description of the management
plan process, and a statement of purpose of the management plan. Section 5 is
the heart of the management plan: a set of six management goals with
accompanying objectives, action steps, and policy statements to provide a
framework for future management decisions. Section 6 contains illustrative,
conceptual plans and written descriptions which support the various action steps.
A 5-Year Capital Improvements Program for Ford Park is presented in Section 7.
In 2012 the Ford Park Management Plan was updated to reflect new ideas for
improvements planned for the Park. Plans to make improvements to the Park
were initiated when Vail voters approved funding by re-allocating a portion of
Convention Center Funds to Ford Park. The other stakeholders in the Park are
also participating in the funding of these improvements.
The 2012 update continues the overall direction for the Park established by the
1997 Management Plan and in doing so maintains the role the Park has played
in the community for the past 30 years. The 2012 update makes no significant
changes to the activities that currently take place in the Park. By way of
example, all of the major uses in the Park – athletic fields, passive recreation, the
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, the Alpine Gardens and tennis remain in place.
There are no changes to the six major goal statements or to the related
objectives, policy statements and action steps outlined in the 1997 Plan.
Refinements to the Plan resulting from the 2012 update are limited to the
Illustrative Plan Component of the 1997 Management Plan. The Illustrative Plan
Components are conceptual site plan diagrams of improvements suggested for
the Park. Many of the park improvements identified by the 2012 Update will
implement improvements first identified in the 1997 Plan. These improvements
and new improvements not previously contemplated by the 1997 Plan are
outlined in Section 6.
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 2
April 2012
Section 1: Executive Summary
The property which is today Gerald R. Ford Park was acquired by the town in
1973 in response to public reaction against a high density residential
development proposal. The 39 acre park site represented the last remaining
parcel of land central to use by all residents and visitors of the Vail Community.
The Vail Plan (1973) described the site as a major community park – cultural
center that would satisfy the town’s growing recreational and cultural needs.
Development of the lower portion of the park was directed by the Gerald R. Ford/
Donovan Park Master Plan (1985). Strong public participation led to the
establishment of guidelines for the implementation of future improvements.
Upper area improvements, softball fields, tennis courts, and parking areas, were
constructed without the benefit of preplanning and subsequently created some
barriers to the lower bench, natural areas, and Nature Center.
The Vail Village Master Plan (1990) recommended the park be considered as a
site for additional skier parking to serve expansion on the eastern side of Vail
Mountain. It also recommended the construction of bike/pedestrian ways along
the South Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive.
There are currently four main organizations involved in the operation of Ford
Park. The Town of Vail, Vail Recreation District, Alpine Garden Foundation, and
the Vail Valley Foundation all play distinct roles and manage separate portions of
the park. The Town of Vail is the owner of the park and manages the community
park, stream tract, and parking lot areas. The other three organizations each hold
a lease or license agreement to operate their respective facilities and programs
within the park.
A proposal by the Alpine Garden Foundation to construct an educational center
within the garden area was a significant impetus to the creation of this document.
However, several other formal and informal development expansion proposals
and numerous unresolved park management issues also existed. The Ford Park
Management Plan was created as a means to evaluate development proposals
in order to protect and enhance the character of the park.
The 1997 Plan was a direct product of strong public participation in focus groups
and public input sessions. One clear, concise message was conveyed to the
town staff from the public participants: Our role is steward to the park; don’t
screw it up by over development. To that end, this Plan, serving as an
amendment to the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan, was intended to guide the
outcome of future development and improvement proposals through the
implementation of six major goals:
1. Preservation and protection
2. Reduction of vehicular intrusions
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 3
April 2012
3. Reduction of conflicts between venues
4. Resolution of parking and Frontage Road access problems
5. Improvement of pedestrian circulation
6. Delineation of financial responsibilities
Designed to be a framework for future management decisions, a series of
objectives, action steps and policy statements facilitate the implementation of
each goal statement.
The most recent motivation for initiating improvements to Ford Park evolved from
discussions of how to utilize the Town’s Conference Center funding. In the Fall
of 2011 Vail voters approved the re-allocation of the $9-plus million Conference
Center Funds by an 87 percent margin. As endorsed by the voters, a portion of
these funds was to provide funding for improvements to Ford Park, specifically
improvements to the Ford Amphitheater, the Alpine Gardens, park-wide
pedestrian flow, as well as expansion of the athletic fields and restroom
improvements at the Ford Park athletic complex.
As a part of the 2012 Update process the 1997 Management Plan was one of the
considerations used to define improvements both necessary and appropriate for
the Park. Improvements contemplated for the Park are consistent with the
goals, objectives, policies and action steps of the 1997 Plan. However, some
improvements were new ideas and necessitated some clarification to the
Illustrative Site Plan concepts depicted in the 1997 Plan. In response to this the
2012 Update to the Ford Park Management Plan was prepared.
Ford Park Stakeholders
The Town of Vail is the land owner of Ford Park and plays an active role in the
management and operation of the Park. The Town also has lease or other
agreements with three other entities that manage and maintain facilities in the
Park:
x The Vail Recreation District,
x The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and
x The Vail Valley Foundation.
Collectively the Town and the Ford Park stakeholders have been working
collaboratively on the preparation of improvement plans for the Park and to
varying degrees each of the stakeholders are collaborating with the Town by
participating in the funding of their respective improvements
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 4
April 2012
Section 2: Background of Ford Park
History
Gerald R. Ford Park has been the subject of numerous legislative and
community planning actions over the last 24 years. The time line at the end of
this section illustrates the relationship between the actions discussed in this
section.
The Ford Park site was acquired by the Town of Vail in April of 1973 for the
stated purpose of improving the quality of life in the community. This 39 acre park
site represented the last remaining parcel of land central to use by all residents
and visitors of the Vail community. The existing conditions plan, which follows
this section, illustrates Ford Park in its current condition.
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 1973, signed April 3, 1973, (a copy of which is
included in the Appendix), authorized the purchase (by condemnation) of the
property known as the Antholz Ranch. The ordinance listed a variety of possible
uses for the property including the following:
x for park and greenbelt purposes,
x to preserve the natural and physical character of the area to be
condemned,
x for bicycle, equestrian and hiking trails,
x for children’s playground,
x for performing arts and civic center,
x for a ski lift and related facilities,
x for picnic areas,
x for recreational facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools,
gymnasium, ice skating rink,
x for theater and assembly halls, convention center, public schools,
x for possible exchange or trade of condemned land, or a portion thereof,
with other property which may exactly meet the needs of the town, and
x to construct and maintain water works, transportation systems, and other
public utilities relating to public health, safety, and welfare.
In August of 1973, the Vail Plan was completed. This plan was designed to
control the growth and development of the community and contained a chapter
on the town recreation system. The Antholz Ranch property was mentioned as
the only site satisfying the recreation use anticipated. In the Vail Plan the uses
intended for the property were further defined. The uses listed include a place for
showing and creating art, crafts, etc.; an indoor theater as well as an 800 seat
outdoor amphitheater; meeting rooms and community workshops; wide outdoor
terraces and natural landscapes; indoor ice arena, tennis and handball courts;
children’s play facilities and space for family activities; headquarters for the
Annual Vail Symposium and local television; and a possible location for an
ecologium (nature center). The property was described as a major community
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 5
April 2012
park-cultural center. The plan called for 200 surface parking spaces and direct
service from the town bus system. Major parking needs were to be
accommodated in the Vail Transportation Center with various trails and bikeways
connecting to the park.
In January of 1977, Resolution No. 1, Series of 1977, was passed naming the
property commonly known as the Antholz Ranch as Gerald R. Ford Park in
appreciation of President Ford’s contributions to the community. Resolution No.
1, Series of 1977 is included in the Appendix.
In August of 1985 the Gerald R. Ford Park and Donovan Park Master Plan
Development Final Report was completed. The Ford Park Master Plan was
adopted by Council with Resolution No. 19, Series of 1985, which is included in
the Appendix. The purpose of the master plan was to guide the future
development of these parks and establish guidelines for the implementation of
improvements. The master planning project used a Recreation Needs Analysis
Survey and involvement of the public in determining the recreation priorities of
the community and the design concepts and criteria for the two park sites. The
Ford Park master plan proposed a swimming pool complex, neighborhood park
improvements, a skating rink on the lower bench, and the realignment of the
eastern softball field. The neighborhood park open space area, playground, and
access road were the only portions of the master plan actually constructed.
The first major structure to be constructed in the park, the Gerald R. Ford
Amphitheater, was completed in July of 1987. The Parking and Transit Study
completed in April of 1979 for the Amphitheater made five recommendations:
The Village Structure should be considered the major parking facility for Ford
Park, with improvements to the signs, sidewalks, and bus service being
necessary; extend shuttle bus service to the soccer field; disallow Frontage Road
parking; construct a vehicle turn-around and passenger unloading area at Ford
Park; and do not schedule concurrent events.
Resolution No. 27, Series of 1987, was passed on November 3, 1987. Resolution
27 designated the seven acres around the Nature Center as an area to be
preserved as an example of the Gore Valley’s natural history. Vehicular traffic
was restricted and certain policies and procedures for preservation and
maintenance of the grounds and facilities were established with the resolution. A
copy of resolution No. 27, Series of 1987, is included in the Appendix.
Development of the community park portion on the lower bench of Ford Park
included the restroom, playground area, open turf area and picnic facilities, and
the west access road. These improvements were completed in November of
1988.
In December of 1988, the Vail Metropolitan Recreation District (Now the Vail
Recreation District) and the Town of Vail, requested an amendment to the 1985
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Ford Park Master Plan. The two phase amendment was adopted by Council as
Resolution No. 44, Series of 1988. Phase one of the amendment was to utilize
the on-site tennis courts and allow the construction of four additional courts.
Phase two of the amendment changed the proposed location of the Aquatic
Facility to the eastern softball field. Funding of the Aquatic Facility was rejected
by voters in a special election on February 6, 1989. Vail Town Council was
presented with a petition to delete all reference to an aquatics center from the
Ford Park Master Plan in April of 1990. No record of Council action on the
petition was found. While the tennis center building is not mentioned in the
Master plan amendment, the VRD did receive a Conditional Use Permit for the
project on May 8, 1990.
In 2008 a new lease between the Town of Vail and the Vail Recreation District
was created and included all Town owned facilities managed by the Vail
Recreation District. The lease requires a 20 year Capital Maintenance Plan,
reviewed annually, to detail the financial responsibilities of each party.
The Vail Village Master Plan, adopted January 16, 1990, addresses Ford Park as
a specific study area. This study acknowledges the use of the park in recent
years to accommodate overflow skier and local parking needs. It recommends
the park be studied further as a site for additional skier parking to serve
expansion of the eastern side of Vail Mountain. Action Step #5 under Goal #5
states “study the feasibility of an underground (recreation fields would remain)
parking structure in Ford Park”. The Parking and Circulation Plan, within the Vail
Village Master Plan, identifies the western portion of the upper bench for a
potential parking beneath park, and calls for separated bike/pedestrian ways
along the South Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive.
The Vail Transportation Master Plan, completed in 1993, states, the existing
Ford Park Parking area (east end of park) should be considered for a possible 2-
level parking facility with the second level below existing grade. Ford Park and
the athletic field parking area are also listed as two possible sites for oversized
vehicles if the lot east of the Lionshead Structure becomes developed.
The 2009 Vail Transportation Master Plan Update replaced the 1993 Plan and
mentions Ford Park as a possible area for increasing the Town’s parking supply,
and that “potentially, 300-600 net new parking spaces could be provided at Ford
Park” and suggests a roundabout be constructed east of the Vail Valley Drive
intersection with the South Frontage Road to allow east bound traffic to be
diverted back to the west. Currently this action occurs at the Ford Park bus stop
area.
Current Park Management
There are currently four main organizations operating in Gerald R. Ford Park.
The Town of Vail, Vail Recreation District, Alpine Garden Foundation, and the
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Vail Valley Foundation all play distinct roles and manage separate portions of the
park. The Town of Vail is the owner of the entire Gerald R. Ford Park site and
manages the community park, stream tract, and parking lot areas. The other
three organizations each hold a lease or license agreement to operate their
respective facilities and programs within the park.
The Vail Recreation District Lease of December 21, 1993, describes the
premises license as including the upper bench of Ford Park, public tennis courts,
athletic fields and Nature Center, although the graphic representation of the
premises was not attached to the lease agreement. The VRD offers a variety of
sports leagues, camps, and tournaments to area residents and guests. The Vail
Nature Center occupies the seven acres between Vail Valley Drive and Gore
Creek and offers environmental education and research opportunities to
residents and guests.
The Vail Valley Foundation, (VVF), a non-profit, charitable organization,
manages and maintains the Ford Amphitheater and immediate grounds. The
terms of the agreement between the Town and the VVF, signed December 8,
1987, and renewed in 1999; includes an endowment for ongoing repair and
maintenance of the Amphitheater. The amphitheater seats up to 2,500 people
and hosts approximately 60 events during the summer. Hot Summer Nights
concerts, Bravo! Colorado, and the Bolshoi Ballet are some of the more popular
programs held at the amphitheater.
The Vail Alpine Garden Foundation, a Colorado non-profit corporation, manages
the Betty Ford Alpine Garden under a Limited License Agreement signed June 8,
1994. The original Alpine Display Garden was constructed in 1987 under a
license agreement with the Town at the entrance to the amphitheater. The site
for the Alpine Garden was established in the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan to act
as a buffer between the amphitheater and active park areas. The second phase
of the garden, the Perennial Garden, and third phase, the Meditation Garden,
were constructed in 1989 and 1991 respectively. The Alpine Rock Garden was
constructed in 1998 and the Children’s Garden was constructed in 2002. A
proposal by the Alpine Garden Foundation to construct an Educational Center
with the final phase of the garden was controversial. Opposition to the expanded
use of the garden and the interior of park was a significant impetus to the
creation of the 1997 Management Plan. In response to that opposition, the Vail
Alpine Garden Foundation modified the proposal to locate the Educational
Center near the athletic field parking lot on Vail Valley Drive. This location
received conceptual approval by the Council on October 15, 1996, however the
project was not implemented.
The lower bench of Ford Park is managed by the Town of Vail Department of
Public Works and Transportation and serves as a community park and open
space facility with picnic, playground and open play areas. The lower bench is
utilized several times a year for special events where large tents are often
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erected to accommodate the activities. Access to the park from the Golden Peak
ski base is by a public access easement through the Manor Vail property. A copy
of the easement is included in the Appendix. The Town operates the upper
bench parking lot as a public parking facility during the ski season. Access to the
upper bench parking areas is from the State owned South Frontage Road. The
Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is the agency responsible for
reviewing and approving access permit applications from the State-owned
Frontage Road. Currently, no access permit has been issued for the access by
the CDOT. CDOT Frontage Road right-of-way covers a substantial portion of the
paved parking lot.
Time Line of Ford Park Activities
April 1973 Condemnation of Antholz Ranch. Ordinance 6, 1973
August 1973 Completion of Vail Plan.
January 1977 Antholtz Ranch named Gerald R. Ford Park. Resolution 1,
1977
August 1985 Completion of Ford/Donovan Park Masterplan. Resolution
19,1985
July 1987 Amphitheater construction complete
August 1987 Alpine Demonstration Garden complete.
November 1987 Preservation of Nature Center. Resolution 27, 1987
December 1987 Vail Valley Foundation lease signed.
November 1988 Lower Bench improvements complete.
December 1988 Masterplan amendment by VRD. Resolution 44, 1988
December 1988 Service agreement with VRD. Resolution 46, 1988
May 1989 Tennis Center receives Conditional Use Permit.
July 1989 Alpine Perennial Garden complete.
January 1990 Completion of Vail Village Masterplan.
February 1990 Aquatic Center rejected by voters in special election.
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April 1990 Council petitioned to delete Aquatic Center from Masterplan.
May 1990 Tennis Center construction complete.
June 1991 Alpine Meditation Garden complete.
April 1993 Completion of Vail Transportation Master Plan.
December 1993 Vail Recreation District agreement renewed.
June 1994 Vail Alpine Garden Foundation license agreement signed.
June 1995 Town begins Ford Park Management Plan.
October 1996 Council allows Vail Alpine Garden Foundation to proceed
through process with Educational Center at Soccer Field
parking lot (not implemented).
April 1997 Ford Park Management Plan adopted.
1999 Lease with Vail Valley Foundation renewed.
2008 Lease with Vail Recreation District renewed.
2009 Vail Transportation Plan Update completed.
November 2011 Voters approve use of Conference Center Funding for Ford
Park Improvements
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Section 3: Process of Developing the Management Plan
The Ford Park Management Plan process was initiated in June of 1995 in
response to several development proposals which had been formally and
informally discussed and as a means to solve existing park management issues.
The development proposals included an Educational Center for the Betty Ford
Alpine Garden, cultural/performing arts center, expansion of the tennis facility,
athletic field fencing, and a community parking structure. Park management
issues included parking shortage, frontage road access, pedestrian access and
circulation, access for the elderly and disabled, utilization of the lower bench,
conflicts between uses within the park, conflicts with adjacent property owners,
and delineation of financial responsibilities. At the time the project was
authorized Council expressed concern that a new master plan for Ford Park
would result in an excessive amount of new development. In response, staff
noted the intention of the project was to create a management plan as a means
to adequately and consistently evaluate development proposals, thus limiting
development and protecting the character of the park.
Those organizations with a financial and managerial role along, with two
neighborhood representatives, were identified as the Stakeholder Group and
were invited to participate in the process. A third party facilitator was retained for
the project in August of 1995. Staff members from the Town, Vail Recreation
District and Alpine Garden participated in the facilitator selection process. Staff
felt that a third-party facilitator would be beneficial to the project by offering a
non-biased opinion and increasing Stakeholder participation. The Stakeholder
Group was assembled in a series of meetings over the eight month period from
August 1995 to April 1996. The meetings drew out issues, ideas, expansion
proposals, and began formulating possible solutions.
Alternative design solutions addressing parking options, vehicular access,
Frontage Road improvements, additional sports facilities and management
policies, were presented to the public in an open house at the Gerald R. Ford
Amphitheater on June 12, 1996. Citizens were asked to complete a self-guided
presentation and opinion survey form.
The open house presentation was a turning point in the process of developing
the Management Plan. Several residents were alarmed by the alternatives
included in the presentation and initiated a grass-roots movement to place a
referendum on any future expansion/development within the park. This strong
public reaction, combined with a lack of closure with the Stakeholders Group,
prompted the Town to revise the process to include more public involvement at
that time. Previously, public input was being reserved for a time when alternative
plans could be presented for comment. Three Focus Group meetings with
selected individuals from the community were held on September 18, 1996.
Stakeholder groups were invited to submit a list of questions for inclusion in the
Focus Group discussions. In round table discussion, individuals were asked to
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respond to a list of prepared questions regarding uses and issues associated
with Ford Park. The Focus Group questions and responses are included in the
Appendix. Additional public input sessions were held on October 2 and 3, 1996,
which validated the focus group responses and further refined staff’s
understanding of the public perception and desires regarding Ford Park.
The combined results of the focus group and public input sessions along with a
preliminary master plan framework were presented to the Planning and
Environmental Commission on October 14, 1996, and Town Council on October
15, 1996. Both PEC and Council directed staff to proceed with drafting the plan
as an amendment to the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan based on the input
received and presented.
Plans to make improvements to the Park were initiated in 2011 when Vail voters
approved funding by re-allocating a portion of Convention Center Funds to Ford
Park. During the election schematic plans were presented that involved
improvements to the athletic fields, the amphitheater, the alpine gardens,
pedestrian circulation, transit and other areas of the park. Following voter
approval of funding the main stakeholders in the Park began to refine
improvement plans. Meetings were held with adjacent neighbors, a community
open house was held and numerous public meetings were held by the Planning
and Environmental Commission and the Town Council.
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Section 4: Purpose of the Management Plan
This document is formatted as an amendment to the 1985 Master plan (revised)
for Ford Park. While some of the physical aspects of the park have changed
since the adoption of the 1985 Master plan, the essential character, concept, and
function of the park have remained consistent. The 1985 Master Plan, enhanced
by this amendment, remains a valid document to be used in the future planning
and decision-making process for Ford Park. As with all master plans, this
document will have a definite life for which it remains a useful decision-making
tool. The life expectancy of this plan is approximately 10 years but should remain
in effect until replaced by an updated master plan document. The Ford Park
Management Plan will take precedence over the 1985 Master Plan where
conflicts or discrepancies occur.
The intention of the combined documents is to guide the outcome of future
development proposals within Ford Park by modifying the permitted uses (1973
acquisition legislation), recommending development guidelines, limiting the
number of leaseholders within Ford Park, and designating buffer/protection
zones within and adjacent to the park.
The 1985 Master Plan acknowledges some shortcomings in the overall design of
the park, particularly the layout of the upper bench area and the internal
pedestrian circulation system. This amendment will formulate design alternatives
to these specific problem areas to correct the deficiencies that exist. This
amendment will also delineate managerial, operational, and financial
responsibilities between the Town and the leaseholders.
As outlined above, the 2012 update to the 1997 Management Plan furthers the
overall direction for the Park established by the 1997 Plan and in doing so
maintains the role the Park has played in the community for the past 30 years.
Specifically, the 2012 Update suggests few significant changes to the overall
level of development and activities that take place in the Park. In addition, many
of the improvements identified in the 2012 Update were originally proposed in the
1997 Plan. Most importantly all improvements proposed in Section 6: Illustrative
Plan Components are in keeping with the goals, objectives and policies of the
Management Plan.
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Section 5: Goals, Objectives, Policies and Action Steps
Goals for Ford Park are summarized in six major goal statements. Each goal
statement focuses on a particular aspect of Ford Park brought up during the
stakeholder and public input portions of the Management Plan process. As one
might anticipate, there is a certain amount of overlap between the goal
statements. The issues concerning Ford Park are complicated and convoluted as
are the solutions to these issues. It is intended that the goal statements be
consistent and complementary to each other and be designed to provide a
framework, or direction, for the future management of Ford Park. A series of
objectives following each goal statement outline specific steps that can be
taken toward achieving each stated goal. Policy statements are intended to guide
decision-making in achieving each of the stated objectives in reviewing
development proposals and implementing capital improvement projects. Action
steps are the final measure in implementing the goal statements.
Illustrative plans following the Goals, Objective, and Action Steps are included to
help explain the concepts represented by those statements. The illustrations are
conceptual and are not to be considered as final design solutions.
Goal #1: Preserve and protect Ford Park.
Objective 1.1: Limit future development.
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.
Policy Statement 1: The following uses that are allowed and prohibited for Ford
Park shall take precedence over Section 18.36.030 of the Municipal 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
Transportation systems and other public utility easements
Parking
Administrative offices
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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
Policy Statement 2: New or changed facilities or uses will not be permitted to
curtail existing public uses of facilities in the Park unless there is either a
compelling public interest or adequate alternative facilities are available to its
users. All functions in the park shall be maintained and function at a high quality
level.
Action Step 1.1.2: Create and attach plan sheets which outline lease
areas, referred to as Exhibit A in the Vail Recreation District lease
agreement and Exhibit B in the Vail Valley Foundation lease agreement,
but which were never attached.
Policy Statement 3: The existing variety of uses and facilities in the Park will be
preserved. The Town will not enter into a lease agreement with any party that
does not currently hold such an agreement, hereby maintaining current
leaseholder status to: Vail Valley Foundation, Vail Alpine Garden Foundation,
and Vail Recreation District, or their successors.
Objective 1.2: Refine criteria for evaluating future development proposals.
Action Step 1.2.1: Update the Design Criteria and Site Guidelines included
in the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan by:
a) Creating additional development guidelines for underground, low visual
impact type structures, enhanced landscaping, and full and complete
impact mitigation.
b) Enforcing existing criteria and guidelines to solve and/or avoid problems
associated with development projects within Ford Park.
Objective 1.3: Designate Preservation Zones within Ford Park to protect
sensitive natural areas and/or buffer zones between venues areas from
developmental impacts. Define allowed uses within Preservation Zone areas.
Action Step 1.3.1: Define criteria for designating Preservation Zones and
their uses within Ford Park. For example, significant native vegetation,
wildlife habitat, and wetlands may be criteria for designating sensitive
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natural areas, while grade separations and dense landscape plantings
may be criteria for designating sensitive buffer zones.
Action Step 1.3.2: Delineate Preservation Zones within Ford Park.
Policy Statement 4: All proposed development projects shall be reviewed for
compliance with Design Criteria and Site Guidelines, as well as other Town
regulations, and shall be additionally judged according to the recreational,
educational or social benefit they bring to the community.
Policy Statement 5: Functions that do not maintain high standards of quality or
that diminish the experience of park users, will not be permitted.
Policy Statement 6: The historic qualities and natural character of the Nature
Center are to be maintained.
Objective 1.4: Enhance use and preservation of the Historic School House.
Action Step 1.4.1: Negotiate a contract with the Vail Alpine Garden
Foundation to open the School House for public visitation and to perform
preservation activities of photographs and artifacts.
Action Step 1.4.2: Make physical improvements to the school house to
enhance lighting, public access and viewing areas.
Goal #2: Reduce vehicular intrusions in, and their impact on,
the park.
Objective 2.1: Reduce the demand for vehicular intrusions into the park.
Action Step 2.1.1: Provide additional on-site storage facilities within the
Amphitheater, Alpine Garden and Recreation District areas to reduce and
control the frequency of delivery and service vehicle intrusions into the
park.
Action Step 2.1.2: Improve traffic gate operations and restrictions on both
the east and west access roads to eliminate unnecessary and
unauthorized vehicular intrusions into the park.
Action Step 2.1.3: Construct a central trash collection facility, accessible
from the South Frontage Road, to be used by all leaseholders within the
park for the disposal of trash, landscape debris, and recyclables.
Policy Statement 7: Vehicular encroachment into the park will be minimized.
The only vehicular uses allowed in the park are for: maintenance; delivery of
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goods and materials too large or heavy to be carried by non-motorized means;
access for people with disabilities limited mobility; public transportation; and
emergency services.
Objective 2.2: Reduce the conflicts between vehicles and park users.
Action Step 2.2.1: Coordinate delivery schedules to reduce the frequency
of delivery and service vehicle intrusions into the park during peak use
time periods.
Action Step 2.2.2: Improve loading dock facilities in the Amphitheater to
expedite the unloading and setup for performances and to reduce the
need for large vehicle parking outside of the Amphitheater area.
Action Step 2.2.3: Improve the configuration of the east access road to
allow use by large delivery vehicles, thus reducing the overall number of
trips on the west access road and the need for the backing and turning of
large vehicles on the lower bench of the park.
Goal #3: Reduce conflicts between all Ford Park venues.
Objective 3.1: Coordinate events on all Ford Park venues.
Action Step 3.1.1: Expand the master schedule kept by the Town Clerk to
include all venues within the park.
Action Step 3.1.2: Hold preseason and monthly event/activity coordination
meetings.
Action Step 3.1.3: Hold semiannual (2x per year) coordination and input
meetings with the Town Administrators, leaseholder representatives, and
neighborhood and adjacent property owner representatives.
Policy Statement 8: Overlapping or simultaneous events that exceed the
available community parking or other park infrastructure shall be discouraged.
Policy Statement 9: No one event or type of use will be allowed to dominate the
usage of the Park.
Policy Statement 10: 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 Park rest
with the Vail Town Manager.
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Policy Statement 11: The day-to-day management and coordination of activities
in the Park will be assigned to the Park Superintendent. The Park Superintendent
will coordinate as necessary with a representative of:
The Town of Vail
The Vail Valley Foundation
The Alpine Garden
The Vail Recreation District
Objective 3.2: Improve buffers between different use areas within the park.
Action Step 3.2.1: Enhance the buffer zone between the softball fields and
the amphitheater and gardens by reversing the orientation of the center
and east softball fields.
Action Step 3.2.2: Enhance existing and new buffer zone areas through
the addition of landscape planting.
Goal #4: Resolve parking and South Frontage Road access
problems.
Objective 4.1: Develop and implement a parking management plan for Ford
Park.
Action Step 4.1.1: Locate a variable message sign between the main
roundabout and entrance to Village Structure for the purpose of informing
drivers that close-in parking at Ford Park is restricted, at a fee, or full, and
parking in the VTC is free and shuttle bus service is available.
Action Step 4.1.2: Schedule shuttle bus service from top deck of the
Village Structure to Ford Park Frontage Road stop for special event/high
demand days. Extend in-town shuttle bus service to Ford Park Vail Valley
Drive stop.
Action Step 4.1.3: Designate drop-off parking from Frontage Road using
15 spaces north of bus stop. Enforce 5 minute time limit. Drop-off lane
functions as a turn around once lot is filled. Schedule attendants on-site to
manage drop-off spaces and assist users in loading and unloading.
Action Step 4.1.4: Allocate close-in parking on Frontage Road and Vail
Valley Drive through reserve ticket purchases or on a fee basis. Parking
attendants on-site to manage entrances and exits. Establish a ticket
surcharge or parking fee price schedule which will generate sufficient
funds to cover attendant and shuttle bus service costs. Fee parking is to
be in effect for high-parking demand days only.
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Action Step 4.1.5: Construct Frontage Road sidewalk from the Village
Structure and improve sign system as necessary to accommodate
pedestrian traffic to Ford Park.
Policy Statement 12: Adequate parking for the needs of the park are to be
provided in the park and at the Village Structure.
Objective 4.2: Improve vehicular access from the South Frontage Road and
improve parking lot design to maximize the number of parking spaces,
aesthetics, and safety while mitigating environmental impacts.
Action Step 4.2.1: Design and construct improvements to the South
Frontage Road to meet CDOT requirements for obtaining a state highway
access permit.
Action Step 4.2.2: Design and construct improvements to all existing
parking areas that maximize the number of parking spaces; provide
landscape buffering and treatment of storm water run-off.
Goal #5: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford
Park and the pedestrian connections between Ford
Park and Vail Village.
Objective 5.1: Improve 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 the Vail Village and from each level of the
Village Parking Structure to destinations within Ford Park.
Objective 5.2: Improve pedestrian routes to Ford Park.
Action Step 5.2.1: Design improvements to existing pedestrian routes that
will correct grading, surfacing, and lighting and will provide resting and
sitting areas.
Objective 5.3: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford Park.
Action Step 5.3.1: Design a central pedestrian path to enhance the
connection between the upper and lower bench areas of the park.
Policy Statement 14: Any uses added to Ford Park in the future shall be
structured to encourage users or participants to walk or ride the bus rather than
drive.
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Policy Statement 15: Pedestrian access to the Park from the Vail Village should
be easy and visible. The Park shall be as pedestrian-friendly as possible.
Goal #6: Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park
leaseholders and the Town of Vail.
Objective 6.1: Formalize existing division of facility management/operation
costs.
Action Step 6.1.1: Research current lease, license and use agreements
for delineation of financial responsibilities.
Action Step 6.1.2: Correct inequities in utility billing procedures and
distribution systems, current utility use, and payment relationships.
Policy Statement 16: All Ford Park leaseholders and the Town of Vail shall be
required to share in common operating costs that benefit the whole park facility
and as outlined in current lease or license agreements. These include but are not
limited to, electrical charges for pedestrian path and parking lot lighting, trash
removal charges, and regular parking lot and pedestrian path maintenance costs.
.
Objective 6.2: Create a cost-sharing agreement for Capital Improvement costs.
Action Step 6.2.1: Create 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.
Policy Statement 17: Ford Park leaseholders and the Town of Vail desiring to
make capital improvements within their respective lease areas shall be required
to provide funding for those improvements and for subsequent modifications to
those areas outside of the lease area caused by those improvements.
Policy Statement 18: Services, functions, and programs provided by Ford Park
leaseholders, by bringing visitors to the community, generate sales tax revenues
which contribute General Fund funding sources. Residents of the community
which participate in those programs, contribute to the Real Estate Transfer Tax
funding source 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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Section 6: Illustrative Plan Components
Section 6: Illustrative Plan Components.
This section contains the maps and drawings necessary to illustrate the physical aspects
and relationships of the plan. There are 7 plan sheets at a scale of 1" = 50'. The Index
sheet orients each plan sheet to the overall park layout. A 24” x 36”' plan sheet at
1"=100' is included in the back of this document. The following text for each of the 7
plan sheets offers a written description of the improvements illustrated. These drawings
and descriptions are intended to illustrate the concepts of the improvements only and
are not considered to be final construction documents.
Sheet 1: Streamwalk and West Access Road Improvements.
Streamwalk.
Regrade eastern 370' of path to reduce existing slope of 15% to a maximum of 4.5%.
Construct approximately 320' of 8' maximum height retaining wall. Replace existing
vandal-prone path lights with a more vandal-resistant fixture. Install benches at 150'
intervals to provide sitting and resting places.
West Access Road.
Reduce width of road entrance from South Frontage Road from the existing 50' to 10' to
reduce visual significance of this entrance. Install an automated traffic control gate.
Control gate to be hand-held opener operated on the Frontage Road side and automatic
loop operated on the park side. The gate is to function as an exit only gate in conjunction
with the East Access Road. Install additional landscape plantings and directional and
park entrance signs. Install benches at 150' intervals to provide sitting and resting
places.
South Frontage Road Walk Path.
Construct 12' concrete pedestrian/bike path along south edge of roadway from Vail
Valley Drive to the West Access Road entrance. Path will be separated from the
roadway by 6" curb and gutter. Construct left-hand turn lane and right-hand turn traffic
island at South Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive intersection. Install additional path
lights as necessary.
Sheet 2: Ballfield and Circulation Route Improvements.
Pedestrian Path.
Extend pedestrian/bike path beyond West Access Road as 10' detached pathway.
Widen path between softball infields and extend beyond the Tennis Center to the
proposed main park entrance. Install 300 feet of highway guardrail along South Frontage
Road to protect bleachers and spectators adjacent to softball fields. Install additional
path lights as necessary.
Softball Field and Path:
Remove existing paved parking area and move eastern softball field approximately 30'
north. Construct an 8' paved pedestrian path around the east and south sides of the
eastern softball field to connect to the existing concrete path from the playground area.
Install additional path lights and benches as necessary. Install directional signs at all
path intersections. Install additional landscape plantings east and south of ballfield as a
landscape buffer.
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Sheet 3: Bus Stop / Main Entrance Improvements.
South Frontage Road Improvements:
Widen South Frontage Road to provide 6' bike lanes on each side, two 12' through
lanes, 12' east bound right-hand turn lane, and 16' west-bound left-hand turn lane.
Construct curb and gutter on both sides of the roadway. Construct raised, landscape
median islands where possible to reduce the quantity of paved surface and to delineate
travel lanes. (See typical cross section of median island). The turning and travel lanes
indicated are in accordance with Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
highway access code requirements. Obtain Highway access permit form Colorado
Department of Transportation.
Bus Stop/Drop-off.
Construct dedicated bus stop lane, accessed by an enter only drive cut from the South
Frontage Road. This drive will also provide access to 15 dedicated drop-off parking
spaces directly across from the Tennis Center entrance. Install additional landscape
plantings to buffer and screen parking areas from the roadways.
Main Park Entrance.
Construct Main Park Entrance drive with one entrance and two exit lanes. Install main
park entrance sign and landscape plantings at this location. Install directional signs at all
pedestrian paths and intersections. Install pedestrian and roadway lights as required.
Tennis Court Relocation.
Remove eastern court from existing bank of 4 courts. Construct new court on the
western end of the existing bank of 2 courts. Excavation of the existing berm and
relocation of water meter pits will be required.
Sheet 4: Parking Area improvements.
Parking Lot.
Construct 7 disabled accessible parking spaces along east side of Tennis Complex.
Expand area of existing gravel parking area by constructing two sets of tiered 4' retaining
walls. Revegetate hillside with native wildflowers and shrubs. Construct 194 space
paved parking lot with curb and gutter and landscape islands. Install storm water
filtration system to clean water before discharge into Gore Creek. A total number of 209
parking spaces are indicated on this plan, an increase of 10 spaces. Install landscape
plantings along Frontage Road and south edge of parking lot to screen and buffer
parking area from adjacent roadways and neighborhoods. Install parking lot lighting as
needed.
Central Trash Enclosure.
A central trash enclosure is shown at the southwest corner of the parking lot. This is
intended to be a fully enclosed building which contains a trash dumpster or compactor
unit. All leaseholders will utilize the central enclosure to dispose of trash generated at
each facility. No trash truck traffic will be allowed into the park.
Sheet 5: Manor Vail Entrance Improvements.
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Manor Vail Walkway.
Repair existing brick and concrete walkway as needed. Install Ford Park Entrance signs
at intersection for walkway and Vail Valley Drive and at right-hand turn to the Manor Vail
Bridge. The second entrance sign should be located where it is clearly visible from the
walkway.
Manor Vail Bridge.
Increase the deck height of the Manor Vail covered bridge by approximately 4'. This is
accomplished by removing the bridge from its footings intact, pouring an additional 4' of
wall on the existing concrete footings, and resetting the bridge. Any structural
improvements can be made to the bridge at that time. The 4' increase in elevation will
allow the walks approaching the bridge form both directions to be reconstructed at lower
grades. Replace existing pedestrian lights with vandalproof fixtures. Install benches at
approximately 150' intervals to provide sitting and resting places.
Sheet 6: East Access Road Improvements.
Access Gate.
This entrance is intended to function as the primary service vehicle entrance to the
Lower Bench. Install Automated traffic control gate at Intersection with parking lot. Gate
will be hand-held opener operated on the parking lot side and roadway loop operated on
the park side. This will be an enter and exit access point. Reconstruct existing access
road to a 15' width at a maximum of 7.9% slope. Construct approximately 160' of 8'
maximum height retaining wall along uphill side of the road. Install benches at
approximately 100' intervals to provide sitting and resting places. Install additional
path lights and directional signs as needed.
Amphitheater loading Dock.
Construct an additional 12' x 35' loading bay on the south side of the amphitheater to
accommodate performance deliveries. The additional loading bay will reduce vehicle
traffic during peak park use times and reduce the need for parking outside the managed
amphitheater area.
Sheet 7: South Entrance Improvements.
Soccer Field Parking.
Improve the Soccer Field parking lot driveway entrance and restripe the existing lot to
maximize the number of parking spaces. The Soccer Field lot is noted as the future site
of the Alpine Garden Foundation=s Education Center pending development review
process approval.
This section contains site plan diagrams that illustrate conceptual plans for the
Park. The Ford Park Illustrative Plan provided herein replaces site plans from
the 1997 Ford Park Management Plan. This new plan reflects many of the same
improvements contemplated by the 1997 Plan, but also includes a few
improvements not previously contemplated. Concepts depicted on the Illustrative
Plan are considered to be appropriate improvements and activities for the Park.
However, all improvements are subject to further review by the Town
(Conditional Use Permit, Development Plan review, DRB review) prior to being
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implemented. In some cases the description of improvements provided below
include parameters or considerations that should be addressed during detailed
design and as a part of subsequent review by the Town.
Brief descriptions of improvements depicted on the Illustrative Plan for Ford Park,
and when appropriate enlargements of such improvements, are provided below.
It should also be understood that the site plan depicting these improvements is
done at a very general, conceptual level. This plan is intended to illustrate
concepts only and improvements depicted on this Plan will be refined as designs
progress. As such final designs may vary from what is depicted on this
generalized plan. Prior to the implementation of any improvements in Ford Park
additional design details will be provided for review by the Town as a part of the
Planning Commission’s review of a Development Plan (as part of a Conditional
Use Process) and/ or as a part of the Design Review Board review process.
The Illustrative Plan provides a comprehensive depiction of improvements
contemplated for Ford Park. This does not mean however, that only those
improvements depicted on this plan may be made. Improvements not depicted
on the Illustrative Plan may be proposed provided they are consistent with the
overall goals for the Park and with applicable objectives, policy statements and
action steps outlined in the Management Plan. It should also be understood that
the improvements being depicted on the Illustrative Plan does not ensure if or
when they will be implemented. In many respects the Illustrative Plan is a vision
for how the Park may be developed and not a commitment to any specific
improvement.
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Implemented Improvements from 1997 Illustrative Plan
A number of improvements proposed by the 1997 Plan have been implemented.
These improvements are listed below:
1. Reduce width of road entrance from South Frontage Road; install an
automated traffic control gate.
2. Construct 12' concrete pedestrian/bike path along south edge of roadway
from Vail Valley Drive to the West Access Road entrance.
3. Extend pedestrian/bike path beyond West Access Road as 10' detached
pathway. Widen path between softball infields and extend beyond the
Tennis Center to the proposed main park entrance.
4. A central trash enclosure is shown at the southwest corner of the parking
lot.
5. Increase the deck height of the Manor Vail covered bridge by
approximately 4'.
6. Widen South Frontage Road to provide 6' bike lanes on each side.
2012 Ford Park Illustrative Plan
The Ford Park Illustrative Plan is found on the following page. Subsequent
pages provide descriptions of specific improvements identified on each
enlargement sheet of the Illustrative Plan. These improvements are presented
by “topical” category (i.e. pedestrianization), location (i.e. the lower bench area)
or major user (i.e. the Amphitheater or the athletic fields).
Refer to the Illustrative Plan when reviewing these descriptions for a graphic
depiction of the improvement and the surrounding context. When appropriate an
enlarged section of the Illustrative Plan is provided in the context of narrative
descriptions.
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Preservation Zone
One of the objectives of the 1997 Plan was to:
Designate Preservation Zones within Ford Park to protect sensitive
natural areas and/or buffer zones between venues areas from
developmental impacts. Define allowed uses within Preservation
Zone areas.
A Preservation Zone is identified on the Ford Park Illustrative Plan. This zone
primarily includes the Gore Creek Corridor and the 7 acre Nature Center area
located south of Gore Creek. The location of the Preservation Zone was
determined based on natural features and existing improvements, the 100-year
floodplain and the 50-foot waterbody setback.
Within the preservation zone it is intended that existing uses, improvements and
buildings can be maintained and that no new uses, improvements or buildings
inconsistent with the preservation of these areas is to occur. Low-impact
improvements such as soft surface walking paths, fishing access, etc. along with
utility improvements, drainage improvements, creek crossings, creek restoration
projects and similar activities may be initiated within the Preservation Zone.
Fisherman access to Gore Creek, while currently not an issue (i.e. excessive use
resulting in riparian area degradation), could become an issue in the future. A
creek access point was considered at the east end of the Nature Center (using
the bus turnaround on Vail Valley Drive as an unloading area) but was rejected
as contradictory to the intended use of the Nature Center. A defined creek
access point is now being considered above Ford Park in the vicinity of the Pulis
Bridge.
Some improvements to the Park are contemplated adjacent to the Preservation
Zone, notably the potential widening of Betty Ford Way. If the widening of this
road is pursued, great care and attention to design and construction will be
necessary in order to protect Gore Creek. Best management practices (BMP’s)
will be essential in controlling runoff, erosion, debris, etc. that could otherwise
harm the creek.
Pedestrianization/Park Arrival
Ford Park has two distinct areas – the upper bench which has an athletic focus
and the lower bench which has more of an arts and cultural focus. Access to the
Park is provided by one of six portals, each with their own unique purpose and
characteristics. These portals are identified on the Ford Park Illustrative Plan.
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Improvements are contemplated for a number of these portals, many of which
originate outside the actual boundary of the Park. One improvement
contemplated for each portal is to introduce a distinctive monument or
identification feature to identify access to Ford Park. For example, the Gore
Creek Trail provides access for people who park in the Village Parking Structure.
An identification feature where the trail begins east of Vail Valley Drive could help
people find their way to the Park. These features would signal the beginning of
one’s “entry” to Ford Park with “arrival” coming when one reaches the Park.
While the design of individual identification features may vary, a common design
character for all features should be used in order to create continuity and
consistency in how the Park is identified.
x Manor Vail Entry at Vail Valley Drive – A pedestrian easement is in place
that provides pedestrian access from Vail Valley Drive to the Covered
Bridge. An identification feature should be considered at this location, the
design of which would need to be coordinated with Manor Vail.
x Gore Creek Streamwalk – This tranquil trail provides park access for many
who park at the Village Parking Structure. An identification feature should
be installed at Vail Valley Drive. Efforts should be made to lessen the
grade of this trail behind the Wren Condominiums. This could be
accomplished by re-grading the trail and installing retaining walls along the
existing trail that could bring the grade down from +/-15% to +/-9%.
Another alternative could be to re-align the trail immediately adjacent to
the Park in a manner that would contour across the hillside and eliminate
the trail from “going up to only come down”. Due to steep terrain and
proximity to Gore Creek, this solution would require sensitive design and
construction so as to minimize impacts on the creek. An alternative to a
retaining wall solution could be to cantilever a portion of the trail over the
steeper hillside sections.
x Frontage Road Sidewalk – This sidewalk provides direct access to the
Park from the Village Parking Structure. An identification feature should
be considered at the intersection of the Frontage Road and Vail Valley
Drive.
x VV Drive/Soccer Field - During performances and special events buses
are added to the town’s system and their route is extended to the
turnaround at the east end of the Soccer Field in order to serve this portal
(topography and roadway width prevent the development of a bus
turnaround closer to this portal). An identification feature should be
considered at the intersection of the Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive.
x Frontage Road/Transit Stop – A new transit stop will provide access to an
improved pedestrian corridor that leads into the Park and to the lower
bench. An identification feature, along with identification of access to the
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tennis center should be considered where this corridor begins. An
accessible route consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act
Guidelines should be identified from the transit stop to facilities throughout
the park.
x Frontage Road/Parking Area – East Betty Ford Way is the primary access
to the lower bench from the parking area. An identification feature, along
with identification of access to the tennis center should be considered
where this corridor begins. Other pedestrian improvements to this corridor
are described below. An accessible route consistent with the Americans
with Disabilities Act Guidelines should be identified from the transit stop to
facilities throughout the park.
Shuttle
During events at the Amphitheater, golf cart shuttles are utilized for moving
people to and from the venue. The idea of creating a similar system to provide
shuttle service to general park users throughout the summer months is under
consideration. The purpose of this shuttle is two-fold - one is to provide the
shuttles as a guest service and the other to provide alternative access into the
Park for elderly or disabled guests. With regard to the later, the shuttle system
could allow for the removal of accessible parking spaces at the Amphitheater and
in doing so reduce car trips into the Park. Until such time as a shuttle system is
implemented the accessible parking spaces at the Amphitheater should remain.
Frontage Road Entry/Parking/Transit
Existing transit and parking facilities along the Frontage Road are ill-defined and
in many respects do not function well. For example, vehicle access points to
parking areas are unclear and buses are not adequately segregated from private
vehicles. While it is likely that more people enter the Park via pedestrian routes
from the west and south, many guests do access the Park from this area via
buses from the Frontage Road transit stop and from parking areas. A number of
improvements are planned in order to improve both the appearance and function
of this area.
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Frontage Road Entry/Parking/Transit
Parking Facilities
Existing parking areas should be redesigned in order to achieve the Town
Council’s goal of “no net loss” of parking. Currently there are approximately 200
parking spaces in the Frontage Road area, of which 17 are disabled parking
spaces. An equivalent number of spaces are reflected on the Ford Park
Illustrative Plan.
Major changes to parking include the elimination of approximately 50 existing
spaces in order to accommodate the expansion to athletic fields and a new
transit drop-off area. New spaces can be created with the re-design of the
eastern portion of the lot and by locating parking where the bus drop-off is
currently located. The addition of “low impact” parking spaces along the South
Frontage Road is also under consideration. This improvement will necessitate a
sidewalk along the south side of the road and coordination with CDOT will be
necessary in order to implement this improvement.
Access points to parking areas should be consolidated into two locations and
may include turn lane improvements on the Frontage Road (subject to CDOT
review).
Short term drop-off parking spaces will be established, the location of which will
be determined during detailed design. Efforts should be made to locate short-
term drop-off at the western end of the parking lots.
The re-design of the parking area as depicted on the Illustrative Plan will still
allow for use of this area for special events and concerts. Determination of how
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this area is used will be made by the Town Council and the Commission on
Special Events.
Bus Stop/Drop-off
A dedicated bus stop lane separate from private vehicles will be provided. This
facility is planned just west of the re-designed parking area. This location may
allow for a bus shelter to be incorporated into or adjacent to the
Concessions/Restroom building.
Pedestrian Improvements-Transit Stop
Currently the relationship of the transit stop and the adjacent tennis center area
is not well defined nor does this area have a clear image or relationship to other
facilities within the Park. For example, the arrangement and relationship of
existing improvements is not clear and pedestrian routes to the Alpine Garden,
the Amphitheater or lower bench recreation facilities are not intuitive. Landscape,
signage and pedestrian improvements throughout this area will be implemented
to improve existing conditions.
Pedestrian Improvements-East Betty Ford Way
East Betty Ford Way is a major pedestrian route from parking facilities to the
Amphitheater. While this corridor provides excellent views to Gore Creek and
the Gore Range, the trial itself is in need of improvement. Portions of the trail are
very steep and present challenges for some park users. The trail is also very
narrow, particularly during periods of peak usage. This problem is compounded
during Amphitheater events when golf cart shuttles share the trail with
pedestrians. This trail should be widened and efforts made to lessen the grade
of the trail. Widening of the trail (12’ to 13’ maximum) will alleviate golf cart -
pedestrian conflicts, enable a shuttle system to be implemented at a future date,
and allow increased use by delivery vehicles thus reducing delivery vehicle –
pedestrian conflicts to the west. Pedestrian overlooks to Gore Creek along this
route should be considered, both for aesthetic purposes and to provide
pedestrians a safe location to stand at times shuttles (or trucks) may be using
this route.
Athletic Fields Concessions/Restroom Building
A new concessions/restroom building is contemplated at the east end of the
athletic fields. The building may also include a small satellite office for the
Recreation District (for use during events and tournaments). This facility, along
with the existing tennis center will “anchor” this area of the Park.
Athletic Fields
The size and shape of existing athletic fields is inefficient. The following
improvements are planned to provide more usable fields:
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Field Expansion
Removal of the existing restroom/concession building and the westernmost
surface parking lot will allow for increased field area that will accommodate three
full-sized softball fields or two full-sized soccer/lacrosse fields. This is a major
improvement to the Park in terms of the type of events that could be hosted. A
retaining wall at the southwest corner of the fields will be necessary. It is
anticipated that at the tallest point will be approximately 12’ and will taper back to
existing grade at either end. Various wall systems and designs will be studied.
This field improvement will also include new fencing around most of the fields
and improvements to spectator areas. The introduction of additional landscaping
on the south side of the fields should be done to provide both shade and
screening.
West Field Restroom/Storage Building
A new restroom and park storage building is suggested at the west end of the
fields. The small storage component for the Recreation District and the Alpine
Garden will minimize the number of vehicle trips into the Park. This building
replaces an existing storage building and will clean up existing unsecured
maintenance and storage areas currently scattered throughout the park. Given
the prominent location of this building at the west entry to the Park, it will be
critical that users of the storage facility keep all vehicles and stored material
enclosed. Restrooms will serve users of the fields and pedestrians
entering/exiting the Park from the west. The building should be low-profile and
have a “grounded” appearance in the landscape.
Athletic Fields/Concession Building
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Lower Bench
The following improvements are contemplated for the Lower Bench area of the
park:
Playground Restrooms
Restrooms at the playground are poorly sited, undersized and present an
uncomfortable relationship to the rest of the Park. In the near future these
restrooms will be in need of renovation and at such time consideration should be
given to re-locating them to a more discrete location. One alternative is to bench
the restrooms into the hill below the athletic fields. This location could allow
these facilities to be accessible to users of the fields. If this solution is pursued
consideration should be given to creating a stronger connection between the
playground and the adjacent playfield.
Ford Family Tribute
The design intent and objective for the Ford Tribute is to announce the arrival to
Ford Park in an iconic manner that celebrates the life and influence of the Ford
family on our community. Envisioned as a unique landscape feature comprised
of a combination of plants, stone, art and other natural materials, the Tribute will
be located in the vicinity of the Manor Vail Bridge at the intersection with Betty
Ford Way. The goal is to help solidify the Ford’s legacy for posterity, and to do
so in a manner that is contextual to the natural environment, the Betty Ford
Alpine Garden, the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, and the overall context of Ford
Park. The Tribute is not envisioned as a building or structure, but rather a series
of elements that help create a very special sense of place as the beginning of the
enhanced park experience along Betty Ford Way, between Manor Vail and the
Social Courtyard at the amphitheater.
Betty Ford Way
Betty Ford Way provides a major pedestrian access route into the Park, both
from Vail Village/Village Parking Structure and from the Park’s upper bench
parking lot and transit stop. The section of Betty Ford Way between the Covered
Bridge and the Amphitheater entry is envisioned to be a “feature area”. This
pedestrian corridor will be treated with a higher level of design, surface materials,
lighting, seating, etc.
Enhancements to Betty Ford Way will improve a park visitor’s experience to and
through the lower bench of the park. The existing path will be widened from
approximately 10 feet to between 11 and 13 feet to accommodate the multiple
user types that visit the park in peak use times (e.g. pedestrians, bicyclists,
skateboarders and roller-skaters) and reduce conflicts when golf cart shuttles
share the trail with pedestrians. The asphalt pavement along Betty Ford Way
should be replaced with finer textured, higher quality pavements such as colored
concrete, or stone or concrete pavers. Seating areas with benches at select
locations along the path, and lighting fixtures to match new architectural features
in the park will better unify the image and character of the entire Park.
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Landscaping adjacent to Betty Ford Way should be enhanced with additional
shrubs and wildflowers to provide more interest and color along the route, and
new wayfinding signage installed. The portion of the path between the Manor Vail
Bridge and the Amphitheater entrance is the portion of the path that receives the
highest level of use. It should be of the same character as the rest of Betty Ford
Way, but receive a higher level of finish on the path surface, and the landscaping
should include more floral displays, which will be designed to be complementary
to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens landscape.
Nature Trail
Improvements to the informal nature trail along Gore Creek are envisioned.
Lower Bench
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Host to approximately 60 events each year, the Amphitheater is one of, if not the
main activity generator in the Park. A number of improvements are planned for
this facility.
Social Courtyard
Expansion of the existing plaza at the entry to the Amphitheater is intended to
provide a more gracious and more functional entry to the venue. The design
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intent and objective for the new “social courtyard” is to create a multi-use outdoor
space of that serves as the primary arrival for the Amphitheater as well as a pre-
convene and post-function space during scheduled events.
The social courtyard will also serve as a new programmable space within the
lower bench of Ford Park for smaller gatherings and events. Use of the space
will be available by various groups and stakeholders such as the Betty Ford
Alpine Gardens or the Art in Public Places, and the common park user, during
times when the amphitheater is not in operation and when there are no
scheduled events taking place.
The space is envisioned to be richly landscaped, and have a high level of design
and attention to detail. Two new gates are planned to serve as ticket control and
baggage check, and a perimeter landscape barrier combining plants and a
decorative artistic fence will be designed to provide security for the venue.
Portions of the social courtyard are envisioned to be covered by a roof feature to
shelter patrons from rain during inclement weather and provide shade during
sunny days. In this case consideration should be given to the relationship of this
structure to surrounding improvements and to how important viewsheds can be
maintained.
Ticketing/Restrooms/Seating
A number of improvements are planned to the operations and interior of the
Amphitheater. These include expanded ticket windows, remodeling of existing
restrooms and new restrooms at the east entry to the Amphitheater. Re-
contouring of the lawn seating area is also planned, the primary purpose of which
is to lessen the existing grade of the lawn area.
Noise Mitigation
The relationship between the Amphitheater and the athletic fields at times
creates conflicts, specifically with noise. I-70 traffic also creates problems for the
Amphitheater. Noise mitigation studies have been completed and to date no
definitive decisions have been made regarding possible noise mitigation
measures. Space between the Amphitheater and the fields has been defined in
order to accommodate potential measures that may be pursued in the future
(walls, berms, landscaping, etc.).
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Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
The Alpine Gardens are a major summer attraction and the following
improvements are contemplated for this facility:
North Entry
A more formally defined entry to the Gardens from the upper bench, along with
improved pedestrian corridors are planned.
Garden Expansion Area
Expansion to the gardens is planned along Gore Creek, in an area east of the old
school house.
BFAG Education Center
Located proximate to the Gardens on the lower bench, the Education Center is
envisioned to house administrative offices, a greenhouse and a multi-use space
for a variety of functions. The building is planned to be two levels (one story with
a lower walkout level) with a building footprint of approximately 1500 SF.
The BFAG building is envisioned to be west of the old school house. The
location is preferred for two reasons – to preserve the Children’s Garden (located
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just east of the old school, and to not “crowd” the entry to the Amphitheater. Site
design of the building should give consideration to the following:
x The building should be “low profile” and not dominate the immediate area.
x The design of the building should be sensitive to its close proximity to the
old school house and should create unified compound of structures.
x While the old school house and the Education Center will be two separate
buildings, landscape features, patios, etc. should be used to “link” the two
buildings,
x Consideration should be given to creating a new entry to the gardens that
is adjacent to the new building,
x The specimen spruce tree should be maintained,
x The degree to which the building extends to the west should be minimized
in order to maintain the existing open space and views to Gore Creek from
Betty Ford Way.
The location of this building is appropriate given its proximity and relationship to
the Gardens. However, measures will need to be implemented that will minimize
vehicle trips to the building and how winter access is provided.
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
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Art in Public Places (AIPP)
AIPP has an active program in Ford Park. The organization has placed
permanent art within the Park, the most recent being the Jesús Moroles
sculpture. AAIP also uses a portion of the Lower Bench for temporary/summer
exhibition space. AAIP has the opportunity to utilize other areas of the park
which may be appropriate for art installations. However, any installation
(temporary or permanent) will be evaluated with respect to how it minimizes
impacts on other existing facilities and uses in the Park.
Service and Delivery
The following initiatives are contemplated to improve the efficiency of and
minimize the impacts from service and delivery functions within the Park
Central Trash Enclosure
A new central trash enclosure (to replace an existing building) is planned at the
eastern corner of the parking lot. This is intended to be a fully enclosed building
which contains either a trash dumpster or compactor unit. All leaseholders would
utilize this central enclosure to dispose of trash generated at their respective
facilities. One of the underlying goals of this approach is to not have trash truck
traffic within the Park.
Amphitheater Deliveries
Amphitheater operations necessitate a significant number of deliveries, including
on average 8-12 large semi-trucks each year (typically delivering for
performances) and frequent truck deliveries from food, beer and other vendors.
During the peak summer season deliveries from these vendors can be as much
as two to four per day. These deliveries currently access the Amphitheater via
West Betty Ford Way and create a very negative impact on the rest of the Park,
particularly the highly pedestrianized lower bench area. One of the six goals for
Ford Park is to “reduce vehicular intrusions into the park” and in response to this
a number of alternatives are under consideration that could dramatically reduce
the impact of these delivery vehicles.
Consideration has been given to “management solutions”. For example, truck
deliveries could be limited to specific times (i.e. early morning) of day to avoid
vehicle/pedestrian conflicts. Given the constraints Vail already imposes on
deliveries in the Vail Village area, it is assumed that further confining delivery
times to Ford Park would be impractical on trucks and drivers. Another idea
would be to have trucks deliver to the parking lots then off-load deliveries to
smaller vehicles. While this may be viable for some deliveries, it may not be
viable for liquor/beer deliveries due to state laws.
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The reconstruction of East Betty Ford Way such that all or some delivery vehicles
could utilize this corridor (in lieu of entering the Park from the west) would greatly
reduce vehicle/pedestrian conflicts. In order to do so the eastern portion of Betty
Ford Way would need be reconstructed to widen the path platform and to reduce
steep portions of the path. As noted above, these improvements are already
planned in order to improve pedestrian use of this corridor. In conjunction with
these improvements to the path, the re-design of the new Social
Courtyard/Amphitheater entry could be done to accommodate truck turning
movements such that trucks could enter from the east, turn around and then exit
to the east.
While in concept these improvements would address a major goal for the Park in
reducing vehicle trips and minimizing pedestrian impacts, there are a number of
other factors to consider. For example, the cost of these physical improvements
must be considered relative to the benefits (reduction of vehicular trips) and other
design implications such as how designing the amphitheater entry to
accommodate truck turning movements might affect the qualitative aspects of the
entry and how the need for retaining walls and the width/alignment of East Betty
Ford Way will affect this pedestrian corridor. These and other considerations will
be addressed during the detailed design of these improvements.
An existing sewer line servicing the tennis center needs to be replaced in the
East Betty Ford Way corridor and as such this pedestrian corridor will be re-
constructed to some degree. At a minimum it is anticipated that the path will be
enhanced to address the pedestrian improvements described above. The
degree to which improvements can be done to accommodate all or some truck
traffic will be determined following more detailed design with further evaluation of
the proposal during the Development Plan review process.
Access Road Management
The gate-controlled entrance to East Betty Ford Way is intended to limit vehicle
access to the Lower Bench. This gate/traffic control system is also utilized on the
west end of Betty Ford Way and should continue.
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Vail Nature Center
The Vail Nature Center is located on the south banks of Gore Creek at the
southern end of Ford Park. The Nature Center is intended to be a natural
preserve and includes self-guided trails with a small interpretive center that
provides environmental and educational programs. Resolution #27 of 1987
documents the Town’s intentions for how the Nature Center is to be managed.
No changes are contemplated for this area.
Vail Nature Center
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 40
April 2012
Section 7: Capital Improvements Plan for Ford Park
This section outlines a five to ten year plan for making physical improvements to
the park. The final list of projects will be reviewed and coordinated with Ford Park
leaseholders, and adjacent property owners and must be validated through open
public participation. Ford Park projects and improvement costs are eligible for
Real Estate Transfer Tax funds and grant funding through Great Outdoors
Colorado.
Preliminary list of projects:
1. Streamwalk reconstruction.
2. Streamwalk path light installation.
3. Directional sign package design and installation.
4. Additional site furnishings installation.
5. West Access Road control gate installation and landscaping.
6. South Frontage Road pedestrian/bike path construction.
7. Relocate eastern softball field.
8. Internal pedestrian path construction.
9. South Frontage Road accel/decel lane construction.
10. Relocate tennis court.
11. Bus stop, parking lot, and main entrance improvements construction.
12. Central trash enclosure design and construction.
13. Manor Vail walkway repair and sign installation.
14. Manor Vail bridge and path reconstruction.
15. East Access Road improvement construction.
16. East Access Road control gate installation.
17. Amphitheater loading dock design and construction.
18. Athletic Field parking lot improvement construction.
19. Nature Center trail reconstruction.
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Town of Vail
TO: Planning and Environmental Commission
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: April 9, 2012
SUBJECT: A request for a recommendation to the Vail Town Council for amendments to the
Ford Park Management Plan, to allow for the construction of various
improvements at Ford Park (realignment of athletic fields, new restroom and
concession buildings, new covered outdoor terrace, Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
renovations, park entrance improvements, Betty Ford Alpine Garden welcome
center, streetscape improvements, etc.) located at 530, 540, and 580 South
Frontage Road East/Unplatted, and setting forth details in regard thereto.
(PEC120006)
Applicant: Town of Vail, represented by Braun Associates
Planner: Bill Gibson
I. SUMMARY
This is a request for a recommendation to the Vail Town Council for proposed
amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan. The proposed amendments are
intended to update the current plan and to facilitate the future construction of the various
capital improvements at the park. The capital improvement projects associated with
these proposed management plan amendments will be reviewed by the Planning and
Environmental Commission and/or the Design Review Board at future public hearings.
Based upon Staff’s review of the criteria outlined in Sections VII of this memorandum
and the evidence and testimony presented, the Staff recommends the Planning and
Environmental Commission forwards a recommendation of approval to the Vail Town
Council for the proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan subject to
the findings noted in Section VI of this memorandum.
II. DESCRIPTION OF THE REQUEST
The applicant, Town of Vail, in coordination with the other Ford Park stakeholder groups
(Vail Valley Foundation, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and Vail Recreation District) is
proposing amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan. These amendments are
intended to facilitate the construction of various capital projects identified in the 2011
election that re-allocated a portion of the Convention Center Fund toward improvements
at the park.
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The following is a summary of the future Ford Park capital improvements associated
with these management plan amendments:
x Park entry improvements at Vail Valley Drive at Gore Creek streamwalk, Manor
Vail, and Nature Center Bridge
x Frontage Road entry pedestrian improvements
x Frontage Road entry bus stop and shelter
x Frontage Road entry on-street/off-street parking and passenger drop-off
x Athletic field concessions/restroom building
x Athletic field expansion (alignment, bleachers, fencing, landscaping, etc.)
x Athletic field west restroom/storage building
x Lower Bench playground restrooms
x Lower Bench walkway path
x Gore Creek streamwalk
x Ford Family Tribute
x Betty Ford Way streetscaping and improvements
x Amphitheater social courtyard
x Amphitheater loading/delivery vehicle turn-around area
x Amphitheater ticketing , restrooms, and lawn seating
x Amphitheater / Athletic fields noise mitigation
x Betty Ford Alpine Gardens north entry
x Betty Ford Alpine Gardens expansion area
x Betty Ford Alpine Gardens education center
x Service and Delivery central trash enclosure
x Service and Delivery East Betty Ford Way access road
x Art in Public Places (AIPP)
x Way-finding and signage
x Delineating a park preservation zone
x Shuttle service programming
The applicant is proposing amendments to update the following sections of the Ford
Park Management Plan:
x Introduction
x Section 1: Executive Summary
x Section 2: Background of Ford Park
x Section 3: Process of Developing the Management Plan
x Section 4: Purpose of the Management Plan
x Section 6: Illustrative Plan Components
x Section 8: Appendix
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The proposed amendments to the Introduction, Executive Summary, Background,
Process, and Purpose sections are intended to update this 15 year old master plan and
to facilitate the future capital improvements identified above.
The proposed amendments to Section 6: Illustrative Plan Components include
reorganizing this section by topic, rather than by geographic location; identifying action
steps completed since the 1997 adoption of the Ford Park Management Plan; and
replacing the illustrative plan drawings.
Since the 1997 version of the Ford Park Management Plan is recorded in the Town’s
archives, the applicant is proposing to delete the appendix section of the management
plan document.
The applicant is NOT proposing amendments to the following section of the Ford Park
Management Plan:
x Section 5: Goals, Policies, and Action Steps.
Consistent with Goal #1 (Preserve and Protect Ford Park) of the current Ford Park
Management Plan, the proposed plan amendments DO:
x Limit future development to only new and existing uses allowed by the plan.
x Maintain all existing park functions at a high quality level (generally in their
current locations).
Consistent with Goal #1 (Preserve and Protect Ford Park) of the current Ford Park
Management Plan, the proposed plan amendments DO NOT:
x Allow any new or existing use that is prohibited by the management plan.
x Allow any new or changed facility to curtail another existing public use or facility
at the park.
x Allow lease agreements for any party that does not currently hold such an
agreement (Vail Valley Foundation, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and Vail
Recreation District).
x Alter the historic qualities and natural character of the Nature Center.
The proposed plan amendments do not include actions related to Goal #6 (Delineate
Financial Responsibilities Among Ford Park Lease Holders) and DO NOT:
x Alter any current lease, license, or use agreements or financial responsibilities.
x Alter the day-to-day management or coordination of activities within the park.
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A vicinity map and draft amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan have been
attached for review. The 1997 version of Ford Park Management Plan can be
downloaded in its entirety at the following link:
https://www.vailgov.com/docs/dl_forms/ford_park_management_complete_compressed.pdf
III. BACKGROUND
In 2011, the Vail voters approved the re-allocation of a portion of the collected
Convention Center Fund toward improvements at Ford Park. During that election, the
public was presented schematic plans for a variety of projects in Ford Park including
improvements to the athletic fields, amphitheater, alpine gardens, pedestrian circulation,
transit, etc. The proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan are
intended to facilitate the construction of these park improvements.
Since the 2011 election, the applicant has assembled a stakeholder group with
representatives from the Vail Valley Foundation, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and the
Vail Recreation District; met with the adjacent property owners; held public open house
events; and presented at public hearings before the Vail Town Council.
On March 5 and 26, 2012, the Planning and Environmental Commission held public
hearing work sessions to discuss the various proposed park improvements and the
associated management plan amendments.
IV. APPLICABLE REGULATIONS
ZONING REGULATIONS
SECTION 12-1-2: PURPOSE:
A. General: These regulations are enacted for the purpose of promoting the health,
safety, morals, and general welfare of the town, and to promote the coordinated and
harmonious development of the town in a manner that will conserve and enhance its
natural environment and its established character as a resort and residential community
of high quality.
B. Specific: These regulations are intended to achieve the following more specific
purposes:
1. To provide for adequate light, air, sanitation, drainage, and public facilities.
2. To secure safety from fire, panic, flood, avalanche, accumulation of snow,
and other dangerous conditions.
3. To promote safe and efficient pedestrian and vehicular traffic circulation
and to lessen congestion in the streets.
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4. To promote adequate and appropriately located off street parking and
loading facilities.
5. To conserve and maintain established community qualities and economic
values.
6. To encourage a harmonious, convenient, workable relationship among land
uses, consistent with municipal development objectives.
7. To prevent excessive population densities and overcrowding of the land
with structures.
8. To safeguard and enhance the appearance of the town.
9. To conserve and protect wildlife, streams, woods, hillsides, and other
desirable natural features.
10. To assure adequate open space, recreation opportunities, and other
amenities and facilities conducive to desired living quarters.
11. To otherwise provide for the growth of an orderly and viable community.
ARTICLE 12-9C: GENERAL USE DISTRICT
12-9C-1: PURPOSE:
The general use district is intended to provide sites for public and quasi-public uses
which, because of their special characteristics, cannot be appropriately regulated by the
development standards prescribed for other zoning districts, and for which development
standards especially prescribed for each particular development proposal or project are
necessary to achieve the purposes prescribed in section 12-1-2 of this title and to
provide for the public welfare. The general use district is intended to ensure that public
buildings and grounds and certain types of quasi-public uses permitted in the district are
appropriately located and designed to meet the needs of residents and visitors to Vail,
to harmonize with surrounding uses, and, in the case of buildings and other structures,
to ensure adequate light, air, open spaces, and other amenities appropriate to the
permitted types of uses.
VAIL LAND USE PLAN
Goal 1. General Growth/Development
1.1 Vail should continue to grow in a controlled environment, maintaining a
balance between residential, commercial and recreational uses to serve both the
visitor and the permanent resident.
1.2 The quality of the environment including air, water and other natural
resources should be protected as the Town grows.
1.3 The quality of development should be maintained and upgraded whenever
possible.
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1.12 Vail should accommodate most of the additional growth in existing
developed areas (infill areas).
1.13 Vail recognizes its stream tract as being a desirable land feature as well as
its potential for public use.
Goal 2. Skier /Tourist Concerns
2.1The community should emphasize its role as a destination resort while
accommodating day visitors.
2.4 The community should improve summer recreational options to improve year-
round tourism.
2.5 The community should improve non-skier recreational options to improve
year-round tourism.
2.7 The Town of Vail should improve the existing park and open space lands
while continuing to purchase open space.
Goal 6. Community Services
6.1 Services should keep pace with increased growth.
6.2 The Town of Vail should play a role in future development through balancing
growth with services.
6.3 Services should be adjusted to keep pace with the needs of peak periods.
FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN (1997)
SECTION 5: GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTION STEPS
Goals for Ford Park are summarized in six major goal statements. Each goal statement
focuses on a particular aspect of Ford Park brought up during the stakeholder and
public input portions of the Management Plan process. As one might anticipate, there is
a certain amount of overlap between the goal statements. The issues concerning Ford
Park are complicated and convoluted as are the solutions to these issues. It is intended
that the goal statements be consistent and complementary to each other and be
designed to provide a framework, or direction, for the future management of Ford Park.
A series of objectives following each goal statement outline specific steps that can be
taken toward achieving each stated goal. Policy statements are intended to guide
decision-making in achieving each of the stated objectives in reviewing development
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proposals and implementing capital improvement projects. Action steps are the final
measure in implementing the goal statements.
Illustrative plans following the Goals, Objective, and Action Steps are included to help
explain the concepts represented by those statements. The illustrations are conceptual
and are not to be considered as final design solutions.
Goal #1:
Preserve and protect Ford Park.
Objectives:
1.1: Limit future development.
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.
Policy Statement 1: The following uses that are allowed and prohibited for
Ford Park shall take precedence over Section 18.36.030 of the Municipal
Code concerning the General Use Zone District.
Allowed Uses
x Park and greenbelt
x Bicycle and hiking trails
x Children’s playground
x Outdoor amphitheater
x Botanical gardens
x Environmental, educational, and historical centers
x Picnic areas
x Recreation and athletic facilities
x Transportation systems and other public utility easements
x Parking
x Administrative offices
Prohibited uses
x Ski lift and related facilities
x Exchange or trade
x Civic center, convention/conference center, public schools,
gymnasium, and assembly hall
x Swimming pools
x Equestrian trails
x Type III and IV employee housing
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Policy Statement 2: New or changed facilities or uses will not be permitted
to curtail existing public uses of facilities in the Park unless there is either
a compelling public interest or adequate alternative facilities are available
to its users. All functions in the park shall be maintained and function at a
high quality level.
Action Step 1.1.2: Create and attach plan sheets which outline lease
areas, referred to as Exhibit A in the Vail Recreation District lease
agreement and Exhibit B in the Vail Valley Foundation lease agreement,
but which were never attached.
Policy Statement 3: The existing variety of uses and facilities in the Park
will be preserved. The Town will not enter into a lease agreement with any
party that does not currently hold such an agreement, hereby maintaining
current leaseholder status to: Vail Valley Foundation, Vail Alpine Garden
Foundation, and Vail Recreation District, or their successors.
1.2: Refine criteria for evaluating future development proposals.
Action Step 1.2.1: Update the Design Criteria and Site Guidelines
included in the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan by:
a) Creating additional development guidelines for underground, low visual
impact type structures, enhanced landscaping, and full and complete
impact mitigation.
b) Enforcing existing criteria and guidelines to solve and/or avoid problems
associated with development projects within Ford Park.
1.3: Designate Preservation Zones within Ford Park to protect sensitive natural
areas and/or buffer zones between venues areas from developmental impacts.
Define allowed uses within Preservation Zone areas.
Action Step 1.3.1: Define criteria for designating Preservation Zones and
their uses within Ford Park. For example, significant native vegetation,
wildlife habitat, and wetlands may be criteria for designating sensitive
natural areas, while grade separations and dense landscape plantings
may be criteria for designating sensitive buffer zones.
Action Step 1.3.2: Delineate Preservation Zones within Ford Park.
Policy Statement 4: All proposed development projects shall be reviewed
for compliance with Design Criteria and Site Guidelines, as well as other
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Town regulations, and shall be additionally judged according to the
recreational, educational or social benefit they bring to the community.
Policy Statement 5: Functions that do not maintain high standards of
quality or that diminish the experience of park users, will not be permitted.
Policy Statement 6: The historic qualities and natural character of the
Nature Center are to be maintained.
1.4: Enhance use and preservation of the Historic School House.
Action Step 1.4.1: Negotiate a contract with the Vail Alpine Garden
Foundation to open the School House for public visitation and to perform
preservation activities of photographs and artifacts.
Action Step 1.4.2: Make physical improvements to the school house to
enhance lighting, public access and viewing areas.
Goal #2: Reduce vehicular intrusions in, and their impact on, the park.
Objectives:
2.1: Reduce the demand for vehicular intrusions into the park.
Action Step 2.1.1: Provide additional on-site storage facilities within the
Amphitheater, Alpine Garden and Recreation District areas to reduce and
control the frequency of delivery and service vehicle intrusions into the
park.
Action Step 2.1.2: Improve traffic gate operations and restrictions on both
the east and west access roads to eliminate unnecessary and
unauthorized vehicular intrusions into the park.
Action Step 2.1.3: Construct a central trash collection facility, accessible
from the South Frontage Road, to be used by all leaseholders within the
park for the disposal of trash, landscape debris, and recyclables.
Policy Statement 7: Vehicular encroachment into the park will be
minimized. The only vehicular uses allowed in the park are for:
maintenance; delivery of goods and materials too large or heavy to be
carried by non-motorized means; access for people with disabilities or
limited mobility; public transportation; and emergency services.
2.2: Reduce the conflicts between vehicles and park users.
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Action Step 2.2.1: Coordinate delivery schedules to reduce the frequency of
delivery and service vehicle intrusions into the park during peak use time periods.
Action Step 2.2.2: Improve loading dock facilities in the Amphitheater to expedite
the unloading and setup for performances and to reduce the need for large
vehicle parking outside of the Amphitheater area.
Action Step 2.2.3: Improve the configuration of the east access road to allow use
by large delivery vehicles, thus reducing the overall number of trips on the west
access road and the need for the backing and turning of large vehicles on the
lower bench of the park.
Goal #3: Reduce conflicts between all Ford Park venues.
Objectives:
3.1: Coordinate events on all Ford Park venues.
Action Step 3.1.1: Expand the master schedule kept by the Town Clerk
to include all venues within the park.
Action Step 3.1.2: Hold preseason and monthly event/activity
coordination meetings.
Action Step 3.1.3: Hold semiannual (2x per year) coordination and input
meetings with the Town Administrators, leaseholder representatives, and
neighborhood and adjacent property owner representatives.
Policy Statement 8: Overlapping or simultaneous events that exceed the
available community parking or other park infrastructure shall be
discouraged.
Policy Statement 9: No one event or type of use will be allowed to
dominate the usage of the Park.
Policy Statement 10: 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 Park rest with the Vail Town Manager.
Policy Statement 11: The day-to-day management and coordination of
activities in the Park will be assigned to the Park Superintendent. The
Park Superintendent will coordinate as necessary with a representative of:
x the Town of Vail
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x the Vail Valley Foundation
x the Alpine Garden
x the Vail Recreation District
3.2: Improve buffers between different use areas within the park.
Action Step 3.2.1: Enhance the buffer zone between the softball fields and
the amphitheater and gardens by reversing the orientation of the center
and east softball fields.
Action Step 3.2.2: Enhance existing and new buffer zone areas through
the addition of landscape planting.
Goal #4: Resolve parking and South Frontage Road access problems.
Objectives:
4.1: Develop and implement a parking management plan for Ford Park.
Action Step 4.1.1: Locate a variable message sign between the main
roundabout and entrance to Village Structure for the purpose of informing
drivers that close-in parking at Ford Park is restricted, at a fee, or full, and
parking in the VTC is free and shuttle bus service is available.
Action Step 4.1.2: Schedule shuttle bus service from top deck of the
Village Structure to Ford Park Frontage Road stop for special event/high
demand days. Extend in-town shuttle bus service to Ford Park Vail
Valley Drive stop.
Action Step 4.1.3: Designate drop-off parking from Frontage Road using
15 spaces north of bus stop. Enforce 5 minute time limit. Drop-off lane
functions as a turn around once lot is filled. Schedule attendants on-site
to manage drop-off spaces and assist users in loading and unloading.
Action Step 4.1.4: Allocate close-in parking on Frontage Road and Vail
Valley Drive through reserve ticket purchases or on a fee basis. Parking
attendants on-site to manage entrances and exits. Establish a ticket
surcharge or parking fee price schedule which will generate sufficient
funds to cover attendant and shuttle bus service costs. Fee parking is to
be in effect for high-parking demand days only.
Action Step 4.1.5: Construct Frontage Road sidewalk from the Village
Structure and improve sign system as necessary to accommodate
pedestrian traffic to Ford Park.
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Policy Statement 12: Adequate parking for the needs of the park are to be
provided in the park and at the Village Structure.
4.2: Improve vehicular access from the South Frontage Road and improve
parking lot design to maximize the number of parking spaces, aesthetics, and
safety while mitigating environmental impacts.
Action Step 4.2.1: Design and construct improvements to the South
Frontage Road to meet CDOT requirements for obtaining a state highway
access permit.
Action Step 4.2.2: Design and construct improvements to all existing
parking areas that maximize the number of parking spaces; provide
landscape buffering and treatment of storm water run-off.
Goal #5: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford Park and the pedestrian
connections between Ford Park and Vail Village.
Objectives:
5.1: Improve 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 the Vail Village and from each level of
the Village Parking Structure to destinations within Ford Park.
5.2: Improve pedestrian routes to Ford Park.
Action Step 5.2.1: Design improvements to existing pedestrian routes that
will correct grading, surfacing, and lighting and will provide resting and
sitting areas.
5.3: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford Park.
Action Step 5.3.1: Design a central pedestrian path to enhance the
connection between the upper and lower bench areas of the park.
Policy Statement 14: Any uses added to Ford Park in the future shall be
structured to encourage users or participants to walk or ride the bus rather
than drive.
Policy Statement 15: Pedestrian access to the Park from the Vail Village
should be easy and visible. The Park shall be as pedestrian-friendly as
possible.
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Goal #6: Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park leaseholders and the
Town of Vail.
Objectives:
6.1: Formalize existing division of facility management/operation costs.
Action Step 6.1.1: Research current lease, license and use agreements
for delineation of financial responsibilities.
Action Step 6.1.2: Correct inequities in utility billing procedures and
distribution systems, current utility use, and payment relationships.
Policy Statement 16: All Ford Park leaseholders and the Town of Vail shall
be required to share in common operating costs that benefit the whole
park facility and as outlined in current lease or license agreements. These
include but are not limited to, electrical charges for pedestrian path and
parking lot lighting, trash removal charges, and regular parking lot and
pedestrian path maintenance costs.
6.2: Create a cost-sharing agreement for Capital Improvement costs.
Action Step 6.2.1: Create 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.
Policy Statement 17: Ford Park leaseholders and the Town of Vail desiring
to make capital improvements within their respective lease areas shall be
required to provide funding for those improvements and for subsequent
modifications to those areas outside of the lease area caused by those
improvements.
Policy Statement 18: Services, functions, and programs provided by Ford
Park leaseholders, by bringing visitors to the community, generate sales
tax revenues which contribute General Fund funding sources. Residents
of the community which participate in those programs, contribute to the
Real Estate Transfer Tax funding source 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.
V. REVIEW CRITERIA
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The current Ford Park Management Plan does not prescribe an amendment process.
However, before acting on this application for amendments to the Ford Park
Management Plan, the Community Development Department recommends that the
Planning and Environmental Commission consider the following factors with respect to
the proposed amendments:
1. The extent to which the amendment furthers the general and specific purposes
of the zoning regulations; and
Based upon the evidence and testimony presented at multiple public hearings, Staff
believes the proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan further the
general purposes of the zoning regulations. Staff believes the existing park, the
proposed improvements to Ford Park, and the associated updates to the Ford Park
Management Plan maintain the health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the town
and promote the coordinated and harmonious development of the town in a manner that
will conserve and enhance its natural environment and its established character as a
resort and residential community of high quality.
Based upon the evidence and testimony presented at multiple public hearings, Staff
believes the proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan further the
specific purposes of the zoning regulations. Staff believes the existing park, the
proposed improvements to Ford Park, and the associated updates to the Ford Park
Management Plan continue to:
x To provide for adequate light, air, sanitation, drainage, and public facilities.
x To secure safety from fire, panic, flood, avalanche, accumulation of snow,
and other dangerous conditions.
x To promote safe and efficient pedestrian and vehicular traffic circulation
and to lessen congestion in the streets.
x To promote adequate and appropriately located off street parking and
loading facilities.
x To conserve and maintain established community qualities and economic
values.
x To encourage a harmonious, convenient, workable relationship among
land uses, consistent with municipal development objectives.
x To prevent excessive population densities and overcrowding of the land
with structures.
x To safeguard and enhance the appearance of the town.
x To conserve and protect wildlife, streams, woods, hillsides, and other
desirable natural features.
x To assure adequate open space, recreation opportunities, and other
amenities and facilities conducive to desired living quarters.
x To otherwise provide for the growth of an orderly and viable community.
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Based upon the evidence and testimony presented at multiple public hearings, Staff
believes the proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan further the
purposes of the General Use District. Staff believes the existing park, the proposed
improvements to Ford Park, and the associated updates to the Ford Park Management
Plan continue to provide sites for public and quasi-public uses which, because of their
special characteristics, cannot be appropriately regulated by the development standards
prescribed for other zoning districts, and for which development standards especially
prescribed for each particular development proposal or project are necessary to achieve
the purposes prescribed in section 12-1-2 of this title and to provide for the public
welfare.
Staff believes the existing park, the proposed improvements to Ford Park, and the
associated updates to the Ford Park Management Plan continue to ensure that public
buildings and grounds and certain types of quasi-public uses permitted in the General
Use District are appropriately located and designed to meet the needs of residents and
visitors to Vail, are harmonized with surrounding uses, and, in the case of buildings and
other structures, ensure adequate light, air, open spaces, and other amenities
appropriate to the permitted types of uses.
2. The extent to which the amendment would better implement and better achieve
the applicable elements of the adopted goals, objectives, and policies outlined in
the Vail comprehensive plan and is compatible with the development objectives
of the town; and
Based upon the evidence and testimony presented at multiple public hearings, Staff
believes the existing park, the proposed improvements to Ford Park, and the associated
updates to the Ford Park Management Plan are consistent with the following Land Use
Plan goals:
Goal 1. General Growth/Development
1.1 Vail should continue to grow in a controlled environment, maintaining a
balance between residential, commercial and recreational uses to serve both the
visitor and the permanent resident.
1.2 The quality of the environment including air, water and other natural
resources should be protected as the Town grows.
1.3 The quality of development should be maintained and upgraded whenever
possible.
1.12 Vail should accommodate most of the additional growth in existing
developed areas (infill areas).
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1.13 Vail recognizes its stream tract as being a desirable land feature as well as
its potential for public use.
Goal 2. Skier /Tourist Concerns
2.1The community should emphasize its role as a destination resort while
accommodating day visitors.
2.4 The community should improve summer recreational options to improve year-
round tourism.
2.5 The community should improve non-skier recreational options to improve
year-round tourism.
2.7 The Town of Vail should improve the existing park and open space lands
while continuing to purchase open space.
Goal 6. Community Services
6.1 Services should keep pace with increased growth.
6.2 The Town of Vail should play a role in future development through balancing
growth with services.
6.3 Services should be adjusted to keep pace with the needs of peak periods.
3. The extent to which the amendment demonstrates how conditions have
substantially changed since the adoption of the subject regulation and how the
existing regulation is no longer appropriate or is inapplicable; and
The current Ford Park Management Plan was last updated in 1997. In the past 15
years, several of the plan recommendations have been constructed and implemented.
In 2011, the Vail voters approved the re-allocation of a portion of the collected
Convention Center Fund toward improvements at Ford Park. During that election, the
public was presented schematic plans for a variety of projects in Ford Park including
improvements to the athletic fields, amphitheater, alpine gardens, pedestrian circulation,
transit, etc. The proposed amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan are
intended to facilitate the construction of these park improvements.
4. The extent to which the amendment provides a harmonious, convenient,
workable relationship among land use regulations consistent with municipal
development objectives; and
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The applicant is proposing no changes to the goals, objectives, and policy statements of
the Ford Park Management Plan as adopted in 1997. The applicant is proposing
amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan to facilitate a variety of park
improvements. Based upon the evidence and testimony presented at multiple public
hearings, Staff believes these proposed amendments are consistent with the goals,
objectives, and policy statements of the Ford Park Management Plan as adopted in
1997. The following is a summary of the proposed future park improvements and the
supporting Ford Park Management Plan goals (including objectives, policy statements,
and action steps):
x Park entry improvements at Vail Valley Drive at Gore Creek streamwalk,
Manor Vail, and Nature Center Bridge
o see Goal #5
x Frontage Road entry pedestrian improvements
o see Goal #4 and Goal #5
x Frontage Road entry bus stop and shelter
o see Goal #4
x Frontage Road entry on-street/off-street parking and passenger drop-off
o see Goal #4
x Athletic field concessions/restroom building
o see Goal #1
x Athletic field expansion (alignment, bleachers, fencing, landscaping, etc.)
o see Goal #1
x Athletic field west restroom/storage building
o see Goal #1 and Goal #2
x Lower Bench playground restrooms
o see Goal #1
x Lower Bench walkway path
o see Goal #5
x Gore Creek streamwalk and park entries
o see Goal #5
x Ford Family Tribute
o see Goal #5
x Betty Ford Way streetscaping and improvements
o see Goal #2 and Goal #5
x Amphitheater social courtyard
o see Goal #1 and Goal #5
x Amphitheater loading/delivery vehicle turn-around area
o see Goal #2, Goal #3, and Goal #5
x Amphitheater ticketing, restrooms, and lawn seating
o see Goal #1
x Amphitheater / Athletic fields noise mitigation
o see Goal #3
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Town of Vail Page 18
x Betty Ford Alpine Gardens north entry
o see Goal #2 and Goal #5
x Betty Ford Alpine Gardens expansion area
o see Goal #1
x Betty Ford Alpine Gardens education center
o see Goal #1
x Service and Delivery central trash enclosure
o see Goal #2
x Service and Delivery East Betty Ford Way access road
o See Goal #2, Goal #3, and Goal #5
x Art in Public Places (AIPP)
o see Goal #1
x Way-finding and signage
o see Goal #5
x Delineating a park preservation zone
o see Goal #1
x Shuttle service programming
o see Goal #2 and Objective 4.1
Consistent with Goal #1 (Preserve and Protect Ford Park) of the current Ford Park
Management Plan, the proposed plan amendments DO:
x Limit future development to only new and existing uses allowed by the plan.
x Maintain all existing park functions at a high quality level (generally in their
current locations).
Consistent with Goal #1 (Preserve and Protect Ford Park) of the current Ford Park
Management Plan, the proposed plan amendments DO NOT:
x Allow any new or existing use that is prohibited by the management plan.
x Allow any new or changed facility to curtail another existing public use or facility
at the park.
x Allow lease agreements for any party that does not currently hold such an
agreement (Vail Valley Foundation, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and Vail
Recreation District).
x Alter the historic qualities and natural character of the Nature Center.
The proposed plan amendments do not include actions related to Goal #6 (Delineate
Financial Responsibilities Among Ford Park Lease Holders) and DO NOT:
x Alter any current lease, license, or use agreements or financial responsibilities.
The proposed plan amendments do not include actions related to Goal #6 (Delineate
Financial Responsibilities Among Ford Park Lease Holders) and DO NOT:
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Town of Vail Page 19
x Alter any current lease, license, or use agreements or financial responsibilities.
x Alter the day-to-day management or coordination of activities within the park.
5. Such other factors and criteria the planning and environmental commission
and/or council deem applicable to the proposed text amendment.
VI. RECOMMENDATION
The Community Development Department recommends that the Planning and
Environmental Commission forwards a recommendation of approval to the Vail Town
Council for the proposed Ford Park Management Plan amendments based upon a
review of the criteria outlined in Section V of this memorandum and the evidence and
testimony presented at multiple public hearings.
Should the Planning and Environmental Commission choose to forward a
recommendation of approval of this request to the Vail Town Council; the Community
Development Department recommends the Commission pass the following motion:
“The Planning and Environmental Commission forwards a recommendation of
approval, for amendments to the Ford Park Management Plan, to allow for the
construction of various improvements at Ford Park (realignment of athletic fields,
new restroom and concession buildings, new covered outdoor terrace, Gerald R.
Ford Amphitheater renovations, park entrance improvements, Betty Ford Alpine
Garden welcome center, streetscape improvements, etc.) located at 530, 540,
and 580 South Frontage Road East/Unplatted, and setting forth details in regard
thereto.”
Should the Planning and Environmental Commission choose to forward a
recommendation of approval to the Vail Town Council for the proposed text
amendment, the Community Development Department recommends the Commission
makes the following findings:
“Based upon the review of the criteria outlined in Section V of Staff’s April 9,
2012 memorandum and the evidence and testimony presented at multiple public
hearings, the Planning and Environmental Commission finds:
1. That the amendments are consistent with the applicable elements of the
adopted goals, objectives and policies outlined in the Vail comprehensive
plan and is compatible with the development objectives of the town; and
2. That the amendments further the general and specific purposes of the zoning
regulations; and
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Town of Vail Page 20
3. That the amendments promote the health, safety, morals, and general welfare
of the town and promote the coordinated and harmonious development of the
town in a manner that conserves and enhances its natural environment and its
established character as a resort and residential community of the highest
quality.”
VII. ATTACHMENTS
A. Vicinity Map
B. Proposed Amendments
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AN UPDATE TO THE
FINAL REPORT
FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN
An Amendment to the Ford Park Master Plan
April 14, 1997
Updated April, 2012
New text added to the Plan is in “red”
Text deleted is in “strikeout”
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AN UPDATE TO THE
FINAL REPORT
FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN
An Amendment to the Ford Park Master Plan
Prepare for:
Town of Vail
Public Works Department
Community Development Department
Administration Department
Prepared by:
Braun Associates, Inc.
AECOM
Zehren Associates, Inc.
Updated
April, 2012
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 1
April 2012
Introduction
The Ford Park Management Plan herein presented is to serve as an amendment
to the 1985 Master Plan for Gerald R. Ford Park. The Ford Park Management
Plan contains eight sections. Sections 1 - 4 introduce the plan: An executive
summary, a history and time line of Ford Park, a description of the management
plan process, and a statement of purpose of the management plan. Section 5 is
the heart of the management plan: a set of six management goals with
accompanying objectives, action steps, and policy statements to provide a
framework for future management decisions. Section 6 contains illustrative,
conceptual plans and written descriptions which support the various action steps.
A 5-Year Capital Improvements Program for Ford Park is presented in Section 7.
In 2012 the Ford Park Management Plan was updated to reflect new ideas for
improvements planned for the Park. Plans to make improvements to the Park
were initiated when Vail voters approved funding by re-allocating a portion of
Convention Center Funds to Ford Park. The other stakeholders in the Park are
also participating in the funding of these improvements.
The 2012 update continues the overall direction for the Park established by the
1997 Management Plan and in doing so maintains the role the Park has played
in the community for the past 30 years. The 2012 update makes no significant
changes to the activities that currently take place in the Park. By way of
example, all of the major uses in the Park – athletic fields, passive recreation, the
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, the Alpine Gardens and tennis remain in place.
There are no changes to the six major goal statements or to the related
objectives, policy statements and action steps outlined in the 1997 Plan.
Refinements to the Plan resulting from the 2012 update are limited to the
Illustrative Plan Component of the 1997 Management Plan. The Illustrative Plan
Components are conceptual site plan diagrams of improvements suggested for
the Park. Many of the park improvements identified by the 2012 Update will
implement improvements first identified in the 1997 Plan. These improvements
and new improvements not previously contemplated by the 1997 Plan are
outlined in Section 6.
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 2
April 2012
Section 1: Executive Summary
The property which is today Gerald R. Ford Park was acquired by the town in
1973 in response to public reaction against a high density residential
development proposal. The 39 acre park site represented the last remaining
parcel of land central to use by all residents and visitors of the Vail Community.
The Vail Plan (1973) described the site as a major community park – cultural
center that would satisfy the town’s growing recreational and cultural needs.
Development of the lower portion of the park was directed by the Gerald R. Ford/
Donovan Park Master Plan (1985). Strong public participation led to the
establishment of guidelines for the implementation of future improvements.
Upper area improvements, softball fields, tennis courts, and parking areas, were
constructed without the benefit of preplanning and subsequently created some
barriers to the lower bench, natural areas, and Nature Center.
The Vail Village Master Plan (1990) recommended the park be considered as a
site for additional skier parking to serve expansion on the eastern side of Vail
Mountain. It also recommended the construction of bike/pedestrian ways along
the South Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive.
There are currently four main organizations involved in the operation of Ford
Park. The Town of Vail, Vail Recreation District, Alpine Garden Foundation, and
the Vail Valley Foundation all play distinct roles and manage separate portions of
the park. The Town of Vail is the owner of the park and manages the community
park, stream tract, and parking lot areas. The other three organizations each hold
a lease or license agreement to operate their respective facilities and programs
within the park.
A proposal by the Alpine Garden Foundation to construct an educational center
within the garden area was a significant impetus to the creation of this document.
However, several other formal and informal development expansion proposals
and numerous unresolved park management issues also existed. The Ford Park
Management Plan was created as a means to evaluate development proposals
in order to protect and enhance the character of the park.
The 1997 Plan was a direct product of strong public participation in focus groups
and public input sessions. One clear, concise message was conveyed to the
town staff from the public participants: Our role is steward to the park; don’t
screw it up by over development. To that end, this Plan, serving as an
amendment to the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan, was intended to guide the
outcome of future development and improvement proposals through the
implementation of six major goals:
1. Preservation and protection
2. Reduction of vehicular intrusions
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 3
April 2012
3. Reduction of conflicts between venues
4. Resolution of parking and Frontage Road access problems
5. Improvement of pedestrian circulation
6. Delineation of financial responsibilities
Designed to be a framework for future management decisions, a series of
objectives, action steps and policy statements facilitate the implementation of
each goal statement.
The most recent motivation for initiating improvements to Ford Park evolved from
discussions of how to utilize the Town’s Conference Center funding. In the Fall
of 2011 Vail voters approved the re-allocation of the $9-plus million Conference
Center Funds by an 87 percent margin. As endorsed by the voters, a portion of
these funds was to provide funding for improvements to Ford Park, specifically
improvements to the Ford Amphitheater, the Alpine Gardens, park-wide
pedestrian flow, as well as expansion of the athletic fields and restroom
improvements at the Ford Park athletic complex.
As a part of the 2012 Update process the 1997 Management Plan was one of the
considerations used to define improvements both necessary and appropriate for
the Park. Improvements contemplated for the Park are consistent with the
goals, objectives, policies and action steps of the 1997 Plan. However, some
improvements were new ideas and necessitated some clarification to the
Illustrative Site Plan concepts depicted in the 1997 Plan. In response to this the
2012 Update to the Ford Park Management Plan was prepared.
Ford Park Stakeholders
The Town of Vail is the land owner of Ford Park and plays an active role in the
management and operation of the Park. The Town also has lease or other
agreements with three other entities that manage and maintain facilities in the
Park:
x The Vail Recreation District,
x The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and
x The Vail Valley Foundation.
Collectively the Town and the Ford Park stakeholders have been working
collaboratively on the preparation of improvement plans for the Park and to
varying degrees each of the stakeholders are collaborating with the Town by
participating in the funding of their respective improvements
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 4
April 2012
Section 2: Background of Ford Park
History
Gerald R. Ford Park has been the subject of numerous legislative and
community planning actions over the last 24 years. The time line at the end of
this section illustrates the relationship between the actions discussed in this
section.
The Ford Park site was acquired by the Town of Vail in April of 1973 for the
stated purpose of improving the quality of life in the community. This 39 acre park
site represented the last remaining parcel of land central to use by all residents
and visitors of the Vail community. The existing conditions plan, which follows
this section, illustrates Ford Park in its current condition.
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 1973, signed April 3, 1973, (a copy of which is
included in the Appendix), authorized the purchase (by condemnation) of the
property known as the Antholz Ranch. The ordinance listed a variety of possible
uses for the property including the following:
x for park and greenbelt purposes,
x to preserve the natural and physical character of the area to be
condemned,
x for bicycle, equestrian and hiking trails,
x for children’s playground,
x for performing arts and civic center,
x for a ski lift and related facilities,
x for picnic areas,
x for recreational facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools,
gymnasium, ice skating rink,
x for theater and assembly halls, convention center, public schools,
x for possible exchange or trade of condemned land, or a portion thereof,
with other property which may exactly meet the needs of the town, and
x to construct and maintain water works, transportation systems, and other
public utilities relating to public health, safety, and welfare.
In August of 1973, the Vail Plan was completed. This plan was designed to
control the growth and development of the community and contained a chapter
on the town recreation system. The Antholz Ranch property was mentioned as
the only site satisfying the recreation use anticipated. In the Vail Plan the uses
intended for the property were further defined. The uses listed include a place for
showing and creating art, crafts, etc.; an indoor theater as well as an 800 seat
outdoor amphitheater; meeting rooms and community workshops; wide outdoor
terraces and natural landscapes; indoor ice arena, tennis and handball courts;
children’s play facilities and space for family activities; headquarters for the
Annual Vail Symposium and local television; and a possible location for an
ecologium (nature center). The property was described as a major community
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 5
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park-cultural center. The plan called for 200 surface parking spaces and direct
service from the town bus system. Major parking needs were to be
accommodated in the Vail Transportation Center with various trails and bikeways
connecting to the park.
In January of 1977, Resolution No. 1, Series of 1977, was passed naming the
property commonly known as the Antholz Ranch as Gerald R. Ford Park in
appreciation of President Ford’s contributions to the community. Resolution No.
1, Series of 1977 is included in the Appendix.
In August of 1985 the Gerald R. Ford Park and Donovan Park Master Plan
Development Final Report was completed. The Ford Park Master Plan was
adopted by Council with Resolution No. 19, Series of 1985, which is included in
the Appendix. The purpose of the master plan was to guide the future
development of these parks and establish guidelines for the implementation of
improvements. The master planning project used a Recreation Needs Analysis
Survey and involvement of the public in determining the recreation priorities of
the community and the design concepts and criteria for the two park sites. The
Ford Park master plan proposed a swimming pool complex, neighborhood park
improvements, a skating rink on the lower bench, and the realignment of the
eastern softball field. The neighborhood park open space area, playground, and
access road were the only portions of the master plan actually constructed.
The first major structure to be constructed in the park, the Gerald R. Ford
Amphitheater, was completed in July of 1987. The Parking and Transit Study
completed in April of 1979 for the Amphitheater made five recommendations:
The Village Structure should be considered the major parking facility for Ford
Park, with improvements to the signs, sidewalks, and bus service being
necessary; extend shuttle bus service to the soccer field; disallow Frontage Road
parking; construct a vehicle turn-around and passenger unloading area at Ford
Park; and do not schedule concurrent events.
Resolution No. 27, Series of 1987, was passed on November 3, 1987. Resolution
27 designated the seven acres around the Nature Center as an area to be
preserved as an example of the Gore Valley’s natural history. Vehicular traffic
was restricted and certain policies and procedures for preservation and
maintenance of the grounds and facilities were established with the resolution. A
copy of resolution No. 27, Series of 1987, is included in the Appendix.
Development of the community park portion on the lower bench of Ford Park
included the restroom, playground area, open turf area and picnic facilities, and
the west access road. These improvements were completed in November of
1988.
In December of 1988, the Vail Metropolitan Recreation District (Now the Vail
Recreation District) and the Town of Vail, requested an amendment to the 1985
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Ford Park Master Plan. The two phase amendment was adopted by Council as
Resolution No. 44, Series of 1988. Phase one of the amendment was to utilize
the on-site tennis courts and allow the construction of four additional courts.
Phase two of the amendment changed the proposed location of the Aquatic
Facility to the eastern softball field. Funding of the Aquatic Facility was rejected
by voters in a special election on February 6, 1989. Vail Town Council was
presented with a petition to delete all reference to an aquatics center from the
Ford Park Master Plan in April of 1990. No record of Council action on the
petition was found. While the tennis center building is not mentioned in the
Master plan amendment, the VRD did receive a Conditional Use Permit for the
project on May 8, 1990.
In 2008 a new lease between the Town of Vail and the Vail Recreation District
was created and included all Town owned facilities managed by the Vail
Recreation District. The lease requires a 20 year Capital Maintenance Plan,
reviewed annually, to detail the financial responsibilities of each party.
The Vail Village Master Plan, adopted January 16, 1990, addresses Ford Park as
a specific study area. This study acknowledges the use of the park in recent
years to accommodate overflow skier and local parking needs. It recommends
the park be studied further as a site for additional skier parking to serve
expansion of the eastern side of Vail Mountain. Action Step #5 under Goal #5
states “study the feasibility of an underground (recreation fields would remain)
parking structure in Ford Park”. The Parking and Circulation Plan, within the Vail
Village Master Plan, identifies the western portion of the upper bench for a
potential parking beneath park, and calls for separated bike/pedestrian ways
along the South Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive.
The Vail Transportation Master Plan, completed in 1993, states, the existing
Ford Park Parking area (east end of park) should be considered for a possible 2-
level parking facility with the second level below existing grade. Ford Park and
the athletic field parking area are also listed as two possible sites for oversized
vehicles if the lot east of the Lionshead Structure becomes developed.
The 2009 Vail Transportation Master Plan Update replaced the 1993 Plan and
mentions Ford Park as a possible area for increasing the Town’s parking supply,
and that “potentially, 300-600 net new parking spaces could be provided at Ford
Park” and suggests a roundabout be constructed east of the Vail Valley Drive
intersection with the South Frontage Road to allow east bound traffic to be
diverted back to the west. Currently this action occurs at the Ford Park bus stop
area.
Current Park Management
There are currently four main organizations operating in Gerald R. Ford Park.
The Town of Vail, Vail Recreation District, Alpine Garden Foundation, and the
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Vail Valley Foundation all play distinct roles and manage separate portions of the
park. The Town of Vail is the owner of the entire Gerald R. Ford Park site and
manages the community park, stream tract, and parking lot areas. The other
three organizations each hold a lease or license agreement to operate their
respective facilities and programs within the park.
The Vail Recreation District Lease of December 21, 1993, describes the
premises license as including the upper bench of Ford Park, public tennis courts,
athletic fields and Nature Center, although the graphic representation of the
premises was not attached to the lease agreement. The VRD offers a variety of
sports leagues, camps, and tournaments to area residents and guests. The Vail
Nature Center occupies the seven acres between Vail Valley Drive and Gore
Creek and offers environmental education and research opportunities to
residents and guests.
The Vail Valley Foundation, (VVF), a non-profit, charitable organization,
manages and maintains the Ford Amphitheater and immediate grounds. The
terms of the agreement between the Town and the VVF, signed December 8,
1987, and renewed in 1999; includes an endowment for ongoing repair and
maintenance of the Amphitheater. The amphitheater seats up to 2,500 people
and hosts approximately 60 events during the summer. Hot Summer Nights
concerts, Bravo! Colorado, and the Bolshoi Ballet are some of the more popular
programs held at the amphitheater.
The Vail Alpine Garden Foundation, a Colorado non-profit corporation, manages
the Betty Ford Alpine Garden under a Limited License Agreement signed June 8,
1994. The original Alpine Display Garden was constructed in 1987 under a
license agreement with the Town at the entrance to the amphitheater. The site
for the Alpine Garden was established in the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan to act
as a buffer between the amphitheater and active park areas. The second phase
of the garden, the Perennial Garden, and third phase, the Meditation Garden,
were constructed in 1989 and 1991 respectively. The Alpine Rock Garden was
constructed in 1998 and the Children’s Garden was constructed in 2002. A
proposal by the Alpine Garden Foundation to construct an Educational Center
with the final phase of the garden was controversial. Opposition to the expanded
use of the garden and the interior of park was a significant impetus to the
creation of the 1997 Management Plan. In response to that opposition, the Vail
Alpine Garden Foundation modified the proposal to locate the Educational
Center near the athletic field parking lot on Vail Valley Drive. This location
received conceptual approval by the Council on October 15, 1996, however the
project was not implemented.
The lower bench of Ford Park is managed by the Town of Vail Department of
Public Works and Transportation and serves as a community park and open
space facility with picnic, playground and open play areas. The lower bench is
utilized several times a year for special events where large tents are often
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April 2012
erected to accommodate the activities. Access to the park from the Golden Peak
ski base is by a public access easement through the Manor Vail property. A copy
of the easement is included in the Appendix. The Town operates the upper
bench parking lot as a public parking facility during the ski season. Access to the
upper bench parking areas is from the State owned South Frontage Road. The
Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is the agency responsible for
reviewing and approving access permit applications from the State-owned
Frontage Road. Currently, no access permit has been issued for the access by
the CDOT. CDOT Frontage Road right-of-way covers a substantial portion of the
paved parking lot.
Time Line of Ford Park Activities
April 1973 Condemnation of Antholz Ranch. Ordinance 6, 1973
August 1973 Completion of Vail Plan.
January 1977 Antholtz Ranch named Gerald R. Ford Park. Resolution 1,
1977
August 1985 Completion of Ford/Donovan Park Masterplan. Resolution
19,1985
July 1987 Amphitheater construction complete
August 1987 Alpine Demonstration Garden complete.
November 1987 Preservation of Nature Center. Resolution 27, 1987
December 1987 Vail Valley Foundation lease signed.
November 1988 Lower Bench improvements complete.
December 1988 Masterplan amendment by VRD. Resolution 44, 1988
December 1988 Service agreement with VRD. Resolution 46, 1988
May 1989 Tennis Center receives Conditional Use Permit.
July 1989 Alpine Perennial Garden complete.
January 1990 Completion of Vail Village Masterplan.
February 1990 Aquatic Center rejected by voters in special election.
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April 1990 Council petitioned to delete Aquatic Center from Masterplan.
May 1990 Tennis Center construction complete.
June 1991 Alpine Meditation Garden complete.
April 1993 Completion of Vail Transportation Master Plan.
December 1993 Vail Recreation District agreement renewed.
June 1994 Vail Alpine Garden Foundation license agreement signed.
June 1995 Town begins Ford Park Management Plan.
October 1996 Council allows Vail Alpine Garden Foundation to proceed
through process with Educational Center at Soccer Field
parking lot (not implemented).
April 1997 Ford Park Management Plan adopted.
1999 Lease with Vail Valley Foundation renewed.
2008 Lease with Vail Recreation District renewed.
2009 Vail Transportation Plan Update completed.
November 2011 Voters approve use of Conference Center Funding for Ford
Park Improvements
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Ford Park Management Plan Update 10
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Section 3: Process of Developing the Management Plan
The Ford Park Management Plan process was initiated in June of 1995 in
response to several development proposals which had been formally and
informally discussed and as a means to solve existing park management issues.
The development proposals included an Educational Center for the Betty Ford
Alpine Garden, cultural/performing arts center, expansion of the tennis facility,
athletic field fencing, and a community parking structure. Park management
issues included parking shortage, frontage road access, pedestrian access and
circulation, access for the elderly and disabled, utilization of the lower bench,
conflicts between uses within the park, conflicts with adjacent property owners,
and delineation of financial responsibilities. At the time the project was
authorized Council expressed concern that a new master plan for Ford Park
would result in an excessive amount of new development. In response, staff
noted the intention of the project was to create a management plan as a means
to adequately and consistently evaluate development proposals, thus limiting
development and protecting the character of the park.
Those organizations with a financial and managerial role along, with two
neighborhood representatives, were identified as the Stakeholder Group and
were invited to participate in the process. A third party facilitator was retained for
the project in August of 1995. Staff members from the Town, Vail Recreation
District and Alpine Garden participated in the facilitator selection process. Staff
felt that a third-party facilitator would be beneficial to the project by offering a
non-biased opinion and increasing Stakeholder participation. The Stakeholder
Group was assembled in a series of meetings over the eight month period from
August 1995 to April 1996. The meetings drew out issues, ideas, expansion
proposals, and began formulating possible solutions.
Alternative design solutions addressing parking options, vehicular access,
Frontage Road improvements, additional sports facilities and management
policies, were presented to the public in an open house at the Gerald R. Ford
Amphitheater on June 12, 1996. Citizens were asked to complete a self-guided
presentation and opinion survey form.
The open house presentation was a turning point in the process of developing
the Management Plan. Several residents were alarmed by the alternatives
included in the presentation and initiated a grass-roots movement to place a
referendum on any future expansion/development within the park. This strong
public reaction, combined with a lack of closure with the Stakeholders Group,
prompted the Town to revise the process to include more public involvement at
that time. Previously, public input was being reserved for a time when alternative
plans could be presented for comment. Three Focus Group meetings with
selected individuals from the community were held on September 18, 1996.
Stakeholder groups were invited to submit a list of questions for inclusion in the
Focus Group discussions. In round table discussion, individuals were asked to
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respond to a list of prepared questions regarding uses and issues associated
with Ford Park. The Focus Group questions and responses are included in the
Appendix. Additional public input sessions were held on October 2 and 3, 1996,
which validated the focus group responses and further refined staff’s
understanding of the public perception and desires regarding Ford Park.
The combined results of the focus group and public input sessions along with a
preliminary master plan framework were presented to the Planning and
Environmental Commission on October 14, 1996, and Town Council on October
15, 1996. Both PEC and Council directed staff to proceed with drafting the plan
as an amendment to the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan based on the input
received and presented.
Plans to make improvements to the Park were initiated in 2011 when Vail voters
approved funding by re-allocating a portion of Convention Center Funds to Ford
Park. During the election schematic plans were presented that involved
improvements to the athletic fields, the amphitheater, the alpine gardens,
pedestrian circulation, transit and other areas of the park. Following voter
approval of funding the main stakeholders in the Park began to refine
improvement plans. Meetings were held with adjacent neighbors, a community
open house was held and numerous public meetings were held by the Planning
and Environmental Commission and the Town Council.
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Section 4: Purpose of the Management Plan
This document is formatted as an amendment to the 1985 Master plan (revised)
for Ford Park. While some of the physical aspects of the park have changed
since the adoption of the 1985 Master plan, the essential character, concept, and
function of the park have remained consistent. The 1985 Master Plan, enhanced
by this amendment, remains a valid document to be used in the future planning
and decision-making process for Ford Park. As with all master plans, this
document will have a definite life for which it remains a useful decision-making
tool. The life expectancy of this plan is approximately 10 years but should remain
in effect until replaced by an updated master plan document. The Ford Park
Management Plan will take precedence over the 1985 Master Plan where
conflicts or discrepancies occur.
The intention of the combined documents is to guide the outcome of future
development proposals within Ford Park by modifying the permitted uses (1973
acquisition legislation), recommending development guidelines, limiting the
number of leaseholders within Ford Park, and designating buffer/protection
zones within and adjacent to the park.
The 1985 Master Plan acknowledges some shortcomings in the overall design of
the park, particularly the layout of the upper bench area and the internal
pedestrian circulation system. This amendment will formulate design alternatives
to these specific problem areas to correct the deficiencies that exist. This
amendment will also delineate managerial, operational, and financial
responsibilities between the Town and the leaseholders.
As outlined above, the 2012 update to the 1997 Management Plan furthers the
overall direction for the Park established by the 1997 Plan and in doing so
maintains the role the Park has played in the community for the past 30 years.
Specifically, the 2012 Update suggests few significant changes to the overall
level of development and activities that take place in the Park. In addition, many
of the improvements identified in the 2012 Update were originally proposed in the
1997 Plan. Most importantly all improvements proposed in Section 6: Illustrative
Plan Components are in keeping with the goals, objectives and policies of the
Management Plan.
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Section 5: Goals, Objectives, Policies and Action Steps
Goals for Ford Park are summarized in six major goal statements. Each goal
statement focuses on a particular aspect of Ford Park brought up during the
stakeholder and public input portions of the Management Plan process. As one
might anticipate, there is a certain amount of overlap between the goal
statements. The issues concerning Ford Park are complicated and convoluted as
are the solutions to these issues. It is intended that the goal statements be
consistent and complementary to each other and be designed to provide a
framework, or direction, for the future management of Ford Park. A series of
objectives following each goal statement outline specific steps that can be
taken toward achieving each stated goal. Policy statements are intended to guide
decision-making in achieving each of the stated objectives in reviewing
development proposals and implementing capital improvement projects. Action
steps are the final measure in implementing the goal statements.
Illustrative plans following the Goals, Objective, and Action Steps are included to
help explain the concepts represented by those statements. The illustrations are
conceptual and are not to be considered as final design solutions.
Goal #1: Preserve and protect Ford Park.
Objective 1.1: Limit future development.
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.
Policy Statement 1: The following uses that are allowed and prohibited for Ford
Park shall take precedence over Section 18.36.030 of the Municipal 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
Transportation systems and other public utility easements
Parking
Administrative offices
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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
Policy Statement 2: New or changed facilities or uses will not be permitted to
curtail existing public uses of facilities in the Park unless there is either a
compelling public interest or adequate alternative facilities are available to its
users. All functions in the park shall be maintained and function at a high quality
level.
Action Step 1.1.2: Create and attach plan sheets which outline lease
areas, referred to as Exhibit A in the Vail Recreation District lease
agreement and Exhibit B in the Vail Valley Foundation lease agreement,
but which were never attached.
Policy Statement 3: The existing variety of uses and facilities in the Park will be
preserved. The Town will not enter into a lease agreement with any party that
does not currently hold such an agreement, hereby maintaining current
leaseholder status to: Vail Valley Foundation, Vail Alpine Garden Foundation,
and Vail Recreation District, or their successors.
Objective 1.2: Refine criteria for evaluating future development proposals.
Action Step 1.2.1: Update the Design Criteria and Site Guidelines included
in the 1985 Ford Park Master Plan by:
a) Creating additional development guidelines for underground, low visual
impact type structures, enhanced landscaping, and full and complete
impact mitigation.
b) Enforcing existing criteria and guidelines to solve and/or avoid problems
associated with development projects within Ford Park.
Objective 1.3: Designate Preservation Zones within Ford Park to protect
sensitive natural areas and/or buffer zones between venues areas from
developmental impacts. Define allowed uses within Preservation Zone areas.
Action Step 1.3.1: Define criteria for designating Preservation Zones and
their uses within Ford Park. For example, significant native vegetation,
wildlife habitat, and wetlands may be criteria for designating sensitive
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natural areas, while grade separations and dense landscape plantings
may be criteria for designating sensitive buffer zones.
Action Step 1.3.2: Delineate Preservation Zones within Ford Park.
Policy Statement 4: All proposed development projects shall be reviewed for
compliance with Design Criteria and Site Guidelines, as well as other Town
regulations, and shall be additionally judged according to the recreational,
educational or social benefit they bring to the community.
Policy Statement 5: Functions that do not maintain high standards of quality or
that diminish the experience of park users, will not be permitted.
Policy Statement 6: The historic qualities and natural character of the Nature
Center are to be maintained.
Objective 1.4: Enhance use and preservation of the Historic School House.
Action Step 1.4.1: Negotiate a contract with the Vail Alpine Garden
Foundation to open the School House for public visitation and to perform
preservation activities of photographs and artifacts.
Action Step 1.4.2: Make physical improvements to the school house to
enhance lighting, public access and viewing areas.
Goal #2: Reduce vehicular intrusions in, and their impact on,
the park.
Objective 2.1: Reduce the demand for vehicular intrusions into the park.
Action Step 2.1.1: Provide additional on-site storage facilities within the
Amphitheater, Alpine Garden and Recreation District areas to reduce and
control the frequency of delivery and service vehicle intrusions into the
park.
Action Step 2.1.2: Improve traffic gate operations and restrictions on both
the east and west access roads to eliminate unnecessary and
unauthorized vehicular intrusions into the park.
Action Step 2.1.3: Construct a central trash collection facility, accessible
from the South Frontage Road, to be used by all leaseholders within the
park for the disposal of trash, landscape debris, and recyclables.
Policy Statement 7: Vehicular encroachment into the park will be minimized.
The only vehicular uses allowed in the park are for: maintenance; delivery of
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goods and materials too large or heavy to be carried by non-motorized means;
access for people with disabilities limited mobility; public transportation; and
emergency services.
Objective 2.2: Reduce the conflicts between vehicles and park users.
Action Step 2.2.1: Coordinate delivery schedules to reduce the frequency
of delivery and service vehicle intrusions into the park during peak use
time periods.
Action Step 2.2.2: Improve loading dock facilities in the Amphitheater to
expedite the unloading and setup for performances and to reduce the
need for large vehicle parking outside of the Amphitheater area.
Action Step 2.2.3: Improve the configuration of the east access road to
allow use by large delivery vehicles, thus reducing the overall number of
trips on the west access road and the need for the backing and turning of
large vehicles on the lower bench of the park.
Goal #3: Reduce conflicts between all Ford Park venues.
Objective 3.1: Coordinate events on all Ford Park venues.
Action Step 3.1.1: Expand the master schedule kept by the Town Clerk to
include all venues within the park.
Action Step 3.1.2: Hold preseason and monthly event/activity coordination
meetings.
Action Step 3.1.3: Hold semiannual (2x per year) coordination and input
meetings with the Town Administrators, leaseholder representatives, and
neighborhood and adjacent property owner representatives.
Policy Statement 8: Overlapping or simultaneous events that exceed the
available community parking or other park infrastructure shall be discouraged.
Policy Statement 9: No one event or type of use will be allowed to dominate the
usage of the Park.
Policy Statement 10: 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 Park rest
with the Vail Town Manager.
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Policy Statement 11: The day-to-day management and coordination of activities
in the Park will be assigned to the Park Superintendent. The Park Superintendent
will coordinate as necessary with a representative of:
The Town of Vail
The Vail Valley Foundation
The Alpine Garden
The Vail Recreation District
Objective 3.2: Improve buffers between different use areas within the park.
Action Step 3.2.1: Enhance the buffer zone between the softball fields and
the amphitheater and gardens by reversing the orientation of the center
and east softball fields.
Action Step 3.2.2: Enhance existing and new buffer zone areas through
the addition of landscape planting.
Goal #4: Resolve parking and South Frontage Road access
problems.
Objective 4.1: Develop and implement a parking management plan for Ford
Park.
Action Step 4.1.1: Locate a variable message sign between the main
roundabout and entrance to Village Structure for the purpose of informing
drivers that close-in parking at Ford Park is restricted, at a fee, or full, and
parking in the VTC is free and shuttle bus service is available.
Action Step 4.1.2: Schedule shuttle bus service from top deck of the
Village Structure to Ford Park Frontage Road stop for special event/high
demand days. Extend in-town shuttle bus service to Ford Park Vail Valley
Drive stop.
Action Step 4.1.3: Designate drop-off parking from Frontage Road using
15 spaces north of bus stop. Enforce 5 minute time limit. Drop-off lane
functions as a turn around once lot is filled. Schedule attendants on-site to
manage drop-off spaces and assist users in loading and unloading.
Action Step 4.1.4: Allocate close-in parking on Frontage Road and Vail
Valley Drive through reserve ticket purchases or on a fee basis. Parking
attendants on-site to manage entrances and exits. Establish a ticket
surcharge or parking fee price schedule which will generate sufficient
funds to cover attendant and shuttle bus service costs. Fee parking is to
be in effect for high-parking demand days only.
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Action Step 4.1.5: Construct Frontage Road sidewalk from the Village
Structure and improve sign system as necessary to accommodate
pedestrian traffic to Ford Park.
Policy Statement 12: Adequate parking for the needs of the park are to be
provided in the park and at the Village Structure.
Objective 4.2: Improve vehicular access from the South Frontage Road and
improve parking lot design to maximize the number of parking spaces,
aesthetics, and safety while mitigating environmental impacts.
Action Step 4.2.1: Design and construct improvements to the South
Frontage Road to meet CDOT requirements for obtaining a state highway
access permit.
Action Step 4.2.2: Design and construct improvements to all existing
parking areas that maximize the number of parking spaces; provide
landscape buffering and treatment of storm water run-off.
Goal #5: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford
Park and the pedestrian connections between Ford
Park and Vail Village.
Objective 5.1: Improve 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 the Vail Village and from each level of the
Village Parking Structure to destinations within Ford Park.
Objective 5.2: Improve pedestrian routes to Ford Park.
Action Step 5.2.1: Design improvements to existing pedestrian routes that
will correct grading, surfacing, and lighting and will provide resting and
sitting areas.
Objective 5.3: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within Ford Park.
Action Step 5.3.1: Design a central pedestrian path to enhance the
connection between the upper and lower bench areas of the park.
Policy Statement 14: Any uses added to Ford Park in the future shall be
structured to encourage users or participants to walk or ride the bus rather than
drive.
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Policy Statement 15: Pedestrian access to the Park from the Vail Village should
be easy and visible. The Park shall be as pedestrian-friendly as possible.
Goal #6: Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park
leaseholders and the Town of Vail.
Objective 6.1: Formalize existing division of facility management/operation
costs.
Action Step 6.1.1: Research current lease, license and use agreements
for delineation of financial responsibilities.
Action Step 6.1.2: Correct inequities in utility billing procedures and
distribution systems, current utility use, and payment relationships.
Policy Statement 16: All Ford Park leaseholders and the Town of Vail shall be
required to share in common operating costs that benefit the whole park facility
and as outlined in current lease or license agreements. These include but are not
limited to, electrical charges for pedestrian path and parking lot lighting, trash
removal charges, and regular parking lot and pedestrian path maintenance costs.
.
Objective 6.2: Create a cost-sharing agreement for Capital Improvement costs.
Action Step 6.2.1: Create 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.
Policy Statement 17: Ford Park leaseholders and the Town of Vail desiring to
make capital improvements within their respective lease areas shall be required
to provide funding for those improvements and for subsequent modifications to
those areas outside of the lease area caused by those improvements.
Policy Statement 18: Services, functions, and programs provided by Ford Park
leaseholders, by bringing visitors to the community, generate sales tax revenues
which contribute General Fund funding sources. Residents of the community
which participate in those programs, contribute to the Real Estate Transfer Tax
funding source 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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Section 6: Illustrative Plan Components
Section 6: Illustrative Plan Components.
This section contains the maps and drawings necessary to illustrate the physical aspects
and relationships of the plan. There are 7 plan sheets at a scale of 1" = 50'. The Index
sheet orients each plan sheet to the overall park layout. A 24” x 36”' plan sheet at
1"=100' is included in the back of this document. The following text for each of the 7
plan sheets offers a written description of the improvements illustrated. These drawings
and descriptions are intended to illustrate the concepts of the improvements only and
are not considered to be final construction documents.
Sheet 1: Streamwalk and West Access Road Improvements.
Streamwalk.
Regrade eastern 370' of path to reduce existing slope of 15% to a maximum of 4.5%.
Construct approximately 320' of 8' maximum height retaining wall. Replace existing
vandal-prone path lights with a more vandal-resistant fixture. Install benches at 150'
intervals to provide sitting and resting places.
West Access Road.
Reduce width of road entrance from South Frontage Road from the existing 50' to 10' to
reduce visual significance of this entrance. Install an automated traffic control gate.
Control gate to be hand-held opener operated on the Frontage Road side and automatic
loop operated on the park side. The gate is to function as an exit only gate in conjunction
with the East Access Road. Install additional landscape plantings and directional and
park entrance signs. Install benches at 150' intervals to provide sitting and resting
places.
South Frontage Road Walk Path.
Construct 12' concrete pedestrian/bike path along south edge of roadway from Vail
Valley Drive to the West Access Road entrance. Path will be separated from the
roadway by 6" curb and gutter. Construct left-hand turn lane and right-hand turn traffic
island at South Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive intersection. Install additional path
lights as necessary.
Sheet 2: Ballfield and Circulation Route Improvements.
Pedestrian Path.
Extend pedestrian/bike path beyond West Access Road as 10' detached pathway.
Widen path between softball infields and extend beyond the Tennis Center to the
proposed main park entrance. Install 300 feet of highway guardrail along South Frontage
Road to protect bleachers and spectators adjacent to softball fields. Install additional
path lights as necessary.
Softball Field and Path:
Remove existing paved parking area and move eastern softball field approximately 30'
north. Construct an 8' paved pedestrian path around the east and south sides of the
eastern softball field to connect to the existing concrete path from the playground area.
Install additional path lights and benches as necessary. Install directional signs at all
path intersections. Install additional landscape plantings east and south of ballfield as a
landscape buffer.
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Sheet 3: Bus Stop / Main Entrance Improvements.
South Frontage Road Improvements:
Widen South Frontage Road to provide 6' bike lanes on each side, two 12' through
lanes, 12' east bound right-hand turn lane, and 16' west-bound left-hand turn lane.
Construct curb and gutter on both sides of the roadway. Construct raised, landscape
median islands where possible to reduce the quantity of paved surface and to delineate
travel lanes. (See typical cross section of median island). The turning and travel lanes
indicated are in accordance with Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
highway access code requirements. Obtain Highway access permit form Colorado
Department of Transportation.
Bus Stop/Drop-off.
Construct dedicated bus stop lane, accessed by an enter only drive cut from the South
Frontage Road. This drive will also provide access to 15 dedicated drop-off parking
spaces directly across from the Tennis Center entrance. Install additional landscape
plantings to buffer and screen parking areas from the roadways.
Main Park Entrance.
Construct Main Park Entrance drive with one entrance and two exit lanes. Install main
park entrance sign and landscape plantings at this location. Install directional signs at all
pedestrian paths and intersections. Install pedestrian and roadway lights as required.
Tennis Court Relocation.
Remove eastern court from existing bank of 4 courts. Construct new court on the
western end of the existing bank of 2 courts. Excavation of the existing berm and
relocation of water meter pits will be required.
Sheet 4: Parking Area improvements.
Parking Lot.
Construct 7 disabled accessible parking spaces along east side of Tennis Complex.
Expand area of existing gravel parking area by constructing two sets of tiered 4' retaining
walls. Revegetate hillside with native wildflowers and shrubs. Construct 194 space
paved parking lot with curb and gutter and landscape islands. Install storm water
filtration system to clean water before discharge into Gore Creek. A total number of 209
parking spaces are indicated on this plan, an increase of 10 spaces. Install landscape
plantings along Frontage Road and south edge of parking lot to screen and buffer
parking area from adjacent roadways and neighborhoods. Install parking lot lighting as
needed.
Central Trash Enclosure.
A central trash enclosure is shown at the southwest corner of the parking lot. This is
intended to be a fully enclosed building which contains a trash dumpster or compactor
unit. All leaseholders will utilize the central enclosure to dispose of trash generated at
each facility. No trash truck traffic will be allowed into the park.
Sheet 5: Manor Vail Entrance Improvements.
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Manor Vail Walkway.
Repair existing brick and concrete walkway as needed. Install Ford Park Entrance signs
at intersection for walkway and Vail Valley Drive and at right-hand turn to the Manor Vail
Bridge. The second entrance sign should be located where it is clearly visible from the
walkway.
Manor Vail Bridge.
Increase the deck height of the Manor Vail covered bridge by approximately 4'. This is
accomplished by removing the bridge from its footings intact, pouring an additional 4' of
wall on the existing concrete footings, and resetting the bridge. Any structural
improvements can be made to the bridge at that time. The 4' increase in elevation will
allow the walks approaching the bridge form both directions to be reconstructed at lower
grades. Replace existing pedestrian lights with vandalproof fixtures. Install benches at
approximately 150' intervals to provide sitting and resting places.
Sheet 6: East Access Road Improvements.
Access Gate.
This entrance is intended to function as the primary service vehicle entrance to the
Lower Bench. Install Automated traffic control gate at Intersection with parking lot. Gate
will be hand-held opener operated on the parking lot side and roadway loop operated on
the park side. This will be an enter and exit access point. Reconstruct existing access
road to a 15' width at a maximum of 7.9% slope. Construct approximately 160' of 8'
maximum height retaining wall along uphill side of the road. Install benches at
approximately 100' intervals to provide sitting and resting places. Install additional
path lights and directional signs as needed.
Amphitheater loading Dock.
Construct an additional 12' x 35' loading bay on the south side of the amphitheater to
accommodate performance deliveries. The additional loading bay will reduce vehicle
traffic during peak park use times and reduce the need for parking outside the managed
amphitheater area.
Sheet 7: South Entrance Improvements.
Soccer Field Parking.
Improve the Soccer Field parking lot driveway entrance and restripe the existing lot to
maximize the number of parking spaces. The Soccer Field lot is noted as the future site
of the Alpine Garden Foundation=s Education Center pending development review
process approval.
This section contains site plan diagrams that illustrate conceptual plans for the
Park. The Ford Park Illustrative Plan provided herein replaces site plans from
the 1997 Ford Park Management Plan. This new plan reflects many of the same
improvements contemplated by the 1997 Plan, but also includes a few
improvements not previously contemplated. Concepts depicted on the Illustrative
Plan are considered to be appropriate improvements and activities for the Park.
However, all improvements are subject to further review by the Town
(Conditional Use Permit, Development Plan review, DRB review) prior to being
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implemented. In some cases the description of improvements provided below
include parameters or considerations that should be addressed during detailed
design and as a part of subsequent review by the Town.
Brief descriptions of improvements depicted on the Illustrative Plan for Ford Park,
and when appropriate enlargements of such improvements, are provided below.
It should also be understood that the site plan depicting these improvements is
done at a very general, conceptual level. This plan is intended to illustrate
concepts only and improvements depicted on this Plan will be refined as designs
progress. As such final designs may vary from what is depicted on this
generalized plan. Prior to the implementation of any improvements in Ford Park
additional design details will be provided for review by the Town as a part of the
Planning Commission’s review of a Development Plan (as part of a Conditional
Use Process) and/ or as a part of the Design Review Board review process.
The Illustrative Plan provides a comprehensive depiction of improvements
contemplated for Ford Park. This does not mean however, that only those
improvements depicted on this plan may be made. Improvements not depicted
on the Illustrative Plan may be proposed provided they are consistent with the
overall goals for the Park and with applicable objectives, policy statements and
action steps outlined in the Management Plan. It should also be understood that
the improvements being depicted on the Illustrative Plan does not ensure if or
when they will be implemented. In many respects the Illustrative Plan is a vision
for how the Park may be developed and not a commitment to any specific
improvement.
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Implemented Improvements from 1997 Illustrative Plan
A number of improvements proposed by the 1997 Plan have been implemented.
These improvements are listed below:
1. Reduce width of road entrance from South Frontage Road; install an
automated traffic control gate.
2. Construct 12' concrete pedestrian/bike path along south edge of roadway
from Vail Valley Drive to the West Access Road entrance.
3. Extend pedestrian/bike path beyond West Access Road as 10' detached
pathway. Widen path between softball infields and extend beyond the
Tennis Center to the proposed main park entrance.
4. A central trash enclosure is shown at the southwest corner of the parking
lot.
5. Increase the deck height of the Manor Vail covered bridge by
approximately 4'.
6. Widen South Frontage Road to provide 6' bike lanes on each side.
2012 Ford Park Illustrative Plan
The Ford Park Illustrative Plan is found on the following page. Subsequent
pages provide descriptions of specific improvements identified on each
enlargement sheet of the Illustrative Plan. These improvements are presented
by “topical” category (i.e. pedestrianization), location (i.e. the lower bench area)
or major user (i.e. the Amphitheater or the athletic fields).
Refer to the Illustrative Plan when reviewing these descriptions for a graphic
depiction of the improvement and the surrounding context. When appropriate an
enlarged section of the Illustrative Plan is provided in the context of narrative
descriptions.
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Preservation Zone
One of the objectives of the 1997 Plan was to:
Designate Preservation Zones within Ford Park to protect sensitive
natural areas and/or buffer zones between venues areas from
developmental impacts. Define allowed uses within Preservation
Zone areas.
A Preservation Zone is identified on the Ford Park Illustrative Plan. This zone
primarily includes the Gore Creek Corridor and the 7 acre Nature Center area
located south of Gore Creek. The location of the Preservation Zone was
determined based on natural features and existing improvements, the 100-year
floodplain and the 50-foot waterbody setback.
Within the preservation zone it is intended that existing uses, improvements and
buildings can be maintained and that no new uses, improvements or buildings
inconsistent with the preservation of these areas is to occur. Low-impact
improvements such as soft surface walking paths, fishing access, etc. along with
utility improvements, drainage improvements, creek crossings, creek restoration
projects and similar activities may be initiated within the Preservation Zone.
Fisherman access to Gore Creek, while currently not an issue (i.e. excessive use
resulting in riparian area degradation), could become an issue in the future. A
creek access point was considered at the east end of the Nature Center (using
the bus turnaround on Vail Valley Drive as an unloading area) but was rejected
as contradictory to the intended use of the Nature Center. A defined creek
access point is now being considered above Ford Park in the vicinity of the Pulis
Bridge.
Some improvements to the Park are contemplated adjacent to the Preservation
Zone, notably the potential widening of Betty Ford Way. If the widening of this
road is pursued, great care and attention to design and construction will be
necessary in order to protect Gore Creek. Best management practices (BMP’s)
will be essential in controlling runoff, erosion, debris, etc. that could otherwise
harm the creek.
Pedestrianization/Park Arrival
Ford Park has two distinct areas – the upper bench which has an athletic focus
and the lower bench which has more of an arts and cultural focus. Access to the
Park is provided by one of six portals, each with their own unique purpose and
characteristics. These portals are identified on the Ford Park Illustrative Plan.
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Improvements are contemplated for a number of these portals, many of which
originate outside the actual boundary of the Park. One improvement
contemplated for each portal is to introduce a distinctive monument or
identification feature to identify access to Ford Park. For example, the Gore
Creek Trail provides access for people who park in the Village Parking Structure.
An identification feature where the trail begins east of Vail Valley Drive could help
people find their way to the Park. These features would signal the beginning of
one’s “entry” to Ford Park with “arrival” coming when one reaches the Park.
While the design of individual identification features may vary, a common design
character for all features should be used in order to create continuity and
consistency in how the Park is identified.
x Manor Vail Entry at Vail Valley Drive – A pedestrian easement is in place
that provides pedestrian access from Vail Valley Drive to the Covered
Bridge. An identification feature should be considered at this location, the
design of which would need to be coordinated with Manor Vail.
x Gore Creek Streamwalk – This tranquil trail provides park access for many
who park at the Village Parking Structure. An identification feature should
be installed at Vail Valley Drive. Efforts should be made to lessen the
grade of this trail behind the Wren Condominiums. This could be
accomplished by re-grading the trail and installing retaining walls along the
existing trail that could bring the grade down from +/-15% to +/-9%.
Another alternative could be to re-align the trail immediately adjacent to
the Park in a manner that would contour across the hillside and eliminate
the trail from “going up to only come down”. Due to steep terrain and
proximity to Gore Creek, this solution would require sensitive design and
construction so as to minimize impacts on the creek. An alternative to a
retaining wall solution could be to cantilever a portion of the trail over the
steeper hillside sections.
x Frontage Road Sidewalk – This sidewalk provides direct access to the
Park from the Village Parking Structure. An identification feature should
be considered at the intersection of the Frontage Road and Vail Valley
Drive.
x VV Drive/Soccer Field - During performances and special events buses
are added to the town’s system and their route is extended to the
turnaround at the east end of the Soccer Field in order to serve this portal
(topography and roadway width prevent the development of a bus
turnaround closer to this portal). An identification feature should be
considered at the intersection of the Frontage Road and Vail Valley Drive.
x Frontage Road/Transit Stop – A new transit stop will provide access to an
improved pedestrian corridor that leads into the Park and to the lower
bench. An identification feature, along with identification of access to the
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tennis center should be considered where this corridor begins. An
accessible route consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act
Guidelines should be identified from the transit stop to facilities throughout
the park.
x Frontage Road/Parking Area – East Betty Ford Way is the primary access
to the lower bench from the parking area. An identification feature, along
with identification of access to the tennis center should be considered
where this corridor begins. Other pedestrian improvements to this corridor
are described below. An accessible route consistent with the Americans
with Disabilities Act Guidelines should be identified from the transit stop to
facilities throughout the park.
Shuttle
During events at the Amphitheater, golf cart shuttles are utilized for moving
people to and from the venue. The idea of creating a similar system to provide
shuttle service to general park users throughout the summer months is under
consideration. The purpose of this shuttle is two-fold - one is to provide the
shuttles as a guest service and the other to provide alternative access into the
Park for elderly or disabled guests. With regard to the later, the shuttle system
could allow for the removal of accessible parking spaces at the Amphitheater and
in doing so reduce car trips into the Park. Until such time as a shuttle system is
implemented the accessible parking spaces at the Amphitheater should remain.
Frontage Road Entry/Parking/Transit
Existing transit and parking facilities along the Frontage Road are ill-defined and
in many respects do not function well. For example, vehicle access points to
parking areas are unclear and buses are not adequately segregated from private
vehicles. While it is likely that more people enter the Park via pedestrian routes
from the west and south, many guests do access the Park from this area via
buses from the Frontage Road transit stop and from parking areas. A number of
improvements are planned in order to improve both the appearance and function
of this area.
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Frontage Road Entry/Parking/Transit
Parking Facilities
Existing parking areas should be redesigned in order to achieve the Town
Council’s goal of “no net loss” of parking. Currently there are approximately 200
parking spaces in the Frontage Road area, of which 17 are disabled parking
spaces. An equivalent number of spaces are reflected on the Ford Park
Illustrative Plan.
Major changes to parking include the elimination of approximately 50 existing
spaces in order to accommodate the expansion to athletic fields and a new
transit drop-off area. New spaces can be created with the re-design of the
eastern portion of the lot and by locating parking where the bus drop-off is
currently located. The addition of “low impact” parking spaces along the South
Frontage Road is also under consideration. This improvement will necessitate a
sidewalk along the south side of the road and coordination with CDOT will be
necessary in order to implement this improvement.
Access points to parking areas should be consolidated into two locations and
may include turn lane improvements on the Frontage Road (subject to CDOT
review).
Short term drop-off parking spaces will be established, the location of which will
be determined during detailed design. Efforts should be made to locate short-
term drop-off at the western end of the parking lots.
The re-design of the parking area as depicted on the Illustrative Plan will still
allow for use of this area for special events and concerts. Determination of how
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this area is used will be made by the Town Council and the Commission on
Special Events.
Bus Stop/Drop-off
A dedicated bus stop lane separate from private vehicles will be provided. This
facility is planned just west of the re-designed parking area. This location may
allow for a bus shelter to be incorporated into or adjacent to the
Concessions/Restroom building.
Pedestrian Improvements-Transit Stop
Currently the relationship of the transit stop and the adjacent tennis center area
is not well defined nor does this area have a clear image or relationship to other
facilities within the Park. For example, the arrangement and relationship of
existing improvements is not clear and pedestrian routes to the Alpine Garden,
the Amphitheater or lower bench recreation facilities are not intuitive. Landscape,
signage and pedestrian improvements throughout this area will be implemented
to improve existing conditions.
Pedestrian Improvements-East Betty Ford Way
East Betty Ford Way is a major pedestrian route from parking facilities to the
Amphitheater. While this corridor provides excellent views to Gore Creek and
the Gore Range, the trial itself is in need of improvement. Portions of the trail are
very steep and present challenges for some park users. The trail is also very
narrow, particularly during periods of peak usage. This problem is compounded
during Amphitheater events when golf cart shuttles share the trail with
pedestrians. This trail should be widened and efforts made to lessen the grade
of the trail. Widening of the trail (12’ to 13’ maximum) will alleviate golf cart -
pedestrian conflicts, enable a shuttle system to be implemented at a future date,
and allow increased use by delivery vehicles thus reducing delivery vehicle –
pedestrian conflicts to the west. Pedestrian overlooks to Gore Creek along this
route should be considered, both for aesthetic purposes and to provide
pedestrians a safe location to stand at times shuttles (or trucks) may be using
this route.
Athletic Fields Concessions/Restroom Building
A new concessions/restroom building is contemplated at the east end of the
athletic fields. The building may also include a small satellite office for the
Recreation District (for use during events and tournaments). This facility, along
with the existing tennis center will “anchor” this area of the Park.
Athletic Fields
The size and shape of existing athletic fields is inefficient. The following
improvements are planned to provide more usable fields:
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Field Expansion
Removal of the existing restroom/concession building and the westernmost
surface parking lot will allow for increased field area that will accommodate three
full-sized softball fields or two full-sized soccer/lacrosse fields. This is a major
improvement to the Park in terms of the type of events that could be hosted. A
retaining wall at the southwest corner of the fields will be necessary. It is
anticipated that at the tallest point will be approximately 12’ and will taper back to
existing grade at either end. Various wall systems and designs will be studied.
This field improvement will also include new fencing around most of the fields
and improvements to spectator areas. The introduction of additional landscaping
on the south side of the fields should be done to provide both shade and
screening.
West Field Restroom/Storage Building
A new restroom and park storage building is suggested at the west end of the
fields. The small storage component for the Recreation District and the Alpine
Garden will minimize the number of vehicle trips into the Park. This building
replaces an existing storage building and will clean up existing unsecured
maintenance and storage areas currently scattered throughout the park. Given
the prominent location of this building at the west entry to the Park, it will be
critical that users of the storage facility keep all vehicles and stored material
enclosed. Restrooms will serve users of the fields and pedestrians
entering/exiting the Park from the west. The building should be low-profile and
have a “grounded” appearance in the landscape.
Athletic Fields/Concession Building
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Lower Bench
The following improvements are contemplated for the Lower Bench area of the
park:
Playground Restrooms
Restrooms at the playground are poorly sited, undersized and present an
uncomfortable relationship to the rest of the Park. In the near future these
restrooms will be in need of renovation and at such time consideration should be
given to re-locating them to a more discrete location. One alternative is to bench
the restrooms into the hill below the athletic fields. This location could allow
these facilities to be accessible to users of the fields. If this solution is pursued
consideration should be given to creating a stronger connection between the
playground and the adjacent playfield.
Ford Family Tribute
The design intent and objective for the Ford Tribute is to announce the arrival to
Ford Park in an iconic manner that celebrates the life and influence of the Ford
family on our community. Envisioned as a unique landscape feature comprised
of a combination of plants, stone, art and other natural materials, the Tribute will
be located in the vicinity of the Manor Vail Bridge at the intersection with Betty
Ford Way. The goal is to help solidify the Ford’s legacy for posterity, and to do
so in a manner that is contextual to the natural environment, the Betty Ford
Alpine Garden, the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, and the overall context of Ford
Park. The Tribute is not envisioned as a building or structure, but rather a series
of elements that help create a very special sense of place as the beginning of the
enhanced park experience along Betty Ford Way, between Manor Vail and the
Social Courtyard at the amphitheater.
Betty Ford Way
Betty Ford Way provides a major pedestrian access route into the Park, both
from Vail Village/Village Parking Structure and from the Park’s upper bench
parking lot and transit stop. The section of Betty Ford Way between the Covered
Bridge and the Amphitheater entry is envisioned to be a “feature area”. This
pedestrian corridor will be treated with a higher level of design, surface materials,
lighting, seating, etc.
Enhancements to Betty Ford Way will improve a park visitor’s experience to and
through the lower bench of the park. The existing path will be widened from
approximately 10 feet to between 11 and 13 feet to accommodate the multiple
user types that visit the park in peak use times (e.g. pedestrians, bicyclists,
skateboarders and roller-skaters) and reduce conflicts when golf cart shuttles
share the trail with pedestrians. The asphalt pavement along Betty Ford Way
should be replaced with finer textured, higher quality pavements such as colored
concrete, or stone or concrete pavers. Seating areas with benches at select
locations along the path, and lighting fixtures to match new architectural features
in the park will better unify the image and character of the entire Park.
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Landscaping adjacent to Betty Ford Way should be enhanced with additional
shrubs and wildflowers to provide more interest and color along the route, and
new wayfinding signage installed. The portion of the path between the Manor Vail
Bridge and the Amphitheater entrance is the portion of the path that receives the
highest level of use. It should be of the same character as the rest of Betty Ford
Way, but receive a higher level of finish on the path surface, and the landscaping
should include more floral displays, which will be designed to be complementary
to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens landscape.
Nature Trail
Improvements to the informal nature trail along Gore Creek are envisioned.
Lower Bench
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Host to approximately 60 events each year, the Amphitheater is one of, if not the
main activity generator in the Park. A number of improvements are planned for
this facility.
Social Courtyard
Expansion of the existing plaza at the entry to the Amphitheater is intended to
provide a more gracious and more functional entry to the venue. The design
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intent and objective for the new “social courtyard” is to create a multi-use outdoor
space of that serves as the primary arrival for the Amphitheater as well as a pre-
convene and post-function space during scheduled events.
The social courtyard will also serve as a new programmable space within the
lower bench of Ford Park for smaller gatherings and events. Use of the space
will be available by various groups and stakeholders such as the Betty Ford
Alpine Gardens or the Art in Public Places, and the common park user, during
times when the amphitheater is not in operation and when there are no
scheduled events taking place.
The space is envisioned to be richly landscaped, and have a high level of design
and attention to detail. Two new gates are planned to serve as ticket control and
baggage check, and a perimeter landscape barrier combining plants and a
decorative artistic fence will be designed to provide security for the venue.
Portions of the social courtyard are envisioned to be covered by a roof feature to
shelter patrons from rain during inclement weather and provide shade during
sunny days. In this case consideration should be given to the relationship of this
structure to surrounding improvements and to how important viewsheds can be
maintained.
Ticketing/Restrooms/Seating
A number of improvements are planned to the operations and interior of the
Amphitheater. These include expanded ticket windows, remodeling of existing
restrooms and new restrooms at the east entry to the Amphitheater. Re-
contouring of the lawn seating area is also planned, the primary purpose of which
is to lessen the existing grade of the lawn area.
Noise Mitigation
The relationship between the Amphitheater and the athletic fields at times
creates conflicts, specifically with noise. I-70 traffic also creates problems for the
Amphitheater. Noise mitigation studies have been completed and to date no
definitive decisions have been made regarding possible noise mitigation
measures. Space between the Amphitheater and the fields has been defined in
order to accommodate potential measures that may be pursued in the future
(walls, berms, landscaping, etc.).
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Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
The Alpine Gardens are a major summer attraction and the following
improvements are contemplated for this facility:
North Entry
A more formally defined entry to the Gardens from the upper bench, along with
improved pedestrian corridors are planned.
Garden Expansion Area
Expansion to the gardens is planned along Gore Creek, in an area east of the old
school house.
BFAG Education Center
Located proximate to the Gardens on the lower bench, the Education Center is
envisioned to house administrative offices, a greenhouse and a multi-use space
for a variety of functions. The building is planned to be two levels (one story with
a lower walkout level) with a building footprint of approximately 1500 SF.
The BFAG building is envisioned to be west of the old school house. The
location is preferred for two reasons – to preserve the Children’s Garden (located
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just east of the old school, and to not “crowd” the entry to the Amphitheater. Site
design of the building should give consideration to the following:
x The building should be “low profile” and not dominate the immediate area.
x The design of the building should be sensitive to its close proximity to the
old school house and should create unified compound of structures.
x While the old school house and the Education Center will be two separate
buildings, landscape features, patios, etc. should be used to “link” the two
buildings,
x Consideration should be given to creating a new entry to the gardens that
is adjacent to the new building,
x The specimen spruce tree should be maintained,
x The degree to which the building extends to the west should be minimized
in order to maintain the existing open space and views to Gore Creek from
Betty Ford Way.
The location of this building is appropriate given its proximity and relationship to
the Gardens. However, measures will need to be implemented that will minimize
vehicle trips to the building and how winter access is provided.
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
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Art in Public Places (AIPP)
AIPP has an active program in Ford Park. The organization has placed
permanent art within the Park, the most recent being the Jesús Moroles
sculpture. AAIP also uses a portion of the Lower Bench for temporary/summer
exhibition space. AAIP has the opportunity to utilize other areas of the park
which may be appropriate for art installations. However, any installation
(temporary or permanent) will be evaluated with respect to how it minimizes
impacts on other existing facilities and uses in the Park.
Service and Delivery
The following initiatives are contemplated to improve the efficiency of and
minimize the impacts from service and delivery functions within the Park
Central Trash Enclosure
A new central trash enclosure (to replace an existing building) is planned at the
eastern corner of the parking lot. This is intended to be a fully enclosed building
which contains either a trash dumpster or compactor unit. All leaseholders would
utilize this central enclosure to dispose of trash generated at their respective
facilities. One of the underlying goals of this approach is to not have trash truck
traffic within the Park.
Amphitheater Deliveries
Amphitheater operations necessitate a significant number of deliveries, including
on average 8-12 large semi-trucks each year (typically delivering for
performances) and frequent truck deliveries from food, beer and other vendors.
During the peak summer season deliveries from these vendors can be as much
as two to four per day. These deliveries currently access the Amphitheater via
West Betty Ford Way and create a very negative impact on the rest of the Park,
particularly the highly pedestrianized lower bench area. One of the six goals for
Ford Park is to “reduce vehicular intrusions into the park” and in response to this
a number of alternatives are under consideration that could dramatically reduce
the impact of these delivery vehicles.
Consideration has been given to “management solutions”. For example, truck
deliveries could be limited to specific times (i.e. early morning) of day to avoid
vehicle/pedestrian conflicts. Given the constraints Vail already imposes on
deliveries in the Vail Village area, it is assumed that further confining delivery
times to Ford Park would be impractical on trucks and drivers. Another idea
would be to have trucks deliver to the parking lots then off-load deliveries to
smaller vehicles. While this may be viable for some deliveries, it may not be
viable for liquor/beer deliveries due to state laws.
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The reconstruction of East Betty Ford Way such that all or some delivery vehicles
could utilize this corridor (in lieu of entering the Park from the west) would greatly
reduce vehicle/pedestrian conflicts. In order to do so the eastern portion of Betty
Ford Way would need be reconstructed to widen the path platform and to reduce
steep portions of the path. As noted above, these improvements are already
planned in order to improve pedestrian use of this corridor. In conjunction with
these improvements to the path, the re-design of the new Social
Courtyard/Amphitheater entry could be done to accommodate truck turning
movements such that trucks could enter from the east, turn around and then exit
to the east.
While in concept these improvements would address a major goal for the Park in
reducing vehicle trips and minimizing pedestrian impacts, there are a number of
other factors to consider. For example, the cost of these physical improvements
must be considered relative to the benefits (reduction of vehicular trips) and other
design implications such as how designing the amphitheater entry to
accommodate truck turning movements might affect the qualitative aspects of the
entry and how the need for retaining walls and the width/alignment of East Betty
Ford Way will affect this pedestrian corridor. These and other considerations will
be addressed during the detailed design of these improvements.
An existing sewer line servicing the tennis center needs to be replaced in the
East Betty Ford Way corridor and as such this pedestrian corridor will be re-
constructed to some degree. At a minimum it is anticipated that the path will be
enhanced to address the pedestrian improvements described above. The
degree to which improvements can be done to accommodate all or some truck
traffic will be determined following more detailed design with further evaluation of
the proposal during the Development Plan review process.
Access Road Management
The gate-controlled entrance to East Betty Ford Way is intended to limit vehicle
access to the Lower Bench. This gate/traffic control system is also utilized on the
west end of Betty Ford Way and should continue.
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Vail Nature Center
The Vail Nature Center is located on the south banks of Gore Creek at the
southern end of Ford Park. The Nature Center is intended to be a natural
preserve and includes self-guided trails with a small interpretive center that
provides environmental and educational programs. Resolution #27 of 1987
documents the Town’s intentions for how the Nature Center is to be managed.
No changes are contemplated for this area.
Vail Nature Center
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Section 7: Capital Improvements Plan for Ford Park
This section outlines a five to ten year plan for making physical improvements to
the park. The final list of projects will be reviewed and coordinated with Ford Park
leaseholders, and adjacent property owners and must be validated through open
public participation. Ford Park projects and improvement costs are eligible for
Real Estate Transfer Tax funds and grant funding through Great Outdoors
Colorado.
Preliminary list of projects:
1. Streamwalk reconstruction.
2. Streamwalk path light installation.
3. Directional sign package design and installation.
4. Additional site furnishings installation.
5. West Access Road control gate installation and landscaping.
6. South Frontage Road pedestrian/bike path construction.
7. Relocate eastern softball field.
8. Internal pedestrian path construction.
9. South Frontage Road accel/decel lane construction.
10. Relocate tennis court.
11. Bus stop, parking lot, and main entrance improvements construction.
12. Central trash enclosure design and construction.
13. Manor Vail walkway repair and sign installation.
14. Manor Vail bridge and path reconstruction.
15. East Access Road improvement construction.
16. East Access Road control gate installation.
17. Amphitheater loading dock design and construction.
18. Athletic Field parking lot improvement construction.
19. Nature Center trail reconstruction.
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Introduction
Goal Statement for Ford Park Improvement Plan
To protect the Park by defining preservation areas and by maintaining the same basic
uses, activities and facilities as defined in the ’97 Management Plan while enhancing
guest experiences with an improvement program that addresses athletic fields, the
GRFA, the Alpine Gardens, transit, pedestrian flow and service/delivery.
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1997 Management Plan
Goal Statements
Objectives, Policy Statements, Action Steps
Illustrative Plan Components
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Goal #1Preserve and protect Ford Park
Goal #2Reduce vehicular intrusions in and their
impact on the Park
Goal #3Reduce conflicts between all Ford Park
venues
Goal #4Resolve parking and South Frontage
Road access problems
Goal #5Improve 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
1997 Management Plan Goals
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Goal #1Preserve and protect Ford Park
Objective 1.3Designate Preservation Zone within Ford
Park to protect sensitive natural areas and/or
buffer zones
Action Step 1.3.2Delineate Preservation Zones within Ford
Park
1997 Management Plan Goals
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Goal #2Reduce vehicular intrusions in and their
impact on the Park
Objective 2.1Reduce demand for vehicular intrusions into
Park
Action Step 2.1.1Provide additional on-site storage facilities
within Amphitheater, Alpine Garden and Rec
District areas . . .
1997 Management Plan Goals
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Goal #3Reduce conflicts between all Ford Park
venues
Objective 3.2Improve buffers between different use areas
within Park
Action Step 3.2.2Enhance existing and new buffer zone areas
through the addition of landscape planting.
1997 Management Plan Goals
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Goal #4Resolve parking and South Frontage
Road access problems
Objective 4.1Develop and implement a parking
management plan for Ford Park
Action Step 4.1.2Schedule shuttelbus service from top deck of
the Village Structure to Ford Park Frontage
Road stop for special events . . .
1997 Management Plan Goals
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Goal #5Improve pedestrian circulation within
Ford Park and the pedestrian
connections between Ford Park and Vail Village
Objective 5.1Improve pedestrian routes to Ford Park.
Action Step 5.2.1Design improvements to existing pedestrian
routes that will correct grading, surfacing, and
lighting and will provide resting and sitting
areas.
1997 Management Plan Goals
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Goal #6 Delineate financial responsibilities among Ford Park
leaseholders and the Town
1997 Management Plan Goals
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1997 Management Plan-Illustrative Plan
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1997 Management Plan-Illustrative Plan
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1997 Management Plan-Illustrative Plan
•Improvements are considered appropriate for Park . .
•Subject to further review by PEC and TC
•Improvements depicted are concepts
•Final design of improvements may vary
•Improvements being depicted on Plan does not
ensure they will implemented
•Improvements not depicted may be proposed, subject
to conformance with goals, etc.
•Plan provides parameters/considerations to be
addressed during detailed design
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Preservation Zone
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Pedestrianization/Park Arrival
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Frontage Road Entry/Parking/Transit
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Athletic Field Concessions/Restroom Building
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Athletic Fields
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Lower Bench
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Lower
Bench
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Gerald R. Ford
Amphitheater
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Betty Ford Alpine
Gardens
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Service and Delivery
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4/2 PEC Discussion
•Gore Creek Trail (behind Wren)
•Tennis Center/potential to combine other uses
•Betty Ford Way
•Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
•Alpine Garden Building
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Gore Creek Trail (behind Wren)
•Cut/fill walls
•New alignment
•Cantilever
•Design work underway
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Tennis Center/potential to combine other uses
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Betty Ford Way
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Betty Ford Way
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Betty Ford Way
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Betty Ford Way
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Betty Ford Way
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Betty Ford Way
•Width
•Grade
•Lacking streetscape features
•Pedestrian/shuttle conflicts
•Sewer line upgrade
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Betty Ford Way
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Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
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Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
Management Solutions
•Off Load/use shuttles
•Defined delivery times
Access Improvements
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Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
•8-12 semi’s per year
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Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
•8-12 semi’s per year
•+/-140 smaller trucks per year
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Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
•8-12 semi’s per year
•+/-140 smaller trucks per year
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Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
•8-12 semi’s (enter only)
•+/-140 smaller trucks
•8-12 semi’s
(exit only)
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Loading and Delivery to Amphitheater
•+/-140 smaller trucks
•8-12 semi’s
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
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Alpine Garden Building
•The building should be “low profile”and not dominate the
immediate area.
•The design of the building should be sensitive to its close
proximity to the old school house and should create a unified
compound of structures.
•While the old school house and the Education Center will be
two separate buildings, landscape features, patios, etc. should
be used to “link”the two buildings.
•Consideration should be given to creating a new entry to the
gardens that is adjacent to the new building.
•The specimen spruce tree should be maintained.
•The degree to which the building extends to the west should be
minimized in order to maintain the existing open space and
views to Gore Creek from Betty Ford Way.
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1997 Management Plan-Illustrative Plan
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Next Steps
CUP/Development Plan for PEC Review
•Athletic fields (walls, fencing, paths, lighting, furnishings)
•Restroom/concession building
•Restroom/maintenance building
•Pedestrian circulation
•East Betty Ford Way
•GRFA (restrooms, overlook, lawn seating)
•Transit stop/parking
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End of Presentation
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VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Second reading of Ordinance No. 3, Series 2012 an ordinance making budget
adjustments to the Town of Vail General Fund, Capital Projects Fund, Real Estate Transfer
Tax Fund, Conference Center Fund, Dispatch Services Fund and Heavy Equipment Fund.
PRESENTER(S): Kathleen Halloran
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve or approve with amendments Ordinance No.
3, Series 2012
BACKGROUND: Please see attached memo
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve or approve with amendments Ordinance No. 3,
Series 2012
ATTACHMENTS:
Ord 3 1st supp
4/17/2012
TO: Vail Town Council
FROM: Finance Department
DATE: April 11, 2012
SUBJECT: Ordinance 3 – 1st Supplemental of 2012
I. SUMMARY
Second reading of Ordinance No. 3, Series 2012
II. DISCUSSION
The following changes have occurred since the first reading of this ordinance:
General Fund:
• The Special Events department budget was increased by $15,000 to fund a voter poll to
explore a permanent funding source for “Athletics, Culture and Events” as approved by
Council on April 3rd.
Capital Projects Fund:
• Council approved a contract for street improvements to East Meadow Drive on April 3rd.
Staff requests $380,000 to be included in the budget supplemental for the following
items relating to that project:
- $320,000 Construction
- 40,000 Contingency
- 10,000 Materials testing
- 10,000 Construction management
- $380,000
6 - 1 - 1
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20122012
20112011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Comments
Revenue
Local Taxes:17,800,000$ 19,581,415$ 1,781,415$ 17,800,000$ -$ 17,800,000$
Sales Tax Split b/t Gen'l Fund & Capital Fund 61/39 54/46 61/39
Sales Tax 10,859,000$ 10,859,000$ -$ 10,859,000$ -$ 10,859,000$
Property and Ownership5,055,000 5,031,770 (23,230) 4,232,000 - 4,232,000
Ski Lift Tax 3,193,000 3,529,125 336,125 3,492,000 - 3,492,000
Franchise Fees, Penalties, and Other Taxes1,087,402 1,073,138 (14,264) 1,112,753 - 1,112,753
Licenses & Permits 1,040,200 1,136,966 96,766 955,000 - 955,000
Intergovernmental Revenue 1,887,155 2,066,191 179,036 1,911,250 - 1,911,250
Transportation Centers4,411,500 4,023,940 (387,560) 4,425,000 - 4,425,000
Charges for Services 909,655 962,342 52,687 774,850 - 774,850
Fines & Forfeitures 305,000 265,575 (39,425) 325,000 - 325,000
Earnings on Investments194,000 188,848 (5,152) 116,900 - 116,900
Rental Revenue 869,816 895,872 26,056 869,816 - 869,816
Miscellaneous and Project Reimbursements375,097 477,845 102,748 207,000 25,000 232,000 $20K VRI reimbursement for CDOT Frontage Rd lease; $5K Crown
Castle legal reimbursement
Total Revenue 30,186,825 30,510,613 323,788 29,280,569 25,000 29,305,569
Expenditures
Salaries 13,811,947 13,122,291 689,656 13,679,222 - 13,679,222
Benefits 4,566,277 4,483,006 83,271 4,597,131 - 4,597,131
Subtotal Compensation and Benefits18,378,224 17,605,297 772,927 18,276,353 - 18,276,353
Contributions and Special Events1,285,750 1,278,453 7,297 1,383,318 105,000 1,488,318 $40K Gran Fondo; $50K Intercept study of events; $15K Voter poll for
ACE proposed tax increase
All Other Operating Expenses6,296,981 5,524,989 771,992 6,222,776 158,950 6,381,726
$86K contract services for accelerated IT projects; $25K Gen'l Liability
deductible; $22,950 condo assessment for Vail Village Inn space; $20K
CDOT Frontage Rd lease; $5K Crown Castle legal expert (reimbursed
above)
Heavy Equipment Operating Charges2,212,607 2,196,237 16,370 2,253,304 - 2,253,304
Heavy Equipment Replacement Charges546,104 537,417 8,687 547,008 - 547,008
Dispatch Services 537,827 537,827 - 575,706 - 575,706
Total Expenditures 29,257,493 27,680,220 1,577,273 29,258,465 263,950 29,522,415
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures604,332 2,830,393 2,226,061 22,104 (238,950) (216,846)
Transfer to Capital Projects Fund (1,845,800) (1,845,800) - - - -
Transfer to Capital Projects Fund for implementation of energy audit
enhancements
2015 World Alpine Ski Championships (250,000) (250,000) - (250,000) - (250,000)
Pro-cycling event (75,000) (75,000) - (75,000) 75,000 - Event cancelled
2015 Nation's Event - - - (375,000) - (375,000)
Vail's 50th Anniversary - - - (250,000) - (250,000)
Total Expenditures 31,428,293 29,851,020 1,577,273 30,208,465 188,950 30,397,415
Surplus Net of Transfers & New Programs (1,241,468) 659,593 1,901,061 (927,896) (1,091,846)
Beginning Fund Balance 22,886,692 22,886,692 21,645,224 1,901,061 23,546,285
Ending Fund Balance21,645,224$ 23,546,285$ 20,717,328$ 22,454,439$
EHOP balance included in ending fund balance -
not spendable 690,000$ 690,000$ 690,000$ 690,000$
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
GENERAL FUND
- 2 -
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20122012
20112011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Project Information
Revenue
Total Sales Tax Revenue:17,800,000$ 19,581,415$ 1,781,415$ 21,362,830$ -$ 21,362,830$
Sales Tax Split between General Fund &
Capital Fund 61/3954/4661/3961/39
Sales Tax - Capital Projects Fund6,941,000$ 8,956,252$ 2,015,252$ 6,941,000$ -$ 6,941,000$
Use Tax 731,000 721,002 (9,998) 515,000 - 515,000
Federal Grant Revenue2,176,364 1,205,465 (970,899) - 828,000 828,000 2011: $1,334,114 for Transit Center; $14,250 for Live Scan grant; 2012:$828K for bridge
reconstruction
Other State Revenue10,000 - (10,000) - - - Virtual Briefing police grant
Lease Revenue 184,500 192,710 8,210 188,160 - 188,160 Per Vail Commons commercial and residential leases
Employee Housing Fee-In-Lieu250,000 249,217 (783) - 70,000 70,000 Recognize YTD collections
Project Reimbursement1,086,163 1,015,645 (70,518) - 174,435 174,435
2011:$577K Wenk case settlement for capital repairs; $203K Holy Cross Community Enhancement
Funds, $55K reimb from Vail homeowners and $15K from Vail Rec Distrcit for underground utility
projects; $175,163 insurance reimb for July flood; $55,000 insurance reimbursement for LH parking
booth accident; $6K sale of elevator LH parking structure; 2012: $111K shared costs for I-70 Noise
projects (homeowners $8K, CDOT $93K and ERWSD $10K); $28,783 energy rebates; $34,652
reimb from VRD for tenant finishes in Welcome Center office space
Earnings on Investments and Other- 147,481 147,481 67,500 - 67,500
Total Revenue 11,379,027 12,487,772 1,108,745 7,711,660 1,072,435 8,784,095
Maintain Town Assets
Bus Shelters 27,900 735 27,165 30,000 - 30,000 Annual maintenance; New shelter at Simba Run
Parking Structures 504,000 333,873 170,127 640,000 - 640,000
Various repairs including deck topping replacement, expansion joint repairs, ventilation, HVAC,
plumbing and other structural repairs; Since 2010 there is an offset from VRA (see transfer near
bottom of sheet); Starting in 2012 there are estimated energy savings of $50K per year
Facilities Capital Maintenance625,000 495,201 129,799 815,000 129,799 944,799
Re-appropriate $129K to continue replacement of Bus Barn garage doors; 2012: $152K air
handling unit for Municipal bldg; $83K repairs to wood siding, $50K PW shop garage doors and $18K
exhaust system at PW Shops; $75K snowmelt boiler system repairs; $38K for Transit office floors and
walls; $30K for Comm Dev floors and walls; $30K for Library wood siding and window repairs; Some
energy savings $25K per year for 2012 and 2013
Library Roof Replacement102,840 - 102,840 - - - Included in Library remodel project
Creekside Housing Improvements160,000 136,525 23,475 385,000 - 385,000
Need to gut plumbing; electrical wiring; roofing, etc.; asbestos and mold remediation; 4 units were
completed in 2010; plan to do 4 more in 2011; in 2012, complete remaining 4 units and replace
exterior siding, stairs and decks
Donovan Park Pavilion - - 50,000 - 50,000 2012: $50K furniture replacement; 2014: $400K to change ventilation & improve noise and $270K to
replace heating/air system; 2016 $50K furniture replacement
Vail Village Inn Condo Roof (TOV Portion)17,000 17,000 - - - - Capital assessment from owners' association for space owned by town
Street Light Improvements 67,500 53,840 13,660 50,000 - 50,000 New street lights and to refurbish residential lighting
Capital Street Maintenance1,215,979 855,029 360,950 1,000,078 - 1,000,078
On-going maintenance to roads and bridges including asphalt overlays, patching and repairs; 2012 -
2014 were previously updated for recent bid prices (savings of $925K); Assumes that we do not see a
dramatic increase from current prices and that reconstruction of neighborhood roads and bridges
occurs (without reconstruction, maintenance costs will increase)
Flood incident repairs543,748 194,556 349,192 - 349,192 349,192
Relating to flood repairs: Reconstruct a portion of Rockledge drainage improvements, Big Horn Creek
culvert repair/replacement at Columbine and Spruce Way, Booth Creek improvements to mitigate
future flooding of culverts, tennis courts and playgrounds.
Fire Truck Replacement- - 590,000 - 590,000 2012 replace pumper truck from 1994; 2014 replace pumper truck from 1999
Audio Visual 41,996 60,136 (18,140) - - - Mixer board and cameras in the Council chambers for recording of meetings
Town-wide camera system- - - 12,000 - 12,000
$12K per year for replacement of cameras and recorders (49 cameras and 3 recorders around town
so far; will be adding for Transit and Welcome Centers); Recorders cost $7-8K each; cameras range
from $800 - $3800 each
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
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20112011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Project Information
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
Document Imaging130,636 141,681 (11,045) 30,000 75,000 105,000
Supplement for continuation of historical scanning (outside vendor); 2012: Purchase of storage
devices ($20K) remainder for increased scanning and storage in preparation for the municipal
relocation/move (Finance, Comm Dev)
Software Licensing 33,640 30,349 3,291 40,000 - 40,000 Annual renewal of software licenses
Hardware Purchases65,000 105,450 (40,450) 48,000 46,000 94,000
Upgrade Microsoft products on all equipment; renew licenses in future; Costs have increased from
vendors; 2012 addition: $16K Ipads purchased for boards; $30K relating to accelerated projects
due to move, mainly related to the town's remote desktop server, or RDS
Data Center (Computer Rooms)15,000 8,950 6,050 15,000 - 15,000 Based on annual replacement schedule of security and power systems for 3 computer rooms
Website and e-commerce39,000 6,300 32,700 29,000 32,700 61,700 Re-appropriate to continue website redevelopment; Internet security & application interfaces
Comm Dev ArcGIS System16,000 - 16,000 - - - Web access to town GIS information (similar to County's website GIS product)
Fiber Optics in Buildings17,000 2,251 14,749 23,000 - 23,000 Cabling / Network Infrastructure; to repair, maintain & upgrade
Network upgrades 21,000 18,010 2,990 35,000 - 35,000 Computer network systems - replacement cycle every 3-5 years
Phone System Infrastructure- - - 35,000 - 35,000 Replace infrastructure for 15-year old phone system; Full cost to replace the phone system currently
on unfunded list until Municipal site redevelopment decision
Public Safety System57,000 60,692 (3,692) 59,000 - 59,000
Annual capital maintenance of "County-wide "Computer Aided Dispatch/Records Mgmt System" ;
includes patrol car and fire truck laptops and software used to push information to TOV and other
agencies; TOV portion of Intergraph software maintenance
Business Systems Replacement225,000 - 225,000 175,000 225,000 400,000 Replace 15-year old financial system; continued support to current system questionable; better
technology; $17K for Comm Dev Permit system update
Radio Tower (Vail R56)30,000 - 30,000 - 30,000 30,000 Town's portion of wireless communication equipment upgrade - Radio tower will be replaced and
location moved from outside of Council chambers to outside of Dispatch center
Virtual Briefing System10,000 9,095 9,095 - - - Police Virtual Briefing equipment (grant funded)
Intergraph software upgrade80,000 - 80,000 - 80,000 80,000 Re-appropriate for TOV portion of upgrade to computer-aided dispatch system - project
scheduled for Fall '12
Live Scan Interface 14,250 14,250 - - - - Funded by grant above; Links our Live Scan software to other agencies
Police breathalizer replacement- - - 10,000 - 10,000 State mandated replacement of 13-yr old equipment; may eventually be offset with grant revenue
Police rifle replacement - - - 21,250 - 21,250 Replacement of 21-year old rifles (17 units)
Total Maintenance4,059,489 2,543,923 1,523,756 4,092,328 967,691 5,060,019
Enhancement of Town Assets
CDOT Required Parking- - - 630,000 - 630,000 Pending discussion with Vail Resorts re: sharing costs. 2012: LionsHead and guardrail in West Vail on
N. Ftg Rd; 2013: Cascade; 2014: Safeway and Vail Village
Vail Village Info Booth - - - 1,100,000 - 1,100,000 Remodel, including addition of restrooms and some guest enhancement
Vail Village Info Booth pull in lane- - - 250,000 - 250,000 Pull off lane in front of Vail Village info booth for short term parking and to provide an area for an RV or
larger vehicle to pull in for information
Guest Services Enhancements/Wayfinding217,800 23,644 194,156 1,100,000 269,156 1,369,156
Re-appropriate to continue projects; $75K transferred from streetscape project as previously
budgeted for signage. Guest information improvements town-wide, including pedestrian signage,
parking structures, banners at VV & LH
Main Vail Fire Station - - - - 50,000 50,000 Design/architecture for remodel of Main Vail station; Full project included in 2013 budget;
Includes public restrooms, TOV office space and new roof
Energy Enhancements3,122,715 1,989,694 1,133,021 - 1,133,021 1,133,021 Implementation of energy audit enhancements (includes reimb from VRA, RETT, and GF);
New Fire Truck 253,917 253,900 17 - - - New fire truck for additional station; Deposit made in 2010; delivery in 2011
Fire Equipment - - - 32,000 - 32,000 $12K Thermal image camera for new truck; $20K set of equipment for ladder truck
East Meadow Drive-Streetscape- - - 380,000 380,000 Work approved by Council April 3rd; Reconstruction of E. Meadow Drive bus path from La Bottega
to start of Solaris
Village Streetscape 172,429 86,111 86,318 - - - Transfer $75K of remainder to Guest Service Enhancement project as previously budgeted
Neighborhood Road Reconstruction2,038,701 229,206 1,809,495 - 10,000 10,000
Re-appropriate $10K to cover design costs spent to get the Vail Valley Dr.project ready to bid
(project has been delayed); 2013-2016 East Vail roads; Increase of $425K in 2013 for shared
project with ERWSD on Rockledge Rd 2013 also includes $200K for planning / design of roadwork in
2014-2016
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20112011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Project Information
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
Neighborhood Bridge Reconstruction1,195,882 144,067 1,051,815 - 1,051,815 1,051,815
Matterhorn Bridge reconstruction delayed due to CDOT fiscal year and requirements; Partial funding
from federal grant; Nugget Lane and Bridge Rd bridges design in 2013 and construction in 2014 to
coincide with federal grants
Parking Entry System / Equipment55,000 53,195 1,805 - - - Repairs to parking booth equipment from vehicle accident; Insurance reimbursed
Radio Equipment replacement (pub. works,
pub. safety)- - - 48,000 - 48,000 Replacement of 2008 radios for PW, Fire, PD
Hybrid Bus Battery Replacement- - - 55,000 - 55,000 Scheduled replacement: 1 in 2012; 7 in 2014; Estimated life of 6 years
Replace Buses 3,486,614 2,240,636 1,245,978 - 1,245,978 1,245,978 2012: 2 Hybrid buses ordered in 2011; take delivery in 2012
Timber Ridge Legal/Zoning50,000 32,685 17,315 - 17,315 17,315 Continuation of negotiations
Manor Vail Street Plan83,800 - 83,800 - - - Expenditure related to impact fee paid by Manor Vail development; Will track internally rather than on
budget worksheet
Total Enhancements10,676,858 5,053,138 5,623,720 3,215,000 4,157,285 7,372,285
New Assets
Municipal Redevelopment- - - - 760,209 760,209 Estimated costs for architecture and design $247K plus project management $513K; Based on
approved contracts
LionsHead Transit Center (VRA)1,419,945 1,419,945 - - - - $5.0 million from Federal grant; remainder transferred from VRA
Welcome Center (VRA)7,534,706 6,595,914 938,792 304,700 973,444 1,278,144 Continuation of the project; Includes $34K reimbursement from VRD for tenant finishes;Funded
by the Vail Reinvestment Authority (see Transfers below)
East LionsHead Portal (VRA)200,000 158,711 41,289 2,075,000 41,289 2,116,289 Re-appropriation; Design work approved by Council Feb 1st; Originally budgeted entire project in
2012; Funded by the Vail Reinvestment Authority (East LH Circle)
West LionsHead Portal (VRA)75,000 52,500 22,500 750,000 22,500 772,500 Re-appropriation; Design work approved by Council Feb 1st; Originally budgeted entire project in
2012; Funded by the Vail Reinvestment Authority (Concert Hall Plaza)
Library Remodel (VRA)174,500 72,772 101,728 1,600,000 451,728 2,051,728
Re-appropriation plus $350K additional approved by Council March 20th; Funded by the Vail
Reinvestment Authority (see Transfers below); This project would add additional community space on
main level, with offices and community room on basement level; includes elevator as required by code
Sundial Plaza (VRA)- - - 850,000 - 850,000
Fountain needs to be removed or significant repairs/replacement; Stairways; Adjoining park could be
improved rather than try to find a location for a new LH park. A "new" LH park was on Unfunded list
for $800K; $285K of this amount would be to improve the connection of walkways up toward First
Chair
West Vail Fire Station 2,003,618 1,890,760 112,858 - 7,500 7,500 Final bills for West Vail Fire Station
Buy-down Program552,118 - 552,118 - 552,118 552,118 Carry forward program funding
Buy-down Program Funded by Pay -in-Lieu467,803 - 467,803 - 537,803 537,803 Carry forward current balance of program funding: Housing funded directly by Pay-in-Lieu fees
collected from developers; $70K increase based on 2012 YTD collections
Variable Message Signs / Way-Finding
Improvements 100,000 50,046 49,954 100,000 49,954 149,954 2012: replacement of two ramp signs at Main Vail ($200K)
I-70 Noise 378,140 27,957 350,183 - 350,183 350,183 Re-appropriate for utility relocation for Bald Mountain berm extension
Underground Utility improvements273,000 151,800 121,200 - 121,200 121,200
Re-appropriate for continuation of projects: East Vail on Bighorn Rd and Golf Course to Ford Park;
Reimbursements from homeowners totaling $55,000 ($5K from East Vail and $50K from residents
near golf course), Vail Rec District ($15K) and Holy Cross directly funding $43,000 for East Vail
project
Chamonix Area Planning92,600 90,800 1,800 - - - $80K for water/utility infrastructure done during construction of W Vail Fire Station; $12.6K final
amount due to Martin & Martin
Total New Assets:13,271,430 10,511,205 2,760,225 5,679,700 3,867,928 9,547,628
Total Capital before Financing28,007,777 18,108,266 9,899,511 12,987,028 8,992,904 21,979,932
Debt Service and Financing
Debt Service on Outstanding Bonds2,279,572 2,279,574 (2) 2,088,346 - 2,088,346 Annual debt service payments
Timber Ridge Debt Service Guarantee925,000 - 925,000 - 925,000 925,000 Annual debt service guarantee - requirement of TR debt
Total Debt Service and Financing:3,204,572 2,279,574 924,998 2,088,346 925,000 3,013,346
Total Expenditures31,212,349 20,387,840 10,824,509 15,075,374 9,917,904 24,993,278
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20112011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Project Information
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Transfer from Vail Reinvestment Authority9,579,070 7,125,196 2,453,874 6,546,700 2,488,874 9,035,574
Re-appropriate a portion of 2011 unspent relating to on-going projects above; 2012: LH Portal
improvements $2.9M, Sundial plaza $850K, $2.0 Library remodel, CDOT-Required parking $102K in
LH, LH Pkg mtc $365K, LH Welcome Center $1.1M, Guest Svcs $710K; Energy enhancements
$953K;
Transfer from General Fund1,845,800 1,845,800 - - - - Transfer from GF for implementation of energy audit enhancements
Transfer from RETT32,964 32,964 - - - - Transfer from RETT for implementation of energy audit enhancements
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures(8,375,488) 1,103,892 9,479,380 (817,014) (6,356,595) (7,173,609)
Beginning Fund Balance17,364,31817,364,3188,988,830 9,479,38018,468,210
Ending Fund Balance8,988,830 18,468,210 8,171,816 11,294,601
*Promissory note due from Childrens' Garden of
Leaning included in ending fund balance - not
spendable
10,000 5,000 5,000
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Amended2011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
2011ActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Comments
Real Estate Transfer Tax 4,270,000$ 4,403,706$ 133,706$ 3,835,000$ -$ 3,835,000$ 2012 "base" sales 20% less than 2010
Golf Course Lease124,400 126,768 2,368 126,888 - 126,888 Annual lease payment from Vail Recreation District 2% annual increase - deposited to "Recreation
Enhancement Account" (accompanying expenditure listed below)
Intergovenmental Revenue181,000 184,029 3,029 20,000 - 20,000 2011: $161,000 GOCO Grant for Red Sandstone playground (matching expense below); $20K
Lottery fund proceeds
Project Reimbursements442,950 406,329 (36,621) 15,000 1,150,000 1,165,000 2011 $400K Insurance reimb for Aspen Ct Bridge and Seibert fountain railing damage ($2,950);
2012 VRD portion for Golf Course Clubhouse construction
Recreation Amenity Fees10,000 9,740 (260) 10,000 - 10,000
Earnings on Investments and Other17,917 149,488 131,571 68,000 - 68,000
Total Revenue5,046,267 5,280,060 233,793 4,074,888 1,150,000 5,224,888
Maintain Town Assets
Annual Park and Landscape Maintenance1,304,176 1,229,538 74,638 1,350,140 - 1,350,140 Ongoing path, park and open space maintenance, project mgmt
Management Fee to General Fund (5%)213,500 220,185 (6,685) 191,750 - 191,750 5% of RETT Collections - fee remitted to the General Fund for administration
Rec. Path Capital Maint141,177 68,675 72,502 93,395 - 93,395 Capital maintenance of the town's recreation path system; 2012 includes $50K to replace deer
screen at Dowd Junction and $15K for pedestrian bridge inspections
Tree Maintenance 85,000 50,111 34,889 65,000 25,000 90,000
Re-appropriate for Aspen tree scale; Regular maintenance for tree health within the town
(spraying, removing, new trees); scale spraying on town-owned property at approx. $120 per tree;
Initiating tree-planting program for lost trees
Forest Health Management145,000 92,067 52,933 195,000 - 195,000 Pine beetle mitigation in conjunction w/ forest service (Crew of 6 during spring/summer months)
Street Furniture Replacement22,500 1,106 21,394 25,000 - 25,000 Annual replacement or capital repairs, includes bike racks
Park / Playground Capital Maintenance114,841 118,920 (4,079) 85,000 - 85,000
2012 includes paving paths to Stephens Park ($22K), ADA compliance for play structure at
Stephens Park, Re-landscape main entry (east) at Donovan Park ($20K) and resurface Donovan
basketball court ($10K)
Alpine Garden Support65,620 65,620 - 85,620 - 85,620 Council approved one-time capital of $20K for water feature in 2012 and $65K of operating
Black Gore Creek Sand Mitigation75,600 75,600 - 50,000 - 50,000 2012 $50K Council contributions
Public Art - Operating90,390 81,022 9,368 92,657 - 92,657 AIPP salary and operating expenses
Environmental Sustainability309,350 226,896 82,454 250,000 - 250,000 Environmental Sustainability programs
Total Maintenance2,567,154 2,229,740 337,414 2,483,562 25,000 2,508,562
Enhancement of Town Assets
Flood Incident Repairs400,000 382,237 17,763 1,050,000 - 1,050,000 2011: Replacement of Aspen Court Bridge (reimbursed by insurance); 2012: repairs to culverts,
drainage, and preventative improvements
Stephen's Park Stream Repairs2,759 - 2,759 - - - Streambank stabilization sign (requirement of the grant)
Trailhead Development / Improvement24,000 - 24,000 50,000 - 50,000 Improve trailheads; Continued need through 2012 (one trail per year)
ADA Compliance w/ VRD10,000 8,263 1,737 10,000 - 10,000 Shared costs with VRD - ADA access at recreational facilities;new ADA regulations went into effect
2011; Need to replace drinking fountains at all parks ($2K each)
Frontage Road Bike Lanes/Trails2,364,658 1,663,643 701,015 1,150,000 - 1,150,000 4 miles of bike lanes (6 foot shoulders) to be added prior to CDOT overlay project; first priority is
Blue Cow Chute to East Vail; path from Vail Mtn School to E. Vail exit
Ford Park Master Plan2,332,924 76,739 2,256,185 - - - Transfer re-appropriation to Ford Park project below
Ford Park Improvements200,000 - 200,000 - - - Transfer re-appropriation to Ford Park project below
Raw Water / Irrigation Control379,657 379,657 - - - - Water supply infrastructure; ERWSD working on bringing system up to consistent operation
Kayak Take-out 10,000 - 10,000 - - - Developer contribution to be used for whitewater improvements - will track internally rather than
carry on budget worksheets
Stream Tract Encroachment Survey14,081 - 14,081 - - - Survey along Gore Creek
Streambank/tract mitigation - - 200,000 - 200,000 2012 planning; 2013 implementation **estimate only**
Red Sandstone Park - Per Safety plan464,000 266,370 197,630 - 197,630 197,630 Reconstruction of playground per safety plan; 20 years old
Red Sandstone Playground GOCO Grant161,000 154,826 6,174 - - - Pass through GOCO grant proceeds to school district for Red Sandstone playground
Booth Creek Playground15,000 - 15,000 - - - Previously in 2012; deferred to 2013
Booth Creek Park redevelopment50,000 - 50,000 - - - Previously in 2012; deferred to 2016
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX FUND
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Amended2011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
2011ActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Comments
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX FUND
Public Art - General program / art287,016 47,463 239,553 80,000 255,878 335,878
To purchase sculptures, artwork, art programs and events; remainder is re-appropriated each year
to accumulate enough funds; Supplement budget for annual donations, manhole cover &
jewelery sales, and poster sales contributed during 2011
Public Art - Morales relocation215,692 210,723 4,969 - - - Relocation project - completed
Public Art - Winterfest51,600 23,206 28,394 - 33,494 33,494 Recognize donations made for Winterfest event ($5,100 in 2011); Re-appropriate donation balance;
(approximate cost of event is $25K per year)
Guest Service Enhancements100,000 - 100,000 - - - Planning and design only; implementation currently unfunded; Will present plan to Council for
approval
Landscape Medians40,000 21,758 18,242 - - - Frontage road medians alongside redevelopment projects;Re-appropriate to modify landscaping in
front of the Sebastian to reduce water usage and ongoing maintenance
Open Space Land Acquisition290,000 281,720 8,280 - - - 2011: Purchase of land above Timber Ridge development
Total Enhancements7,412,387 3,516,605 3,895,782 2,540,000 487,002 3,027,002
VRD-Managed Facility Projects
Recreation Enhancement Account377,900 - 377,900 126,888 (126,888) - Transfer balance to Golf Course Clubhouse redevelopment as intended by this reserve account
- funded by annual lease revenue
Golf Course Clubhouse1,265,966 5,922 1,260,044 - - - Transferred balance to new clubhouse construction funding (see New Assets below)
Golf Course - Other Improvements400,623 267,456 133,167 18,468 133,167 151,635
Re-appropriate for replacement of maintenance storage building; Improvements to golf course:
7th tee box retaining wall, 11th and 17th hole bridges;improvements to maintenance building
including stucco, wood trim and soffits; Mtce Storage building
Dobson Ice Arena359,316 16,037 343,279 73,495 343,279 416,774 Re-appropriate for upgrade of louver system, replacement of doors, refurbishment of wood
exterior and landscape improvements; '2012: renovate changing rooms and restrooms
Ford Park / Tennis Center Improvements433,753 91,198 342,555 428,910 - 428,910 Re-appropriate 2011 unspent and transfer to Ford Park Fields project for upper bench
improvements; 2012 outbuilding improvements at ball fields
Youth Services 25,000 25,000 - - - - 2011: transition expenses (FF&E, interior finishes, etc) with new Welcome Center project
Gymnastics Center25,000 2,098 22,902 1,978 - 1,978 Waiting on energy audit prior to installing cooling system
Nature Center 5,529 - 5,529 10,646 - 10,646 2012 wood open rail fencing
Total VRD-Managed Facility Projects2,893,087 407,711 2,485,376 660,385 349,558 1,009,943
760,209
New Assets
Golf Course Clubhouse (CCF)340,000 2,071 337,929 - 6,712,761 6,712,761
Re-appropriation of prior estimate for design and architecture; plus transfer of $1.26M from
prior clubhouse capital maintenance budget; $1.15M reimbursement from VRD, allocation of
Recreation Enhancement Funds $504K and Conference Center funds of $3.8M (Total project
cost estimated at $6.8M)
Ford Park Fields (CCF)175,000 1,400 173,600 - 6,297,340 6,297,340
Added transfer of $342.6K from Ford Park/Tennis, transfer of $200K from Ford Park
Improvements budget and a transfer of $2,256,185 from Ford Park Management Plan budget.
Consolidating dollars already in previous budgets and adding use of $3.5M in Conference
Center Funds for total project estimated cost of $6.3M
Public Restrooms370,000 - 370,000 - 370,000 370,000 Restrooms at lower bench of Ford Park
Total New Assets:885,000 3,471 881,529 - 13,380,101 13,380,101
Total Expenditures13,757,628 6,157,527 7,600,101 5,683,947 14,241,661 19,925,608
Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Transfer to Capital Project Fund(32,964) (32,964) - - - - Transfer to CPF for implementation of energy audit enhancements
Transfer from Conference Center Fund515,000 515,000 - - 6,785,000 6,785,000 Transfer from Conf Center Funds for Golf Clubhouse ($3.8M) and Ford Park Field projects ($3.5M),
net of $515K transferred in 2011 for planning/design
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures(8,229,325) (395,431) 7,833,894 (1,609,059) (6,306,661) (7,915,720)
Beginning Fund Balance17,681,15517,681,1559,451,831 7,833,894 17,285,725
Ending Fund Balance9,451,830$ 17,285,724$ 7,842,772$ 9,370,005$
- 8 -
6 - 1 - 8
4/17/2012
20122012
20112011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Comments
Revenue
Earnings on Investments46,800 65,787 18,987 46,800 - 46,800
Total Revenue 46,800 65,787 18,987 46,800 - 46,800
Expenditures - General Government
Capital Outlay100,000 - 100,000 - 2,100,000 2,100,000
Full contribution toward For Amphitheater project
(total estimated cost of $5.0M) $2.5M to be raised by
Vail Valley Foundation
Total Expenditures 100,000 - 100,000 - 2,100,000 2,100,000
Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Transfer to Capital Projects Fund515,000 515,000 - - 6,785,000 6,785,000
Transfer to Capital Project Fund for Golf Clubhouse
($3.8M) and Ford Park Field projects ($3.5M), net of
$515K transferred in 2011 for planning/design
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures (568,200) (449,213) 118,987 46,800 (8,885,000) (8,838,200)
Beginning Fund Balance9,365,004 9,365,004 8,796,804 118,987 8,915,791 Adjust to actual
Ending Fund Balance 8,796,804$ 8,915,791$ 8,843,604$ 77,591$
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
CONFERENCE CENTER FUND
- 9 -
6 - 1 - 9
4/17/2012
20122012
20112011VarianceOriginal1st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Comments
Revenue
E911 Board Revenue 743,656$ 743,656$ -$ 742,256$ -$ 742,256$
Interagency Charges1,214,925 1,214,926 1 1,177,061 - 1,177,061
Town of Vail Interagency Charge537,827 537,827 - 575,706 - 575,706
Earnings on Investments7,500 9,891 2,391 7,500 - 7,500
Other - 4,475 4,475 - - -
Total Revenue 2,503,908 2,510,775 6,867 2,502,523 - 2,502,523
Expenditures
Salaries & Benefits 1,849,958 1,705,469 144,489 1,881,204 - 1,881,204
Operating, Maintenance & Contracts519,006 435,038 83,968 514,001 - 514,001
Capital Outlay870,000 736,841 133,159 50,000 133,159 183,159 Continuation of voice-logger/radio system plus
initial expenses toward phone system project
Total Expenditures 3,238,964 2,877,348 361,616 2,445,205 133,159 2,578,364
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures(735,056) (366,573) 368,483 57,318 (133,159) (75,841)
Beginning Fund Balance1,532,566 1,532,566 797,510 368,483 1,165,993
Ending Fund Balance 797,510$ 1,165,992$ 854,828$ 1,090,152$
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
DISPATCH SERVICES FUND
- 10 -
6 - 1 - 10
4/17/2012
2012
20112011Variance20121st Proposed
AmendedActualFav / (Unfav)BudgetSupplementalAmended Comments
Revenue
Town of Vail Interagency Charge2,824,081$ 2,814,399$ (9,682)$ 2,892,362$ -$ 2,892,362$ Chargeback to departments
Insurance Reimbursements & Other43,240 71,400 28,160 - - -
Earnings on Investments10,324 14,165 3,841 10,324 - 10,324
Equipment Sales and Trade-ins 203,550 106,494 (97,056) 65,500 - 65,500
Total Revenue3,081,195 3,006,458 (74,737) 2,968,186 - 2,968,186
Expenditures
Salaries & Benefits 960,739 955,023 5,716 996,016 - 996,016
Operating, Maintenance & Contracts 1,355,190 1,423,681 (68,491) 1,412,095 - 1,412,095
Capital Outlay1,148,288 609,946 538,342 389,144 330,000 719,144 Two vehicles (Loader and xx) contracted for in 2011, took
delivery in 2012
Total Expenditures3,464,217 2,988,650 475,567 2,797,255 330,000 3,127,255
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures (383,022) 17,808 400,830 170,931 (330,000) (159,069)
Beginning Fund Balance2,252,405 2,252,405 1,869,383 400,830 2,270,213
Ending Fund Balance 1,869,383$ 2,270,213$ 2,040,314$ 2,111,144$
TOWN OF VAIL 2012 BUDGET
SUMMARY OF REVENUE, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
HEAVY EQUIPMENT FUND
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6 - 1 - 11
4/17/2012
Ordinance No. 3, Series of 2012
ORDINANCE NO. 3
SERIES OF 2012
AN ORDINANCE MAKING BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS TO THE TOWN OF VAIL GENERAL
FUND, CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND, REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX FUND, CONFERENCE
CENTER FUND, DISPATCH SERVICES FUND, AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT FUND OF THE
2012 BUDGET FOR THE TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO; AND AUTHORIZING THE SAID
ADJUSTMENTS AS SET FORTH HEREIN; AND SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN REGARD
THERETO.
WHEREAS, contingencies have arisen during the fiscal year 2012 which could not have
been reasonably foreseen or anticipated by the Town Council at the time it enacted Ordinance No.
21, Series of 2011, adopting the 2012 Budget and Financial Plan for the Town of Vail, Colorado;
and,
WHEREAS, the Town Manager has certified to the Town Council that sufficient funds are
available to discharge the appropriations referred to herein, not otherwise reflected in the Budget, in
accordance with Section 9.10(a) of the Charter of the Town of Vail; and,
WHEREAS, in order to accomplish the foregoing, the Town Council finds that it should make
certain budget adjustments as set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF
VAIL, COLORADO that:
1. Pursuant to Section 9.10(a) of the Charter of the Town of Vail, Colorado, the Town
Council hereby makes the following budget adjustments for the 2012 Budget and Financial Plan for
the Town of Vail, Colorado, and authorizes the following budget adjustments:
General Fund $ 188,950
Capital Projects Fund 9,917,904
Real Estate Transfer Tax Fund 14,241,661
Conference Center Fund 8,885,000
Dispatch Services Fund 133,159
Heavy Equipment Fund 330,000
Total $33,696,674
2. If any part, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance is for any
reason held to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this
ordinance; and the Town Council hereby declares it would have passed this ordinance, and each
6 - 1 - 12
4/17/2012
Ordinance No. 3, Series of 2012
part, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, regardless of the fact that any one or
more parts, sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid.
3. The Town Council hereby finds, determines, and declares that this ordinance is
necessary and proper for the health, safety, and welfare of the Town of Vail and the inhabitants
thereof.
4. The repeal or the repeal and reenactment of any provision of the Municipal Code of
the Town of Vail as provided in this ordinance shall not affect any right which has accrued, any duty
imposed, any violation that occurred prior to the effective date hereof, any prosecution commenced,
nor any other action or proceedings as commenced under or by virtue of the provision repealed or
repealed and reenacted. The repeal of any provision hereby shall not revive any provision or any
ordinance previously repealed or superseded unless expressly stated herein.
5. All bylaws, orders, resolutions, and ordinances, or parts thereof, inconsistent herewith
are repealed to the extent only of such inconsistency. This repealer shall not be construed to revise
any bylaw, order, resolution, or ordinance, or part thereof, theretofore repealed.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED, AND ORDERED PUBLISHED ONCE IN FULL ON
FIRST READING this 3rd day of April, 2012, and a public hearing shall be held on this Ordinance on
the 17th day of April, 2012, at the regular meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Vail,
Colorado, in the Municipal Building of the town.
_______________________________
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
READ AND APPROVED ON SECOND READING AND ORDERED PUBLISHED IN FULL this 17th
day of April 2012.
_____________________________
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
6 - 1 - 13
4/17/2012
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Second reading of Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012, an ordinance
reestablishing "temporary business office" as a conditional use within the Lionshead Mixed
Use 1 District, and setting forth details in regard thereto.
PRESENTER(S): Warren Campbell
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: The Vail Town Council shall approve, approve with
modifications, or deny Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012, upon second reading.
BACKGROUND: On November 16, 2004, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinance No. 26,
Series of 2004. This ordinance created the "temporary business office" land use and
established it as a conditional use within the Lionshead Mixed use 1 District. Within the
ordinance there was a provision causing the land use to cease being a conditional use on
December 31, 2008. The purpose of the text amendment was to provide adequate temporary
sites and locations for existing business offices currently in Lionshead that are displaced for a
period of time during construction in Lionshead.
On March 5, 2012, the Planning and Environmental Commission unanimously forwarded a
recommendation of approval to reestablish "temporary business office" as a conditional use
within the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District.
On April 3, 2012, the Vail Town Council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 6, Series of
2012, upon first reading.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The Planning and Environmental Commission recommends
the Vail Town Council approves Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012, on second reading.
ATTACHMENTS:
Memorandum to Town Council
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012
4/17/2012
TO: Vail Town Council
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: April 17, 2012
SUBJECT: Second reading of Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012, an ordinance reestablishing
"temporary business office" as a conditional use within the Lionshead Mixed Use
1 District, and setting forth details in regard thereto.
Applicant: Town of Vail
Planner: Warren Campbell
I. DESCRIPTION OF REQUEST
The Town of Vail is requesting to reestablish the temporary business office land use as
a conditional use in the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District. The reestablishment of this
land use will continue to allow the community to temporarily accommodate business
office space needs that have been displaced due to redevelopment. This ordinance is
not intended to circumvent the horizontal zoning regulations.
II. ACTION REQUESTED OF THE VAIL TOWN COUNCIL
The Vail Town Council shall approve, approve with modifications, or deny Ordinance
No. 6, Series of 2012 upon second reading.
III. BACKGROUND
• On September 16, 1975, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinance No. 16,
Series of 1975. This ordinance has become known as the “Ordinance Amending
the Zoning Ordinance by Imposing Horizontal Zoning in CCI”. The legislative
intents of Ordinance No. 16 were to maintain and preserve the nature and
character of Vail’s commercial areas with a mixture of residential and commercial
uses; to promote and protect these areas as pedestrian areas; and to promote a
variety of retail shops at the pedestrian level by prohibiting business offices on
the first floor.
• On December 15, 1998, the Vail Town Council adopted the Lionshead
Redevelopment Master Plan. Amongst other purposes, a goal of the Master
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4/17/2012
Town of Vail Page 2
Plan is to facilitate the redevelopment of the Lionshead Core Site which is
identified in the Master Plan as the “Lionshead Retail Core”.
• On October 11, 2004, the Planning and Environmental Commission, forwarded a
recommendation of approval to the Vail Town Council for the adoption of a
“temporary business office” land use and for its incorporation as a conditional use
within the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District.
• On November 16, 2004, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinance No. 26,
Series of 2004. This ordinance created the “temporary business office” land use
and established it as a conditional use within the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District.
The ordinance was set to become null and void on December 31, 2008. The
purpose of the text amendment was to provide adequate temporary sites and
locations for existing business offices currently in Lionshead that are displaced
for a period of time during the construction in Lionshead.
• On July 9, 2007, the Planning and Environmental Commission forwarded a
recommendation of approval for amendments to the temporary business office
regulations. On August 7, 2007, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinance No.
22, Series of 2007, which amended the definition of temporary business offices
and established use specific criteria to allow temporary business offices for a
period of more than three years. There was no sunset placed upon these
regulations.
• On April 3, 2012, the Vail Town Council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 6,
Series of 2012, upon first reading.
IV. PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
On March 5, 2012, the Planning and Environmental Commission forwarded a
recommendation of approval to reestablish temporary business office as a conditional
use in the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District.
Should the Vail Town Council choose to approve Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012, upon
second reading, the Community Development Department recommends the Council
passes the following motion:
“The Vail Town Council approves Ordinance No. 6, Series Of 2012, an
ordinance amending Section 12-7H-3, Permitted and Conditional Uses,
First Floor or Street Level, Vail Town Code, pursuant to Section 12-3-7,
Amendment, Vail Town Code, adding “Temporary Business Office” as a
conditional use in the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 Zone District, and setting
forth details in regard thereto.”
7 - 1 - 2
4/17/2012
Town of Vail Page 3
Should the Vail Town Council choose to approve Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012, the
Community Development Department recommends the Council makes the following
findings:
“Based upon the review of the criteria outlined in the March 5, 2012
memorandum to the Planning and Environmental Commission, and the evidence
and testimony presented, the Vail Town Council finds:
1) That the amendment is consistent with the applicable elements of the
adopted goals, objectives and policies outlined in the Vail Comprehensive
Plan and is compatible with the development objectives of the town; and
2) That the amendment furthers the general and specific purposes of the
zoning regulations; and
3) That the amendment promotes the health, safety, morals, and general
welfare of the town and promotes the coordinated and harmonious
development of the town in a manner that conserves and enhances its
natural environment and its established character as a resort and residential
community of the highest quality.”
V. ATTACHMENTS
A. Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012
7 - 1 - 3
4/17/2012
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012
1
ORDINANCE NO. 6
SERIES OF 2012
ORDINANCE NO. 6, SERIES OF 2012, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 12-
7H-3, PERMITTEDAND CONDITIONAL USES, FIRST FLOOR OR STREET LEVEL,
ADDING “TEMPORARY BUSINESS OFFICE” AS A CONDITIONAL USE IN THE
LIONSHEAD MIXED USE 1 DISTRICT, AND SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN REGARD
THERETO.
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail, in the County of Eagle and State of Colorado (the
"Town"), is a home rule municipal corporation duly organized and existing under laws of
the State of Colorado and the Vail Town Charter;
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council found that the redevelopment of Lionshead
would cause the displacement of business offices: and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council found that the preservation of business offices
within the town was necessary to maintain established community qualities and
economic values and prevent their relocation outside of the town; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinance No. 26, Series of 2004, on
November 16, 2004, which established “temporary business office” as a conditional use
in the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District and created a definition for the land use in order
to maintain business offices within the town on a temporary basis; and
WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 26, Series of 2004, contained a provision in Section 2
causing the Ordinance to become null and void and the temporary business office to
cease being a conditional use on December 31, 2008; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinance No. 22, Series of 2007, on
August 7, 2007, which amended the definition for temporary business office and
established use specific criteria and standards for the land use within Chapter 16,
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4/17/2012
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012
2
Conditional Use Permits, Vail Town Code; and
WHEREAS, Section 12-2-2 Definitions of Words, Vail Town Code, defines a
temporary business office as, “An office for the conduct of general business and service
activities and transactions for a limited time period to accommodate the temporary
displacement of an existing business office within the town of Vail due to redevelopment
construction activities.”
WHEREAS, the Planning and Environmental Commission of the Town of Vail
has held public hearings on the proposed amendments in accordance with the
provisions of the Vail Town Code; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Environmental Commission of the Town of Vail
recommended approval of these amendments at its March 5, 2012 public hearing, and
has submitted its recommendation to the Vail Town Council; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council finds that the proposed amendments are
consistent with the applicable elements of the adopted goals, objectives and policies
outlined in the Vail Comprehensive Plan and are compatible with the development
objectives of the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council finds that the proposed amendments promote
the health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the Town and promote the
coordinated and harmonious development of the Town in a manner that conserves and
enhances its natural environment and its established character as a resort and
residential community of the highest quality; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council considers it in the interest of the public health,
safety, and welfare to adopt these amendments to the Town Code.
7 - 2 - 2
4/17/2012
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012
3
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO, THAT:
Section 1. The purpose of this ordinance is to reestablish temporary business
office as a conditional use within the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 District. (Text that is to be
deleted is stricken. Text that is to be added is bold. Sections of text that are not
amended may be omitted.)
Section 2. Section 12-7H-3 (in part) is hereby amended as follows:
12-7H-3: PERMITTED AND CONDITIONAL USES; FIRST FLOOR OR STREET
LEVEL:
A. Permitted Uses: The following uses shall be permitted on the first floor or
street level within a structure:
Banks, with walk-up teller facilities.
Child daycare centers.
Eating and drinking establishments.
Employee housing units, as further regulated by chapter 13 of this title.
Recreation facilities.
Retail stores and establishments.
Skier ticketing, ski school and skier services.
Travel and ticket agencies.
Additional uses determined to be similar to permitted uses described in
this subsection, in accordance with the provisions of section 12-3-4 of this
title.
B. Conditional Uses: The following uses shall be permitted on the first floor or
street level floor within a structure, subject to issuance of a conditional use permit
in accordance with the provisions of chapter 16 of this title:
Accommodation units.
Attached accommodation units.
Beauty and barber shops.
Conference facilities and meeting rooms.
Electronics sales and repair shops.
Financial institutions, other than banks.
Liquor stores.
Lodges.
Major arcades.
7 - 2 - 3
4/17/2012
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012
4
Multiple-family residential dwelling units, timeshare units, fractional fee
clubs, and lodge dwelling units.
Temporary business offices.
Theaters.
Additional uses determined to be similar to conditional uses described in
this subsection, in accordance with the provisions of section 12-3-4 of this
title.
Section 3. If any part, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this
ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid, such decision shall not effect the validity
of the remaining portions of this ordinance; and the Town Council hereby declares it
would have passed this ordinance, and each part, section, subsection, sentence, clause
or phrase thereof, regardless of the fact that any one or more parts, sections,
subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid.
Section 4. The Town Council hereby finds, determines and declares that this
ordinance is necessary and proper for the health, safety and welfare of the Town of Vail
and the inhabitants thereof.
Section 5. The amendment of any provision of the Town Code as provided in
this ordinance shall not affect any right which has accrued, any duty imposed, any
violation that occurred prior to the effective date hereof, any prosecution commenced,
nor any other action or proceeding as commenced under or by virtue of the provision
amended. The amendment of any provision hereby shall not revive any provision or
any ordinance previously repealed or superseded unless expressly stated herein.
Section 6. All bylaws, orders, resolutions and ordinances, or parts thereof,
inconsistent herewith are repealed to the extent only of such inconsistency. This
repealer shall not be construed to revise any bylaw, order, resolution or ordinance, or
part thereof, theretofore repealed.
7 - 2 - 4
4/17/2012
Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2012
5
INTRODUCED, READ ON FIRST READING, APPROVED, AND
ORDERED PUBLISHED ONCE IN FULL ON FIRST READING this 3rd day of April,
2012, and a public hearing for second reading of this Ordinance set for the 17th day of
April, 2012, at 6:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of the Vail Municipal Building, Vail,
Colorado.
____________________
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
INTRODUCED, READ, ADOPTED AND ENACTED ON SECOND READING AND
ORDERED PUBLISHED IN FULL this 17th day of April, 2012.
____________________
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
7 - 2 - 5
4/17/2012
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2012
ITEM/TOPIC: Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012 - Fee-in-Lieu for Commercial Linkage and
Inclusionary Zoning
PRESENTER(S): George Ruther
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve, modify or deny Resolution No. 19, Series of
2012
BACKGROUND: The Town of Vail adopted Commercial Linkage and Inclusionary Zoning
Employee Housing requirements in April, 2007. A method of mitigation is payment of a fee-in-
lieu. Annually, the Vail Town Council adopts the fee-in-lieu amount for Commercial Linkage
and Inclusionary Zoning.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The Community Development Department recommends the
Vail Town Council approve Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012.
ATTACHMENTS:
Staff Memorandum
Resolution No. 19
4/17/2012
MEMORANDUM
TO: Vail Town Council
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: April 17, 2012
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012
I. INTRODUCTION
On April 4, 2007, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinances Nos. 7 and 8, Series of
2007, establishing commercial linkage and inclusionary zoning. The ordinances provide
five methods of mitigation to supply the requisite employee housing. One of the
methods of mitigation is paying a fee in lieu of supplying the employee housing.
In accordance with Sections 12-23-5 and 12-24-6, the fee in lieu for each employee
to be housed and for each square foot of employee housing required shall be
established annually by resolution adopted by the Vail Town Council.
The employee housing fee in lieu amount reflects the gap between a two-person
household earning 120% of the 2011 Area Median Income (AMI) and the 2011 median
cost per unit plus an administrative fee of $3,000 per employee or $3.65 per square foot.
Additionally, in 2010, the Vail Town Council modified the calculation of fee in lieu to
reflect a three-year average. The two-person AMI increased $2,100 from 2010 to 2011
and the Town of Vail median price per square foot decreased $136. The assumed
interest rate remained constant at 5.5%, reflective of current mortgage conditions.
II. 2011 FEE IN LIEU CALCULATION
The formula for commercial linkage is:
Affordability Gap ($69,750) / 1.5 (average employees per unit) = Gap per
Employee ($46,500) + the two previous years ($126,094 and $71,299) / three
years + administrative fee ($3,000 per employee) = $84,298 and rounded to the
next whole dollar
The formula for inclusionary zoning is:
Affordability Gap ($69,750) / 825 (average square feet of units) = Gap per
Square Foot ($85) + the two previous years ($229 and $87) / three years +
administrative fee ($3.65 per square foot) = $137.65 and rounded to the next
whole dollar
III. ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
Approve, approve with modifications or deny Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012.
8 - 1 - 1
4/17/2012
IV. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Vail Town Council Approve Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012
V. ATTACHMENT
A. Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012
8 - 1 - 2
4/17/2012
Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012 Page 1 of 3
RESOLUTION NO. 19
Series of 2012
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE 2012 PAYMENT OF FEES-IN-LIEU FOR EACH
EMPLOYEE TO BE HOUSED, AS REQUIRED BY CHAPTER12-23, COMMERCIAL
LINKAGE, AND FOR EACH SQUARE FOOT, AS REQUIRED BY CHAPTER 12-24,
INCLUSIONARY ZONING, VAIL TOWN CODE, AND SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN
REGARD THERETO.
WHEREAS, on April 3, 2007, the Vail Town Council adopted of Ordinance Nos. 7
& 8, Series of 2007, establishing Commercial Linkage and Inclusionary Zoning
requirements in the Town of Vail; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Sections 12-23-5 and 12-24-6, Methods of Mitigation,
payment of fees-in-lieu is one of five (5) methods by which the mitigation of employee
housing required may be accomplished; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with Sections 12-23-5 and 12-24-6, the fees-in-lieu for
each employee to be housed and for each square foot of employee housing required
shall be established annually by resolution of the Vail Town Council; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council has determined that the proposed fee-in-lieu
amounts accurately reflect the affordability gap between a two person household earning
120% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and the 2011 Median Cost per Unit;
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council has determined the proposed fee-in-lieu
amount should be calculated and then averaged with the two (2) previous years to more
accurately reflect market conditions; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Town Council finds that this Resolution furthers the
development objectives of the Town and is in the best interest of the Town as it
promotes the coordinated and harmonious development of the Town in a manner that
conserves and enhances the availability of employee housing within the Town of Vail.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO:
1. Establishment of Fees-in-Lieu
a. The fees-in-lieu for each employee to be housed or for
each square foot of employee housing provided in accordance
with Chapters 12-23, Commercial Linkage, and 12-24,
Inclusionary Zoning, shall be established annually by resolution of
the Town Council, provided that, in calculating that fee, the Town
Council shall include the net cost (total cost less the amount
covered by rental or sale income) of real property and all related
planning, design, site development, legal, construction and
construction management costs of the project, in current dollars,
which would be incurred by the Town to provide housing for the
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Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012 Page 2 of 3
employee to be housed or for each square foot of employee
housing provided in that year;
b. An administrative fee of $3,000/per employee or $3.65 per
square foot shall be added to the amount set forth in paragraph a
hereof.
c. Fees-in-lieu shall be calculated each year and that amount
shall be averaged with the previous two (2) years calculated fees-
in-lieu to establish the new annual fees-in-lieu.
d. Fees-in-lieu shall be due and payable prior to the issuance
of a building permit for the development.
e. The Town shall only use monies collected from fees-in-lieu
to provide new employee housing.
The calculation formula for fee-in-lieu has been attached for reference
(Exhibit A).
2. 2012 Payment of Fees-in-Lieu Amounts
a. Fee-in-lieu per employee (commercial linkage) = $84,298
b. Fee-in-lieu per square foot (inclusionary zoning) = $137.65
3. Effective Date of the Resolution
This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon adoption.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 17th day of April,
2012.
Andrew P. Daly, Mayor, Town of Vail
ATTEST:
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
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Resolution No. 19, Series of 2012 Page 3 of 3
Exhibit A
2012
Fee-in-Lieu Calculation Formula
120% Area Median Income (2-person household)* $83,700
Affordable Monthly Housing Payment $2,092
Property Taxes/Insurance/HOA (20% of Housing Payment) $418
Mortgage Payment $1,674
Maximum Mortgage Amount* $295,000
Affordable Purchase Price $309,750
Average Square Feet of Units 825
2010 Median Price per Square Foot (all units)** $460
Cost per Unit $379,500
Affordability Gap/Payment per Unit in Lieu $69,750
***Assumes 5% down, 5.5% interest for 30 years.
Gap per Employee (1.5 emps/household on average) $46,500
2011 Gap per Employee (not averaged) $126,094
2010 Gap per Employee (not averaged) $71,299
Administrative Fee per Employee $3,000
Fee per Square Foot per Employee $85.00
2011 Fee Per Square Foot per Employee (not averaged) $229.00
2010 Fee per Square Foot per Employee (not averaged) $87.00
Administrative Fee per Square Foot per Employee $3.65
Fee-in-Lieu per Employee $84,298***
Fee-in-Lieu per Square Foot $137.65
(Note – these figures to be established annually by the Vail Town Council)
* As published by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development
** Calculated 2011 Eagle County Assessor’s Data Base
*** Rounded to the nearest dollar
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