Directions: a Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Directions:Directions: AA StrategicStrategic PlanPlan forfor Parks,Parks, RecreationRecreation && TourismTourism

Prepared by City of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation & Tourism and Planning & Development Departments

Acknowledgements

City Council Members A. Douglas Echols, Jr. Mayor Susie B. Hinton, Ward 1 Kathy S. Pender, Ward 2 Kevin Sutton, Ward 3 John A. Black III, Ward 4 Osbey Roddey, Ward 5 James C. Reno, Jr., Ward 6

City Management David Vehaun, City Manager Gerry Schapiro, Deputy City Manager Jimmy Bagley, Deputy City Manager

Core Project Team (City Staff) Planning & Development Bill Meyer Christine Fisher Donald Ritsema

Parks, Recreation & Tourism Ed Thompson John Taylor Rhea Faris Kathy Covington Mark Sexton Stan Senn Amanda Helms

PRT Boards and Commissions Public Parks and Recreation Commission Accommodations Tax/Tourism Commission Commission for Children & Youth Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities

PRT Advisory Committees Facilities Athletics Other Boyd Hill Recreation Center Baseball Rock Hill Youth Council Cherry Park Football Youth Service League Emmett Scott Recreation Center Soccer Therapeutic Recreation Advisory Council Fewell Park Recreation Center Softball Hospitality Tax Task Force Glencairn Garden Tennis Cycling Center Partners Northside Recreation Center Therapeutic Arts Programs River Park Rock Hill Parks Foundation Manchester Meadows Trails & Greenways

And special thanks to the Clemson University, Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, South Carolina Recreation Development Program, International Institute for Tourism Research and Development faculty and graduate students for conducting the May 2011 Visioning Input Sessions!

Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

The Planning Context ...... 1 Introduction ...... 1 Purpose & Intent ...... 1 Methodology ...... 2 Integration of Related Planning Efforts ...... 2 2008 Trails and Greenways Master Plan Update ...... 2 Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan...... 3 College Town Action Plan (CTAP) ...... 3 Carolina Thread Trail Master Plan...... 3 RFATS 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) ...... 4 Other Related Plans and Planning Efforts ...... 4 Overview of Rock Hill Parks and Recreation System ...... 5 History of the Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department ...... 5 Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department Overview ...... 7 PRT Boards and Commissions...... 8

What We Have: Inventory of Existing Resources...... 9 Existing Park Facilities...... 9 Neighborhood Parks/Mini Parks ...... 9 Community Parks ...... 9 Regional Parks...... 10 Special Use Facilities ...... 10 Existing Trails and Greenways ...... 12 Existing Programs & Events ...... 15 Recreational Programs ...... 15 Festivals, Special Events, & Sports Tournaments...... 17 Public Art and Cultural Amenities ...... 18

Who We Are and What We Want ...... 19 Community Profile ...... 19 Demographic Trends and Population Projections...... 19 Current Parks and Recreation Trends ...... 20 Community Input...... 25 May 2011 Visioning Input Sessions ...... 25 Other Public Input ...... 26

Parks and Recreation Priority Issues ...... 27 Maintenance and Infrastructure Needs of Existing Facilities...... 27

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Provision of Facilities and Open Space through Partnerships...... 28 Major Sporting Venues and Regional Park Facilities ...... 29 Water/Environmental Opportunities ...... 30 Sports Tourism ...... 31 Multi-Purpose Competition-Level Facilities...... 32 Connectivity for Bicyclists and Pedestrians...... 33 Multi-Purpose Trails and Greenways ...... 33 On-Street Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities...... 35

Recommendations ...... 36 Vision...... 36 Guiding Principles ...... 36 Strategic Recommendations ...... 37 Maintenance and Infrastructure Needs of Existing Facilities ...... 37 Provision of Facilities and Open Space through Partnerships ...... 38 Major Sporting Venues and Regional Park Facilities ...... 39 Connectivity for Bicyclists and Pedestrians ...... 40 Recommended Priority Capital Projects ...... 42 Major Sporting Venues ...... 42 Existing Facilities...... 42 Trail Priorities...... 43

Funding/Revenue Sources...... 44 Current Funding Sources ...... 44 Grants...... 44 Bonds ...... 45 Taxes...... 45 Other Sources...... 46 Potential Funding Sources ...... 47

Conclusion ...... 48

APPENDIX A: Clemson University PRT Visioning Report ...... 49

Maps

Map 1 – Rock Hill Parks and Recreation Facilities…...... 13

Map 2 – Rock Hill Trails & Greenways System...... 14

ii Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

The Planning Context

Introduction The City of Rock Hill is well regarded for its outstanding sports and cultural tourism venues, extensive parks system, and growing network of trails and greenways. This point was reiterated in a recent study commissioned by the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism (“Tourism Product Development Concept for the Catawba Region Strategy and Plan”, November 2009) which identified Rock Hill as both a tourist hub and a gateway into the greater Catawba region for its strong historic and cultural appeal. Yet, as our community continues to grow and our recreational needs are evolving, we must continue to take steps to sustain the quality of life both residents and visitors have come to enjoy. Through strategic policy direction, Rock Hill places major emphasis on preserving open space, providing for recreational opportunities, and conserving our natural environment. In November 2010, the City of Rock Hill adopted the Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan, a policy document that establishes goals and sets priorities to address current and emerging issues. It aims to shape growth and development and provides direction on how we can most effectively serve our community. One of the seven major priorities that emerged from the planning process is the need to create more livable and meaningful places. This can be achieved by building on our existing assets through better connectivity, improving accessibility to amenities and services, and fostering more sustainable neighborhoods and work environments. A key action step is the development of a strategic plan for the Parks, Recreation and Tourism (PRT) Department to establish a vision for improvements, uses, acquisitions, and planning of parks and recreation facilities in the city. Furthermore, the FY 2010-FY 2012 Strategic Plan, as revised and approved by City Council, calls for the completion of a PRT master plan by June 30, 2012.

Purpose & Intent As our population continues to grow, Rock Hill’s parks system will be challenged to keep pace with growth while maintaining the high quality of life residents and visitors have come to expect. Needs are constantly changing as our community becomes more diverse and funding for improvements is critical. The intent of the Rock Hill Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan is to help meet the current and future needs for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism programs, resources and facilities by providing a framework to guide decisions on priorities and funding for parks and recreation facilities and services. Although many of the ideas drawn from recent planning efforts, such as the PRT Strategic Plan Visioning Input Sessions and the Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan, provide very specific recommendations, the intent of the PRT Strategic Plan is to set a vision and general direction to guide the City in its efforts to improve the parks and recreation system. It is important to employ a cohesive “big-picture” approach in the Strategic Plan’s development to best address the complex issues and challenges of enhancing the quality of life in Rock Hill. As such, the PRT Strategic Plan is organized around four priorities:  Maintenance and Infrastructure Needs of Existing Facilities  Provision of Facilities and Open Space Through Partnerships  Major Sporting Venues and Regional Park Facilities  Connectivity for Bicyclists and Pedestrians through Trails and Greenways

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A key to addressing the four priority issues is to build upon existing partnerships with Rock Hill Schools, Winthrop University, and other institutions to promote greater efficiency and a more sustainable use of resources. For instance, allowing limited public access to school recreational facilities could serve to fulfill the need for additional neighborhood parks with connecting trails going into and throughout the facility, and in return will improve connectivity for bicyclists and pedestrians in the surrounding developed areas. One of the major challenges that must be addressed is balancing the need for additional major venues to serve emerging recreational trends without competing with the needs of established stand-alone facilities that may be financially unfeasible to be reproduced elsewhere in the City. Rock Hill may need to focus on promoting the creation of complementary venues, particularly facilities and programs that serve to enhance recreational activities on the Catawba River and Lake Wylie. Highlighting the Catawba River for ecotourism could offer additional recreational activities and training for visiting sport teams and their supporters, as well as sports teams from Winthrop University and Rock Hill high schools.

Methodology The PRT Strategic Plan has been prepared by a project team consisting of City staff from the Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department, and Planning & Development Department, with guidance from the Public Parks and Recreation Commission; Accommodations Tax/Tourism Commission, Commission for Children & Youth, the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, and twenty-one PRT citizen advisory committees. Internal coordination meetings were held regularly to discuss any concerns from supporting stakeholders and to develop alternative solutions for each of the four priority issues. Public input was gathered through a variety of sources including the Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan planning process; Visioning Input Sessions conducted by Clemson University Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management in May 2011; meetings with key stakeholders; community-wide public meetings; and surveys.

Integration of Related Planning Efforts The City of Rock Hill has undertaken several planning efforts in recent years that have helped with the development of the PRT Strategic Plan. A summary of each of these initiatives as they relate to parks and recreation services follows. 2008 Trails and Greenways Master Plan Update In June 2003, the City of Rock Hill adopted its first Trails and Greenways Master Plan as a means to plan for and connect major destinations, primarily by sidewalk. Up until then, most trails were contained within parks. Five years later, the Plan was updated with the intent of creating a more comprehensive trail network that connects Rock Hill’s major destination venues and extends the trail system throughout the Urban Services Area. The 2008 Trails and Greenways Master Plan Update incorporates recommendations outlined in Rock Hill’s Open Space Plan, as well as county and regional initiatives that promote connectivity. Additionally, the update establishes an implementation plan to encourage timely construction of trail facilities with detailed trail corridor recommendations and design guidelines. The Rock Hill Trails & Greenways Advisory Committee is charged with implementing the strategies identified in the Master Plan. The proposed trails network seeks to create an “outer loop” greenway system to link with regional efforts; promote connectivity by connecting major destinations; utilize land such as easements and floodplains that are otherwise not suitable for development; and ensure that sidewalks are provided at key locations. Since many of the proposed trail segments fall within multiple jurisdictions, the Plan calls for greater coordination with York County, Rock Hill Schools, and other relevant agencies.

2 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan The Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan, adopted by City Council in November 2010, is a policy document that guides community decision making regarding future development proposals, future public facility investments, regulation of land uses, and economic development initiatives. Many of the recommendations and priorities relate to parks and recreation enhancements, focusing on the need to create livable places and enhance the quality of life for the community while ensuring sustainability for future generations. The Comprehensive Plan calls for the preparation of a parks and recreation master plan that identifies where new parks and recreation facilities are needed and ensures that facilities and programs are enhanced to best represent the community’s needs, particularly in suburban areas. It also identifies strategies to secure funding for capital improvements as well as to promote sports and outdoor recreational tourism in the greater Catawba region. Many of the recommendations in the Plan address the need to more effectively promote walkability and cycling through continued road and trail construction.

College Town Action Plan (CTAP) Completed in 2010, the College Town Action Plan was a joint undertaking by the City of Rock Hill and Winthrop University and reflects issues identified by the group and those who participated in the community planning and visioning processes. The primary purpose of the Plan was to develop and foster a “college town “atmosphere around the campus that attracts economic development and increases the overall attractiveness of the area to current and prospective students, residents, and investors. The proposed CTAP concept seeks to create a more pedestrian friendly environment along the Cherry Road Corridor, particularly between Oakland Avenue to the railroad tracks; enable pedestrian connectivity through the University; organize the adjacent neighborhood around an urban green corridor connecting Cherry Road to Downtown, and address pedestrian and bicycle issues. Making cycling and walking a safe and convenient mode of travel will strengthen not only connections throughout the College Town study area, but with other major destination points such as Downtown, Cherry Park, and Winthrop Coliseum.

Carolina Thread Trail Master Plan The Carolina Thread Trail (CTT) is a planned regional network of greenways and trails that weaves through 15 counties within North and South Carolina to link more than 2.3 million citizens. Led by the Catawba Lands Conservancy in partnership with The Foundation for the Carolinas, this initiative inspires and facilitates the creation of a connected system of trails, blueways, and conservation corridors that link major and general destinations. The initiative brings together two important aspects to successful regional trail Carolina Thread Trail Dedication at development. First, it brings a sense of unified vision to trail Manchester Meadows, September 2009 efforts in the 15-member communities. Communities and partner organizations are empowered through the completion of small scale trails, knowing that they will ultimately become part of a much larger network. Furthermore, the partnerships that are built through the CTT provide a framework for future regional initiatives. Secondly, the initiative provides a significant resource for money to build trails. Grants are available from a private pool of capital that can serve as catalytic funding and help attract public funding sources. In early 2008, CTT planning was initiated in York County through a collaborative effort involving representation from the county; local cities and towns, various organizations and stakeholders.

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Area communities were asked to endorse resolutions of support for the initiative, and Rock Hill City Council endorsed its resolution in March 2008. The Carolina Thread Trail Master Plan and recommended conceptual route were adopted by York County in 2009, after a year-long public planning process.

RFATS 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) Adopted in April 2009 in compliance with federal SAFETEA-LU requirements, the 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan is a multi-modal plan that was prepared with the overall goal of developing plans and strategies that promote an efficient and effective transportation system for all users in the Rock Hill-Fort Mill Area Transportation Study (RFATS), the local Metropolitan Planning Organization. Chapter 9, Bicycle and Pedestrian Element, summarizes the existing conditions and trends for cycling and walking as well as assesses the current and future issues. The Plan recognizes the growing importance of walking and cycling in the overall transportation system. Recommendations focus on developing a regional system of bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including trails and signage, in coordination with area partners, and supporting RFATS communities’ efforts toward designation as Bicycle Friendly Communities.

Other Related Plans and Planning Efforts Several other planning efforts and studies were assessed in the development of the PRT Strategic Plan: The Catawba Scenic River Advisory Council with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SC DNR) conducted a planning charrette in November 2010 to solicit public comments and gain consensus on how to best manage the 30-mile stretch of the Catawba River that is part of the SC DNR Scenic Rivers program. The charrette was an intense effort to build on the recommendations and accomplishments of the 1994 Catawba River Corridor Management Plan and set a framework of what is planned for the next 20 years. The Council presented its Summary of Findings during a February 2011 public meeting and will use this information to form the basis for a revised management plan for the Catawba River. In 2009, the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism unveiled its Tourism Product Development Concept for the Catawba Region Strategy and Plan, a detailed strategic plan prepared by Tourism Development International. The Catawba Region, one of eight identified regional tourism development areas throughout the state, comprises the five counties of Chester, Fairfield, Lancaster, Union, and York. The objective of the Plan was to identify the strategic approach, positioning and key product development opportunities by which the Catawba Region can take advantage of its location and resources to become an integral part of the tourism economy of South Carolina. In 2009, Clemson University prepared a Land Use Study on the proposed Dave Lyle Boulevard Extension for York and Lancaster Counties. The goal of the Dave Lyle Boulevard Land Use Study was to aid stakeholders in making informed decisions regarding possible land use alternatives within the study area corridor. A major component of the study was a comprehensive suitability analysis to determine land use development potential as well as environmental constraints such as wetlands, streams, forests, floodplains, soil characteristics, slope, and other environmentally sensitive areas along the Catawba River. York County completed a small area plan for this area in December 2011 and developed land use recommendations that include strategies to promote pedestrian and bicycle interconnectivity, environmental protection and conservation, and public access to environmental amenities. In the spring 2011 the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Communities Program, announced that Rock Hill was one of ten Action Communities for Health Innovation and Environmental Change (ACHIEVE). The goal of ACHIEVE is to improve public health by mobilizing community support for policy, systems and environmental changes focused on reducing obesity, chronic

4 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

disease and related health factors. The ACHIEVE initiative aims to improve the quality of life for citizens and visitors of Rock Hill by promoting active living, non-motorized transportation networks, improved connectivity, access to healthy food, and tobacco cessation where we live, work, learn and play. With this three year, $40,000 grant, the Rock Hill community will develop strategies and implement policies to change the current community environment to prevent or manage health-risk factors, as well as promote physical activity by assessing the built environment to bring awareness of barriers to physical activity, such as incomplete and disconnected bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

Overview of Rock Hill Parks and Recreation System Rock Hill has a rich history of parks development over the last hundred years under the administration of the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department (formerly Parks and Recreation Department). The following summarizes the historic growth of parks and recreation facilities and the expanding role of the PRT Department.

History of the Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department The City of Rock Hill began providing parks and recreation services in the 1920s with the purchase of 10.5 acres of land and construction of Confederate Park, which included a City- owned swimming pool and Recreation and Community Meeting Center. Shortly after, a Recreational Park Commission was appointed by City Council to design Lakewood Park, a 76- acre site located in Roddey Estate just outside the City limits. Built using Works Progress Administration (WPA) funds during the height of the Great Depression, the facility featured a nine- hole golf course, club house, four tennis courts, as well as swimming and fishing areas around the lake. The second nine holes were designed and built in 1949, but five years later it was sold and converted to the privately-owned Rock Hill Country Club. During the 1940s, several land and cash contributions led to the development of Fewell Park, Armory Park, Friedheim Park and Spencer Park. The Rock Hill Town Planning Institute, a citizen- based group sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, established the Thousand Dollar Park Commission (TDPC) to solicit money from key stakeholders. The Y.M.C.A., with private funds and United Fund contributions, began providing recreational programs at certain facilities in 1941. In 1944, the Rock Hill Parks & Recreation Commission was founded and the City hired its first Parks and Recreation Director. The next year, a stadium (now the Rock Hill School District Football Stadium) was purchased from the American Legion and one of its stone buildings, known as the “Hut”, served as the first Parks and Recreation building. By the late 1950s, the City obtained Glencairn Garden, a thriving one-of-a-kind garden that began in 1928 as the “backyard garden” of Dr. David A Bigger and his wife Hazel. Over the years and under the expert direction of renowned landscape architect, Robert Marvin, Glencairn Garden and the Bigger House have been renovated and transformed into a botanical experience. Its beauty attracts thousands of visitors each year and continues to be the main focal point for the annual Come-See-Me Festival held in the spring. Growth in the 1950s also brought Carroll Park, Rock Hill’s first recreational facility for the African-American population. The facility featured a community center, swimming pool and tennis courts. By 1968, therapeutic programs were initiated at the Edgewood Center and Confederate Park, and in 1970 Camp Arc was established primarily for children and adults with special needs. During the 1970s the City built many new neighborhood recreation facilities with resources provided through the Model Cities, Community Development and the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation programs. These included construction of several neighborhood centers, nine parks and redevelopment of three existing parks, three public swimming pools, and the implementation of a neighborhood Service Center Program. The Parks and Recreation Department also

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established a public relations and visibility program to promote the availability of leisure activities and programs. Focus in the 1980s shifted toward development of large regional recreational facilities centered on youth and adult competitive sports. Possibly the most significant and highly controversial project was Cherry Park. The 68.5-acre facility features five softball/baseball and five multi-purpose fields designed for state and national tournaments, playing fields for local teams, a multipurpose trail, and picnic and playground areas. As sports tourism began to grow, the City placed more emphasis on working with other tourism related agencies to recruit and host events in the community. The state Accommodations Tax Program was initiated in 1986, distributing monies for local tourism related projects. In 1989, City Council officially changed the department’s name to the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department, granting the department Mighty Casey, a 14-foot sculpture responsibility to administer the City Accommodations Tax funding created by Mark Lundeen, marks program and other tourism related functions. the entrance to Cherry Park In 1988, the City collaborated with citizens and stakeholders to prepare a ten year strategic plan entitled “Empowering the Vision” (ETV) with strategies towards improving the cultural environment, education system, infrastructure, green spaces, and the City’s image; promoting economic development; and preserving the City’s history. The Garden City theme group was charged with the task of developing recommendations for a citywide greenway/trail system. Phase 1 of the Rock Hill Greenway System, known as Northside Greenway was funded through a $20,000 federal grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund as well as tax increment bond funds levied on properties within Tech Park. This trail system parallels Dave Lyle Boulevard through Gateway Plaza, connects major destinations such as Tech Park and the Northside Center, and will eventually connect with other trails throughout the city. The second phase, Eagle Trail, connected the Cherry Park trails with athletic fields at Winthrop’s Eagle Park and passive lakeshore at Winthrop Farm. Passive parks, such as Huckle Grove, were also installed as part of the ETV plan. Since 1990, the City’s recreational programs and activities have grown significantly through funds generated by the economic impact of tourism, grants, private contributions, partnerships, and volunteer support from the community. New facilities are designed to attract local, regional, and national tourism and host special events. Two significant public amenities that were recently constructed offer visitors unique access to the pristine Catawba River to canoe or kayak as well as observe plants and wildlife while walking along miles of wooded trails. Both River Park and Piedmont Medical Center Trail at Riverwalk provide unparalleled outdoor recreation and environmental education opportunities while protecting environmentally sensitive woodlands and habitats. The Rock Hill Tennis Center, opened in 2005 through a joint-use partnership with Rock Hill Schools, offers United States Tennis Association (USTA) sanctioned tournaments, leagues, and other USTA sponsored programs for local and non-local tennis enthusiasts. Along with the City’s public courts, the Center offers additional courts for Winthrop University and school district tournaments. In June 2006, Manchester Meadows opened to the public. The 70-acre park features two championship synthetic turf soccer fields accommodating 1,500 spectators, six natural turf fields, a soccer pavilion, and other park amenities with year round athletic programs for youth and adults. The park also hosts local, regional, and national soccer tournaments.

6 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department Overview The Rock Hill Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department manages nearly 1,300 acres of recreation facilities and other properties including 28 parks, various special purpose and joint-use facilities, 4 recreation centers, and other City-owned non-park property, as well as more than 27 miles of trails and greenways (plus 22 miles of key sidewalks considered essential to the trail system). With a FY 2011/2012 projected budget of $6.6 million, the PRT Department employs 64 full-time and 84 part-time and seasonal staff. Funding is authorized by the City Council through budget appropriations. Additional dedicated funding for tourism-related amenities is secured through the local Hospitality Tax (2%Food and Beverage Tax, 3% Lodging Tax, local Admissions Tax, Sunday Alcohol Permits) for which distribution is voted on by City Council. Other sources of revenue for parks, facilities, greenway, and trail improvements may include grants and bonds. Other potential sources of revenue for parks, facilities, greenways, and trail improvements are summarized in the Funding/Revenue Sources section of this Plan.

The PRT Department consists of three divisions: Parks: To develop, maintain and operate the City's parks, playgrounds, gardens, trails and green spaces to offer the public active and passive leisure opportunities. Landscape and maintain the entrance corridors, gateways, City owned facilities and other public spaces throughout the City. Provide support for Department and other City special events to enhance the quality of life for citizens and visitors to Rock Hill. Recreation: To provide diversified and quality recreational activities and special events for individual neighborhoods as well as the entire community, for citizens of all ages and economic statuses. To provide year-round, quality leisure services to the senior citizens and citizens with disabilities by designing, planning, and conducting activities to meet the specific needs of these citizens. Tourism: To provide leadership and administrative support to all divisions of the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department, to ensure efficient and effective operations, and to promote leisure, tourism and economic impact.

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PRT Boards and Commissions Four advisory commissions and 21 advisory committees are associated with the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department. An additional advisory committee will be established for the future Rock Hill Outdoor Center. Led by a PRT staff liaison, each commission and committee plays a pivotal role as they advise on their particular sport, program or facility. Public Parks and Recreation Commission The Public Parks and Recreation Commission (PPRC) was established in August 1944 and consists of nine area residents appointed by City Council to serve 3-year terms. The primary responsibilities of the commission are to create policies for and assist in the administration of a coordinated recreation service for the City and to cooperate with similar local, state or federal government agencies. In addition, the commission establishes volunteer advisory committees for various sports and neighborhood venues and recommends parks and recreation capital project priorities to the City Council. Meetings are held monthly and all actions are subject to approval by the City Council. Fourteen advisory committees (listed below) are appointed directly by the PPRC and are generally comprised of nine members of the community. Accommodations Tax/Tourism Commission Created in December 1984, the Tourism Commission provides recommendations to City Council on expenditures of revenue generated from the South Carolina Accommodations Tax as required by Article 6, SC Code, Title 12, Chapter 35. Other responsibilities include providing recommendations and advice to the Parks, Recreation and Tourism staff on the Tourism Master Plan. As required by state law, the majority of the seven-member committee are representatives of the hospitality industry, including at least two from the local hotel/motel industry and one from a cultural arts organization. The hospitality industry consists of a broad range of fields such as lodging, restaurants, event planning, theme parks, recreation, transportation, cruise line, and similar fields. Members are appointed by City Council to serve 3-year terms and must be city residents. The commission meets monthly. The Tourism Commission has three subcommittees that meet as deemed necessary to discuss tourism-related issues and make recommendations to the Commission: Arts and Entertainment, Marketing, and Facilities and Special Development. Each subcommittee consists of eight members, including six community stakeholders and two Tourism Commission Members. The Chair of the Tourism Commission rotates between subcommittees at the annual meeting (September or October). Commission for Children & Youth The purpose of the Commission for Children and Youth is to enhance and promote the positive development of all children and youth through comprehensive collaborative action by utilizing all of the community’s resources, public and private agencies, businesses, church and civic organizations, to promote health, safety, education and social well-being of all children and youth. Created in October 1998, the Commission consists of nine community members, two of whom are citizens at-large; each of the remaining seven is appointed by each of the seven Rock Hill City Council members to serve 3-year terms. All Commissioners are approved by the full City Council and must reside within the Rock Hill School District Three boundaries. Members meet monthly. Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities was created in 1975 as the Mayor’s Committee for Employment of People with Disabilities but was changed to its current title in 2010. Its purpose is to promote public awareness and understanding of the capabilities of persons with disabling conditions. The nine members are appointed by City Council to serve 3-year terms and must reside in the Rock Hill School District Three boundaries. Members meet as necessary.

8 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

PRT Advisory Committees

Facilities Athletics Other Boyd Hill Recreation Center Baseball Rock Hill Youth Council Cherry Park Football Youth Service League Emmett Scott Recreation Center Soccer Therapeutic Recreation Advisory Council Fewell Park Recreation Center Softball Hospitality Tax Task Force Glencairn Garden Tennis Cycling Center Partners Northside Recreation Center Therapeutic Arts Programs River Park Rock Hill Parks Foundation Manchester Meadows Trails & Greenways Rock Hill Outdoor Center (future)

What We Have: Inventory of Existing Resources

Existing Park Facilities Rock Hill owns, operates, and maintains 28 City parks totaling nearly 416 acres, as well as an additional 250 acres upon completion of the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, and four recreation centers. The City also partners with the school district and Winthrop University for limited use of their facilities, providing public access to many of the ball fields, courts, and playgrounds located within neighborhoods. Joint-use agreements are currently executed for the Terry Complex, 22 separate school facilities, and the Rock Hill Tennis Center. Map 1 depicts the City’s parks and recreation facilities as well as a number of private and institutionally-owned amenities that are available for public use.

Neighborhood Parks/Mini Parks Neighborhood parks are located throughout Rock Hill providing a combination of passive and intense recreational activity areas, such as practice ball fields, courts, playgrounds, trails, and picnic areas. These parks are designed for walk-up traffic primarily to serve area residents. Ballfields at these small parks are generally designed for neighborhood-level games but are sometimes programmed as practice fields for City sports leagues. In addition to the 15 neighborhood parks that are owned, operated, and maintained by the City, all of the school site recreational facilities available to the public by joint-use agreement are classified as neighborhood parks. Examples of neighborhood parks include Spencer Park, Playground at Sunset Park Elementary Friedheim Park, and Highland Park.

Community Parks Community parks are generally larger than neighborhood parks and may have multiple ball fields and play areas, but do not have the required infrastructure such as restrooms, parking lots, lights, electricity and water designed for large gatherings.

Bocce competition at Boyd Hill Park

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Recreation Centers The four recreation centers include Boyd Hill, Emmett Scott, Fewell Park, and Northside. These facilities are designed to accommodate planned programs and community meeting space as well as indoor recreation activities. Built in 1971, the Boyd Hill Recreation Center consists of a gymnasium, conference room, and activity/game room with outdoor amenities such as a swimming pool, disc golf course, ball fields, as well as basketball, horseshoe, and bocce courts. It also features PRT’s seniors programs and therapeutic programs, including Area Eleven Special Olympics, and Camp Arc, a summer day camp predominately for children and adults with special needs. Boyd Hill pool In 1972, Rock Hill purchased and renovated Emmett Scott High School creating a neighborhood service center. The Emmett Scott Center consists of a gymnasium, community room, craft room, classroom and game room. Other on-site amenities include a swimming pool and bathhouse, the McGirt Auditorium, as well as a variety of outdoor facilities. The Center offers the C.R.A.V.E. (Character, Respect, Attitude, Values, Education) after school program as well as various art and fitness classes. The Rock Hill Boxing Club operates its program in the boxing room, teaching self-discipline and positive self-image through the physical fitness and competition of boxing. Fewell Park Recreation Center, built in 1950, offers meeting rooms for community use, art classes, and environmental education programs. The Discovery Station after school program and specialty youth camps are also offered. The park features a disc golf course, large picnic shelter, and other outdoor facilities. Constructed in 1971, the Northside Recreation Center includes a gymnasium, community room, game room, craft room, and meeting rooms. For the adventurous, an indoor rock climbing wall is provided for group events, physical fitness, or competition. A swimming pool is also located on- site.

Regional Parks Several of Rock Hill’s larger parks are designed for mass participant use for local, regional, statewide, and national events and organized activities. They accommodate a diverse range of active and passive recreational activity areas and organized sport group facilities. Amenities such as restrooms, parking lots, lights, electricity and water are designed to accommodate large gatherings while traffic flow and security plans are in place in anticipation of large events. Some of the regional parks owned, operated, and maintained by the PRT College soccer tournament at Manchester Department include, Manchester Meadows, Hargett Meadows Park, Cherry Park, and the Rock Hill Outdoor Center. Special Use Facilities Rock Hill has several special use facilities for active and passive recreation including the Terry Softball Complex, the Rock Hill Tennis Center, and Glencairn Garden. In addition, four municipal outdoor pools are open during the summer at three of the community recreation centers as well as Oakwood Acres Park. Free swimming lessons are offered to children and adults.

10 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Terry Softball Complex Terry Complex is a 12-acre softball complex located on Winthrop University’s campus behind the Winthrop Coliseum. It includes four lighted softball fields and is used for Winthrop University athletics programs. Through a joint-use arrangement, the City leases the fields for its youth sports programs and to host local, state, regional, and national softball tournaments. These additional fields add to the city’s softball/baseball offerings at Cherry Park and Hargett Park. Rock Hill Tennis Center The Rock Hill Tennis Center, located on approximately five acres at Sullivan Middle School, provides a top notch facility for tennis enthusiasts and tournament play. Developed as part of a joint-use agreement between the City and Rock Hill Schools, the Tennis Center consists of ten lighted regulation courts, one stadium court, an observation deck, a pro shop, and concession area. Residents and visitors use the Center for recreational play, clinics, lessons, and tournament play while educational opportunities are available for students to learn the sport. Glencairn Garden Begun in 1928 as the backyard garden of David and Hazel Bigger and deeded to the City in 1958, Glencairn Garden has grown into an 11-acre botanical experience. The English-style garden boasts a tiered fountain, reflection ponds, a Japanese footbridge, and winding trails that pass beneath canopies of stately trees and through lushly landscaped shrubbery and flowerbeds. Another interesting feature is the "Wall of Whimsy" display - a tribute to renowned local artist, Vernon Grant. Recent expansion and revitalization efforts as part of the Glencairn Garden Master Plan have added a Veterans Garden, new tiered fountain, bridges, and restrooms. Glencairn Garden's exquisite beauty brings hundreds of tourists to Rock Hill throughout the year. Community events include a variety of concerts and activities such as Veterans Day Salute and A Story with Santa in the Garden; Come-See-Me and ChristmasVille Festivals; garden walks, art, games and educational opportunities; gardening seminars and soil analysis provided by the York County Master Gardeners and Clemson Extension Service; and Volunteer Gardening Days.

Glencairn Garden Master Plan

11 City of Rock Hill

Existing Trails and Greenways Significant progress has been made to implement the trail network since adoption of the City’s Trails & Greenways Master Plan in 2003, with completion of key routes such as the Manchester Meadows Trail, Phase I of the Tech Park Trail, River Park Trail, and the Waterford Trail. Since adoption of the Trails & Greenways Master Plan Update in 2008, several additional major trail segments have been completed such as the Piedmont Medical Center Trail, Phase II of the Tech Park Trail, Phase I of the St. Anne’s Trail, Phase I of the Rawlinson Road Trail, and the Winston Searles Trail. Altogether, the City offers 22 existing multi-purpose trails and greenways, totaling more than 27 miles in length that lead throughout the City and along the Catawba River to some of Rock Hill’s major points of interest. The City is working to complete the final two phases for the Piedmont Medical Center Trail that will connect to the US 21 Bridge and the existing River Park Trail. Over the last eight years, the City has promoted the construction of a network of sidewalks throughout the jurisdiction to improve connectivity for the trails and greenways system. Nine existing sidewalks, totaling nearly 23 miles, along with the recent completion of the South Cherry Road Sidewalk, from York Avenue to Heckle Boulevard, are considered essential to maintaining connectivity throughout the trail system. The existing trails and sidewalks that comprise the trails and greenways system are identified on Map 2, the Rock Hill Area Trails & Greenways System. Other types of trails have been identified as essential to maintain connectivity. A major part of this connectivity includes waterway trails, or blueways, for non-motorized boats. Blueways in our region include the 22 mile Canoe Trail on the Catawba River from Lake Wylie Dam to River Park and connecting to the Lansford Canal State Park. The other essential trail network to improve connectivity and accommodates the City’s efforts to promote Rock Hill as a bicycle friendly community, is the 3.6 mile long Saluda Bike Route, which winds through the neighborhood immediately surrounding Saluda Street and the Saluda Corridor, southwest of downtown.

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THE CITY OF ROCK HILL AND ITS MAPPING CONTRACTORS DO NOT WARRANT Updated: December 29, 2011 THE ACCURACY OF THE DISPLAYED INFORMATION AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM Rock Hill Parks and Recreation Facilities Map 1 ANY WARRANTY FOR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. 13 City Rock Hill of City Proposed "Share the Road" (Bicycle) Trail Trail (Bicycle) Road" the "Share Proposed Bus Rapid Transit Preferred Alternative Preferred Transit Rapid Bus Proposed Multi-Use Trail Multi-Use Proposed Trail Greenway Existing Proposed County Greenway County Proposed Streams Existing "Share the Road" (Bicycle) Trail Trail (Bicycle) Road" the Existing "Share Proposed Sidewalk (Trail Network) (Trail Sidewalk Proposed Existing Multi-Use Trail Existing Multi-Use Trail Greenway Proposed Water Bodies Water Parks Trail Scopepoints Trail Private Schools Private ExistingTrail Park Areas Focus Space Open Colleges Rock Hill Mill Fort Cay Tega Boundary Area Planning 2020 Public Schools Public Existing Sidewalk (Trail Network) Existing Sidewalk (Trail York County York South Carolina South Adopted: April 28, 2008Adopted: k j Updated: December 29, 2011 k j k j Facilities Legend Trail System Trail Political Boundaries THE CITYOF ROCK HILL, THECOUNTY YORK OF SC, ANDMAPPING ITS CONTRACTORS DO NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OF THE DISPLAYED INFORMATION AND SPECIFICALLY PURPOSE. A PARTICULAR FOR FITNESS OR MERCHANTABILITY FOR WARRANTY ANY DISCLAIM 160 ( !

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Existing Programs & Events The City of Rock Hill has a variety of recreational programs, festivals and events, and public art and cultural amenities that seek to meet the needs of its diverse community. The PRT Department offers a wide variety of programs and yearly events to appeal to different ages, interests and abilities. Programming consists of after school activities, art, exercise, environmental education, outdoor recreation, group events, senior programs, summer camps, therapeutic programs, travel, youth programs and athletics.

Recreational Programs After School After school programs are available at three PRT recreation centers. Fewell Park Recreation Center is the site of Discovery Station, and Emmett Scott Recreation Center is the home of C.R.A.V.E. Both of these programs are operated by the PRT department, while Northside Recreation Center hosts the Boys & Girls Clubs of York County program. The Discovery Station serves children in grades K through 5 and provides homework assistance, literacy development, character education, art, recreation and other activities. C.R.A.V.E. is an after school program for children in K through 5 and focuses on the children’s character, respect, attitude, self and family values as well as the importance of education. Art Rock Hill PRT offers various art classes for youth and home-schooled groups as well as for adults that engage your mind and body such as drawing, painting, ceramics, mosaics, knitting, jewelry doll making and more. Art classes are offered at the four recreation centers; Boyd Hill, Emmett Scott, Fewell Park, and Northside. Fewell Park Recreation Center has a special arts emphasis with its Fewell Park Art Gallery and periodic art shows and sales. The Gallery features works by various local artists and traveling art exhibits. Dance Instruction & Exercise The City offers many forms of dancing instruction ranging from ballroom to hip-hop at PRT’s recreation centers. In addition, if you are looking to exercise with a group of friends or more intense workouts, the City offers various aerobic classes at the Emmett Scott, Boyd Hill, and Northside Recreation Centers such as Zumba and boot camp workouts. These are some of the programs designed to promote Rock Hill citizens to be more physically active. Environmental Education PRT’s Environmental Education team reach out to Rock Hill Schools from kindergarten through high school teaching the students on the importance of water quality, orienteering, plant identification, animal identification and recycling. These classes are mostly presented at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, River Park, Glencairn Garden, and Fewell Park, but can be held at any of the City’s parks or schools. PRT’s popular mascots, Gabby Greenleaves and Chatty Evergreen make the teaching experience for the younger children unforgettable by teaching them environmental topics such as plant identification, animal habitats and tree biology. In addition, PRT offers the Leopold Education Project curriculum to students in grades 5 through 8 using the “A Sand County Almanac,” by Aldo Leopold, teaching about the natural world and their place within it. Outdoor Recreation PRT’s parks and programs provide many options for enjoying the great outdoors. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from walking, biking or running on the trails and greenways system, kayaking along the Catawba River, extreme adventure camps, hiking, and indoor or outdoor rock

15 City of Rock Hill

climbing as well as the new “high tech treasure hunt,” geocaching. In the near future, visitors and citizens will be able to enjoy the newly developed Rock Hill Outdoor Center at the new Riverwalk community featuring cycling venues, athletic fields, parks, and gardens. Parties & Groups Children’s parties can be scheduled with the PRT Department at a City playground, a recreation center or at the Northside Indoor Climbing Wall. Rock Hill PRT can plan kayaking, camping and other outdoor experiences for groups or set up a teambuilding exercises that can be customized to fit the needs of the group. In addition, Rock Hill PRT can plan an overnight camping trip and guided adventure tours to the upstate, the coast, and beyond in the state of South Carolina. Seniors Rock Hill seniors can enjoy an assortment of activities offered at Boyd Hill Recreation Center throughout the year including exercising and line dancing, weekly sports such as bocce, disc golf, badminton and many more activities, traveling with PRT’s Happy Travelers program, and seasonally planned holiday parties. In addition, the OWLS (Older Wiser Loving Seniors) program holds monthly lunch meetings at the Mayflower restaurant, and is available to anyone age 55 and older to enjoy a social and informative lunch with other seniors to keep seniors active. Summer Camps A variety of summer camp experiences are offered for youth each year including extreme adventure camps, tennis camps, nature camps, and Camp Arc. The extreme adventure camps are available for youth of all ages and include activities such as kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and an overnight camping experience. The tennis camp is held at the Rock Hill Tennis Center offering instruction for youth of all ages to learn the game, develop new skills, and expand on existing skills. Camp at Fewell Park Recreation Center offers a wide variety of experiences and learning opportunities each summer to kids such as studying nature, creating crafts, or even enjoying a “spa and etiquette experience.” Camp Arc is a mainstreamed summer camp program held at Boyd Hill Recreation Center for children and adults who are mentally disabled, and is an excellent opportunity for participants to interact with others at all ability levels while sharing the fun of sports, arts, swimming and more. Emmett Scott Recreation Center offers a summer day camp for ages 6 through 12 allowing campers to enjoy educational curriculums such as arts and crafts, swimming, sports activities, field trips and more. Therapeutic Programs PRT’s therapeutic recreation programs are held at Boyd Hill Recreation Center and focus on providing meaningful experiences through leisure activities for children and adults who are disabled. Participants can learn recreational skills, enjoy programs that take into consideration their particular disability or learn a new sport or art. Area Eleven South Carolina Special Olympics is one of several therapeutic programs coordinated by PRT’s Therapeutic Division that serves athletes with disabilities from York, Chester and Lancaster counties. Area Eleven participants have the opportunity to train and compete in eleven traditional and six unified sports on the local, state, national and international levels. Travel Rock Hill PRT offers opportunities for those who like to travel with the Happy Travelers Program. The program takes you around the Carolinas visiting the various lakes and mountains, while other trips may take you to the Grand Canyon, Canada or even Europe. Trips vary from day trips to 10 day excursions. Transportation and accommodation fees are typically included in the cost. Pre- payment and registration is required for all trips. Volunteers Programs are available for volunteerism. PRT volunteers donate their talents throughout the year in a variety of activities. Examples of volunteer opportunities include coaching a youth sports team, assisting with Special Olympics events, and maintaining a flower bed at Glencairn Garden. Participants can also share their special skills or hobbies by offering to teach a class in art, crafts, exercise, dance or even juggling.

16 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Youth & Teens While many of Rock Hill PRT’s programs are available for young people, three programs are specifically geared towards middle school and high school students giving them leadership and volunteer opportunities. For example, the Rock Hill Youth Council provides high school students an active role in addressing youth related issues, coordinating an annual Youth Service Day, and administers youth grants up to $500 for youth-led projects. The Youth Council is an advisory group to the Commission for Children and Youth and is comprised of high school students, including public, private and home schooled students. Another example is the Youth Service League (YSL), which teaches teens and pre-teens about the community and coordinates volunteer service hours for youth to give back to the community each year. The YSL summer program is offered for middle school youth where students volunteer at schools, non-profit organizations, the library, the City of Rock Hill, and many other locations allowing teens to gain valuable experience in a service-related or business setting. PRT offers many outdoor sports during the spring, summer, and fall months ranging from team sports or individual sports that include soccer, baseball, football, and girls’ softball.

Festivals, Special Events, & Sports Tournaments Several annual festivals and cultural events are held throughout the year, enriching the lives of Rock Hill residents and visitors. The Arts Council of York County maintains a 24-hour Arts and Entertainment Hotline (803-328-2220), providing information on current and upcoming arts events around the County. The PRT website, www.RockHillRocks.com, provides additional information about upcoming events and tournaments. The PRT Department hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year: Fewell Park Summer Concert Series (4) Community Fall Festival Firelight Fright Tale Telling Volunteer Appreciation Event Paws in the Park Rock Hill Christmas Parade Daddy Daughter Dance Deck the Hall Sr. Sports Classic Shopping With the Elves Youth Service Day Bloomfest Ultimate Frisbee Tournament Story with Santa in the Garden Special Olympics Spring Games Tribute to Veterans Special Olympics Bowling Tournaments (3) Back to School Bash (2) Special Olympics Swim Meet Youth Service League Awards Night Special Olympics Bocce Tournament #1 Question Summit Special Olympics Disc Golf Tournament Sr. St. Patrick's Day Party TAP Into the Arts Sr. Valentine's Day Party Therapeutic Recreation Halloween Party Sr. Christmas Party Sr. Halloween Party

The PRT Department plays a vital role in providing logistical support for various award winning multi-day festivals and small community events in neighborhoods in conjunction with the Rock Hill Economic and Urban Development Department, businesses, civic groups, and/or health advocacy groups. The following includes some of the major festivities that PRT supports: Come See Me Festival Back to School Prayer Rally ChristmasVille Performing Arts Center Fund Raiser Old Town Concert Series Old Town Restaurant Crawl Main Street Live Boo Ha Ha Red White and Boom Muse Fest Old Town Markets Celebration Jam

17 City of Rock Hill

PRT hosts a number of sports tourism events throughout the year including the following: USTA 25K Women's Pro Circuit Soccer Tournaments (32) US Youth Soccer National Championship Lacrosse Tournaments (2) Softball Tournaments (43) Tennis Tournaments (8)

Public Art and Cultural Amenities The Arts play a key role in defining the Rock Hill community and enhancing quality of life. Rock Hill collaborates with local and regional arts and cultural organizations on various events and programs. Several important public art pieces and arts venues are located at parks or key public gathering places in the city. Cherry Park – “Mighty Casey”, located at the entrance to the softball/baseball complex in Cherry Park, was modeled after the legendary ball player depicted in Ernest Lawrence Thayer’s narrative poem, “Casey at the Bat.” This 14 foot bronze statue, crafted by Colorado sculptor Mark Lundeen, is one of three of its kind and has graced the park entrance since 1991. Old Town Amphitheater at City Hall – The Old Town Amphitheater was dedicated during the City’s Centennial Celebration in December 1992, and was designed as a landscaped gathering place for introspection and relaxation. Since then, it has grown to include a variety of programmed special events such as concerts, movies, performances, festivals, and public art displays. The plaza also features a functional fountain as well as a bell tower containing the original 1899 fire bell that was used to alert volunteer firefighters from its perch in a tower at the formerly combined fire and police department located on East White Street. A time capsule containing significant current events and articles representing a “snapshot” of life in Rock Hill in 1992 is located at City Hall and scheduled to be opened in 2092. Glencairn Garden – Begun in 1928 as the backyard garden of David and Hazel Bigger and then deeded to the City in 1958, Glencairn Garden has grown into an 11-acre botanical experience that brings hundreds of tourist to Rock Hill, and is home to some of Rock Hill’s famous festivals throughout the year. The English-style garden boasts a tiered fountain, reflection ponds, a Japanese footbridge, and winding trails that pass beneath canopies of stately trees and through lushly landscaped shrubbery and flowerbeds. Another interesting feature is the "Wall of Whimsy" display - a tribute to renowned local artist, Vernon Grant. City Hall Rotunda Gallery – Each month, the Arts Council of York County fills the City Hall Rotunda with artwork by a local artist from elementary and high school students to professionals in painting, pottery, and sculpture.

18 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Who We Are and What We Want

Community Profile Demographic and recreational trends influence the parks and recreation planning process. As population dynamics change, so will demands on the parks and recreation system. Demographic Trends and Population Projections National We are living in an aging society. By 2020, it is anticipated that an additional 14 million people will be over the age of 65; and by 2030, one third of the population will be senior citizens. The baby boomer generation, individuals born between 1946 and 1964, currently makes up approximately 25 percent of the total population in the United States. When the oldest boomers turn 65 years old by the end of 2011, a vast majority of this generation will reach retirement age, if they have not already due to the current economic recession. Nationwide, we are seeing a growth of minority populations, and changing housing patterns such as a greater number of small households, fewer “traditional” family households, declining home ownership, and more high density residential units, shared living spaces, and congregate retirement centers. State Between 2000 and 2010, the State of South Carolina population grew 15 percent, from 4 million to more than 4.6 million. The total number of households, at more than 1.8 million, has grown at a faster rate than the population as a whole because of smaller family sizes and longevity among the elderly population. The increasing senior population has caused the median age to grow from 35.4 to 37.9 years. Statewide, most racial groups grew over the last ten years; however, the most significant growth was within the Asian populations. Also, the State’s Hispanic/Latino origin population (of any race) more than doubled in size, making up 5 percent of the State’s total population. City of Rock Hill The City of Rock Hill is growing significantly as well, making it the 5th largest city in the State of South Carolina. Over the past decade, Rock Hill grew by 33 percent; and by 2020, the city is expected to grow another 25 percent. Similar to state trends, the total number of households has grown faster than the city’s population due to smaller family sizes amongst married couples; single gender householders, especially amongst females; the constant rising “empty nesters”; and the increasing aging adult population. Also, consistent with national and state trends, Rock Hill’s age distribution is increasing amongst the older adult population due to the baby boomer generation, which saw the largest increase in population between 2000 and 2010 by 92.3 percent. The only age group that lost population over the last decade was the 75-79 age group, whose population declined by 4.5 percent. Although population has increased among all racial groups over the last ten years, the rate of growth with the Black or African American classification has outpaced all other racial groups. Minority populations now comprise more than 45 percent of the total residents in Rock Hill. Another significant observation is that the Hispanic/Latino origin population (of any race) has more than doubled since 2000. Implications Demographic trends seem to suggest that we have an aging population that is becoming more racially diverse and choosing to live in smaller, more non-traditional households. Rock Hill’s parks and recreation system will be challenged to keep pace with population growth and satisfy changing needs. Some of the potential impacts include the following:  An increased interest and demand for cultural heritage-based recreation and tourism.  Better outreach efforts to ethnic and minority groups, including additional bilingual staff.  An increased need for programs and facilities with special considerations to accommodate limitations faced by an older adult population.

19 City of Rock Hill

 Greater interest in low-impact recreational activities and passive parks geared for older adults.  Greater demand for smaller, neighborhood-scale parks where non-traditional housing units may not offer “backyard” recreation and transportation options may be limited.  An increased need to provide for a broader geographic distribution of park lands to serve the growing community.

Current Parks and Recreation Trends Sports Trends Lacrosse Lacrosse has quickly become one of the fastest growing team sports in the world with more than half a million players. Traditionally, lacrosse has been most popular in the northeastern coastal states; however, popularity in the game has recently spread to various hotspots across the nation. Youth membership (ages 15 and under) in US Lacrosse has more than quadrupled since 1999 from 40,000 to nearly 200,000. With an estimated 169,000 high school players, lacrosse has grown faster than any other high school level sport over the last ten years. It has also become the fastest-growing sport over the last five years at the NCAA level. There are more than 400 college club programs, the majority of which compete under the umbrella of US Lacrosse and its "intercollegiate associates" level. Professional lacrosse will soon be expanded into the Charlotte, N.C. area. Beginning summer 2012, the Charlotte Hounds will join seven other U.S. and Canadian teams within the MLL (Major League Lacrosse), a professional men’s field lacrosse league. Also, the Queen City recently announced its intention to participate in the newly formed North American Lacrosse League (NALL), with the Charlotte Copperheads competing in the league’s 2012 inaugural season. Because the NALL is a men’s indoor lacrosse league with a winter/spring regular season schedule, Charlotte will benefit from year round professional lacrosse competition. Lacrosse first became popular in South Carolina in 1999 with the formation of the Myrtle Beach Lacrosse Club and the establishment of the South Carolina Chapter of US Lacrosse. Following the formation of the Club, lacrosse grew faster than all organized school levels and youth clubs in the early 21st century. Recent growth of middle school and JV teams as well as many recreation and youth programs around the state is further proof of the immense interest and enthusiasm for lacrosse. By 2006, the sport officially made its way into York County with the formation of the Fort Mill Lacrosse Club, serving to help teach, promote and grow the sport of youth boys and girls lacrosse. In 2010, the Lake Wylie Lacrosse Club was formed in partnership with the Fort Mill Lacrosse Club. For the last two years, the Fort Mill Lacrosse Club has hosted the Catawba Classic Lacrosse Tournament at Manchester Meadows with 50-60 youth teams participating from North and South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Florida and Texas. In fall 2011 a sister event, the Jim Van Blarcom Fall LAX Festival, was hosted by the Club and held at Manchester Meadows to help raise money for the Fort Mill Lacrosse School Program. Recently, Winthrop University has jumped onto the band-wagon with its announcement of forming its first women’s college team to be competing in the Big South Conference by 2013.

Field Hockey Field hockey is the oldest known “ball-and-stick” sport, tracing back 4,000 years to games in Egypt, and is currently the second largest team sport in the world just behind soccer. The USA Field Hockey website claims that there are nearly 20,000 players, coaches, officials and fans who are members of the program, with nearly 250 official club teams. Although predominately a women’s sport in the United States, areas in southern California offer competitive field hockey for males in high school and beyond.

20 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Interest in field hockey has continued to grow in the Rock Hill region through high school participation and the Charlotte Field Hockey Club, a non-profit organization designed to promote the growth of field hockey in the Charlotte area. Because the sport can be played on either synthetic or regular turf and field dimensions are relatively similar, competitive field hockey is often played on the same fields as soccer and lacrosse.

Cycling The League of American Bicyclists estimates that there are more than 57 million bicyclists throughout the United States. Although many people across the country traditionally consider cycling and walking to be recreational activities, more and more individuals are seeking options for non-motorized transport for daily activities and commutes due to the high fuel prices and traffic congestion. It is acknowledged, through federal laws and funding streams, that bicycle and pedestrian facilities should be considered an essential mode of transportation and promoted to improve community’s health, air quality, traffic congestion, and physical activity to enhance the quality of life for Mayors Bike Ride, May 2011 residents and visitors. According to the study by Rutgers University Professor John Pucher, Analysis of Bicycling Trends and Policies in Large North American Cities, “since the last two decades, the number of bike commuters in the United States rose by 64 percent from 1990 to 2009, and has grown the fastest in large metropolis cities like Portland, Washington D.C., and New York City because of their persistent efforts to promote bicycling as a form of transportation. Cycling has also grown largely because of improvements in national safety standards. Interest in cycling has also increased in South Carolina as the state continues to endorse bicycle friendly policies and initiatives. Through ongoing efforts led by the Palmetto Cycling Coalition, the state has made great strides in promoting access for bicyclists on roads and trails, improving safety, and educating South Carolinians on the value and importance of bicycling for healthy lifestyles and communities. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has improved their planning efforts to include bicycle and pedestrian facilities by adopting a complete streets resolution affirming that bicycling and walking accommodations should be a routine part of the Department's planning, design, construction, and operating activities, and requires counties and municipalities to make bicycling and pedestrian improvements an integral part of their transportation planning and programming. In addition, state political officials have moved forward to improve safety for cyclists with the passing of the SC Bicycle Safety Bill, H3006, which has caused a decline in both the fatality rates for cyclists and pedestrians. Major cities throughout the state have received national recognition by the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) of both Bronze and Silver Level Bicycle Friendly Community designations. More locally, the City of Charlotte has improved their planning strategies by doing road diets along their major thoroughfares throughout its City limits to include more bicycle facilities, especially along the transit corridors to efficiently offer a multi-modal transportation system. In 2007, the Charlotte Department of Transportation adopted the Urban Street Design Guidelines (USDG), which also serves as the City’s zoning ordinances that mandates new roads and road maintenance projects be designed towards safer and appealing streets for pedestrians and bicyclists, and more efficient for motorists. As a result, in 2008, the League of American Bicyclists, awarded the City with the bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community designation, and by 2009, over 120 miles of dedicated bikeways and greenways have been built. Our local governments promote cycling through policies and on-going initiatives that focus on providing better and safer accommodations for cyclists. RFATS and York County transportation planners have increased their planning efforts to include bike facilities in the “Pennies for

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Progress” road-improvement program. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Task Force (formerly “Bike Rock Hill”), a subset of the Trails and Greenways Committee that is comprised of local bicycle advocates, seeks to make Rock Hill a more bicycle friendly community through research, programs, and safety events; by developing policies that accommodate for cyclists and pedestrians and creation of a Bicycle Friendly Community Action Plan; and by promoting the adoption of a “complete streets” resolution. The Rock Hill Bicycle Club is one of Rock Hill’s prominent cycling clubs that host several of competitive races throughout the year, as well as weekly group rides during the spring, summer, and fall months, including the now-famous Monday Night Ride. The Rock Hill Bicycle Club along with the Task Force hold several bike events including annual Bike Rodeos and Bicycle Safety Classes that educate children and parents about the benefits and safety of bicycling. The College Town Action Plan recognizes the growing number of students commuting by bicycle as evidenced by Winthrop University’s continuing need to provide additional bike racks on campus. A collaborative effort between the City of Rock Hill, Rock Hill Bicycle Club, and students from Winthrop’s Fine Arts Department resulted in the installation of six artistic bike racks throughout the Old Town area to help facilitate on-road bicycling between Downtown and Winthrop. In Rock Hill, cyclists generally fall within one of three groups: the casual or recreational rider, commuters, and those that cycle for exercise and fitness. Recreational cyclists tend to use off- road facilities such as park trails and multi-purpose trails. Commuters and avid cyclists typically ride in designated bike lanes alongside traffic or in the roadway, if a marked route does not exist. Facilities for a fourth category of cyclists are now under construction as part of the Riverwalk development. Competitive cyclists will soon be able to participate in a variety of outdoor extreme recreational and Olympic caliber events at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, featuring the 250-meter Giordana Velodrome, a 1.5 mile paved criterium course, and the cyclocross specific course, a BMX track, as well as other major cycling amenities. As the Center will cater to all cycling disciplines as well as spectators, it is anticipated that interest in cycling in the Rock Hill area will continue to grow as both a sport and recreation activity.

Extreme Outdoor Sports Over the past two decades participants and spectators are seeking activities with increased danger, risk, and intensity that is sometimes lacking in conventional sports. Another reason for growth in popularity is that advances in sports technology and innovations in equipment allow participants to attempt feats that were previously thought impossible. Television shows, movies, and media coverage of competitions and events has brought greater attention to extreme sports as evidenced in the hundreds of athletes and their fans that participate in an alternate Olympics known as the “X Games”, a twice-yearly competition. As more people become aware of extreme sports, the activities gain more enthusiasts. Several key visitor attractions in the region focus on adventure or extreme outdoor sports. The U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte is home to the world’s largest, man-made whitewater river and offers premier outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting and kayaking, flatwater kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, zip lines, a canopy tour, team building and rope courses. Camp Canaan, a non-profit resource for outdoor adventure activities, is located at the end of India Hook Road on the Catawba River just below the dam. The facility offers kayaking, fishing, hiking, game fields, and a zip line canopy tour crisscrossing the River.

22 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Ecotourism According to The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), ecotourism is "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." It differs from “nature-based tourism”, or simply the act of traveling to natural places, in that ecotourism benefits local communities and destinations environmentally, culturally and economically. Founded on principles of sustainability, ecotourism seeks to raise awareness on environmental issues, minimize negative environmental impacts, and provide for substantial beneficial socioeconomic involvement of the local community. The concept of ecotourism first grew out of the global environmental movement in the late 1970s, but it was not until the following decade that it became much more widely known and studied. Its popularity has grown in recent years largely because people have begun to realize the importance of preserving the environment and are concerned about the consequences of depleting the earth’s natural resources. Also, people are more curious about exploring natural areas and often desire to give back to the community through “voluntourism” projects which combine vacation travel with volunteer service experiences. The latest figures from the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism indicate that tourism, now the state’s largest industry, has an economic impact of about $18.4 billion. Given the abundance of beaches, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, wildlife and natural habitats across the state, it comes as no surprise that ecotourism makes up a significant portion of these revenues. This is not by chance, as the state has made ecotourism one of its top priorities. In 1994, the state formed the South Carolina Nature-Based Tourism Association, an organization to encourage and plan for sustainable nature-based tourism. The Department also administers numerous state-level grants that support ecotourism efforts.

Trails and Specialty Parks Regional Trails With rising gas prices and the downward trend of discretionary spending, the provision of trails and greenways has become increasingly important in many communities. People of all ages and abilities are seeking to improve wellness and to spend quality time with family and friends through low-impact active outdoor activities such as walking, biking, and jogging along highly-accessible and well-connected trail networks. Trails have also become popular as an inexpensive alternative means of transportation that connects major destinations and the greater region. Other community benefits may include an increase in tourism, economic development, reduced traffic congestion, appreciation in property values, and preservation of natural areas. Interest in trail activities and development has increased nationwide, as communities continue to build connected networks along waterways, rail corridors and rights-of-way. Many jurisdictions are working together to develop and connect trails and greenways to establish regional trail systems that form a spine through adjacent communities and more distant points of interest. Rock Hill is a partnering community of the Carolina Thread Trail initiative and has dedicated trail segments at River Park, Piedmont Medical Center Trail and Manchester Meadows.

Dog Parks According to statistics compiled by the American Pet Products Association, there are approximately 79 million domesticated dogs in the United States with more than 39 percent of U.S. households owning at least one dog. It is no surprise that people often regard their pets as members of their family. Retailers and service providers have begun to capitalize on the growth in pet ownership as an entire economy has risen around dogs, from doggie day cares to

23 City of Rock Hill

department stores that carry dog clothing and accessory lines. As such, more and more communities are trying to accommodate people’s growing attachment with pets by building dog parks and other dog-friendly facilities. The growth of dog-friendly parks began in the 1950s and 1960s, as some state and regional parks began relaxing their policies to permit dogs to run free or off-leash in specified areas. By 1979, the first known off-leash, enclosed dog park was established within the Ohlone Greenway in Berkeley, California. Since then, dog parks have become a growing part of neighborhood park and recreation facilities, with an estimated 1,000-plus parks nationwide and more being developed each year. North Carolina has approximately 40 dog parks; with six dog parks located in Mecklenburg County. South Carolina has 22 dog parks located throughout the state in urban settings, such as Columbia and Greenville, as well as coastal communities, such as Hilton Head Island, Charleston and Myrtle Beach. Central Bark, in Tega Cay, is the only local dog park. It is a 6,000 sq. ft. facility with open space, trees, benches and doggie stations. Neither the Town of Fort Mill nor the City of Rock Hill currently has a dog park.

Waterparks Waterparks have become popular in cities throughout the United States, particularly over the past 20 years. The World Waterpark Association states that the two biggest trends in the waterpark industry are indoor waterpark resorts and municipally-owned waterparks. The allure of indoor waterpark hotels is that it helps keep hotel rooms filled when business travelers return home by offering families a quick, fun getaway. City-owned waterparks are typically built to benefit the local community; however, they also tend to foster greater interest in the bigger, more thrilling water attractions in the region. Waterparks are a type of amusement park that features water play areas such as water slides, splash pads, wave pool, lazy rivers, and/or swimming pools. The first official waterpark, Wet ‘N Wild in Orlando, Florida, was opened in 1977. Since then, more than 1,000 commercial and municipal waterpark facilities have been constructed in the United States, with annual attendance exceeding 80 million according to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Many communities that operate swimming pools have found that it is more cost-effective to rebuild them as waterparks rather than continue to repair and maintain the aging facilities. These waterparks are built with taxpayer money, are generally operated as not-for-profit facilities, and do not compete with other private attractions since they have a low marketing budget. Continued growth in municipally owned facilities is expected as they typically pay their own way, versus the municipally owned swimming pool which typically loses money. Furthermore, traditional pools have lost popularity as people want fun-filled waterparks where they can bring the family for a day-long experience. Just across the state line, Carowinds is the closest private amusement park to Rock Hill and features the Boomerang Bay waterpark, 20 acres of water slides, wave pools and other water activities. Both the Greenville County Recreation District and the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission own water parks in South Carolina. Additionally, Fort Jackson houses a water park on base for both the public and military. Locally, the Town of Fort Mill has a water spray park located within the Steele Creek Park in addition to the waterpark located at the Fort Mill branch YMCA. Both are open for a limited time through the summer.

Implications As current parks and recreation trends indicate, community interests in outdoor recreation opportunities, team sports, and distinctive park amenities are continuing to evolve and become more diverse. Rock Hill will need to consider how to best expand its programs and facilities to stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive. While the City works hard to utilize its budget to

24 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism manage, maintain and expand park and recreation opportunities in the community, government cannot do it alone. Priorities will need to be made and partnerships should be explored to offset costs, as well as share resources, facilities, and personnel.

Community Input May 2011 Visioning Input Sessions In May 2011, a project team from Clemson University conducted a series of input sessions with various Rock Hill commissions, special interest/advisory groups, council members, partner organizations and the general public to gather input on the perceived needs and preferences for parks and recreation facilities and programs. The comments were summarized into a set of primary and secondary themes, priorities, and ideas, which largely confirm similar issues and priorities raised during other recent public forums. An overview of the major themes, as well as summaries and the raw data collected from workshop exercises is provided in Appendix A, Clemson University PRT Visioning Report. 1. Connectivity- One of the top priorities drawn from the input sessions is to improve connectivity to and from destination areas such as parks, recreational facilities, schools, and downtown Rock Hill through multi-use trails and greenways. Multi-use trails serve a dual purpose of providing community recreation and physical activity as well as offering an alternative means of transportation. 2. Partnerships -A second theme that arose from the stakeholder groups to enhance partnerships with the school district to create joint-use facilities agreements between Rock Hill schools and the Parks, Recreation, Tourism Department for recreational use during the school’s off-season and/or after hours. 3. Balanced Parks -In addition, a third priority raised by the public identified a need to balance regional parks and neighborhood parks to provide opportunities of use by residents who live outside the central area of Rock Hill, and to prevent an ad-hoc system throughout the city. Mapping exercises highlighted the community’s desire for additional neighborhood parks based on community growth patterns, while also focusing on the development of large, multipurpose athletic/sport complexes. 4. Ecotourism -In efforts to enhance recreational activities along the Catawba River, a fourth theme was created to highlight the Catawba River as an ecotourism area by creating an outdoor adventure/environmental center, and provide more river access particularly at Riverwalk and River Park. Marketing the Catawba Region as an ecotourism area will correlate with the State’s PRT Tourism Product Development Concept for the Catawba Region, by enhancing development of river-based recreation opportunities and outdoor/environmental education activities along the Catawba River. One concept that was brought up was to develop a “blueway” from the India Hook area to the Catawba Indian Reservation with access points to the river at each end. 5. Convention Center -Supporting citizens brought up, the fifth theme, to develop a large, multipurpose facility or convention center to host regional and national level indoor events such as conferences, cheerleading and gymnastic competitions. 6. Program Needs - The last primary theme established from the input sessions was the perceived program needs by the public to improve existing facilities and/or programs, improve marketing the current programs to bring awareness for those who are not even aware of the current programs, and/or create new programs to accommodate the needs of all types of users. Secondary themes supported by session participants included the creation of specialty type parks and recreational facilities, as deemed feasible. Suggested amenities include a new therapeutic

25 City of Rock Hill

facility; an equestrian facility in partnership with York County to draw additional tourism; and a water park to serve the community as well as tourists, particularly visiting families that are attending other athletic events.

Other Public Input Rock Hill Citizen Survey The City, in collaboration with the National Research Center, Inc. (NRC) and the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), distributes a National Citizen Survey every three years to gather resident and business owner opinions on community and municipal government services. City Council reviews the results and uses the information to guide budget decisions, establish new priorities, and revise the Strategic Plan to address community concerns. The 2011 Citizen Survey results indicate that residents are generally satisfied with the services and programs offered by the PRT Department. 85 percent of respondents indicated that the quality of city parks is excellent or good; 76 percent felt similarly about recreation centers or facilities; and 68 percent have high scores to recreation programs or classes. Participants also noted strong satisfaction with the City’s provision of athletic fields and courts (92%); parks and playgrounds (90%); recreation/community centers (84%); and open space; green space and trails. Fewer were satisfied with the bike/cycling amenities currently offered (71% indicated very or somewhat satisfied). Also significant is the substantial support for sidewalk/pedestrian facilities as well as bicycle lanes and trails, with 96 percent and 90 percent indicating strongly or somewhat support, respectively.

Bike Rock Hill Cyclists Survey Planning for the safety of bicyclists and pedestrian is a major concern with any local or regional transportation system. Staff from the City’s Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department, with support from the City’s Trails & Greenways Advisory Committee and Rock Hill Bicycle Club, conducted surveys tailored towards experienced cyclists and citizens of Rock Hill that sought evaluation of their experiences with bicycling in Rock Hill and areas for improvements. One hundred and twenty-six citizens participated in the Bike Rock Hill Citizens Survey and one hundred and forty experienced cyclists participated in the Bike Rock Hill Cyclists Survey. The citizens of Rock Hill, who are not experienced cyclists, have expressed that they would bike more if travel conditions were safer, such as having more designated bike lanes and multi-use trails. Only 65 percent of the participants ride their bikes for transportation to work, school or to run errands, while approximately 77 percent use their bikes for exercise or recreational purposes. This indicates a need for safer transportation facilities to allow all residents to be able to use their bikes as a means for transportation, and not just for recreation. Overall, respondents rated the relationship between cyclists and motorists and the ease of traveling by bicycling in Rock Hill as poor. The majority of experienced cyclists that participated in the survey said they ride their bicycles for recreation and fitness, while only one-third use their bikes as an alternative mode for transportation. In accordance with the citizens, they too rated the overall relationship between cyclists and motorists and the ease of travel by cycling in Rock Hill as poor. The cyclists expressed a desire to make Rock Hill and York County a safer place to cycle with the designation of bicycle facilities such as bike lanes and “sharrow” markings on the road, and improved connectivity throughout the service area to efficiently link major destinations. Overall, both experienced cyclists and casual riders expressed the need to improve connectivity throughout the city to efficiently navigate your way through the area, and improve safety conditions by adding more designated bicycle facilities to effectively separate the cyclist from the motorist.

26 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Parks and Recreation Priority Issues

Maintenance and Infrastructure Needs of Existing Facilities

With more than 1,300 acres of parkland, community centers, joint-use facilities, and other City-owned properties, Rock Hill has an ongoing need to adequately maintain parks and recreation facilities and improve the safety and longevity of these amenities. Many facilities are aging and/or amenities are becoming obsolete while funding is limited. What alternatives and creative solutions should be considered as Rock Hill evaluates how to improve its existing park facilities?

The PRT Department is responsible for maintaining approximately 667 acres of parkland (including nearly 250 acres at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, once complete), 25 acres of joint-use recreational facilities, and 631 acres of other City-owned non-park property (streetscapes, entryways, etc.). An annual Parks Report evaluates each park facility and provides recommendations on improvements and estimated costs. As of December 2011, an estimated $8.7 million in park and trail facility upgrades and improvements are needed throughout the city. Improvements range from new signage, ADA accessibility, fall surfaces, and play equipment to major lighting upgrades for ball fields and renovation of athletic courts. The most significant improvements will implement the final phases of the Glencairn Garden Master Plan. In addition, projected capital improvement expenses for the four recreation centers are expected to exceed $4 million over the next three years. Although the center improvements are significant, they are primarily architectural and do not fully address long-term building renovation needs. Because the City’s recreation centers were constructed more than 40 years ago, they will soon need substantial capital repairs. These facilities tend to have a large square footage that is inefficient for heating and cooling. Staff and community leaders have specifically expressed concerns about the current condition of the therapeutic recreation center at Boyd Hill. The City should evaluate the feasibility of (1) renovating and expanding the existing facility or (2) developing a new therapeutic recreation facility at an alternate location. Another concern in addressing the needs of aging park facilities is that many of the older parks and centers are considered obsolete for providing today’s recreational services, which have significantly changed since they were initially constructed. Underutilized and redundant park facilities should be identified and difficult decisions will need to be made regarding the removal and/or replacement of existing, obsolete facilities. Since many of the parks were partially or completely sponsored through Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Grants, there may be additional constraints that will need to be addressed to have the State declare a facility obsolete. Some facilities that are underutilized and not meeting the current recreational desires of the community may need to be repurposed with specialized amenities to increase usage. For instance, as associated maintenance costs continue to rise, it may be more cost effective to explore the feasibility of closing one or more of the municipal pools before major renovations are needed and constructing a low maintenance water or splash park. It is important to note that such a water/splash park is a significant financial commitment and should be designed to fulfill a different community need that is not currently met by other area water parks. Rock Hill should consider developing an organized strategy for repurposing some (or part) of the existing obsolete parks with other complementary special use recreational facilities such as skate parks, dog parks, urban public play fountains, and similar accessory park amenities.

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Public opinion seems to support the need for improving existing park facilities, but varies in how the community thinks that funding for improvements should be allocated. Survey results from the May 2011 PRT Visioning Input Sessions indicated that 88 percent of respondents felt that indoor recreation facilities are either very important or important while only 27 percent were satisfied with those amenities, representing a very significant gap between perceived importance and level of satisfaction. Yet, the top priorities identified by respondents were for promoting connectivity through trails and greenways and enhancing partnerships. Only 38 percent of participants chose the following as their top priority: neighborhood parks (15%), athletic fields (14%) and indoor facilities (9%). When asked to hypothetically allocate money towards priorities, respondents once again chose greenways and trails over parks, sports complexes, and indoor recreation facilities. With current economic conditions and resulting decline in property- and hospitality-tax revenues, Rock Hill should search for creative solutions to fund the many improvements that are needed for existing parks and recreation centers. This may include volunteerism, partnerships with private groups and agencies, grants, bonds, user fees, special improvement districts, donations, or other alternatives. Another option to explore is the feasibility of implementing a parks impact fee program. Such a program would require new development to pay for recreational capital facilities (or a portion of) needed to serve it. Impact fees would be used to pay for the acquisition and/or development of parks, recreation and open space facilities needed to serve new growth, thus freeing up monies within the City’s General Fund for improvements and upgrades to existing facilities citywide. This could be strategically implemented as the economy begins to recover and development resumes to a normal pace of growth.

Provision of Facilities and Open Space through Partnerships

The PRT Department partners with other service providers and organizations to offer the highest quality recreational programming and facilities in the region. With limited funding for land and construction costs, labor, and resources, Rock Hill will not be able to be the sole provider of new park facilities. In what ways do we enhance and strengthen our existing partnerships while also fostering new relationships toward parks development and services?

The City partners with Winthrop University for use of the Terry Complex; with Rock Hill Schools on joint use of the Rock Hill Tennis Center, athletic fields, and playgrounds; with the YMCA for various aquatics and fitness programs; and with private developers and non-profit organizations for venues such as the Rock Hill Outdoor Center. While many established partnership agreements are in place, more planning efforts in the delivery of services are desired. Rock Hill can maximize community resources, reducing costs and providing more efficient services and programs, by coordinating with partner agencies that share common values and vision for the city. The community has also voiced strong support for greater partnership efforts to be established between the City and other external recreational service providers. Joint-use agreements are currently in place between Rock Hill and various schools throughout the school district. Some of these allow for public use of the ball fields and/or playgrounds during specified hours when they are not in use by the school. Agreements should be considered for other school facilities, as appropriate. Since schools are typically located within neighborhoods, allowing the community to use these facilities could fulfill the need for additional neighborhood parks. In addition, secure limited access rooms could serve as neighborhood community centers for art and other programs when school is not in session. The City should explore other ways to share costs and responsibilities such as having the City maintain school sports fields and athletic complexes in exchange for use of the facilities for recreational programming. Furthermore, partnerships could be established whereby the City develops a new trail or athletic field on

28 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism surplus property owned by Rock Hill Schools, particularly at middle schools and new school facilities, for use by the public as well as students and faculty. Signage and other marketing strategies should be implemented to clearly indicate that the community is permitted to use the amenities. The City has a strong working relationship with Winthrop University, particularly regarding use of their recreational facilities. The Terry Complex, a 12-acre softball complex with four lighted softball fields, is home to Winthrop University athletics programs as well as City-sponsored youth sports programs and local, state, regional, and national softball tournaments. There may be other opportunities for Rock Hill to collaborate with Winthrop University, York Technical College, and/or Clinton Junior College on sports venues. For instance, the City may seek to partner with the local colleges and university for the shared use of their existing facilities to serve as a multi-purpose sports complex or convention center. The City’s 2008 Trails & Greenways Master Plan Update proposes a comprehensive trail network that extends beyond the municipal limits. Construction of future trail segments in the unincorporated areas will need to be coordinated with York County. Similarly, sections of the proposed greenway that are also part of the Carolina Thread Trail should be completed in partnership with York County, the Town of Fort Mill, the Catawba Lands Conservancy, The Trust for Public Land, and other relevant groups, landowners, and agencies. As the trail network continues to expand, it may become necessary to find other ways to offset some of the labor costs incurred for trail maintenance. Some of these responsibilities could be turned over to local non-profit organizations and other groups that are willing to contribute towards an “adopt-a-trail” program. Since 2006, the County has provided financial assistance for parks and recreation services provided by Rock Hill to both city and county residents and visitors. Funds are secured through a millage levied on unincorporated areas of the County and distributed to the City based on the school district population. The City receives approximately $470,000 annually; however, this amount varies based upon property assessments. As previously mentioned, Rock Hill may soon have to make significant capital improvements and upgrades to existing parks and recreational facilities. Staffs from Rock Hill Schools and York County have indicated that a number of large-scale public facilities are needed in the near future, such as schools, library and museum facilities, and a Justice Center. The City may want to consider partnering with these agencies to prepare a joint bond referendum for capital facilities, which could include funding for new regional parks or major sporting venues.

Major Sporting Venues and Regional Park Facilities

Over the last 20 years, Rock Hill has been a leader in providing top-notch sport’s venues and regional parks that attract national, state, and regional competitive events. With recent parks and recreation trends favoring outdoor sports and adventure, environmental education, and competitive-level indoor athletics, the City is poised to become a regional draw for additional tourism opportunities. What other major tourism facilities should be considered in Rock Hill and how does the City balance competing interests?

29 City of Rock Hill

Water/Environmental Opportunities The Catawba River is an important natural resource in the North and South Carolina landscape. It is regarded as the region’s most precious environmental asset for its unparalleled natural systems, beauty, and ecology. As the primary water source for the region, the Catawba River supplies hydroelectric power and drinking water to thousands of people. It also provides habitat for native plants and wildlife and upland forests that cannot be sustained in an urban setting. Yet, there are limited opportunities for people to experience and enjoy the River.

Ecotourism Rock Hill has adopted many policies and regulations to conserve environmentally sensitive resources and minimize adverse impacts of encroaching development. While protection of sensitive lands is a priority for the City, equally important is the need to educate the community about the environment and the importance of protecting it for future generations. In turn, this will foster a greater appreciation and stewardship of our natural habitats. One such way to build environmental awareness and respect for ecosystems is through ecotourism. Rock Hill has the potential to become a regional draw for those seeking to learn more about the environment and is poised to emerge as an ecotourism destination. The 30-mile section of the Catawba River from the Lake Wylie Dam to the S.C. Highway #9 Bridge was recently designated as a South Carolina State Scenic River due primarily to its outstanding scenic, historic, recreational, geologic, botanical, fish, and wildlife values. Until recently, most of the section within eastern York County has been inaccessible except by kayak or canoe. Visitors currently have access to this portion of the River by land from the Piedmont Medical Center Trail and River Park. Other opportunities may become available with future completion of the Carolina Thread Trail and with anticipated growth in eastern York County related to the proposed Dave Lyle Boulevard Extension. At recent public meetings regarding parks and natural resources, discussions centered on the need to provide for new educational opportunities along the Catawba River. In 2008-2009, public meetings were held for a York County Land Use Study on the proposed Dave Lyle Boulevard Extension. Although some concerns were raised about the road and how development might impact the environment, participants seemed to indicate support for low impact ecotourism in the region. A recurring theme during the November 2010 Catawba Scenic River Charrette was the lack of information and the need for education—education about the natural and cultural resources along the river, information about accessing the river and opportunities along the river, education about conserving the river’s resources, and education about responsibilities along the river. Participants throughout the Rock Hill Vision 2020 comprehensive planning process and the May 2011 PRT Visioning Input Sessions suggested the need for an environmental/outdoor education center, particularly focused on River Park and the proposed 1,000-acre mixed-use Riverwalk development adjacent to the River. It was recommended that the river be promoted as a destination, with a balanced approach to tourism and recreation. While some topic-specific environmental education programs are available in Rock Hill, sessions are held at multiple facilities around the city rather than a dedicated location and all presentations must be arranged in advance. One way to better promote ecotourism in the region could be to enhance the Rock Hill Outdoor Center with a series of small scale learning stations located at key access points along a comprehensive greenway and trails network. Centers could be marketed as significant destination points along the proposed Carolina Thread Trail.

30 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Outdoor Recreation Lake Wylie offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and water skiing; however, the Catawba River is largely underutilized for tourism and recreational purposes. Limited opportunities are available for the general public to participate in water sports activities along the “free-flowing” section of the Catawba River below the Lake Wylie Dam. There are only five opportunities to put in/take out a canoe or kayak along this stretch of river: Fort Mill Access Area, the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, River Park, Lansford Canal State Park, and Highway 9 Landing. Furthermore, public bank or pier fishing is permitted only at the Fort Mill Access Area, River Park, and Landsford Canal State Park. Picnicking, hiking, and other wildlife observation opportunities are available at River Park, Landsford Canal State Park, and at the new Piedmont Medical Center Trail. At recent public meetings, lack of access has been identified repeatedly as one of the greatest challenges of the Catawba River. Participants have raised concerns about an inability to easily locate public access points, lack of amenities, and the limited number of access points. In 2009 a six-year study conducted by the Ireland-based Tourism Development International for the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism identified Rock Hill as both a tourist hub and a gateway into the greater Catawba region. The Tourism Product Development Concept for the Catawba Region Strategy and Plan recommends the creation of two flagship product developments close to I-77—one catering to outdoor recreation enthusiasts and the other attracting cultural heritage tourists. It suggests a coordinated regional effort to fund and develop the Catawba River Recreational Corridor with canoe/kayak access stations, hiking/biking trails and stations, and a scheduled program of events and competitions for biking, running, canoeing and fishing. Facilities would be linked by and marketed as destinations along the Carolina Thread Trail. As part of Duke Energy’s latest relicensing agreement, “recreational flows” of water are released from the Wylie Hydro Station on approximately 69 scheduled days per year from April thru October to support white water activities in the region. For this reason, Rock Hill is in a position to become a prime location for canoeing, kayaking, and rafting opportunities. Additional outdoor recreational activities along the Catawba River may soon be available as part of the proposed Riverwalk development and future growth in eastern York County. As community interest grows and opportunities arise, the City should encourage the development of facilities and programs that attract adventure/extreme outdoor sports enthusiasts. To ensure sustainability, activities should be clustered and complement rather than compete with one another.

Sports Tourism Since the opening of Cherry Park in 1985 and the economic impact that softball and baseball tournaments have had on the community, the City of Rock Hill has strived to become a top sports tourism destination. Cherry Park, the Manchester Meadows Soccer Complex, and the Rock Hill Tennis Center host more than 70 national, state, and regional tournaments annually, with more than 90 percent of participants and spectators coming from out of town. Sports tournaments boost economic development throughout the area by generating tax dollars from local hotels, restaurants, and other related businesses; creating jobs; attracting businesses; and creating growth. Since 1986, Rock Hill PRT sports facilities have realized over $137 million in direct economic impact, with over $50 million over the past five years alone. Clearly the benefit of these facilities to the community has greatly surpassed construction and operational costs.

31 City of Rock Hill

The next major sports tourism venue in Rock Hill is set to open to the public in early 2012 and will feature recreational and competitive cycling. The Rock Hill Outdoor Center, located within the planned 1,000-acre mixed use Riverwalk development, will offer a top-notch year-round facility for cyclists of all stages and ages as well as outdoor enthusiasts. Conceived through a public-private partnership, the facility will offer unique, world-class recreation to our region with its many amenities such as a 250m outdoor velodrome (Giordana Velodrome), BMX Supercross track, cyclocross course, mountain bike trails, and closed road course. Nationally, it will be recognized as a world-class training center for Olympic and professional cyclists as well as a host of championship events. The City anticipates that competitive cycling will become a catalyst for bringing additional economic development to the area. Rock Hill is continually looking for ways to build on the successes of its existing sports tourism efforts. With the growing interest and enthusiasm in lacrosse across the region, Rock Hill may want to consider ways to support and embrace this sport. Participants from the May 2011 PRT Visioning Input Sessions placed high priority on the development of lacrosse fields. Currently, lacrosse events sponsored by area leagues are being held at the soccer fields at Manchester Meadows; however, as local interest in the sport grows, alternate or secondary sites may need to be developed to meet demand. Any future lacrosse fields should be designed for multipurpose play to maximize usage. The City may also want to consider the feasibility of directly offering lacrosse clinics and programming opportunities. There are several issues to consider as Rock Hill seeks to expand sports tourism in the future including the need for indoor sports facilities (such as volleyball and gymnastics). As the City grows its major sports venues, it will become more challenging to adequately meet the needs of all events scheduled throughout the year and to balance competing interests. The best approach may be to develop a regional sports commission or sports tourism advocacy group to more comprehensively address marketing as well as manage logistics, scheduling and planning for such large scale events. Furthermore, changing population dynamics may influence sports preferences and Rock Hill must stay attuned to those desires to remain competitive in the sports tourism market. In general, all of the major sports facilities in Rock Hill have easy access from Cherry Road—making it the primary sports corridor for the region. However, as the City looks for new locations to develop regional parks, we will need to carefully consider whether to concentrate all of our sports tourism venues along Cherry Road or look to develop large scale facilities in the suburban areas that currently lack park facilities.

Multi-Purpose Competition-Level Facilities Like many other communities, Rock Hill is constantly looking for ways to be more efficient and reduce costs while maintaining a high quality of life that citizens and visitors have come to expect. With rising construction and land costs, the PRT department must come up with innovative ideas on how to best stretch their budget for parks improvements. One such way is by designing facilities for the shared use of different types of sports activities. Multi-purpose competition fields and centers provide athletes and casual park-goers with greater flexibility to play a variety of sports while the City benefits from reduced infrastructure costs. In addition, having multi-use fields for practice and pick-up games could help alleviate potential scheduling conflicts between

32 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism games and practices. Practice fields would also reduce wear and tear on competition fields such as Manchester Meadows. Another recurring theme at public meetings on parks issues is the lack of facilities in Rock Hill to host large-scale indoor competitive events. Several participants at the May 2011 PRT Visioning Input Sessions suggested the development of a conference center or large multi-purpose indoor facility. Due to increased interest, the City should look at the feasibility of directly developing or supporting the development of a multi-purpose facility that could accommodate regional and national volleyball, indoor soccer, cheerleading, gymnastic or similar sports tournaments. Connectivity for Bicyclists and Pedestrians

Rock Hill continues to place a high priority on the provision of bicycle and pedestrian amenities; however, there are many challenges the City must skillfully handle to ensure a safe and efficient trails and greenways network. Among the concerns for the system are the lack of connectivity, facilities, and signage; the need for partnerships and prioritization; and the limited funding available for improvements. How can Rock Hill best improve its pedestrian and bicycle facilities to enhance the quality of life and wellness of its citizens and visitors?

Staff from the PRT Department, with support from the City’s Trails & Greenways Advisory Committee, have increased their planning efforts to address the communities’ growing interest in walking and cycling and improve connectivity and safety for users. Initiatives have included bicycle safety classes, “Complete Streets” and “Safe Routes to Schools” training, and identification and implementation of bicycle racks in Downtown and other work sites throughout the City. In addition, the City has participated in an initiative undertaken by York County to locate and prioritize bike lanes for the most recent “Pennies for Progress” funding cycle. The Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee has formed a subcommittee, the Bike/Ped Task Force (formerly the Bike Rock Hill Group), to consider bicycle and pedestrian issues throughout the City and plan for rational solutions to improve connectivity and safety for users. Also, the newly formed ACHIEVE Committee, supported by the National Recreation and Park Association and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, will be developing a Community Action Plan to improve the service area’s public health by mobilizing community support for policy and environmental changes that focus on increasing physical activity, improve opportunities to eat more nutritious foods, reduce the use of tobacco, chronic diseases, and other related health factors.

Multi-Purpose Trails and Greenways The City currently has more than 27-miles of multi-purpose trails as well as key sidewalk facilities that connect many of Rock Hill’s major destinations, such as Cherry Park, Downtown, and Manchester Meadows. In addition, there are nearly 11-miles of closed loop park trails for family- friendly use such as Cherry Park, Manchester Meadows, Tech Park, Armory Park, and Fewell Park. As shown in the 2008 Trails and Greenways Master Plan Update, the City envisions a comprehensive network of greenway trails, multi-purpose trails, and key sidewalks that connect people to major destinations throughout the region. The Plan includes proposed greenway trails that will connect the City’s major parks, open spaces, and other natural amenities. The greenway trails could serve a dual purpose, by offering recreational trips, and showcasing the City’s environmental resources for educational purposes. Trails along the Catawba River will serve as the spine of the greenway system and form a portion of an ‘outer loop’ greenway surrounding the City. Greenway trails will connect the outer greenbelt loop to the internal trail network and destinations inside the City. Other connections linking key destinations and surrounding

33 City of Rock Hill

neighborhoods will be achieved through the construction of proposed sidewalks along 17 roadway corridors as part of the trail network. To implement the vision, several issues that impede the usage and development of new trails will need to be addressed. Firstly, the existing trails and greenways system does not provide a safe and efficient way to travel due to gaps in the network, such as the disconnection between the trails that will serve as the Rock Hill links for the Carolina Thread Trail and unfinished segments in certain key routes like the Tech Park Trail. This makes it unsafe for users who are forced to bike or walk on or beside busy roads. Existing trails should be clearly marked with distance and directional signs along the trail network to improve wayfinding and increase usage. The second challenge is that the majority of the proposed outer loop greenways and portions of the proposed routes for the Carolina Thread Trail are outside the City’s jurisdiction. The City will need to work closely with York County and other partners to seek funding, land acquisition, and complete the greenways. Thirdly, there is not an adopted prioritization method for the trails and greenways projects to determine which projects should receive top priority for funding and development. Trails projects are typically determined as funding becomes available and as directed by decision makers. Lastly, funding for development and improvements for trails and greenways are limited, due to the national economic recession. The City should look for creative solutions to partner with other organizations and explore grants for the construction of trails and greenways. The City and the Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee are aware of these needs and are planning to provide designated bike lanes or sidewalks in the areas where there are gaps to provide additional safety, and are working together to improve connectivity and safety for bicyclist and pedestrians by seeking funding to implement the recommendations outlined in the Trails and Greenways Master Plan Update.

Carolina Thread Trail The Carolina Thread Trail (CTT) is a planned regional trail network that links 15 counties and more than 2.3 million citizens in North and South Carolina. The CTT will create a permanent legacy of land conservation for its supporting communities, and will enhance the quality of life, the health of the communities, wellness for its citizens and visitors, as well as provide economic development benefits. The CTT will develop over time as communities continue to build trails that will link parks, green spaces and attractions throughout the region. Portions of the CTT have been completed and are open for use throughout the supporting counties in North Carolina, such as Gaston and Mecklenburg Counties, and in Rock Hill with development of the Piedmont Medical Center Trail, River Park Trail, Manchester Meadows Trail, Hood Center Trail, and portions of the Tech Park Trail. However, there are significant gaps in this network, including the gaps between the Piedmont Medical Center Trail and across the Catawba River and to River Park, River Park and Manchester Meadows, from Manchester Meadows to downtown Rock Hill, and from Downtown to the Airport. Connecting these trails in Rock Hill has been identified as one of the primary needs by the Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee. Rock Hill will need to build public support and knit together funding sources to implement the recommendations of the Carolina Thread Trail Master Plan for York County Communities and completion of the CTT network. The City should continue to seek grants and other funding options, land acquisitions where appropriate, and continue to form partnerships with supporting agencies and jurisdictions. Once fully implemented, the Carolina Thread Trail will be the backbone of the trails and greenways system in Rock Hill.

34 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

On-Street Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Bicycle Friendly Community The City is striving to become a “Bicycle Friendly Community” by creating a “Bicycle Friendly Community Program,” sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists and the Rock Hill Bike Club. The Program seeks to provide safe accommodations for cycling and encourages its residents to cycle for transportation and recreation. To be designated as a “Bicycle Friendly Community”, an applicant community must demonstrate achievements in each of five categories: 1. Engineering: Comprehensive, connected and well-maintained bicycle network; ordinances and policies that support bicycling 2. Education: Bicycling education including the rights and responsibilities of cyclists 3. Encouragement: Increased bicycle ridership and support for a strong bicycle advocacy community and bicycle culture 4. Enforcement: A safe, shared environment for cyclists and motorists; law enforcement support 5. Evaluation & Planning: Systems in place to evaluate current programs and plan for the future

One of the major setbacks in any local or regional transportation system is the lack of facilities for alternative modes of transportation. An essential component to any multimodal system is a “complete streets” approach that provides alternative modes of transportation in a roadway corridor such as bicycle lanes and sidewalks to enhance City roadway corridor’s economic vitality. Although much of the existing roadway system in Rock Hill generally does not support complete streets concepts, recently adopted roadway design standards require that new roadways include a full cross section of bicycle, pedestrian, vehicle, and/or transit facilities. For existing roadway facilities, City and County transportation planners and State DOT engineers may want to assess the feasibility of implementing a “road diet” approach on specific key corridors that link major destinations, by reducing the number of travel lanes and/or narrowing travel lanes to include bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Bicycle facilities could include designated bike lanes, wider outside lanes, or paved shoulders depending on the type and width of roadway. Since not all roadways are ideal for cycling, a network of suggested cycling routes should be developed for both recreational and avid cyclists. In an effort to improve connectivity, a bicycle/pedestrian suitability analysis is currently being developed to identify a connected network of bike-friendly routes and key areas for potential roadway improvements. Partnerships could be established between the City, York County, SC Department of Transportation, cycling advocacy groups, and other public and private organizations to support and work together to complete the network. Another way to promote cycling is to improve wayfinding and directional signage. Through various public outreach efforts, residents expressed they would walk or bike more, if travel conditions around Rock Hill were safer and if they were aware of the location of the City’s trails and bicycle routes. Appropriate signage and wayfinding strategies need to be implemented to ensure that residents are aware of the location of trails and the use of the facilities are safe and efficient.

Safe Routes to School Residents have also expressed a need for safer transportation alternatives to and from destinations such as providing safer routes to schools, parks, and the surrounding neighborhoods. School bus services are not provided to children that live within 1-½ miles of their school, so many children must walk along busy streets that have inadequate pedestrian facilities. Providing transportation alternatives, such as trails and sidewalks in these areas, could serve a dual function of providing safe routes for children and workers to walk or bike to school and reducing the amount vehicular traffic associated with student drop-offs. Since these roadways are primarily owned and maintained by the state, it is important that the City continue to partner with Rock Hill Schools and other jurisdictions to improve access through the use of trails and sidewalks. Additional funding opportunities should be explored.

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Recommendations

Vision To provide a wholesome program of leisure, recreational, tourism and cultural opportunities and facilities to enhance the quality of life for Rock Hill residents and visitors.

Guiding Principles 1. Health and Wellness. Parks, trails and recreational programming should promote physical activity and active living to support a healthy community. 2. Inclusive and Accessible. All citizens should have access to a wide range of high quality recreational services and opportunities. 3. Stewardship. Park and trail facilities should be designed to minimize impacts on the environment and demonstrate responsible stewardship of natural resources. 4. Sustainability. Parks, trails and recreation facilities and programs should be designed to be sustainable for future generations. 5. Connectivity. A safe and effective network of trails and greenways should link significant regional and local destinations. 6. Economic Catalyst. Rock Hill should be a premier sports tourism and leisure recreation destination. 7. Collaboration and Cooperation. Rock Hill should enhance partnerships with other recreational service providers and agencies to identify opportunities for collaboration and to achieve greater efficiency.

36 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Strategic Recommendations Maintenance and Infrastructure Needs of Existing Facilities An important priority for Rock Hill is to assure the safety and enjoyment of citizens and visitors using the City’s parks. Existing parks and recreation facilities should be periodically evaluated to ensure that they are adequately meeting evolving needs and desires of the community and are not falling into disrepair. Amenities that are considered obsolete or do not meet acceptable standards should be removed or replaced. Regular inspections and routine maintenance should be performed to maximize the lifespan of parks and recreation amenities and proactively address safety concerns.

STRATEGY: Develop and implement cost-effective approaches to manage maintenance and infrastructure needs of existing facilities . Conduct a feasibility study to provide guidance on whether to continue to maintain, demolish and rebuild, renovate, or repurpose the four existing recreation centers . Evaluate municipal pool usage, explore the costs and feasibility of renovating pool facilities, and consider alternatives to redevelop as waterparks or sprayparks . Assess the appropriate support amenities for different levels of parks, such as limiting restroom and cooking facilities to community and regional parks only, due to high potential for vandalism and maintenance costs at unstaffed neighborhood parks . Evaluate the feasibility of renovating and expanding Boyd Hill therapeutic recreation center, or consider the option of developing a new facility at an alternate location . Explore creative ways to fund capital projects for park and recreation center improvements, such as volunteerism, partnerships, grants, bonds, user fees, special improvement districts, donations, or other alternatives

STRATEGY: Update existing parks and recreation facilities to address deficiencies and to reflect current recreational trends and programs . Evaluate lighting at ball fields and upgrade with more energy efficient technologies . Ensure parks and recreation facilities meet the appropriate ADA accessibility requirements pursuant to 2015 federal deadlines . Conduct demographic analyses of areas immediately surrounding neighborhood parks and community centers; distribute and evaluate preference surveys to gauge community interest in park amenities and programs . Evaluate existing neighborhood parks to identify redundant or obsolete amenities; develop innovative solutions to repurpose some (programs or part) of these parks with complementary special use recreational facilities such as skate parks, dog parks, urban public play fountains, and similar accessory amenities o Explore the possibility of creating a leash free zone (dog park) at Spencer Park o Consider adding spray pads or water play areas to enhance neighborhood and community parks

STRATEGY: Make preventative maintenance a high priority to extend the life of park and recreation facilities, minimize deterioration and ensure efficient operation . Continue to regularly assess, evaluate and monitor the condition of park and recreation facilities to make sure all equipment is in proper working order and in good condition . Continue to develop and implement a preventative maintenance checklist for park and recreation facilities including buildings, grounds, trails and greenways, athletic fields, playgrounds, and vehicles and equipment, and similar amenities

37 City of Rock Hill

Provision of Facilities and Open Space through Partnerships Given current economic conditions and public demand for top-notch leisure activities, the City must seek to maximize efficiency in park facilities and recreational programming by developing and maintaining effective public and private partnerships. The City has had many successful partnerships with other area service providers and intends to build upon those strong relationships as it expands its parks and recreation system in the future. Partnerships can enhance facility and program opportunities in the community and address park land geographic disparities through funding, resources, and program diversity. Coordination efforts should focus on the joint use of facilities, coordinated planning for facilities and recreational programming, and clear, consistent communications.

STRATEGY: Look for new opportunities to expand existing public and private partnerships . Enhance existing partnership with Winthrop University for shared use of athletic facilities for a variety of sports programs, such as soccer, tennis, baseball, gymnastics, etc. to create opportunities for championship level competitions . Collaborate with York Technical College and/or Clinton Junior College on potential shared sports venues . Enhance existing partnership with Rock Hill Schools to provide additional public recreation opportunities such as: o installing signage on school grounds that are subject to a joint-use agreement, clearly indicating that the facilities are available and open to the public during specified times o providing grounds maintenance assistance in exchange for after hours use of facilities o assessing other Rock Hill school recreational facilities for potential use by the public as neighborhood parks and athletic fields and seek to establish joint-use agreements o exploring the feasibility of securing limited access classrooms for use as neighborhood community centers when school is not in session o building new trail and/or athletic fields on surplus school property, particularly middle schools and new school facilities, for use by the public as well as students and faculty . Continue to coordinate with York County to secure additional funding for park improvements and recreation programming . Consider preparing a joint bond referendum with Rock Hill Schools and/or York County to fund capital facilities such as new recreation centers, regional parks or major sporting venues, schools, library and museum facilities, and/or a Justice Center

STRATEGY: Identify potential new partners and begin dialogue to coordinate provision efforts . Consider partnerships with outdoor recreation companies to provide additional kayak/canoe opportunities along the Catawba River . Establish a partnership with the YMCA and other agencies to coordinate aquatics programs, swim lessons, and other health and wellness classes at the proposed Riverwalk facility . Consider partnerships with area non-profit organizations, landowners, and other groups to assist with construction and maintenance of existing and future trail and greenway segments

38 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Major Sporting Venues and Regional Park Facilities Since the late 1980s, major tournaments and competitive events at Rock Hill’s sports facilities have generated over $137 million in direct economic impact, creating jobs, attracting businesses and stimulating growth. Clearly, Rock Hill has become a leader in the field of recreation and leisure services. To remain competitive, the City should seek to build on its existing environmental and recreational assets and expand its programs and facilities to capitalize on growing sports trends that are most likely to withstand changing community interests. New regional parks and major sports facilities should complement, not compete with, existing venues.

STRATEGY: Expand environmental and recreational programs and opportunities along the Catawba River . Promote ecotourism, providing for new environmental education opportunities along the Catawba River . Explore the feasibility of developing a large-scale environmental/outdoor education center with multiple learning stations at key destination points along the Catawba River . Support the development of facilities and programs along the River that attract adventure/extreme outdoor sports enthusiasts . Support and seek partnerships and funding for the development of India Hook Park . Establish a comprehensive signage and wayfinding system to clearly identify public access points and available amenities

STRATEGY: Develop and expand sports tourism opportunities . Continue to partner with other agencies to develop, fund, and expand sports tourism opportunities at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center . Promote world-class cycling events and programs at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center . Continue to seek opportunities to enhance existing sports tourism venues . Consider initiating lacrosse and/or field hockey programs, clinics and special events . Evaluate potential sites for a future regional park, with priority consideration given to suburban areas that currently lack major park facilities . Seek to develop a sports tourism advocacy group in partnership with the Rock Hill/York County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Rock Hill Economic Development Corporation, Parks & Recreation Commission, Tourism Commission, Winthrop University, Upper Palmetto YMCA, and Rock Hill School District 3 and other community leaders

STRATEGY: Ensure regional multi-purpose, competition-level facilities are designed to be flexible and responsive to the interests of changing demographics and emerging trends . Give strong consideration to developing or supporting the development of flexible indoor competition space for programs and to accommodate regional and national volleyball, indoor soccer, cheerleading, gymnastics or similar sports tournaments . Consider alternate site locations to develop multi-use fields for practice and pick-up games . Design new multi-purpose fields to readily accommodate other athletic programs, such as soccer, lacrosse or field hockey

39 City of Rock Hill

Connectivity for Bicyclists and Pedestrians The benefits of having a comprehensive network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities for recreation and transportation are numerous. It serves to link major destinations throughout the overall transportation system while offering an alternative to vehicular travel; promotes healthy and livable communities; stimulates economic growth through tourism activities and increased property values; protects the environment by improving air and water quality as well as preserving natural resources and habitats along stream and river corridors; conserves and instructs on local culture, history and heritage; and creates community partnerships.

STRATEGY: Provide a safe and comprehensive multi-purpose network of trails and greenways that connects key destinations . Form partnerships with supporting agencies and jurisdictions to fully implement the Carolina Thread Trail recommendations, including completion of the “outer loop” greenway surrounding the City . Utilize consistent identity and wayfinding signage, particularly across jurisdictional boundaries . Connect significant gaps in the trails and greenways network: o Catawba Riverfront Trail on the south side of the Catawba River 1. between the dam (future India Hook Park) and Piedmont Medical Center Trail (Riverwalk); and 2. between Piedmont Medical Center Trail and River Park Trail o Galleria Greenway connecting River Park Trail and Manchester Meadows o Jack White Trail along Dave Lyle Boulevard o completion of Tech Park Trail Phase II, connecting Tech Park to the Hood Center Trail o Eden Terrace Trail o Ebenezer Rail Trail from Downtown to the Airport Loop Trail to Tirzah Road o South Pointe Trail Phase II o Saluda Street Trail o Dutchmen Creek Trail

STRATEGY: Promote bicycle and pedestrian facilities as an integral component of roadway design . Seek opportunities to connect neighborhood parks to nearby schools, libraries, community centers, and other public destinations . Develop and implement a Bicycle Friendly Community Action Plan and seek designation by the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) as a Bicycle Friendly Community o Conduct a bicycle suitability analysis and develop a comprehensive bicycle plan o Prepare and distribute educational literature on bicycle safety, rules, and responsibilities . Partner with Rock Hill Schools, SCDOT, and other jurisdictions to support implementation of the Safe Routes to School program, improving students’ ability to walk and bicycle to school . Identify and implement wayfinding signage that marks safe bicycle routes to key destinations . Evaluate specific roadways that link major destinations for feasibility of implementing a “road diet” strategy, narrowing wide vehicular travel lanes to include bicycle lanes and/or sidewalks . Encourage the installation of bicycle racks at major destinations, such as shopping centers, public gathering areas, and municipal buildings

40 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

STRATEGY: Fiscally plan for the development and maintenance of bicycle and pedestrian facilities . Explore creative funding options for trails and greenway development, such as grants, bonds, impact fees, and other revenue sources . Seek to maintain a constant funding source for project implementation . Work closely with non-profit organizations, private landowners, and other jurisdictions to secure funding and acquire land for construction and maintenance of priority segments of the trails and greenways system . Develop and implement performance measures criteria for prioritizing and phasing bicycle and pedestrian projects and programs . Seek Transportation Enhancement Program funding for bicycle and pedestrian facility improvements

41 City of Rock Hill

Recommended Priority Capital Projects Rock Hill City Council has emphasized the importance of completing two new regional parks and continuing to connect major sections of the trails and greenways network. These new priority projects as well as other anticipated capital expenditures to existing facilities are described below. Major Sporting Venues India Hook Park As part of the Catawba-Wateree Comprehensive Relicensing Agreement, new and expanded public facilities will be constructed along the Catawba River to provide additional public access and recreational opportunities. One of the planned parks is located in a cove near the City’s water intake by the Lake Wylie Dam. India Hook Park is planned to be built on approximately 17 acres through a partnership between the City of Rock Hill and Duke Power. Proposed amenities include trails, picnic shelters, fishing pads, a canoe/kayak launch area, a swimming area, restrooms, and an observation deck for viewing and environmental education classes. The project is anticipated to be completed in three phases over a 15-year horizon. Total project cost is estimated at nearly $1.2 million; however no funding sources have been identified to date. Rock Hill Outdoor Center The Rock Hill Outdoor Center will add approximately 250 acres of public recreation space to the City’s parks inventory. The complex features the recently completed Piedmont Medical Center Trail and Giordana Velodrome, as well as other planned amenities including an Olympic-caliber BMX supercross track, cyclocross, paved and off-road trails, mountain bike trails, and a 1.5 mile paved road criterium and time trial course. The estimated costs to complete this public recreation project are $22 million and financing will be secured through a variety of funding sources and partnerships.

Existing Facilities Pools The City maintains and operates four municipal pools --Boyd Hill Pool (1999), Emmett Scott Pool (1985), Oakwood Acres Pool (1965), and Northside Pool (1971). Over the last ten years, significant repairs have been needed averaging about $30,000-$40,000 per year. Over the next ten years approximately $320,000 in maintenance and scheduled repairs are expected. Northside Pool in particular is experiencing significant leak problems which may require major repairs. Given the age of some of the pools, pipes, pumps, filters, and other equipment, staff anticipates that a considerable amount of unexpected repairs will be necessary in the near future. Community Centers Projected capital improvements to the City’s four community centers are expected to exceed $4 million over the next three years for building upgrades and cosmetic repairs. Significant renovations may soon be needed to address infrastructure and major system deficiencies given the age of the buildings and equipment. Anticipated project costs and implementation strategies may be determined through the City’s pending Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy Report, which is scheduled to be completed in FY 2012/2013. Parks The 2012 Park Report identifies $8.7 million in needed park improvements and construction projects at existing recreation facilities. These range from signage and minor aesthetic enhancements to major renovations and replacement of lighting and equipment. Trails Asphalt repairs to existing trails are on-going; however several of the wooden pedestrian bridges will need to be repaired over the next 10 years as they reach the end of their 20-25 year lifecycle. An estimated $400,000-$500,000 in repairs may be required to fix deteriorating pedestrian bridges at Tech Park and Northside Trail, as well as the boardwalk at River Park.

42 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Trail Priorities The 2008 Trails and Greenways Master Plan Update proposed nearly 27 miles of greenway trails, 32 miles of multi-purpose trails, and 21 miles of sidewalk to complete the Trails and Greenways network. Given the miles of planned trail segments to be built and limitations in funding for construction, it is important to establish priorities so that trails that are needed most are built first. City Council recently identified eight trail priorities; two projects remaining from the 2006 list of priorities as well as six new priorities. The following describes the priority trail projects, listed from least to greatest estimated construction cost. Estimated costs are determined by multiplying the approximate linear feet of asphalt trail by the anticipated construction costs and do not include potential expenses for land acquisition, surveying or design work. Jack White Trail – 0.83 miles along Dave Lyle Boulevard from Confederate Park to Northside Park, and the estimated construction cost is $549,375. Saluda Street Trail – 1.54 miles along Saluda Street from HWY 901 to Rambo Road. The estimated construction cost is $1,016,750. Galleria Greenway – 1.67 miles along Manchester Creek from River Park to Manchester Meadows Park. The estimated construction cost for the greenway is $1,101,250; and for each of the different segments are: River Park to I-77 is about $625,000, and I-77 to Manchester Meadows is about $175,000. Eden Terrace Trail – 2.88 miles along Eden Terrace from Nations Ford Road to proposed Riverwalk Community trail system, terminating at Cherry Road (US 21). The estimated construction cost is $1,898,125. South Pointe Trail Phase II – 3.03 miles along Robertson Road from Fishing Creek to Oakdale and along Neely Road from Robertson Road to Ogden Road. The estimated construction cost is $1,997,875. Dutchmen Creek Trail – 3.46 miles along Dutchmen Creek from the Catawba River to India Hook Road. The estimated construction cost is $2,286,500. Catawba Riverfront Trail (two sections) – 3.29 miles along the south side of the Catawba River between the Lake Wylie Dam (future India Hook Park) and Piedmont Medical Center Trail. The estimated construction cost is $2,172,625. The estimated construction cost for the Riverwalk Switchback Trail is $554,400. Another section of the Riverfront Trail that needs to be completed is the 0.34 mile connection between the Piedmont Medical Center Trail and River Park which is estimated at $500,000. Ebenezer Rail Trail – 8.29 miles along the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks between Downtown, Airport Loop Trail, and Rawlinson Road. The estimated construction cost is $5,469,875.

43 City of Rock Hill

Funding/Revenue Sources

Current Funding Sources The Rock Hill Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department uses a variety of funding sources to fund capital expenditures. The following funding sources are currently used by the City, but could be expanded to create additional funding options to address new and on-going PRT needs. Grants Land and Water Conservation Fund – LWCF is a federally funded 50-50 competitive match grant program awarded through the National Parks Service and State Parks System for acquisition and development of land for public outdoor recreational purposes. Due to limited federal allocations, this program has been moved to a two year grant cycle allowing the state to provide for a larger fund for distribution. In 2010, South Carolina’s apportionment of federal funds totaled approximately $580,000. Nearly $1.7 million in LCWF grants have been awarded for park improvements since 1972. Parks and Recreation Development Fund – The PARD grant program is a non- competitive reimbursable grant program awarded through the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism for permanent public park and recreation facilities. All projects must include a minimum 20% match from the local government. Actual grant awards are made on a project-by-project basis. Nearly $310,000 in PARD funds have been received for parks and recreation facilities and Rock Hill School District playgrounds. South Carolina Recreation Trails Program (RTP) – RTP is a federally funded grant program to build or improve trails across South Carolina. This is a reimbursable grant program requiring a 20% local match. RTP funds are available to state, federal and local government agencies or qualified private organizations. The minimum grant amount is $10,000 with a maximum of $100,000; however, additional funds are available if the project is considered to serve as a regional significance. To date, $590,000 has been awarded for Rock Hill trail improvements at Manchester Meadows, River Park, Winston Searles Trail, Riverwalk trail connector and Waterford Trail. Recreation Land Trust Fund – The Recreation Land Trust Fund (Trust Fund) is a state funded reimbursable grant available to local governments for the acquisition of recreational lands. The Trust Fund program is an annual cycle grant that requires a 50% local match. A total of $90,000 has been awarded to Rock Hill through the Trust Fund. South Carolina Urban & Community Forestry Commission Grant – The commission awards local entities with the Forestry grant, supporting street tree plantings, tree inventories, management plans and public education on the importance of having trees in your cities, suburbs, and towns. The program requires a 50% local match. Rock Hill has been awarded a total of $19,500 under this grant program. SCDHEC Waste Tire Grant – The Waste Tire program is funded by fees placed on new tires. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control partnered with Asphalt Rubber Technology Service (ARTS) and Clemson University to promote, design, and test the use of recycled scrap tires in rubberized asphalt and other civil infrastructure applications. The program provides grant funding to South Carolina cities and counties for several test projects, performs research to discover new uses and improve upon existing uses of scrap tires, and conducts training classes and seminars on the use, design, testing, and construction of rubberized asphalt and other applications. Nearly $64,000 has been granted to Rock Hill through the SCDHEC Waste Tire Grant program; however, no funds are currently available for this program. Community Development Block Grant – CDBG funds administered through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are available for the acquisition, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, or installation of public parks and recreational

44 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

facilities subject to specific eligibility criteria as well as recreation program funding to be used in designated low-income areas. Some smaller neighborhood-initiated park amenities have also been financed through CDBG funds facilitated through the City’s Neighborhood Empowerment Division. To date, more than $1 million in CDBG funds have been received for park-related improvements. Federal Revenue Sharing – The Federal Revenue Sharing Program was instituted in 1972 as a means for federal money to be made available to state and local governments through multiyear appropriations. Half of the funds to construct Cherry Park in the early 1980s ($2.1 million) were secured through the Federal Revenue Sharing Program. This program expired in 1986.

Bonds General Obligation Bonds (GO Bonds) – GO Bonds are a type of municipal bond that is secured by a local government’s pledge to use legally available resources, including tax revenues, to repay bond holders. More than $916k in General Obligation Bonds have funded parks in Rock Hill. In 2005 a GO Bond was issued to refund 1993 Bonds which included $766,500 in park improvements; the outstanding balance is schedule to be repaid by May 2012. A GO Bond was also issued in 1998 to fund $150,000 in improvements to Eagle Park which has since been repaid. In addition, a $3.55 million bond was issued to implement projects at Glencairn Garden and is scheduled to be repaid by August 2022. Certificate of Participation (COP) –A COP was issued in 2005 to fund $12.7million for the purpose of building the Manchester Meadows regional soccer complex. Through the financing structure, the City makes a lease payment to the Rock Hill Public Facilities Corporation then uses that lease payment to repay the debt. Tax Increment Bond –Tax Increment Bonds are often used to finance the redevelopment of blighted or deteriorating area designated as Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts. The incremental increase in tax revenues realized from any increase in property value within the district may be used to fund public capital improvements in that area, which may include parks or trails. River Park has utilized $768,000 in tax bonds from the Red River Tax Increment District. Several amenities that are currently under construction at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center are funded through the Riverwalk Tax Increment District include the Presbyterian BMX, Supercross, Cyclocross, Mountain Biking trails and Piedmont Medical Center Trail. The New Markets Tax Credit Program (NMTC Program) – This program was established by Congress in 2000 as part of the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act and is administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. It encourages private capital investment in low-income communities by providing a 39 percent federal tax credit to investors. Approximately $5 million in New Market Tax Credits were secured towards funding the Giordana Velodrome and additional cycling amenities.

Taxes Local-Option Hospitality Tax – The Local-Option Hospitality Tax program is comprised of a 2 percent sales tax on prepared food and beverages, a 3 percent local option accommodations tax, Sunday alcohol sales permits and admissions tax. Funds collected are awarded for local tourism related projects. The Hospitality Tax Task Force serves as an advisory Committee for City Management. The City generated approximately $3.8 million in fiscal year 2011 in Hospitality Tax. Many park improvements have been completed with this fund. State Accommodations Tax – All hotels located in Rock Hill are levied a 2 percent Accommodations Tax on monthly gross sales receipts. Proceeds must be used on

45 City of Rock Hill

tourism-related marketing or activities. The Rock Hill Accommodations Tax/Tourism Commission provides recommendations to City Council on the expenditure of revenue generated from the Accommodations Tax. The City generates nearly $400,000 annually in Accommodations Tax. Gasoline Tax (C-Funds) – Begun in 1946, the C Program is a long-established partnership between SCDOT and South Carolina counties to fund transportation-related projects. State law authorizes the collection of 2.66 cents per gallon of the state gasoline tax to implement countywide transportation plans as distributed to each county based on formulas. In addition to funding roadway improvements, C-Funds may also be designated for bike paths. Approximately $39,000 in County C-Funds was used to complete Phase 2 of Airport Loop Trail and the Northside Trail extension to Anderson Road.

Other Sources General Fund – The General Fund is the City’s general operating fund and is used to account for all financial transactions except those required to be accounted for in another fund. Principal sources of revenue are property taxes, licenses and permits, intergovernmental revenues, and sanitation service charges. Approximately $1.3 million in recreation fees are collected annually towards the General Fund. Grants – Rock Hill has secured a variety of one-time and other special purpose grants for the park improvements. For instance, a $50,000 grant was secured from Clinton Junior College for improvements to Carroll Park. Similarly, upgrades to Fewell Park have been funded through $10,500 in matching neighborhood grants awarded by various sources. A “Spruce up Your Park Grant” from Sherwin-Williams in the amount of $1,500 was awarded to the Rock Hill Clean and Green Committee in 1999 for Hargett Park. In 2001, a trail grant for nearly $10,000 was awarded for Southland Park through the SCDHEC Cardiovascular Disease Grant Program. A Kiwanis grant updated the playground at Northside Recreation Center in memory of Harriet Bucy. A $45,000 Rock Hill Junior Welfare League grant updated a playground at College Downs in 2012. An $80,000 grant from York County Hospitality Tax/Carolina Thread Trail is helping fund the Riverwalk connector trail to Highway 21. Other grant sources are available and should be carefully considered. Donations – Donations and gifts to the Rock Hill Parks Foundation offer another means to fund capital projects. These dollars are typically raised from tax-exempt, non-profit organizations or through private donations. Partnerships – Partnerships are joint development funding sources between public organizations or public/private agencies. The partners jointly develop parks and recreation facilities for community use and share risk, operational costs, responsibilities, and asset management according to a joint-use agreement. Rock Hill partners with Winthrop, Rock Hill Schools, the YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs of York County, Area Eleven Special Olympics, the Come-See-Me Festival, and with private developers and non-profit organizations on a variety of parks amenities and programming. Other partnerships should be explored. Volunteerism – Many parks, recreation and tourism projects and programs are completed through volunteerism, an indirect revenue source whereby persons donate time to assist in providing a product or service. Various citizen committees, organizations, and private individuals have volunteered their time and efforts to further parks, recreation and tourism projects and programs in Rock Hill. Naming Rights/Sponsorship Opportunities – Many cities opt to selling the naming rights or sponsorships for new or renovated buildings and parks in exchange for the development costs associated with the improvement. For example, Rock Hill has granted naming rights of the velodrome (Giordana Velodrome) to Gita Sporting Goods, a

46 Directions: A Strategic Plan for Parks, Recreation, and Tourism

Charlotte cycling equipment distributor and the trail at Riverwalk to Piedmont Medical Center (Piedmont Medical Center Trail).

Potential Funding Sources A variety of additional funding sources for parks and recreation improvements are available that the City should explore for new revenue streams. Potential funding sources to be explored include: Bond Referendum – A Bond Referendum requires a vote by citizens for general obligation bonds initiated through City Council approval prior to the citizen vote. The bonds are generally issued for a 20-year period and are repaid with property tax revenue. These can also be issued in conjunction with other local governments or school districts as a joint-bond referendum for public capital projects. Impact Fee – South Carolina law establishes rules under which municipalities may develop and implement impact fee ordinances. The South Carolina Impact Fee Act permits the assessment of impact fees on new development to pay for a portion of the costs for public facilities including parks and recreation facilities. While Rock Hill currently has impact fees for fire protection, water and wastewater improvements, the City may also seek to evaluate the feasibility of establishing an impact fee for park and/or trail construction or expansion. CTT Grants – The Carolina Thread Trail provides implementation grants for communities that have adopted an approved CTT Plan for the design, acquisition and construction of trails. Corridor Design Grants fund preliminary designs for a community’s trail segment. Acquisition Grants contribute to the purchase of land that will make up The Thread. Construction Grants fund the actual building of The Thread. The maximum award for land acquisition and construction is $150,000. County Hospitality Tax – Initiated in 2007, York County levies a 2 percent Hospitality Tax on gross proceeds on sales of prepared food and beverages sold in eating/drinking establishments located within the unincorporated areas of York County. Establishment located within Hickory Grove, McConnells, Sharon, and Smyrna are levied a 1 percent Hospitality Tax. Proceeds are used to fund tourism related marketing and attractions. As another funding option, Rock Hill could consider allowing the County to extend the 1 percent Hospitality Tax to establishments in the city limits to fund regional tourism-related projects that would otherwise be difficult to fund with limited resources. Careful consideration would need to be given to this alternative as a 10 percent total tax on prepared foods in Rock Hill may not be well received by consumers.

47 City of Rock Hill

Conclusion

Over the last hundred years, Rock Hill has established itself as a leader in providing exceptional parks, recreation and tourism services and programs for residents and visitors alike. As the City continues to reap the economic benefits of its top flight sports tourism venues, PRT works every day to provide a high quality of life for the community through its facilities and programs. To remain successful, Rock Hill must find ways to effectively manage these resources to ensure that they meet the needs of future residents and visitors. This Strategic Plan provides an assessment of the existing resources, trends, and community input; identifies four priority issues; and presents a set of strategic recommendations organized around those four central themes. PRT can then use these recommendations to help meet their needs in these four areas: ensuring the maintenance, relevance and sufficiency of existing facilities; strengthening partnerships in the provision of both facilities and services; locating and developing new major parks and venues; and providing an even better network for bicyclists and pedestrians. These are the directions that make sense today. Strategies that are provided here range from general to specific, just as we all have both broad aspirations as well as specific desires. These routes may be modified, and new paths may emerge, but with this planning complete, the directions are certain. Implementation of any Plan is dependent on financial resources. Many of the ideas discussed here will require dedicated funding for long term operating and maintenance costs. And while others are suited for grants and other one-time funding opportunities, it may become more difficult to acquire limited state and federal funds due to increased competition in the current overall economic conditions. These financial challenges are as strong today as ever. It will take a strong shared vision with dedicated partners to make progress in these areas. Hopefully this document will provide not only the direction, but also the catalyst for that success.