HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-13 Aproving and Adopting the 1997 Ford Park Management Plan, which is an Amendment to the 1985 Ford Park and Donovan Park Master PlanRESOLUTION NO. 13
SERIES OF 1997
A RESOLUTION APPROVING AND ADOPTING
THE 1997 FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN,
WHICH IS AN AMENDMENT TO THE 1985
FORD PARK AND DONOVAN PARK MASTER PLAN.
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail has developed the 1997 Ford Park Management Plan,
which is an amendment to the 1985 Ford Park and Donovan Park Master Plan; and
WHEREAS, there has been considerable public input from leaseholders and stakeholders
which was facilitated by staff in developing that plan.
that:
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Town Council of the Town of Vail, Colorado
1. The 1997 Ford Park Management Plan attached to this Resolution as Exhibit A is
hereby approved and adopted.
2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this /s4 day of April, 1997.
L
Ro ert W. Armour, Mayor
ATTEST:
Holly L. McCutcheon, Town Clerk
CARESOLU97.13
a,
FINAL REPORT
FORD PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN
An Amendment to the Ford Park Master Plan
April 14, 1997
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. Section 8 is
an appendix containing copies of pertinent legislative and legal documents.
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 alsorecommendedtheconstructionof`fiike/p es' a ways along t ie §outh 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 existed. This plan is intended to create a means to evaluate
development proposals in order to protect and enhance the character of the park.
This plan is 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: AYour 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, is 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
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.
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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,
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 court's;'children=s play facilities and space for family activities;
headquartem fior the Annual Vail Symposium and local television; and- a possible location
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for an ecologium (nature center). The property was described as a major community
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 belch 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
f`VM1I;` e ameii tnen isthe'Ir$
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Plan. The two phase amendment was adopted by Council as Resolution No. 44, Series of
1988. A copy of the resolution is included in the appendix. 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.
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 Astudy the feasibility of an underground
recreation fields would remain) parking structure in Ford Parka The Parking and
Circulation Plan, within the Vail Village Master Plan, identifies the western portion of the
upper bench for Apotential 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, AThe 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.
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 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
Natufe C"enthi,' 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. While officially aublic parking lot, Vail
Associates frequently utilizes ttie at`etic Heid parking I for einpioyees work ng out of
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the Golden peak ski base. A copy of the Vail Recreation District lease is included in the
Appendix.
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 extended to October 31,
2001, include an endowment for ongoing repair and maintenance of the Amphitheater.
The amphitheater seats up to 2,500 people and is scheduled an average of 58 days 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
three existing phases of the Betty Ford Alpine Garden under a Limited License
Agreement signed June 8, 1994. The terms and conditions of a Lease Agreement are
currently being negotiated. 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. A fourth and final phase, the Alpine Rock Garden, is currently being
planned for construction in 1998. A proposal by the Alpine Garden Foundation to
construct an Educational Center with the final phase of the garden has been controversial.
Opposition to the expanded use of the garden and the interior of park has been a
significant impetus to the creation of this master plan amendment. 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, allowing the
Foundation to proceed through the design process within the Town.
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 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 existing gravel parking lot.
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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 Villgge Mas=lan.
February 1990 Aquatic Center rejected by voters in special election.
April 1990 Council petitioned to delete Aquatic Center from masterplan.
May 1990 Tennis Center construction complete.
June 1991 Alpine Medetation Garden complete.
April 1993 Completion of Vail ImMortation 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 plans at Soccer Field parking lot.
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Section 3: Description of the 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 Amanagement 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. A synopsis
of the open house presentation and summary of the opinion survey are included in the
Appendix.
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 sof closure witifthe Stakeholders Grodp 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'Otani could lie presented for' comm& t: - 'tree Focus
Group meetings with selected individuals from the community were held on September
the Focus Group discussions. In round table discussion, individuals were asked to
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 desire 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.
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Section 4: Purpose of the Mannement 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.
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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.
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
jaMll IiA z.' ..
X - Transportation system ,and'other public utility easements
X Parking
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X Administrative offices
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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
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.,3.> p zfnrervatmnesandetheir
uses within Ford Park. For example, significant native vegetation, wildlife
x .
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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 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.
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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.
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 Vaij 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
X the Town of Vail
the Vail Valley Foundation
the Alpine Garden
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.
r.
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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.
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 Parkin 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
17
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.
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.
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 V = 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.
19
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.
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
20
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.
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 tum 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 vandal -proof 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.
21
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.
22
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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 proiects:
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.
23
r
Section 8: Appendix.
This section contains copies of the following pertinent legislative and legal documents
concerning Ford Park.
Legislation:
X Ordinance 6, Series of 1973. Acquisition of Antholz Ranch.
X Resolution 1, Series of 1977. Property named Gerald R. Ford Park.
X Resolution 19, Series of 1985. Adoption of 1985 Master plan.
X Resolution 27, Series of 1987. Preservation of Nature Center.
X Resolution 44, Series of 1988. Master plan amendment.
X Resolution 46, Series of 1988. Approving VRD Lease.
Legal Documents:
X Vail Recreation District Lease, 1989
X Amendment to VRD Lease, 1990
X Vail Recreation District Lease, 1993
X Vail Valley Foundation Agreement, 1987
X Letter extending VVF Lease, 1991
X Letter extending VVF Lease, 1994
X Manor Vail Easement Agreement, 1991
X Manor Vail Easement, Eagle County record, 1991
X Vail Alpine Garden Foundation License Agreement, 1994
Other Documents:
X Ford Park Amphitheater Parking and Transit Study, 1979
X Open house presentation information, 1996
X Focus Group questions, 1996
Focus Group responses, 1996
X Public input session comments, 1996
24