DRAFT FINAL PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
March XX, 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Introduction 1-1 Background 1-1 Purpose 1-2 How to Use the Guidelines 1-3 Revisions 1-5 2-1 2 Park Planning 2-1 City Vision 2-2 ActivateSJ 2-4 Park Development Process 2-5 Park Types 3 Park Design 3-1 Park Master Planning 3-1 Design Considerations 3-3 Playgrounds 3-11 All-Inclusive Play Areas 3-17 Picnic Areas 3-21 Walking Loops 3-25 Dog Parks 3-29 Sports Fields 3-35 Sports Courts 3-47 Fitness Areas 3-59 Skate Parks 3-63 Bike Parks 3-67 Community Gardens 3-71 Water Play 3-75 Disc Golf 3-77 Fencing, Walls, and Gates 3-79 Site Furnishings 3-83 Shade 3-87 Hardscape 3-91 Landscape 3-95 Irrigation 3-99 Lighting 3-101 Signage 3-105 Public Art 3-107 Design Development and 3-109 Construction Documentation 4 Park Renovations 4-1
5 Acknowledgements 5-1 6 Appendices 6-1
1 INTRODUCTION
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES Background The City of San José (City) is the heart of the Silicon Valley and the largest city in the Bay Area in both geographic size and population. The parks department was established by the city council in 1942 and, since then, as the population of the City has grown, so too has its park system. The department of Parks, Recreation & Neighborhood Services (PRNS) owns, operates and maintains over 200 parks across the City. The construction and renovation of parks over the past several decades has provided health, wellness and access to recreational activities for the community. An increasing number of park sites can pose a challenge to park maintenance staff and resources. Wide latitude has generally been given to individual park designers, resulting in a park system that provides diverse recreational experiences as well as variety in site furnishings, materials and character.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 1-1 Purpose The PRNS Park Design Guidelines (Guidelines) establishes design standards and best practices for City staff, City consultants, and turnkey park developers to follow in the design of new parks and renovation or retrofitting of existing parks. The Guidelines help establish a consistent and coherent identity throughout the San José park system by standardizing design decisions and park furnishing selections and optimizing design to ensure that park maintenance is fnancially sustainable. Application of the Guidelines will result in parks that look as good and function as well on the thousandth day that they’re put into service as on the first, without significantly more capital and maintenance inputs. The Guidelines also provide a rationale behind the process of providing certain park assets and furnishings and equipment at some park sites and not providing them at others. The result will be more balanced recreational access across the City.
City Design Staff
PRIMARY USERS City Maintenance Staff
Design Consultants
City Council
SECONDARY USERS Parks and Recreation Commission
Community
1-2 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES INTRODUCTION
How to Use the Guidelines The Guidelines are organized into six chapters:
1 INTRODUCTION 4 PARK RENOVATIONS
Explains the reasons for development of the guidelines Designers of minor park renovations and City and who the guidelines are written for. It also includes maintenance staff tasked with minor park renovations a summary of updates to the Guidelines. should refer to this chapter. It explains how and when to renovate existing parks.
2 PARK PLANNING 5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Describes the vision and approach for City park Includes a list of contributors to the Guidelines and design and considerations of site context for park photo credits. designers to refer to during the park planning phase.
3 PARK DESIGN 6 APPENDICES
Park designers are to reference this chapter when Includes references that supplement information developing park conceptual designs, designing major described in the Guidelines. A resources list can renovations, and preparing construction documents. be found with links to City web pages that provide The chapter is divided into three sections: Park further insight on topics in the Guidelines regarding Master Planning, Design Considerations, and Design the park design process. Development and Construction Documentation. This chapter includes design recommendations for park assets, which comprise elements within the park that provide value to park users. The City approved furnishings and equipment list as well as the approved park plant list is also included. This chapter provides guidance for development of a park system that is aesthetically consistent and uniformly maintainable while also supporting creative park designs.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 1-3 INTRODUCTION
How to Use the Guidelines
Typical Park Asset Cover Page Park Asset cover pages provide a visual cue for the PARK DESIGN start of a new asset section.
Park asset icon on side bar for quick reference
General considerations for each park asset are listed on the cover page so users can check the suitability SPORTS COURTS of an asset for a given project at-a-glance.
• Sport courts are fl at, paved areas designed to accommodate WHAT a designated recreational game including, but not limited to, basketball, tennis, pickleball, futsal, volleyball and bocce.
• Provides an opportunity for recreational sports to take place, which WHY is a vital part of community development for youth and adults. • Encourages physical activity, teamwork and sportsmanship. Typical Park Asset Body Page • When the site can accommodate a variety of assets, so that the park WHEN site is not limited to a single use. • To act as a protective cap on sites with contaminated soils. PARK DESIGN
• Locations that are relatively fl at. General Approach • Provide a concrete walking path around the WHERE • Along roadway frontages to maximize visibility. interior of the dog park perimeter for dog Dog parks should provide substantial area owners. • Away from residential edges and passive or other low intensity park for dogs to run and play freely, wherever uses. possible. The design of both the dog park and • Locate dog park entry areas away from high activity areas. the adjacent park assets should consider the safety of both the dogs and people. Surfacing, • Provide long running areas, but avoid sites PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-47 fence types, plant material and pathways in that are excessively narrow, which may and around the dog park should be designed result in spaces where dogs feel cornered. to provide an optimal experience for the dogs, dog owners and general park users. Adjacencies • A dog park should be considered as an active use and be located near other active Layout and/ or noisy uses, such as sports courts, • The preferred dog park size is one to two- and away from passive and/or quiet uses, acres with the large dog run comprising such as picnic areas. approximately three quarters (¾) of the • The dog park should be located near area and the small dog run comprising parking. Park asset icon on side bar for quick reference approximately one quarter (¼) of the area. All dog runs should be a minimum of one • Provide spatial buff ers between dog parks quarter (1/4) acres. and other uses, particularly sensitive adjacent land uses such as residential • Provide separated dog runs for small and edges or sensitive adjacent park uses such large dogs to help avoid conflicts between as playgrounds. dogs of diff erent sizes. • Dog parks should be located a minimum of fifty feet (50’) from residential properties, or
decomposed granite, typ. shade tree with tree guard, typ. Bench on concrete pad, typ.
concrete walkway small dog area
picnic table, typ. large dog area
shade structure
Diagrams illustrate typical layouts 12’ wide maintenance and adjacencies gate, typ.
synthetic turf surfacing, typ. 5’ to 6’ tall perimeter fence mulch, typ. double gate entrance, typ. Dog Park Layout
3-30 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
1-4 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES INTRODUCTION
How to Use the Guidelines
Typical Furnishings & Equipment List Page
PARK DESIGN
Furnishing Type Picnic Table A
PARK ASSET SECTION Cross reference to Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Dumor corresponding asset section MODEL Table 443 FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION 6’ long and 8’ long with ADA option
Product name is followed by a letter if there are multiple options within the same product category Picnic Table B PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Dumor MODEL Table 448 FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION Surface mount, with ADA option, optional game board
3-90 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES
Revisions The Guidelines are a living document that periodically receives updates to reflect changing City needs, design objectives and resource availability, changing standards and guidance from sports and recreational organizations, and revised regulations from State and Federal agencies. This section summarizes updates made to the Guidelines.
XX/XX/XX - Tree Replacement Selection Decision Tree (example)
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 1-5 2 PARK PLANNING
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES City Vision The mission of PRNS is to build healthy communities through people, parks and programs. The consideration of context is essential to the park planning process to design a park that best serves the neighborhood in which it resides. The following chapter provides guidance about neighborhood context, the categorization of park types, as well as meeting the goals outlined in the ActivateSJ Strategic Plan. In 2020, the PRNS department adopted the ActivateSJ Strategic Plan to maintain, improve and expand the City’s recreational facilities, programs and services. Activate SJ is a people-focused and service-driven plan with five guiding principles: stewardship, nature, equity & access, identity, and public life. These principles provide a framework for design decisions made in the development of future parks in San José.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 2-1 PARK PLANNING
ACTIVATESJ Guiding Principles STEWARDSHIP: We Take Care of What We Have and Invest for the Future The principle of stewardship guides park designers to consider the maintenance impact of design decisions and ensure that new parks include elements and amenities that the City can successfully maintain. These decisions come into play in the selection of durable materials, robust site furnishings, and layout of amenities that take into account standard maintenance practices. Designers of City parks take on a stewardship role and can positively influence the maintainability of park sites. It is important to strike a balance between visual quality, performance and innovative design ideas to support City maintenance staff’s ability to maintain parks to be in good or excellent condition.
NATURE: We Protect, Preserve, and Promote Natural Areas for All People The principle of nature guides park designers to incorporate nature elements such as landscaping, trees, green open space, community gardens and more. Park designers should consider successful tree species, shade canopies, plant species that provide wildlife habitat, elements that encourage interaction between people and nature, and the protection and preservation of valuable natural areas and elements.
EQUITY & ACCESS: We Embrace People of All Ages, Cultures and Abilities The principle of equity and access guides park designers to ensure equal opportunity for San José residents to access parks within a ten-minute walking distance and for parks to provide play and exercise elements for all ages and abilities. Promoting equity includes providing facilities that are safe and clean for park users. Park designers can help achieve these goals by discouraging vandalism through careful material selection, encouraging safety with open sight lines, and deterring unauthorized activity with careful design along with the help of the City’s Housing Department to provide appropriate shelter and services.
2-2 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK PLANNING
IDENTITY: We Aim to be a Premier Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services System The principle of identity guides park designers to consider and incorporate diverse and unique cultures throughout the City while also reflecting a recognizable City-wide ‘brand’ or character in the park system which melts an element of whimsy and fun with recognition of neighborhood context and history. Designers are encouraged to incorporate details in the park that promote fascination and playfulness to ultimately bring the community together through the common joy that public parks provide. Park themes should embrace the many cultural, environmental and historical influences that contribute to the City’s identity including agriculture, education, technology, tradition and native flora and fauna. Park designers will integrate neighborhood identity in the layout, style, and materials of the park while adhering to the standard furnishings palette as dictated by the Guidelines.
PUBLIC LIFE: We Promote Community Spaces for a Safe, Fun and Healthy San José The principle of public life guides park designers to provide safe spaces where the community feels welcome to engage with one another. Parks should be designed to enhance everyday activities and create self-sustaining, quality spaces with opportunities for programs to strengthen community pride and unity.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 2-3 PARK PLANNING
for all residents. New parks may be required to meet Park Development open space goals resulting from population growth or by residential developers. Residential builders are Process often required to provide parkland by the Park Impact The park development process is summarized in the Ordinance and the Parkland Dedication Ordinance fgure below and is discussed further in the sections to help advance the parks and recreation goals and that follow. The fgure serves as a visual roadmap to policies in accordance to the City’s General Plan. guide park designers in the process. While ActivateSJ is a strategic plan that influences all steps of park Site Selection development, the application of these Guidelines focuses on steps related specifcally to park design. Once the general need for a park has been confrmed, site selection is the next step. It involves the The Guidelines also addresses existing park sites consideration of land acquisition or site redevelopment that require renovating in chapter 4. For designers opportunities with preferences for sites that have preparing construction documents, refer to the City’s clear sight lines from the surrounding neighborhood. Department of Public Works standard specifcations Sites with existing infrastructure should be prioritized and details, which is provided in the Resources List to leverage those resources and enable the project located in the Appendix. budget to be focused on recreational assets. Sites that lack multiple entry points and those located at Park Needs Identification dead end streets are discouraged.
The park development process begins with Consideration of proximity to other existing park sites identifcation of the need for a new or renovated and recreational amenities helps ensure recreational park to serve the neighborhood and meet the plan’s activities are equitably distributed across the City and goal of achieving a 10-minute walk to a quality park across Council Districts. This maximizes residents’
IDENTIFY STUDY PLAN
Identify the need for a park For new parks, determine the location For new parks, identify site or for a park renovation. of the park site, identify acquisition and opportunities and constrains, renovation opportunities, inventory nearby perform environmental parks and coordinate with stakeholders. analysis and public outreach. For park renovations, review project as- For park renovations, built plans and evaluate existing conditions identify the limits of work and asset types. and proposed furnishing and plant palettes.
2-4 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK PLANNING access to the widest range of assets and recreational Assets should be selected to provide a combination activities within any given neighborhood to support of activities that will best serve the size of the site and the plan’s Equity & Access guiding principle. location and demographic of the neighborhood.
Neighborhood Context Park design should reflect the character of the local community and improve the quality of San José’s Once a site is selected, the site’s context should be park system. considered to identify and address the needs of the surrounding community and to determine the unique character and identity of the park. Park Types
Nearby parks should be evaluated to create an City parks and asset consideration are determined inventory of park assets in the vicinity to identify primarily by the size of the site and range of potential gaps in recreational needs while minimizing opportunities, including the location and user unintentional duplication of existing nearby assets. population. The park type determines the selection Park assets should be evaluated and provided with of park assets, the population the park will serve, consideration to needs in both the local neighborhood and opportunities for custom design. The Guidelines and the greater city-wide park system. expand on the two categories originally identifed by the Greenprint, which include neighborhood parks Each park contains a combination of park assets, and regional parks. Additional park types have been described in chapter 3, that provide a variety of identifed to provide guidance on how park design activities and recreational value to adjacent residents should best suit different conditions. The table on the and the general public. The needs and desires of next page provides a description of each park type as the neighborhood should be identified and the park well as examples of San José parks in each category. assets that help address those needs determined.
DESIGN CONSTRUCT OPEN Develop plans based on Build the project. Open the park to the Park Guidelines and in public, organize applicable compliance with code recreational programs, requirements. perform scheduled maintenance.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 2-5 PARK PLANNING
REGIONAL SERVING PARKS Regional Park Regional parks consist of facilities with unique amenities such as lakes, hiking opportunities and can be as large cultural attractions that draw visitors throughout the City and beyond. They serve people from as 200+ acres throughout the region. Some regional park facilities can also provide neighborhood-serving amenities. All park assets can be considered at regional parks. NEIGHBORHOOD SERVING PARKS Community A community park typically ranges between 5 to 30 acres in size and serves about a three-mile Park radius, with the exception of sports felds and community gardens that tend to draw users from between 5 to 30 beyond the immediate neighborhood. The service population of the park includes surrounding acres neighborhood clusters and may also serve employees and visitors to nearby commercial areas. The park can serve a population up to 20,000 people. Adjacent land uses include residential, commercial, schools, open spaces and creek-side or riparian areas. The park should have significant frontage to public rights-of-way along multiple park edges and be accessible by multiple modes of transportation including public transit. Possible park assets for community parks include the same assets as neighborhood parks with the addition of sports fields, dog parks, skate parks, bike parks, community gardens, inclusive playgrounds, restrooms and parking lots. Neighborhood A neighborhood park serves an approximately ½-mile to 3/4-mile radius. The service area of the Park park can vary depending on residential densities and the boundaries of nearby major collector between 1 to 5 roads or minor arterial streets circumscribing the neighborhood. The population served ranges from acres 3,000 to 10,000 people. The adjacent land uses are comprised of low to high-density residential, some commercial, and may be located near elementary and junior high schools as a quasi-shared use. Neighborhood parks are recommended to be accessed by a minimum of two public frontage roads, one to allow vehicular access and street parking and the other for pedestrians to access through sidewalks, interconnecting trails or low volume streets. Park assets for neighborhood parks include playgrounds, picnic areas, sports courts, walking loops and exercise areas. Pocket Park A pocket park serves the immediate surroundings and are developed due to limited availability of less than 1 acre land. The service radius of pocket parks is approximately a quarter mile and serves a population of approximately 4,000 people maximum. The adjacent land uses are moderate to high-density residential and commercial. They are accessed primarily by walking or bicycling on sidewalks, interconnecting trails or low-volume residential streets. Assets for pocket parks must accommodate a small footprint and may include tot lots and small picnic areas. Linear Park Linear parks are designated in certain conditions that often run alongside linear corridors such any size but is as trails, former railways, high transmission electrical lines, or creeks. They vary in size and serve longer than wide surrounding neighborhoods through which they run. Because of the elongated shape, linear parks should have significant frontage to public rights-of-way and multiple points of access. Depending on their width, linear parks can accommodate a variety of park assets including playgrounds, picnic areas, sports courts, sports fields, walking loops, dog parks, exercise areas and community gardens. Privately Privately owned public spaces (POPOS) are spaces that are open to the public but are owned owned and maintained by private property owners. The development of POPOS provides additional opportunities to create publicly accessible parks for the community. Parks that are POPOS often public space are the size of pocket or neighborhood parks. They serve the immediate surroundings which can (POPOS) be residential or commercial and include local residents or visitors and employees of commercial any size properties. Possible park assets for POPOS include playgrounds, picnic areas, sports courts, walking loops, dog parks and exercise areas. Joint-Use Joint-use sites are park facilities where the usage of the site is shared between the city, public Site and private agencies such as schools. Ownership and maintenance responsibilities may vary between 1 to 10 on each joint-use site and a written agreement is established for time of use, types of use, and acres responsibilities. Park assets should be considered according to the size and use of the property and the ability to operate and maintain the facility.
2-6 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK PLANNING
EXAMPLES OF PARK TYPES
POCKET PARK REGIONAL PARK San Antonio Tot Lot Alum Rock Park Forestdale Tot Lot Lake Cunningham Park Hacienda Creek Park Kelley Park
NEIGHBORHOOD LINEAR PARK PARK Silver Creek Linear Park John Mise Park Chris Hotts Park Cahill Park
COMMUNITY PARK JOINT USE SITE
Plato Arroyo Park Selma Olinder Park Butcher Park Ocala Middle School Sports Field Calabazas Park Overfelt High Track and Field
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 2-7 3 PARK DESIGN
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES Park Master Planning The goal of a park master plan is to defne both graphically and via a narrative the park’s desired physical attributes, amenities, and layout, based upon analysis of the site context, evaluation of site opportunities and challenges, and input provided by the community through a public outreach process. The master plan report should follow the City of San José’s Park Master Plan Table of Contents Template.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-1 PARK DESIGN
3-2 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
The following is a description of how each section of Section 7: Development Guidelines the master plan report contributes to the park design. Describes plan details including priority Section 1: Executive Summary improvements, street crossings, landscape character. furnishing styles, and design elements Provides a general overview of the goals of the that impact maintenance operations and master plan and gives a description of the primary efficiency. fndings, and explains the sequential steps of the master plan process. Section 8: Implementation
Section 2: Site Setting Provides cost information and recommendations for value engineering and phased implementation, Evaluates the context of the site as it pertains to if required. a larger park system and provides an analysis of the demographics, site features, adjacent land uses, trail connections, primary entry points Design Considerations and adjacent space activators. Also, identifes opportunities to fulfll ActivateSJ goals. General Considerations
Section 3: Goals and Objectives The park design should prioritize safety for park users to support the principle of Public Life. This States the goals for the park design, including can be done by incorporating Crime Prevention the desired park aesthetic, and how they will be Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. achieved. CPTED aims to prevent crime by designing physical Section 4: Planning Process environments that positively influence human behavior using four principles: natural access control, Describes the outreach process including input natural surveillance, territoriality, and maintenance. gathered from community meetings and how they Designers should evaluate and implement clear sight contributed to the park design. Summarizes how lines throughout the park and from adjacent public the selected park assets align with the park type. rights-of-way. Elements within the site including walls, Section 5: Interagency Coordination topography, structures and plant material can impede sight lines from the road. Park lighting should be Provides a description of the programming and designed to provide sufficient visibility to help deter maintenance requirements for parks that have crime without encouraging park use after dark. shared ownership or interagency requirements. Layout Section 6: Park Development The layout of a park consists of how park assets, Describes the proposed character, identity, and such as gathering spaces, open spaces, buildings, themes of the park. Also, provides a general circulations paths, and parking lots, will be organized description of the selected park programming. with respect to each other and with the park’s surroundings. The following section provides guidance on how to best locate, organize, and group various assets.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-3 PARK DESIGN
Adjacent Uses • Provide an adequate buffer between passive- uses and active uses; sufficient distance or Park layout should be determined based on the types barrier between residential homes and sports of park assets that are to be accommodated and how felds and courts to prevent errant balls. compatible these assets are with one another as well as with adjacent land uses. Consider the following • Maintain privacy of residential properties when locating assets on a site: through strategically placed planting and setback of pathways. • Anticipate, identify, and minimize potential conflicts between park assets and sensitive • Locate assets that enhance sight lines in adjacent land uses, such as residential locations with limited visibility, such as properties, and riparian zones. community gardens, dog parks and similar, due to their wide demographic appeal and ability to • Provide an adequate buffer between activate spaces. residential neighbors and assets that generate noise, odors, and other nuisances, such as • Locate assets that attract a narrow large picnic areas, dog parks, sports courts and demographic in highly visible areas with clear felds, skate and bike parks, trash receptacles sight lines from the public right-of-way, such as and restrooms. Locate assets that involve higher skate parks and bike parks levels of activity away from residential edges.
fenced court with hindered community garden windscreen visibility area or dog park
Locate assets that enhance sight lines in locations with limited visibility. dense row of trees
adjacent right-of-way
Visual Screening Between Active and Passive Uses
3-4 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Asset Compatibility • Pair assets that require parental supervision with those that can provide direct sight lines Park assets that are compatible with each other are in close proximity, such as pairing tot play areas generally distinguished by having a similar level with picnic areas, sports courts with exercise of activity and noise. Consider the following when clusters. locating assets near one another: Circulation Hierarchy • Passive use assets are compatible when located together due to lower intensity activities. A hierarchy of circulation paths should be provided and lower noise levels. These include tot lots, throughout the park using varying widths and surface picnic areas, exercise areas, community gardens, materials. Park paths are distinct from trails, which are walking loops and seating areas. associated with the City’s trail network. Park paths are located within a park site and are used for recreation • Active use assets are compatible when located and to connect the park user to assets located together due to higher noise levels or higher levels of physical activity. These include sports throughout the park. Trails are routes that extend long courts and felds, dog parks, BMX and skate distances, typically beyond a single site, and are used parks, and large picnic areas. for both recreation and commuting. Refer to the City’s Trail Network Toolkit for trail planning and design. • Active uses should be separated from passive uses by an adequate distance to provide a buffer between the different use and noise levels. tot lot Passive park assets provide quiet areas and sometimes solitary activities areas that should be protected from potential disruptions caused by active or noisy uses. Picnic areas should not be in range of an errant ball and a walking loop utilized by seniors should have an appropriate buffer from sports felds to avoid inadvertent collisions.
• Assets with moderate activity levels are compatible with more uses since they may be exercise cluster or located near passive and active uses. Moderate small picnic area activity assets, such as select picnic areas may be located directly adjacent to passive use assets, but a small buffer should still be maintained when located adjacent to active use assets. Direct Sightlines Between Compatible Uses
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-5 PARK DESIGN
• Primary paths should connect primary park assets to the main park entries from adjacent streets or parking lots. Primary paths should be the widest path within the park and accommodate at least two people walking abreast. Pavement material should be an aesthetically pleasing, durable pavement material such as integral-colored concrete. Primary paths should be designed to accommodate vehicular loading as they will be used by maintenance vehicles to access trash receptables or service large picnic areas or restrooms. Avoid incorporating dead-end paths to avoid dedicating turnaround space for maintenance vehicles.
• Secondary paths should connect the primary path to secondary park entries and minor park assets. Consider the need for secondary paths to accommodate vehicular loads. If vehicular access is not needed, design secondary paths to discourage unauthorized vehicular access.
• Tertiary paths are minor paths that accommodate the width of a single pedestrian. Decomposed granite or other porous pavement materials are encouraged for tertiary path surfaces. Tertiary paths can be used as alternate routes to a walking loop and can also lead to quiet and more intimate solidary spaces.
Restrooms
Restrooms should be provided at all regional parks and potentially at community parks, determined on a case by case basis. Community and regional parks are large in size and can accommodate assets that encourage park users to stay at the park for a longer period of time, warranting the need for a restroom. Community and regional parks also serve a population that does not necessarily reside in the local neighborhood and does not have the option to
3-6 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN return to their residence nearby. Restrooms should parks serve populations that are beyond the not be located within neighborhood parks, unless immediate neighborhood, many of the park users will specifcally approved by the City, since users tend drive to the park and the park site must accommodate to be local residents that can quickly return to their those vehicles. Smaller parks such as pocket parks homes nearby. and most neighborhood parks should not provide parking since users tend to be local residents who Restroom buildings, where provided, should live within walking or biking distance to the park. be placed at an easily accessible location for Instead of parking lots, smaller park sites should maintenance service. A path with sufficient width and implement assets with recreational value. depth that accommodates vehicular loading should connect the restroom building to the parking lot or Parking lots, where provided, should be located to adjacent street. Clear sight lines and unhindered minimize the distance to the park’s primary assets (ie. visibility should be provided to the restroom entrance assets that will experience the most users and have from the public right-of-way. Refer to the park assets the highest frequency of use). These typically include section for further guidance on restroom location and group picnic areas and playgrounds. design with respect to other park assets. ADA Compliance Parking Lots Park design must comply with the most current ADA Parking lots should be provided at all community and standards and state and local building codes. ADA regional parks. Because community and regional compliance should be taken into account for all park
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-7 PARK DESIGN assets. The recommendations found in the Guidelines • Seating, including benches, spectator seating, are not intended to address all code and accessibility picnic tables, and seatwalls should be located requirements. adjacent to a path of travel and should include ADA compliant seating and companion seating. Park designers bear responsibility for confirming their design meets code. • Drinking fountains should be ADA compliant. • Exercise stations should have a proportion that The following represents the most common is ADA accessible per code. accessibility considerations for parks. • Tree grates should meet ADA requirements. Parking Park assets • Provide accessible parking stalls with required signage and stall striping • Playgrounds should comply with ADA requirements, including accessible elevated and • Provide an accessible route from the parking ground level elements. lot to the park with ADA compliant curb ramps where needed. • Provide an ADA compliant path or ramp into playground surfacing, aligned near play Path of travel equipment transfer decks.
• Primary and secondary walkways including • Surface materials for exercise areas should be access to the park and path of travel to all park ADA compliant, with adequate circulation space. assets should be accessible. • Gated and enclosed dog park entry areas, • Provide ADA compliant path of travel between enclosure gates, and seating, if provided, should accessible park assets, park furnishings, park be accessible. entries, buildings and stalls in the parking lot. • Community gardens should have ADA compliant • The slope for all accessible paths of travel raised beds to accommodate persons with should not exceed fve percent (5%) unless they disabilities. Provide raised, accessible beds and are provided with handrails and ramps per ADA accessible pathways to and within the garden. regulations. Gates • Park furnishings and equipment should remain clear of walkways and accessible path of travel. • Pedestrian gates should meet code, including opening force, closing time, kick-plate, handle • Access to buildings should meet ADA height, clear floor area, clear opening width and requirements. maneuvering clearances. Site furnishings
• Accessible site furnishings should be provided at all parks.
3-8 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Asset, Furnishings and Equipment Selection
Park asset options will be determined primarily by the park type, as described in the planning chapter. Asset selection may also be influenced by the quality and type of existing assets located at other parks in close proximity as well as by the surrounding community demographics. The provision of different assets and furnishings at various park types seeks to balance the following considerations: distribution of assets across and between neighborhoods within the City in an equitable manner, reduction in maintenance intensity at each park site, and alignment of park assets with the specifc needs of the local community.
An analysis of the demographics of the park population to be served may help identify population-driven needs. Walking loops and sports such as pickleball may be fitting for a park located in a neighborhood with a high population of seniors, while tot lots may best serve areas with many young children. After initial demographic and site analysis, community outreach and input will then help to refine the assets that are a best fit for the site and community as documented by the Master Plan process.
It should be noted that the assets listed in the Guidelines represent current park programming and activities that the City seeks to accommodate. This list may evolve over time as City needs, community demographics, recreational trends, maintenance considerations, and other factors change. An example is water play, which is a listed asset but is highly discouraged for implementation outside of regional parks due to their intensive maintenance requirements. The determination of continued support for a specifc asset will be made by the Director of PRNS.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-9 PARK DESIGN
Park asset selection should be based on the Materials should be vandal resistant. Selection following characteristics: value, durability, and ease of wood materials should be limited due to poor of maintenance. durability; tile should be avoided at highly vandalized areas. • Assets should be selected to provide the most recreational value or use as possible. • Furnishings and equipment should promote Playgrounds should have varying elements for ease of maintenance, which is essential different types of play and serve varying ages for parks to be properly maintained by City and abilities. Sport courts should be provided staff. Designers should consider warranty, based on the demand and demographic of the replacement part lead time, repair difficulty, and community and multi-court striping should be maintenance effort when selection of furnishings implemented if it better serves the park users. and equipment not on the approved list is required. • Assets should be selected to service all ages. From ages 1 to 100+, park assets should provide • Plants species should be selected based opportunities for play, exercise and recreational upon the site conditions, such as irrigation activity for all age groups. with recycled water, use in bioretention areas, proximity to riparian zones, and their intended Park furnishing and equipment selection is purpose (aesthetic, screening, shade, etc.) as dependent on park type, selected assets and site well as their potential contributions to improving context. The design development and construction the environment, such as through the creation documentation sections at the end of this chapter of wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, and provides approved lists of plant species and site biodiversity. furnishing manufacturers and products. Refer to each park asset design cut sheet for the appropriate park Park Assets furnishings and equipment to include. The following section describes the various park Furnishings and equipment should be selected for assets and best practices for how to incorporate durability despite heavy use, weathering and age. each asset on a park site. The content is organized Selection of equipment with moving parts should into general categories (including, but not limited to, be limited to minimize the potential for future failure. general approach, layout, adjacencies, materials and furnishings) to help the user navigate content.
3-10 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
PLAYGROUNDS
• Playgrounds are areas designed to provide children with various WHAT play opportunities and provide engaging spaces for their parents and guardians. Playground design is based on distinct age groups typically comprising tots (ages 2-5), youth (ages 5-12), and all ages (ages 2 to 12). • Playgrounds are vital for children’s development because they provide an environment where children can get physical exercise, WHY improve cognitive and motor skills, build self-confdence, and engage in social interaction through play.
• Provide playgrounds when the surrounding neighborhood WHEN demographics indicate a need for children’s play areas.
• Locate playgrounds where there are clear sight lines from the park WHERE perimeter.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-11 PARK DESIGN
General Approach wood fiber and natural turf to prevent mower clippings from mixing with fiber. Play areas should be designed to maximize play value and incorporate activities that keep children • Utilize the natural topography of the site, engaged. Play features should be selected and such as through the incorporation of embankment slides, when site grades allow organized to provide an intuitive play circuit and for it. creative surfacing layouts should be used to support play and navigation. • Provide unobstructed sight lines between separated play areas.
Layout Adjacencies • Play area size for children ages 2 to 5 should • Maintain a minimum one hundred-foot (100’) be approximately two thousand five hundred buffer or provide adequate fencing between (2,500) square feet and for children ages 5 play areas and active recreation or potentially to 12 should be approximately five thousand hazardous areas (ponds, parking, roadway, (5,000) square feet. etc.). • Age-separated play areas should be provided • Multiple play areas should be located in close to ensure equipment types and scale are age proximity to each other and maintain visibility appropriate. Play areas for different ages from seating areas for ease of supervision. should be physically distinct. • Playgrounds should be paired with compatible • Incorporate a perimeter concrete path or assets that provide activities for the entire provide a minimum three-foot (3’) buffer of family unit or group to participate in within a decomposed granite or landscape mulch close proximity to allow for supervision such between play areas surfaced with engineered as picnic areas, fitness areas, walking loops and community gardens.
maximize play value by considering user capacity and range of activity in selecting play equipment trees near playground
rubber surfacing seating in shade, benches should patterning should be be located outside of playground creatively designed to footprint and in landscape bed or enhance play value mulched area, not in turf
fencing should be provided, tot play area youth play area when necessary, to function as barriers and not as enclosures
shade should be provided over play areas in the form of tree canopies and/or shade restroom in close proximity, structures if provided playground warning sign, located Playground Layout outside of, but adjacent to, play area
3-12 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
use of rubber surfacing maximizes ADA access use of a color mix for the rubber surfacing helps obscure dirt and stains use of simple thematic designs in rubber surfacing balances enhancement of play experience with ease of repair
Hillview Park
Materials use zones because doing so may create trip hazards. Surfacing • Provide a gradual slope transition at the • Playground surfacing material should be rubber surfacing-wood fiber surfacing synthetic turf or poured-in-place rubber interface. surfacing. Engineered wood fiber may be • Rubber surfacing should be creatively used due to budget constraints if approved designed to enhance play while by the city. simultaneously using simple patterns and • Rubber surfacing should be strategically minimal seams. This allows for greater placed when used with engineered wood fiber durability and ease of repairs. Seams should surfacing in the same playground footprint. not be located within high traffic areas such as Maximize safety by locating predominantly beneath swings or at slide exits. Select color within equipment use zones. Enhance ADA mix and medium to darker colors in lieu of a access by placing surfacing between the single solid, lightcolor for rubber surfacing to playground perimeter and equipment transfer obscure dirt and stains. Adequate drainage point(s). Minimize maintenance by placing should be provided. beneath high use zones (like beneath swings • At playgrounds with rubber surfacing, utilize and at slide exits) and keeping abrasive smaller grained rubber surfacing wear course surfaces such as decomposed granite away at high traffic areas to reduce the need for from rubber surfacing. repairs and replacement. Size play area • If using rubberized surfacing and engineered footprint appropriately to meet the space wood fiber in the same playground footprint, required for the equipment. Avoid using avoid changing surfacing within equipment rubber surfacing to fll void areas in order to reduce long term investment costs.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-13 PARK DESIGN
Equipment Play Value • Select play equipment for maximum durability, • Provide a range of play experiences and with a minimum life span of 15 years. Consider types of motion including but not limited to: long-term maintenance requirements for social, creative, sensory, and constructive; each type of material. climbing, spinning, swinging, bouncing, • Play equipment should favor components sliding, jumping; proprioceptive, vestibular, with static connections. Equipment should tactile, auditory. Offering at least three maintain clear sight lines and avoid creating distinct cognitive, physical and sensory play enclosures that may act as shelter. Rope elements is encouraged. Climbers should be limited, though if used • Play equipment should meet children’s ensure rope climbers include tensioning rope developmental needs and accommodate a and above grade connections to allow for range of abilities. For example, incorporate future maintenance adjustments. basket swings in lieu of or in addition to • Rope materials used in play equipment should standard belt swings to allow non-able-bodied be durable and designed to accommodate children to experience swinging motions. the weight of adults. Rope climbers should be Incorporate quiet areas to provide relief used sparingly across the city, with installation and sensory elements to provide stimulation focused at regional parks. to children with sensory disabilities. • Avoid chain-like play equipment attachments • Maximize play value by considering user that are mounted directly into rubber surfacing capacity in selecting play equipment. due to maintenance and replacement Prioritize equipment that can be used by challenges. multiple children rather than only one child. • Avoid locating metal slides in direct sunlight. For example, provide group spinners instead Wood materials should be avoided except of solo spinners, when feasible. when specifically approved by the city. • Maximize play value by considering play Consider wood-like alternatives that provide equal play value and require minimal equipment that offers a variety of activities. maintenance. For example, a rotating climber element
perimeter fencing aids in supervision creative designs in play surfacing with simple seaming are located outside of high use zones shade trees and shade structure provided
Rotary PlayGarden
3-14 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
allows for multiple activity types in one intentionally selected within these zones. structure: climbing, spinning, hanging, Contact the Gang Intervention Task Force for sitting, and laying down, as well as providing questions regarding gang colors. visual perspective and height. • Community input should be solicited to help • Play components for the youth play area provide guidance on preferred play activity types such as climbing, spinning, or sliding should be unique from those used at the tot features. play area. • Sand play should be avoided because of the tendency for sand to migrate and negatively Amenities affect other park assets. • Provide seating with unobstructed sight lines • Avoid the use of rubber mulch surfacing for to all play areas for supervision. playground areas. • Provide a minimum of 20% shade coverage • Avoid musical instrument attachments that for seating areas and play areas at the time of may become detached and misplaced. park opening. See Landscape asset section. • Consider providing lower-cost enhancements, • Benches and other non-play furnishings such as surface games etched on pavement, should be located outside of play areas. to complement the play experience and augment the playground equipment. Fencing • Playground should be designed to be as • Utilizing play panels along fencing is inclusive as possible. See All-Inclusive encouraged to maximize play value within Playground asset section. the space. • Fencing should function as barriers, not as enclosures, to prevent children from running Playground Comment towards hazards. Feature • Avoid access gates where possible due Sand play Not supported to pinching risks to children. Access gates Rubber mulch Not supported should only be used when play areas are surfacing located adjacent to potential hazards, such as streets. Rope climbers Supported in regional parks. • Refer to Fences Walls & Gates asset. Not supported outside most regional parks. Additional Recommendations Access gates Supported when play • Play equipment should incorporate unique areas are near hazardous themes that increase play value and provide areas. a sense of place. Themes should be aligned Not supported when play with the surrounding neighborhood and areas are located safe incorporate aspects about the area’s history distance from hazards. or nature. Chain/rope Supported when used in • Colors selected for play equipment and surface wood fber surfacing. attachments furnishings should be coordinated. Prior to Not supported when color selection, review the Gang Intervention used in resilient rubber web link found in the resources list in the surfacing. appendices and determine if the project site is in a gang hot spot. Colors should be Wood play Not supported equipment
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-15 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-16 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
ALL-INCLUSIVE PLAY AREAS • All-inclusive play areas (see also Playgrounds asset section) are designed specifcally for all ages access and all abilities play that integrates the ADA WHAT accessible path into site landforms. Equipment and play experiences are selected to be intuitive, equitable, and supportive and to exceed code- required accessibility minimums.
• All-inclusive play areas provide outdoor play experiences that allow users WHY of all abilities to play together in a supportive environment. • All-inclusive play areas allow for the opportunity to exercise tolerance and inclusiveness in a community. • All-inclusive play areas provide an opportunity for caregivers with disabilities or aging caregivers to interact with the children in their care.
• Provide all-inclusive play areas when the surrounding neighborhood WHEN demographic would most beneft from unique play environments.
• Locate to provide clear sight lines into the all-inclusive play area from the park perimeter, away from potential hazards such as streets and bodies of WHERE water, and away from signifcant noise and park activities. • Locate near a primary road with convenient access to public transit and schools. • Locate at regional parks or in a Council District that currently lacks an all- inclusive playground.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-17 PARK DESIGN
General Approach Layout All playgrounds are required to be accessible • Size of the playground should be 0.8 to 1.5 to meet state and federal regulations, but those acres, exclusive of supporting facilities such requirements generally set minimum standards as a parking lot and restroom. This size allows and tend to focus on users with physical for age separated play areas, wider pathways disabilities. An inclusive playground differs by to accommodate wheelchair passage, more substantially exceeding this baseline through circulation space to accommodate a higher its intentional provision of play experiences not number of users, more spatial buffer between typically found at other playgrounds and that are quiet and active areas, and more varied and purposefully designed for users of all abilities. specialized inclusive play equipment, such as more supportive basket swings and flush This includes able-bodied users as well as users carousels. who may have auditory, visual, cognitive, sensory, and physical disabilities. • Provide gathering areas for users to socialize and quiet areas for users to retreat. Due to their more limited availability, inclusive • Provide a primary path and develop an playgrounds tend to become destination intuitive wayfinding system for users to orient playgrounds, and their design should anticipate themselves and navigate through the play this higher level of use by providing ample space. circulation space and site amenities such as • Provide additional space beyond fall zones shade, seating, restrooms, and parking to for users who use mobility devices, are accommodate longer visits.
play equipment provides a variety of sensory experiences and varying levels of physical challenge
at-grade play equipment with integrated wheelchair access allows able-bodied Rotary Play Garden children and children with disabilities to play together
3-18 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
visually impaired or have poor balance to difficulty of use, so that users with different safely circulate throughout the site. abilities may participate. • Maximize the line of sight to play elements from all locations of the play area, especially Amenities seating areas. Avoid equipment that blocks • Provide a variety of play experiences that visual observation to other areas of the site. include sensory (stimulating the basic senses • Provide space for a wheelchair adjacent to of touch, smell, sight, and hearing), vestibular all seating areas and play equipment transfer (a sixth sense of spatial orientation), and points. proprioception (a seventh sense of body awareness) activities. Adjacencies • Incorporate a strong and creative theme • Provide a parking lot and ‘family’ or that is depicted through play elements, companion care restrooms with adult site furnishings, fencing and surfacing that changing tables. establishes a unique and memorable space. • Avoid locating playgrounds adjacent to active • Provide activities that can be accessed from recreation areas, such as basketball courts ground level and does not require climbing to or skate parks, that have high noise levels access. Provide integrated wheelchair access that may over stimulate users with sensory and parking areas. disabilities. • Encourage plantings that enrich the senses like textured leaves and fragrant smells. Ensure plant material is play appropriate, Materials non-toxic, and resistant to foot traffic. • Safety surfacing should be resilient rubber • Create elevated observation points for or synthetic turf. Engineered wood fiber passive play to allow users a safe place to surfacing should not be used. observe others. • Select slide materials to minimize static • Provide shade structures or large canopy electricity build-up, which may damage shade trees. See Landscape asset section. cochlear implants. Stainless steel slides may be used where ample shade is provided. Roller slides may be used as a static free Fencing option. • Provide perimeter fencing to create a • Select equipment that builds camaraderie safe, easily supervisable and contained and allows for multiple concurrent users, play environment and prevent users from such as side by side slides, net spinners, inadvertently exiting and/or accessing more basket swings, and side by side rockers. Limit hazardous environments such as nearby the use of equipment that requires a lot of active sports fields. space and is only intended for one occupant • Avoid fencing materials with sharp edges and at a time. cables. • Select swings, spinners, climbers, and other • Access points in the perimeter fence should equipment that cradle and provide extra be clearly identifiable and include nearby support to users with limited abilities or seating and shade for supervision. strength. Provide equipment that range in • Refer to Fences Walls & Gates asset.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-19 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-20 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
PICNIC AREAS
• Picnic areas are for individuals, small groups, or large groups to WHAT gather, share meals, and host social events. Clusters of benches, café-style seating, or picnic tables may all be considered picnic areas.
• Picnic areas provide social gathering destinations. WHY • Picnic areas provide recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities. • Picnic areas provide rental opportunities to generate City revenue.
• Provide large picnic areas at parks with substantial open space. WHEN Small picnic areas should be considered at all parks.
• Locate in places with good visual character, such as within a scenic WHERE meadow or a shaded forest-like area. Locate picnic areas where there is an appealing route available for pedestrians and where there is an efficient route for vehicles to access the site.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-21 PARK DESIGN
General Approach do not need to be located near restrooms as users are not expected to stay for long Picnic areas should be delineated in clusters of periods of time and providing restrooms tables, each with access to trash receptacles, BBQ near all small picnic areas would be cost- units and other amenities based on the size of the prohibitive to construct and maintain. area and the frequency of potential users. They • Avoid locating picnic tables and other should be located away from residential property related amenities on turf or on small pads linesedges and grouped along the park’s primary within turf areas, which present maintenance path. Large picnic areas should be established as challenges. primary destinations within a park and contribute • Locate picnic areas upwind of potential to the experience and representation of the park. sources of offensive odors, such as trash enclosures or dog parks. Layout • Each picnic table should have a minimum four-foot (4’) clearance around its sides. • Small picnic areas should accommodate one Picnic tables directly adjacent to walkways to twenty-five people. Large picnic areas should be oriented such that the bench should accommodate fifty to one hundred is perpendicular to the path of travel, to people. discourage skateboard activity. • Locate picnic areas to be connected to • Each barbeque should have a minimum primary paths and in locations accessible to five-foot (5’) clearance around its sides. maintenance vehicles for maintenance staff Barbeques should be located away from to service the area. walkways, flammable materials and not under • Locate large picnic areas near parking lot and trees. on-street parking for pedestrians to access • Hot coal receptacles should be located and transport picnic supplies. adjacent to barbeque grills. • Locate large, reservable picnic areas adjacent to restrooms. Small picnic areas
tree, typ. hot coals bin BBQ grill trash receptacle, typ.
clusters of tables and chairs are suitable for individuals or intimate gatherings
Small Picnic Area Layouts
3-22 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Note: A minimum of 5% of picnic tables should be accessible.
prep counter
group BBQ grill hot coals bins
BBQ grill, typ., locate beyond shade structure and away from pathways
group picnic area under shade structure
accessible path of travel
trash receptacle, typ.
restroom
10’ wide path for maintenance vehicle access
maintenance vehicle access from parking lot parking lot
Large Picnic Area Layout
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-23 PARK DESIGN
Adjacencies • Hot coal receptacles should be provided where barbecue grills are provided. • Picnic areas can be strategically located adjacent to both passive and active • Trash receptacles should be provided at all recreation types to serve different purposes. picnic areas. A minimum of one trash can For example, a small cluster of picnic tables should be provided for every four tables. can be used as a gathering area for parents Locate trash receptacles a minimum of ten while they supervise their children playing feet (10’) and a maximum of fifty feet (50’) sports or on a playground. A physical buffer away from picnic tables and seating areas to or appropriate distance should be provided avoid offensive odors and insects near tables. between a soccer feld and large picnic area • Restrooms and parking lots should be with BBQs and serving tables in order to provided at parks with reservable picnic avoid errant ball collisions. areas and considered at parks with large • Do not locate large picnic areas adjacent non-reservable picnic areas. to residential areas due to potential noise • Drinking fountains with bottle filler should be impacts on residents. provided near large, reservable picnic areas • Do not locate picnic areas near “messy” tree and do not need to be provided at small species to minimize debris such as pinecones picnic areas in neighborhood parks. and sweet gum seeds from falling on picnic • Provide quick couplers adjacent to picnic surfaces. area to facilitate wash-downs by maintenance • Locate picnic areas near passive recreational staff. Quick couplers for picnic area wash- areas and provide buffers between active downs should not be connected to recycled recreation. water lines. • Provide ADA accessible picnic tables at all Materials picnic areas. All barbecue grills serving ADA accessible areas should be ADA accessible. • Picnic area surfacing should be hardscape, decomposed granite, or native earth. Avoid • Provide shade at all picnic areas. Shade installing turf within picnic areas. structures should be provided at reservable picnic areas. • Provide signage or other means to identify Amenities reservable picnic area and specific table • A large group BBQ and a prep counter should groupings. be provided at reservable picnic areas. • Provide a minimum of 20% shade coverage for large picnic areas at the time of park opening.
3-24 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
WALKING LOOPS
• Walking loops are continuous pedestrian paths located within a park WHAT that often run along the perimeter of the site and that are designed for recreational and exercise purposes. • Walking loops are pathways within a single park site, while trails extend beyond single sites and are part of the City’s interconnected trail network.
• Walking loops provide passive recreation and exercise opportunities on an uninterrupted path away from roadways WHY • Walking loops provide circulation throughout the park and connectivity between park assets • Walking loops provide an activity for all age groups to participate in
• Consider walking loops for all parks large enough to accommodate WHEN them. • Provide walking loops in neighborhoods that do not have nearby access to trails.
• Locate near the perimeter of the park WHERE • Locate around nature and open space settings
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-25 PARK DESIGN
General Approach • Provide connections from the walking loop to paths or trails outside the park site where Walking loops provide a fundamental recreation possible. activity for all ages and can also serve as the primary circulation path and maintenance access • Create a hierarchy of paths that includes wide, vehicular rated paths connected to other assets within the park. Optimize the to narrower pedestrian-only paths. Avoid distance of walking loops to be as long as the aligning multiple paths parallel to each other. park allows and provide a continuous alignment. • Walking loops that align with nearby trails that are a part of the City’s trail network should Layout meet Class I Bikeway Trail standards and may • The pathway comprising a walking loop function to close gaps within the trail network. should be six-foot (6’) minimum in width to allow two abreast. These pavement sections Materials should be designed to meet pedestrian loads. Walking loops that also function as • Decomposed granite should be compacted maintenance access should be eight feet (8’) and stabilized with a minimum four-inch (4”) minimum in width. These should be designed depth per the Department of Public Works to meet vehicular loads. standard construction detail. • Walking loop length should be determined by • When using decomposed granite, provide park size. Recommended minimum length of a concrete mowband between the pathway walking loop should be quarter (1/4) mile. and natural turf. • Provide vehicular access for maintenance • Provide vehicular rated surfacing for purposes along the walking loop if it serves areas that will be frequently accessed by frequently accessed maintenance elements maintenance. Consider surfacing solutions such as trash receptacles. that reduce the amount of hardscape needed while still accommodating maintenance • Walking loops should be located within the vehicle access. park, separate from sidewalks along the park frontage.
shade trees adjacent to pathway minimum 6’ wide pathway
Emma Prusch Farm Park
3-26 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Amenities • Provide large canopy, deep-rooted shade trees adjacent to walking loops, maintaining an eight-foot (8’) distance to accommodate root growth. For areas adjacent to natural turf, locate trees in a mulched area with a mowband between mulch and natural turf. • Provide distance markers every 1/10th mile to facilitate fitness. Creative signage, pavement markers and other design features are encouraged to identify and promote the use of walking loops.
Additional Recommendations • Mowbands should be twelve inches (12”) wide and installed at the edge of natural turf areas that are not adjacent to hardscape surfaces. Concrete bands should be six inches (6”) wide in other conditions.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-27 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-28 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
DOG PARKS
• Dog parks are enclosed areas dedicated for dogs to play and WHAT socialize with other dogs safely, off leash.
• Dog parks provide space where dogs can legally play and exercise WHY off leash. • Dog parks reduce conflict in parks between dogs and people and reduces dog waste in other areas of the park.
• Provide dog parks when adjacent residential land uses are limited WHEN in private yard space and dog owners would beneft from having a dedicated off leash space, such as high-density residential developments • Provide dog parks at under-utilized or under-programmed spaces to help activate the space • Provide dog parks when existing dog parks are located farther than two miles from the site; or in a Council District that currently lacks a dog park.
• Locate away from sensitive habitat areas such as riparian corridors WHERE or nature preserves where fencing may limit or discourage species migration. • Locate away from visually prominent areas of the park • Locate away from excessively sloped areas
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-29 PARK DESIGN
General Approach • Provide a concrete walking path around the interior of the dog park perimeter for dog Dog parks should provide a substantial area for owners. dogs to run and play freely, wherever possible. The design of both the dog park and the adjacent • Locate dog park entry areas away from high activity areas. park assets should consider the needs of both the dogs and people. Surfacing, fence types, • Provide long running areas, but avoid sites plant material and pathways in and around the that are excessively narrow, which may result dog park should be designed to provide an in spaces where dogs feel cornered. optimal experience for the dogs, dog owners and general park users. Adjacencies • A dog park should be considered as an active use and be located near other active and/ or Layout noisy uses, such as sports courts, and away • The preferred dog park size is one to two- from passive and/or quiet uses, such as picnic acres with the large dog run comprising areas. approximately three quarters (¾) of the • The dog park should be located near parking. area and the small dog run comprising approximately one quarter (¼) of the area. All • Provide spatial buffers between dog parks dog runs should be a minimum of one quarter and other uses, particularly sensitive (1/4) acres. adjacent land uses such as residential edges or sensitive adjacent park uses such as • Provide separated dog runs for small and playgrounds. large dogs to help avoid conflicts between dogs of different sizes. • Dog parks should be located a minimum of fifty feet (50’) from residential properties, or a distance at which barking would not be
decomposed granite, typ. shade tree with tree guard, typ. bench on concrete pad, typ.
concrete walkway small dog run
picnic table, typ. large dog run
shade structure
12’ wide maintenance gate, typ.
synthetic turf surfacing, typ. mulch, typ. double gate entrance, typ. Dog Park Layout 5’ to 6’ tall perimeter fence
3-30 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
welded wire fence with double gate
drinking fountain with spigot and independent bowl set in concrete pad
Butcher Park
perceived as louder than ambient noises. • The size of the dog run should determine the Consider the proximities between dog surfacing type. Small areas less than half an parks and adjacent land uses to avoid noise acre should use a single surfacing material. disturbances, provide visual buffers and Medium and larger sized areas greater than minimize conflicts between dogs and other half an acre may feature a combination of park uses. synthetic turf and decomposed granite or • Avoid having the main park path of travel wood fiber. Large areas over two acres may cross the dog park to minimize excessive utilize natural turf if approved by the city. barking. • The synthetic turf surface should not be • Separate children play areas from dog park interrupted by any permanent feature (such areas and ensure path of travel to dog parks as boulders) to discourage digging of the turf do not cross play areas. edge by dogs. • Dog parks with synthetic turf surfaces should have the turf subbase drain to the sanitary Materials sewer system. • Dog park entrances should have concrete • Synthetic turf used in dog parks should be pavement. Dog run surfacing should manufactured specifically for dogs and be unstabilized decomposed granite, should be non-toxic, odor-resistant, shorter in engineered wood fiber (which is a wood pile height, and not include, or require, infill to chips product engineered to knit together avoid ingestion by dogs. Parks with synthetic and reduce splinters) or pet-friendly synthetic turf should accommodate a groomer and turf. Natural turf may be used in dog parks related on-site storage for the groomer for of sufficient size (i.e. minimum two acres), if regular maintenance and to uphold product approved by the City. warranty. Coordinate with the City about • Synthetic turf may be used if approved by available groomers in nearby park sites that the City once a long-term funding source to could be used to meet the maintenance addresses future turf replacement has been needs of the park. identifed.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-31 PARK DESIGN
• When a combination of synthetic turf and minimize clogged basins. Fountains should other surfacing material is used, the portion of be placed within a concrete pad to minimize synthetic turf should be rectangular in shape mud and wet surfacing. Provide one drinking and be a minimum of two thousand (2,000) fountain for each dog run. square feet in size. • Dog waste bag dispensers and bags should not be provided as dog owners are expected Amenities to bring their own bags. • Trash receptacles, drinking fountains, shade, • Avoid placing landscape areas within the a wash down system, and seating provided by dog run. Limit planting immediately adjacent benches or picnic tables should be provided to the perimeter fence due to maintenance in each area. challenges. All plantings near and around the dog park should be non-toxic to dogs. • Shade should be provided through a combination of trees and shade structures, especially over seating areas. Provide Fencing shade over seating areas through structures • Dog parks should be enclosed by fencing. for immediate sun protection and provide Large and small dog runs should be separated future shade through trees for other areas of by fencing. the dog park. • Fencing should be five feet (5’) to six feet (6’) • Trees within the dog park should be placed in tall, ornamental or welded wire fence with a raised beds or have fence protection to avoid mowband beneath to facilitate maintenance damage from dog urine. Provide large canopy and minimize digging. See Fences Walls & shade trees along the perimeter walking loop Gates asset. or as a cluster within the dog run. • Entrances should feature double gates and • Dog drinking fountains should feature a separate entries to the large and small dog spigot with an independent steel bowl to runs to create a pen to allow owners to safely
shade tree or shade structure
minimum 5’ tall fence
concrete walking path along dog park perimeter
seating in shade
synthetic turf surfacing secondary surface material around Butcher Dog Park perimeter
3-32 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
unleash their dog before entering the dog run area. • Gates should have self-closing hinges and latches. • Provide twelve foot (12’) wide double gates for maintenance vehicule access into each dog run. • Creative fencing designs are encouraged to visually enhance the dog park. Sharing edges with other fences and walls on-site is encouraged to minimize the amount of fencing.
Additional Recommendations • Spray irrigation systems should be installed to wash down dog run areas. Provide an infusion system that allows the insertion of an enzyme-based cleaner to run through the irrigation system to sanitize the dog run surface. Wash down system should be separate from landscape irrigation system. Alternatively, a quick coupling system with quick couplers located every hundred feet (100’) may be provided within each dog run if approved by the City. • Consider programming for a “friends of dog park” community group to assist with maintenance. • Fun and playful features that support the San Jose ‘brand’ of whimsy should be provided, such as paw prints in the pavement, giant bones or other features that celebrate dog play.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-33 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-34 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
SPORTS FIELDS
• Sports felds are designated turf areas designed to accommodate WHAT organized sports including, but not limited to, softball, baseball, soccer, football, cricket, and lacrosse.
• Sports felds provide an opportunity for programming organized sports leagues, which are a vital part of community development for WHY youth and adults. • Sports felds encourage physical activity, teamwork and sportsmanship. • Sports felds provide an opportunity for the City to generate revenue.
• Provide sports felds when the size of the site can accommodate a WHEN variety of assets, so that the park site is not limited to a single use. • Provide sports felds with synthetic turf to act as a protective cap on sites with contaminated soils.
• Locate at sites with a maximum gradient of 1.5%. WHERE • Locate synthetic turf sports felds within Council Districts that are currently lacking them. Prioritize synthetic turf feld placement within Council Districts that are unable to meet programming demands with a natural turf feld. • Locate synthetic turf felds outside of flood-prone areas due to the potential damage to the turf and underlying drainage system.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-35 PARK DESIGN
General Approach for player run-out space, spectator seating, and to protect other park users from errant Sports felds should be designed to accommodate balls. organized, programmed sports play and be distinguished from open, passive-use turf areas. • Orient softball/baseball fields such that a line running from home plate to second base Sports feld types should be determined based points north/northeast. Other fields should be upon community needs and accommodations oriented north-south wherever possible. for multi-sports felds should be explored where possible. The feld layouts and dimension tables • Sports fields and recreational turf areas should be physically separated or distinguished from in this section provide guidance on the size and each other using physical delineations such area required to accommodate different types of as mowbands or fencing. Each area should sports felds for various age groups. have separate irrigation systems to allow for different levels of irrigation and maintenance. Layout • Sports felds with multi-sport striping increase the frequency of feld use. To account for • The size of sports fields varies but generally increased use, consider incorporating multi- requires approximately 1 to 2 acres per field. sport felds at locations with synthetic turf Field size is dictated by the specified sport, and feld lighting. The striping for each sport the age of players, and supplemental support should be delineated with distinguishable areas such as spectator seating, as illustrated. colors. Playing areas should not overlap with • Consider implementing multi-use fields to baseball and softball infeld mix or cricket maximize the usage and address demand. pitches. Locate overlapping fields to take advantage of shared striping. Adjacencies • Fields should have safety zones that are 100’ wide along all sides or have adequate • Provide spatial buffers between the field fencing or netting. These zones may be used and surrounding neighborhoods, especially
netting behind soccer goal to prevent errant balls in adjacent street
synthetic turf feld
perimeter warning track
Del Monte Park
3-36 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
equipment storage box
aluminum backless dugout bench
De Anza Park
sensitive adjacent land uses such as • Multi-use fields that include softball and residential areas. Use landscape as a buffer soccer should be synthetic turf where to add visual interest. possible. Sports fields used exclusively for • Sports fields are active use zones and softball and baseball should be natural turf. frequently generate loud noises, bright • Synthetic turf should utilize a free-draining, lighting and heavy foot traffic and should be cushioned shock pad beneath the turf located adjacent to other active use assets. carpet. Turf pile height, type, and infill should • Sports fields should be located near parking be selected to meet the needs of the sport and restroom. with consideration to performance, cost, maintenance, recyclability, and durability. • Scorekeeper boxes and storage shed structures should be durable and vandal • Provide watering systems to wash down resistant. synthetic turf fields. Spray heads and rotors should not be located within the playing feld, only on the turf perimeter. Otherwise, Materials provide a sufficient number of quick couplers • Sports fields may be synthetic turf or natural for manual wash down. It is recommended turf. Adequate drainage provisions should for quick couplers to be located at 25’ to 50’ be provided. The field of play should be free intervals. of structures such as area drains and utility • Do not locate hardscape within the boxes stormwater runoff zone of fields. Design • Synthetic turf may be used if approved by grading to prevent stormwater runoff from the City once a long-term funding source has hardscape from draining onto fields. been identifed. • Baseball and softball infield mix should be • For natural turf fields, proper soil preparation decomposed granite or infield fines. Quick and weed abatement should be implemented couplers should be provided near infield mix for a period of time prior to turf installment. surfacing for field wetting.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-37 PARK DESIGN
Amenities Fencing • Provide restrooms wherever sports fields are • Softball/baseball backstops should be programmed for league play. hooded or arched custom assemblies. Avoid • Provide drinking fountains with bottle fillers. dome- style and pre-fabricated backstops. • Provide bleachers, dugout bench, and shade • Softball/baseball outfield fence should be 8’ structure at softball and baseball dugouts. high, or higher if there is insufficient buffer to Bleachers should be placed on a concrete or adjacent property. decomposed granite pad. • Provide 12’ wide maintenance gates and • Provide a designated location on a concrete vehicular access. or decomposed granite pad outside of the • Provide perimeter chain link fence at turf area for soccer goal storage. Utilize heavy synthetic turf fields to regulate access and duty chains to secure goals. prevent vehicular intrusions. See Fences, • Synthetic turf fields should, wherever Walls & Gates asset section. possible, include sports field lighting to maximize hours of use. Additional Recommendations • Locate trees a minimum 20’ away from • Recommendations are for recreational synthetic turf fields and select species with use. Sports complexes have additional large leaves and minimal year-round litter to requirements such as concession stands, minimize maintenance. public address system, electronic scoreboard, • Provide shade at all spectator seating areas. score keeper’s booth, and storage buildings. requirements such as concession stands, • Provide in-ground sleeves for portable public address system, electronic scoreboard, fencing. score keeper’s booth, and storage buildings • Provide in-ground soccer goal anchors for to be determined in consultation with the City. soccer fields.
3-38 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
A
C 20’ minimum clearance and 20’ tall netting halfway line at ends, typ. center circle, penalty arc, 30’ radius typ. center spot
B D E goal line, typ.
corner arc, typ.
10’ minimum clearance on sides, touch line goal area, typ. typ., 20’ recommended minimum penalty mark, typ. clearance to all vertical structures penalty area, typ.
Soccer Field Layout
Soccer Field Dimensions
Age or A B C D E Goal Height (ft) Division Overall Field Overall Field Width Field Field Goal Size Length (ft) (ft) Length (ft) Width (ft) Width (ft) Youth 340 195 300 175 18.5 6.5 Adult 400 245 360 225 24 8
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-39 PARK DESIGN
warning track, 10’ minimum recommended
outfeld
foul line, typ. C
A D grass line infeld
bullpen 25’ minimum, location, typ. B recommended dugout, typ.
bleacher location, typ.
Baseball Field Layout backstop
Baseball Field Dimensions Division Ages A B C D Between Pitching Home Plate to Outfield Pitchers Mound to Grass Line Bases Distance Fence
Minors/ 7-12 60’ 46’ min. 200’ 50’ radius Majors 50/70 11-13 70’ 50’ min. 200’ 69’ radius Junior/Senior 12-16 90’ 60’-6” min. 300’ 95’ radius
3-40 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
warning track, 10’ minimum recommended
outfeld
C
foul line, typ.
grass line A infeld
bullpen 25’ minimum, location recommended B dugout, typ.
bleacher location
backstop Softball Field Layout
Softball Field Dimensions Division Ages A B C D Between Pitching Home Plate to Pitchers Mound to Grass Line Bases Distance Outfield Fence
Tee Ball 4-5 50' N/A N/A Little League
Minors 5-11 60' 35' 200' to 225' Little League Little 9-12 60' 40' 200' to 225' Little League League (Majors) Junior/ 12-16 60' 43' 200' to 225' Little League Senior High Grades 9-12 60' 43' (female 185' to 275' NFHS School fast pitch)
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-41 PARK DESIGN
A
C
E F FOOTBALL FIELD TABLE
goal post, typ.
B D G end zone end zone
H restraining line 3-yard line restricted area
Football Field Layout
Football Field Dimensions
Division A B C D E F G H Source Overall Overall Field Field Distance End Goal Distance to Length Width Length Width Between Zone Width Restraining (yds) (yds) (yds) (yds) End Zones Depth Line (yds) (yds) (yds) High 130 min. 63-1/3 120 53-1/3 100 10 23'-4" 2 min. NFHS School min.
3-42 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
CL 5’ minimum clearance, recommended B C
A 74’
return crease popping crease synthetic turf surfacing bowling crease
Cricket Pitch Enlargement 8’-8” 2’-0” 12’-0”
4’-0” Cricket Field Layout
Cricket Field Dimensions
Division A B C Source Pitch Length Inner Circle Boundary Diameter, (yards) Diameter measured from center of the (yards) match pitch (yds)
U13 22 30 50 to 55 Northern California Cricket Association U15 22 30 55 to 60 Northern California Cricket Association Men's 22 30 65 to 90 International Cricket Council
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-43 PARK DESIGN
390’
15’ minimum clearance at ends, typ. 45’ typ. 75’ typ. 60’ typ.
midfeld line
center goal line, 30’ typ. circle typ. L C 216’ goal circle, 6’ typ. typ.
60’ typ. endline, typ. 30’ typ. sideline, typ.
18’ minimum clearance wing area, typ. on sides, typ. restraining line, typ. restraining box, typ. alley, typ.
8 meter arc 90°
12 meter fan
45°
47’-9” typ. 28’-3” Lacrosse Goal Enlargement
Lacrosse Field Layout
3-44 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
124m to 154m (406.9 ft to 505.3 ft)
114m to 144m (374.1 ft to 472.5 ft) 5m (16.5) minimum 10m to 22m (32.9 ft to 72.2 ft) clearance on all sides
touch line
goal goal line halfway line 22-meter line dead ball line 10-meter line in-goal 68m to 70m (223.1 ft to 229.7 ft) ft to 229.7 68m to 70m (223.1 78m to 80m (256.0 ft 262.5 ft)
18m (59.1 ft) team technical zone, typ. administrative area
Rugby Field Layout
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-45 PARK DESIGN
sports felds should not overlap with softball infeld mix no softball dirt warning track in the outfeld
refer to Soccer Field Layout for dimensions
refer to Softball Field Layout for dimensions
Example of Multi-Field Layout: Softball and Soccer Field
3-46 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
SPORTS COURTS
• Sport courts are flat, paved areas designed to accommodate WHAT a designated recreational game including, but not limited to, basketball, tennis, pickleball, futsal, volleyball and bocce.
• Sports courts provide an opportunity for recreational sports to take place, which is a vital part of community development for youth and WHY adults. • Sports courts encourages physical activity, teamwork and sportsmanship.
• Provide sports courts when the size of the site can accommodate a WHEN variety of assets, so that the park site is not limited to a single use. • Provide sports courts to act as a protective cap on sites with contaminated soils.
• Locate in areas that are relatively flat. WHERE • Locate along roadway frontages to maximize visibility. • Locate away from residential edges and passive or other low intensity park uses.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-47 PARK DESIGN
General Approach visual interest and house infrastructure such as light poles. Sports courts should be designed to accommodate recreational and league play and service players of various skill levels. Multi-court Adjacencies striping should be explored where possible to • Consider the impacts of noise and court accommodate a broader range of users. Provide lighting on adjacent land uses and provide ample shade and seating areas for players and appropriate buffers and screening. spectators alike. • Avoid locating courts near streets to minimize stray balls from rolling into the street. On sites with spatial constraints, align Layout courts to run parallel to adjacent streets and • The size of a court and its related safety/ run- provide barriers where necessary. out zone is dictated by the specified game, as • Adjacent assets should include active illustrated, and ranges from approximately recreation activities. 1,200 square feet per court for bocce ball to 7,200 square feet per court for tennis. • Provide seating areas adjacent to ‘social’ sports such as bocce. • Consider implementing multi-sport court surfaces to maximize the potential player base. Provide sleeves, caps, and plates as Materials required to accommodate removable posts. • For most sport courts, post-tensioned • Courts should be oriented, as illustrated, to concrete with medium- broom finish should minimize glare to players. be provided when possible. Standard concrete and flexible pavement may also be • Fenced courts such as tennis courts should used. When using flexible pavement, encircle have a landscaped perimeter to provide the court with a flush concrete band.
seating provided within court
color coating with visual contrast from striping
fencing with Backesto Park windscreens on court side
3-48 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
benches by court
concrete perimeter curb with wood bumper board
synthetic turf court surfacing for ease of maintenance
removable board for ADA access
Almaden Lake Park
• Acrylic, wear- and slip-resistant color • Locate trees a minimum 10’ away from court coating should be provided for basketball, edges and select species with deep, non- tennis, pickleball, and futsal courts. Select aggressive roots. color(s) with consideration to site furnishing • Site furnishings should be surface mounted palette and overall park aesthetic as well as on concrete pads so as not to interfere with visual contrast with striping. future court resurfacing. • Bocce ball: Court should be designed with • Benches should be provided both inside and a synthetic turf court surface. Perimeter outside of the court area to accommodate curb should be concrete with wood bumper people waiting to play. board. Court surfaces should be built over a concrete base to prevent burrowing pests • Shade should be provided at all seating areas from damaging the court. as well as bocce ball court playing area. • Volleyball: Court should have a concrete, • Tennis and Pickleball: Provide practice walls sand, or grass surface. Concrete surface that do not have side walls. Practice walls should include in-ground sleeves for should be 10’ tall and 32’ wide minimum to removable posts. Sand surface should accommodate multiple users at once. be contained with a concrete mowband • The installation of lighting for night-time use surrounded by a turf buffer area. Provide should be determined by the city on a case steel net posts. by case basis. Light poles should be located in landscape strips outside of the fencline Amenities where possible. • Provide restrooms wherever sport courts are programmed for league play. Fencing • Provide seating, shade, and drinking • Tennis and Pickleball: Provide 12’ high fountains with bottle fillers adjacent to sport perimeter fencing with fabric and vented courts, particularly at ends of bocce courts. windscreens installed on the court side of the posts, see Fences, Walls & Gates asset.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-49 PARK DESIGN
• Futsal: Provide 6’ high perimeter fence, see Fences Walls & Gates asset. • Fence post footings should be placed in and centered on a perimeter concrete band.
Additional Recommendations • Creative visual experiences are encouraged on sport court surfacing so long as playability remains unimpeded. • Court lighting for all sports should be reviewed on a case by case basis as determined by the PRNS directors to meet Public Life goals identifed by ActivateSJ. • Recommendations are intended for recreational court use. Courts designed for tournaments should meet additional requirements to be determined by the city. • See chapter 4 for discussion on court conversions.
10’ mininum clearance around court, typ.
net post, typ. 29’-6” 50’ center line endline, typ. endline,
59’
80’
Sand Volleyball Court Layout
3-50 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
3’-0” minimum clearance of vertical obstructions all sides of court, 10’-0” recommended, typ.
sideline
4’-0” 3-point line
1’-3” to center of hoop E
division line center circle
B D end line 2’ radius 6’ radius F free throw line
C
A
Basketball Court Layout
Basketball Court Dimensions
Age/ A B C D E F G Source Grade Overall Overall Court Court Distance of Distance Height of Basket Length Width Length Width 3-Point Arc of Free- (from center Throw Line of hoop to (measured outside edge from face of of striping) backboard) Ages 12-14 90' or 56' 84' or 50' 19'-9" 15' 10' USA 100' 94' Basketball Grades 100' 56' 94' 50' 22'-2" or 15' 10' USA 9-12 the next Basketball available line under 22'-2" Collegiate 100' 56' 94' 50' 20'-9" 15' 10' NCAA NCAA (women's), 22' 1-3/4" (men's) NBA 100' 56' 94' 50' 23'-9" 15' 10' NBA
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-51 PARK DESIGN
120’
78’ 21’ clear of vertical obstructions at ends, typ.
center mark, typ.
60’ 36’ baseline, typ.
doubles alley, typ.
3’ typ.
12’ clear of vertical center service line obstructions on sides, typ. singles sideline doubles sideline net post, typ.
Tennis Court Layout
5’ mininum clearance on side, typ.
1’ net post, typ.
centerline, typ. 10’ typ. baseline, typ. 30’ to 34’
7’ typ. 15’ typ. 8’ minimum clearance at end, typ. 60’ to 64’
Pickleball Court Layout
3-52 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
locate benches and other furnishings beyond clear zone, typ. 5’ minimum 12’ clear of vertical clearance on obstructions on sides, typ. refer to Pickleball Court Layout for dimensions sides, typ. refer to Tennis Court Layout for dimensions
8’ minimum clearance on ends, typ. 120’
Example of Multi-Court Cluster: Tennis & Pickleball
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-53 PARK DESIGN
5’ minimum clearance around court, typ. side wall, 6” wide, typ. side rail, 2x6 boards, typ. 32” minimum opening with removable synthetic turf surfacing board for wheelchair access
D scoreboard
B
C
A bench, typ. provide additional courts if space allows shade structure
Notes: 1. Provide seating areas adjacent to bocce ball courts to support social gatherings. 2. If courts are located adjacent to one another as shown above, ensure that at least one side length-wise is adjacent to a walkway.
Bocce Ball Court Layout
Bocce Ball Court Dimensions
Type A B C D Source Overall Overall Width Court Court Length (2 court layout) Length Width
Recreational 86' 36' 76' 13' Bocce Builders of America Official 100' 36' 90' 13' Bocce Builders of America
3-54 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
16’-0”
protective barrier, 4’-0” tall, typ., recommended 6’-0” backstop, 12” tall minimum 5’-0”, typ. 5’-0”,
stake, typ. 6’-0”, typ. 6’-0”,
37’ foul line 10’-0”, typ. 10’-0”,
27’ foul line 7’-0”, typ. 7’-0”,
20’ foul line 46’-0” 56’-0”
27’ foul line
decomposed granite concrete
37’ foul line 1’-0”
4’-0” pit area, typ. 1’-0”
Note: Foul lines should be indicated on the concrete pavement by a score joint or paint.
Horseshoes Layout
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-55 PARK DESIGN
refer to Tennis Court Layout for dimensions refer to Volleyball Court Layout for dimensions
net posts with ground sleeve and hinged post cap, typ.
Example of Multi-Sport Court, Layout A: Tennis & Volleyball
refer to Basketball Court Layout for dimensions refer to Volleyball Court Layout for dimensions
net posts with ground sleeve and hinged post cap, typ. Example of Multi-Sport Court, Layout B: Basketball & Volleyball
3-56 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
refer to Basketball Court Layout for dimensions refer to Tennis Court Layout for dimensions refer to Volleyball Court Layout for dimensions
net posts with ground sleeve two (2) half court basketball and hinged post cap, typ. courts at each end of court
Example of Multi-Sport Court, Layout C: Tennis, Volleyball & Basketball
29m to 46m (95.2 ft to 151 ft)
2m (6.6 ft) minimum clear, typ. 25m to 42m (82.1 ft to 137.8 ft)
10m (32.9 ft)
3m (9.9 ft) radius 6m (19.7 ft) center mark
penalty area 3m (9.9 ft) 3m (9.9 second penalty goal mark 15m to 25m (49.3 ft to 82.1 ft) ft to 82.1 15m to 25m (49.3 19m to 29m (62.4 ft 95.2 ft) penalty mark substitution substitution zone zone
5m (16.5 ft), typ. 5m (16.5 ft), typ. Futsal Field Layout
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-57 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-58 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
FITNESS AREAS
• Fitness areas are groups of exercise equipment organized in a WHAT cluster or a par course organized as a circuit along a trail or walking loop that provide activities to promote health and physical activity.
• Fitness areas promote the health benefts of outdoor exercise. WHY • Fitness areas provide exercise opportunities for various age groups. • Fitness areas provide activities for adults while they supervise their children.
• Provide ftness areas when there is a need for outdoor activities, WHEN especially for older age groups.
• Locate ftness equipment in visible locations with clear sight lines to WHERE attract users and deter vandalism.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-59 PARK DESIGN
General Approach Materials Fitness areas provide designated space and • Fitness area surface should be decomposed equipment for physical exercising. Fitness areas granite, concrete, or resilient rubberized should provide activities that accommodate all safety surfacing. When selecting surfacing, ages and demographics. Durable equipment consider the type of use that is anticipated should be selected that is able to provide a range within the area and the context where the fitness area is located in. In an urban context, of skill levels and challenges. consider concrete or rubber surfacing. In a natural or open space context, consider Layout decomposed granite. • Par courses should be paired with trails or • Equipment should be durable and vandal walking loops. Otherwise, fitness equipment resistant. Avoid using wood for any type of should use a cluster layout. ftness equipment. • When located adjacent to a playground, keep uses distinct by clearly identifying use zones Fitness Value through surfacing or with physical barriers. • Select equipment based on the • The incorporation of ftness elements demographics of the users and provide throughout the park including areas to sprint, activities for a range of ages and abilities. jump, and climb stairs are highly encouraged. The combination of equipment should The park should be viewed as a place of provide for a full-body workout (i.e. training opportunity for exercise. major muscle groups in both the upper and lower body) and address cardio-respiratory endurance, muscle strength and endurance, Adjacencies and flexibility. • Where playgrounds are present, locate exercise clusters to allow direct sight lines Amenities between playgrounds and fitness equipment for concurrent adult supervision and exercise. • Exercise clusters should be provided with at minimum one bench and one drinking fountain with bottle filler.
decomposed granite, concrete, or resilient rubberized surfacing
use static exercise equipment for par courses and equipment that serves varying abilities and different muscle groups
Backesto Park
3-60 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
• Provide shade over exercise clusters and seating areas using structures or large canopy trees.
Additional Recommendations • Static fitness equipment is recommended for par courses to reduce the need for adjustments and replacement parts. • Dynamic fitness equipment with moving parts or that utilize body-weight resistance may be installed at exercise clusters. Consider the warranty and ease of sourcing replacement parts when selecting equipment. • Fitness equipment should include instructions for proper use.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-61 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-62 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
SKATE PARKS
• Skate parks are areas dedicated for skateboarders, inline skaters, WHAT bicyclists, and other users of non-motorized wheeled recreational devices of all ages and skill levels to enjoy.
• Skate parks provide a dedicated facility for skaters and bicyclists to WHY safely practice their sport and develop their skills.
• Provide skate parks when it would be of most value to the surrounding WHEN neighborhood demographic. • Provide skate parks when there is a lack of existing skate facilities in the nearby area.
• Locate in locations with clear sight lines. WHERE
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-63 PARK DESIGN
General Approach Adjacencies Skate parks can vary from small hardscape • Avoid locating adjacent to residential areas. areas with skate features that provide secondary • A skate park is an active use and should be uses, such as grind rails integrated into site located near other active and/or noisy uses. furnishings such as seat walls, to a large area Locate away from passive and/or quiet uses with a large variety of skate features and vertical that would be impacted by high noise levels skateboarding elements where skating is the and evening events with lighting primary activity. Skate park design should involve both experienced skate park designers as well Materials as local community members to provide input • Skate elements should be site-cast concrete on desired skate features. Skate parks should except where city requests pre-cast and/or provide a safe and welcoming environment for modular element the community to practice and experience the sport. Amenities • Provide seating and shade trees that drop Layout minimal litter. • Skate parks should be designed by • Provide trash receptacles at all entrances. experienced skate park design professionals • All site furnishings should be secured, durable and constructed by pre- qualified contractors. and vandal resistant. • Provide a variety of features that cater to all ages and abilities. Fencing • Provide minimum 10’ clear zone between • Skate parks at neighborhood and community edge of skate elements and fences, parks that consist of a small cluster of skate furnishings and other potential hazards. features should not require fencing. • Avoid placing separate skate elements on • Large skate parks with multiple large skate a lot. Create a congruent environment of features such as bowls, pipes and ramps skate features that has architectural and for vertical skateboarding should have placemaking value.
fencing
graffiti at skate parks is viewed as part of the culture created by the users
Plata Arroyo Park
3-64 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
ornamental fencing as a perimeter to avoid falls and collisions with other park users. • Provide high security fencing only where access control is necessary for safety or around parks that are located in areas more susceptible to vandalism. See Fencing, Walls and Gates asset. • For deep bowls, provide railings in concrete around the edge to keep people from inadvertently falling in at night and that provide an anchor point for first responders to anchor ropes during emergency extractions.
Additional Recommendations • Engage user groups during the design process. Consider range of user abilities when selecting park features. • Limit height of individual skate elements to six feet or less for amateur users and three feet or less for beginner users. Provide guidance for difficulty level for elements. • Provide drain inlets and drainage structures for bowls. Consider drainage requirements for site-cast concrete and modular elements. • View graffiti that occurs at the skatepark as part of the culture created by the users. Encourage the commission of murals to embrace the culture.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-65 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-66 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
BIKE PARKS
• Bike parks are areas dedicated for off-road bicycle riders of all ages WHAT and skill levels to enjoy.
• Bike parks provide space for bicyclists to safely practice their sport WHY and develop their skills.
• Provide bike parks when it would be of most value to the surrounding WHEN neighborhood demographic.
• Locate in areas with clear sight lines for the public and which allow WHERE drive-by visual access. • Locate at sites with some natural grade variation. • Locate at regional parks where park size could accommodate.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-67 PARK DESIGN
General Approach Materials Bike parks can include small pump tracks for • Soil content should be a mix of 60% sand and beginners to large bike parks with advanced 40% clay for adequate drainage. Provide soil features. Designing bike parks should involve binder or polymer to bind soil and harden experienced professionals and community surfaces. Consider using decomposed members to provide a safe and exciting granite as a topcoat. experience. Amenities • Provide spectator seating, shade, drinking Layout fountain with bottle filler, equipment repair • Bike parks should generally be a minimum and wash down station, adequate storage for of two acres in size. Small scale pump tracks maintenance equipment and staff designated may be accommodated in smaller footprints. seating areas for event operations. • Bike parks should be designed by • At sites where programming and hosting experienced bike park design professionals events is anticipated, provide adequate and constructed by pre-qualified contractors. parking and restroom facilities. • Each park should accommodate a range • Ensure all equipment and furnishings are of skillsets and include park features for durable and vandal resistant. beginners to advanced users. • Provide lighting for night time use.
Adjacencies Fencing • Avoid locating near residential areas. • Provide high security fencing. where access • A bike park is an active use and should be control is necessary for safety or around parks located near other active and/or noisy uses. that are located in areas more susceptible to Locate away from passive and/or quiet uses vandalism. See Fences Walls & Gates asset. that would be impacted by high noise levels • Provide twelve foot (12’) wide maintenance and evening events with lighting. gates and vehicular access into bike park.
Lake Cunningham Park
3-68 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Additional Recommendations • For bike parks intended to be used to host sanctioned events, confirm that park design meets the racing organizations’ rules for competition. • Involve local bike shops and community groups early in the design process to encourage local ownership of the park and volunteers to maintain the course with oversight by City staff. All course maintenance should be conducted per the original design plans and specifcations to preserve the prescribed slope design. • Engage local agencies early to coordinate advertisement and future programming. • Engage the city attorney’s office for best practices for specifying pre-qualified contractors. • Ensure adequate funding is available for ongoing maintenance required to uphold a safe and quality bike park.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-69 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-70 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
COMMUNITY GARDENS • Community gardens are rentable spaces for gardeners to grow fresh WHAT vegetables, socialize and enjoy the outdoors.
• Community gardens provide fresh vegetables that are grown and harvested WHY by local residents. • Community gardens provide social gathering spaces for gardeners. • Community gardens provide outdoor recreation activity for a demographic that parks often overlook.
• Provide community gardens when there is a defcit of community gardens WHEN within a Council District to meet community desires.
• Locate near adjacent residential land uses that are limited in private open space, such as high-density residential developments. Locate on City of WHERE San Jose Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services owned land when feasible. • Locate in ‘food desert’ areas that are generally low-income and lack a variety of fresh organic fruits and vegetables at affordable prices. • Locate in an area with clear sight lines for drive-by visual access and sufficient solar access to support growth of vegetables. • Locate on land that is relatively level with fertile, friable and uncontaminated soil per Environmental Services Department (ESD) standards and away from riparian habitat areas.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-71 PARK DESIGN
General Approach • Ensure materials used in the garden plots do not contaminate the soil. Community gardens should provide access to a dedicated number of plots and all the amenities Amenities provided for gardening. Because gardening is a • Provide portable toilets, if park restrooms seasonal activity, explore creative solutions for are further than walking distance, trash the garden to provide visual interest in the off receptacle, and a storage shed suitably sized season. Provide shade at seating and preparation for tool storage. areas and assure garden plots are organized to • Storage sheds should be constructed with receive optimal sun exposure. durable materials and be vandal resistant. Provide secure locking mechanisms for all sheds. See furnishings and equipment list. Layout • Provide two concrete pads for the temporary • Minimum size should be half (1/2) acre to storage of garden materials such as soil or accommodate a minimum twenty-four green waste, minimum size to be 10’x10’. • (24) plots of three hundred (300) square feet Consider providing walls on up to three sides each. of the pad to prevent material overspill. • Ten percent (10%) of plots should be dedicated • Provide a shaded picnic area with a prep ADA plots. counter for social gatherings. • Community gardens should be located at the Fencing outside edge of parks to provide easy access for material delivery and pick-up. Because • Provide a 12’ wide maintenance gate and the gardens are used seasonally, consider vehicular access into the garden. Provide 4’ creative solutions to enhance the aesthetic wide, lockable pedestrian entry gate. value during the off-season. • Perimeter fence should be 6’ tall ornamental • Plots should be in-ground with edges metal. 8’ tall chain link fence with top curved demarcated. outward may be used in the rear of the garden. High security fencing may be • Plant trees on the exterior, 6’ minimum from required around gardens that are located the fence, with care taken to avoid casting in areas more susceptible to vandalism. See shadows on garden plots. Fencing, Walls, and Gates asset section. • Provide one hose bib for each garden plot. Additional Recommendations Adjacencies • Use raised beds at ADA accessible plots. • Locate gardens away from active recreational Minimum size should be 4’ wide and 16’ long. uses such as sports activities. • Encourage shared plots between multiple • Locate near parking lots and/or streets to gardeners to promote collaboration and build allow for ease of access and transportation community. of materials. • Provide garden rules sign and message board near entrance. Materials • Provide a dedicated water meter for • Surfacing around plots should be stabilized community garden area to monitor water use. decomposed granite. Wood chips or earth • Provide automatic water shut off capabilities may also be utilized where ADA access is not for community gardens to avoid unintended required. water use. • Use synthetic wood materials that have increased durability and longevity to delineate garden bed edges.
3-72 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
4’ wide pedestrian gate garden rules and 12’ wide maintenance gate message board, bench, typ. attached to fence
ornamental planting strip, 3’ wide, recommended storage shed, portable toilet, typ. 10’ x 12’ minimum trash receptacle tree, 6’ minimum from fence picnic area with shade from tree or shade structure prep counter 10’ x 10’ minimum pad for temporary storage of soil amendments and garden waste
decomposed granite pavement, typ.
hose rack and hose bibb, typ. ADA raised planter, typ.
group of 4 in-ground plots, 300 SF minimum per plot
5’ aisle between groups, typ.
perimeter fence
mulch, typ.
10’ aisle for maintenance vehicle access
Community Garden Layout
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-73 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-74 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
WATER PLAY
• Water play areas are designed for zero-depth interactive aquatic WHAT play utilizing flowing, misting, and/or jetting water.
• Water play areas provide sensory play, cool-off zone during warm WHY weather, and interactive experiences using water. • Water play areas allows all ages to play with water and greatly reduce the risk of drowning due to the absence of standing water. • Water play areas are a cost-effective alternative to swimming pools.
• Provide water play areas when a Council District lacks a water play WHEN area or other aquatic facility.
• Locate to provide clear sight lines into the water play areas from the WHERE park perimeter and away from potential hazards such as streets and bodies of water. • Locate in regional parks only. .
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-75 PARK DESIGN
General Approach Materials Water play includes a range of water activities • All surfacing, including the top of seat walls, from a single water emitting feature to dedicated should be slip resistant. splash pads. Water play should be provided only • Decomposed granite should not be used at select iconic locations that are approved by the adjacent to water play area. City. Operation and maintenance costs should be considered prior to incorporating water play at a Amenities park. • Provide shaded seating areas along perimeter and outside the splash zone for Layout parental supervision. • Locate water play area and surrounding elements to minimize debris that enters the Fencing water play area. Do not plant trees that • Utilize non-corrosive materials for fences are small leafed, deciduous, or that drop around water play areas. See Fencing, Wall, significant litter near the water play area. and Gates asset section. Sand or mulch should not be installed within 100’ of water play. Turf areas should be located a minimum of 3’ from water play to Additional Recommendations minimize grass clippings blown into the water • All water features should use recirculating play area. Provide curbs or similar raised systems. edging along perimeter to prevent debris from migrating into the water play area. • Large iconic water play installations that function as a destination and are focused in • The spray zone of all water play areas should key areas of the City to justify the infrastructure be restricted to the limits of the water play investments are encouraged, in lieu of small- surfacing. scale dispersed water play. • Water play areas should also serve a separate Adjacencies function when not in use, such as providing • Adjacent assets should include playgrounds a stage or gathering space. Comply with all and restrooms. Restrooms must be located local health and safety codes for aquatic per proximity established by the California facilities. Building Code.
water play area should be clear of potential plant debris and grass Cesar Chavez Park clippings
3-76 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
DISC GOLF • Disc golf is a sport in which players throw a disc at a target. The WHAT objective, as well as the course design, is similar to golf, and is played on a large open green space with trees, brush and terrain located in and around fairways to create obstacles.
• Disc golf provides a fun, cooperative activity that is played outdoors. WHY • Disc golf is enjoyable by all ages and abilities. • Disc golf promotes exercise and friendly competition.
• Provide disc golf when communities show interest in the sport and WHEN the natural environment of the site can accommodate a course.
• Consider disc golf on sites with sufficient size to accommodate a WHERE course and existing open space and tree groupings that provide a course with sufficient obstacles and challenges. • Locate at under-utilized sites that would beneft from activation but have design constraints, such as a floodplain, that make development and repair of other infrastructure-heavy assets such as sports felds impractical. These sites could accommodate the relatively inexpensive infrastructure of disc golf with minor site impacts.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-77 PARK DESIGN
General Approach but does not produce high noise levels or bright lighting. Disc golf courses are best accommodated at sites with large open spaces. Provide courses for • Disc golf courses should be placed away a range of skill levels from beginner to advanced from play areas and picnic areas to avoid discs colliding with pedestrians. players and signage that clearly identifes instructions on how to play and where to advance • The start and finish of the course should be to the next hole. located near the parking lot or near the park entrance.
Layout Materials • Disc golf courses should meet the standards • Targets are to be durable and vandal resistant of the Professional Disc Golf Association and in compliance with the Professional Disc Course Design Guidelines. Golf Association. • Engage the Silicon Valley Disc Golf club for • Tee pads should be hardscape. input during the design process. • Provide locks for baskets with multiple pin • The space required to accommodate the locations. course will be determined by the hole count for the course and can vary from 2,250 feet to 4,500 feet. Hole counts are typically 9 or 18. Amenities Provide a safe and well-designed course with • Seating should be provided at a minimum fewer holes, rather than a cramped course interval of every three tee pads. with more holes. • Signage should be provided and include • Accommodate courses for beginners and a rules sign before the first tee as well as casual players which consist of hole distances directional signs and out of bounds signs. The of a minimum of 120 feet and a maximum of primary tee at each hole should have signs 250 feet. indicating the hole number, length, direction • Fairways should not cross one another and and par for that skill level. should be spaced such that errant throws will not enter other fairways. Avoid layouts Additional Recommendations where players are throwing in the direction of nearby pathways. • Sections of the disc golf course should be ADA-accessible and playable by those with disabilities. Consider designing a multiple Adjacencies hole loop on part of the course to provide • Adjacent assets may be moderate or active, that opportunity. since disc golf is an active recreational use,
3-78 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
FENCING, WALLS, AND GATES
• Fencing, walls, and gates are upright barriers used to control access WHAT or to create a buffer from hazards. They may enclose a specifc use or divide separate uses into different zones in order to secure specifc park facilities.
• Fencing, walls, and gates provide security for assets and facilities WHY within the park. • Fencing, walls, and gates distinguish active uses from other recreational areas. • Acts as a safety barrier between recreational areas and hazards.
• Provide fencing, walls, and gates only when necessary for the safety WHEN or security of assets such as dog parks, play areas, community gardens, and sports felds and courts.
• Locate around the asset which requires it. WHERE
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-79 PARK DESIGN
General Approach or bolted and have a minimal overhang to make cap removal difficult. Fencing, walls and gates should be incorporated when access or safety is a concern. Natural Fencing features, appropriate setbacks and proper site layout is encouraged in lieu of utilizing fencing, • Wood and vinyl fencing should not be installed, except where approved by the City. walls, and gates. Fence types for specifc assets should be selected according to the City • Metal fencing should be kept a minimum of approved list. twenty-four inches away from landscaped areas that are irrigated with spray heads. • Ornamental fencing should be welded tubular Layout steel fencing, powder coated black, and • Pedestrian gates should be a minimum of should be the predominant style of fencing four feet (4’) wide. used for most park conditions, including at park perimeters, around playgrounds, • Vehicular access gates should be a minimum and other visible areas of the park. Height of twelve feet (12’) wide with double swing of fence should be six foot (6’) when utilized gates. to prevent after- hours access; otherwise, • Provide a twelve inch (12”) wide mow height may be lower, such as four foot (4’) at band directly adjacent to walls placed in playgrounds. landscape areas to facilitate weed trimming • Chain link fencing should be black vinyl- at wall base. clad chain link fencing with two-inch (2”) • Provide a three foot (3’) wide buffer between mesh opening. Galvanized chain link fencing fencing and turf using materials such as is highly discouraged. Chain link fencing decomposed granite or mulch to facilitate should be used primarily around sports field mowing. or when mowbands provide and sport courts to provide a low level of insufficient clearance security and a less expensive alternative to ornamental fencing. Height of fence should be five- feet or six-feet depending on security Adjacencies requirements. • Provide open sight lines through fencing. • Black vinyl-clad chain link fencing with a tighter one-inch (1”) mesh opening and lower Materials gauge wire size or steel palisade fencing, with six feet (6’) minimum height, should be used Gates for high security situations, such as around skate parks. The small mesh opening should • Gates should have a minimum of three hinges not allow for climbing nor permit the insertion per gate leaf and rated for the weight of the of a cutting tool. gate leaf and live loads, but should have a minimum weight capacity of three hundred • Welded wire fencing may be utilized as an pounds alternative to ornamental fencing for settings requiring both security and aesthetics, such Walls as dog parks. • Walls should be designed with sufficient texture and located to discourage graffiti. Amenities • Walls with caps, stone finishes, or other attachments should be designed to deter cap • Avoid planting tall and dense vegetation in removal and vandalism. For example, caps front of solid walls. Instead, use a combination should be integral to the wall or be mortared of trees, vines and low groundcovers that allow for visual permeability.
3-80 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Additional Recommendations • Where possible, use natural features instead of fencing to deter unauthorized vehicular access into the site and to create barriers between park assets and potential hazards. • Applying murals that are representative of the community to solid walls is encouraged. • Avoid using fencing exclusively as an ornamental feature; fencing should also have an access control or security purpose. • Fencing, walls and other barriers should be designed to allow for wildlife migration, especially near creeks, ponds, lakes and other riparian areas.
Fence Type Applicable Conditions (see amenities list) Ornamental Park perimeter fencing, fencing playgrounds, community gardens that prioritize aesthetics Black vinyl chain Sports felds, sports link fencing courts High security Skate parks, bike parks, fencing areas highly vulnerable to vandalism Welded wire Dog parks, perimeter fencing fencing that requires security and aesthetics
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-81 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-82 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
SITE FURNISHINGS
• Site furnishings are amenities provided to create comfortable spaces WHAT for users to gather and socialize, such as with benches and tables, and also to maintain hygiene or establish order, such as with trash receptacles and bicycle racks.
• Site furnishings are essential park elements that provide comfort, WHY safety and encourage tidiness.
• Site furnishings are encouraged at all parks. WHEN
• The location of site furnishings should be determined by how best WHERE they would provide comfort, safety and tidiness to a park asset while also allowing for adequate maintenance access.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-83 PARK DESIGN
General Approach trash receptacles a minimum of ten feet (10’) away from park entries and seating areas to Site furnishings should be incorporated avoid offensive odors and insects but not throughout the park to enhance park experience. farther than thirty feet away to encourage Site furnishings should be selected from the City use. approved Furnishing and Equipment list, unless • Avoid locating site furnishings on turf or approved otherwise. Regional parks and iconic individually on small pads within turf areas, locations may have opportunities for unique which present mowing challenges. Locate furnishing customizations. site furnishings in landscape areas and in groups where possible. If furnishing is located in turf area, provide a minimum three foot (3’) Layout paved clearance around sides of furnishing • Seating should be located at regular intervals to accommodate mower. Avoid locating site along walking paths, recreational facilities furnishings within paths of travel. and play areas for supervision. Maximize • Bicycle racks should be located near park shade opportunities for seating areas in the entry areas accessible by roadways and summer and sun exposure in the winter. adjacent to the main assets in the park. Include adjacent ADA companion seating area. • Bollards should be used minimally. Utilize other park elements such as trees, seat blocks, • Provide vehicular access to trash receptacle landscaping or fencing to prevent access in locations for maintenance purposes. Locate lieu of using bollards where possible.
walkway
turf 3’-0” C L light pole
concrete pad
3’-0” CL
Light Pole in Turf
3-84 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
• Bollards should be marked with a retro- All mounting hardware should be vandal reflectorized material on both sides or with resistant. appropriate object markers, per MUTCD • The use of creative and themed bike racks regulations. Striping an envelope around are encouraged. All bike racks should provide the approach to the post is recommended. the ability to lock the bike frame, not just the Removable bollard weight should be a bike tire, securely to the bike rack. maximum of 50 pounds to allow lifting by a single person. Amenities • Furnishings should meet ADA requirements, Materials including quantity and access from accessible • Site furnishing materials should be durable path of travel. See Design Considerations and vandal resistant. This generally means in Chapter 3 for ADA compliance the use of steel, aluminum, or concrete site considerations. furnishings. Wood and plastic should not • Drinking fountains should be provided be used unless equivalent durability can be wherever occupancy exceeds 100 people demonstrated. and for the following park assets: sports • Furnishings should be surface mounted on fields, sports courts, exercise areas, large concrete pads for ease of replacement or in- group reservable picnic areas, and dog ground mounted with an engineered footing. parks. Drinking fountains should be located on concrete paving.
walkway orient bicycle rack so that bicycles locked to the rack do not obstruct the path of travel
turf light pole concrete pad
improper bicycle rack orientation results in bicycles that obstruct the path of travel
Bicycle Rack Orientation
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-85 PARK DESIGN
• Drinking fountains should drain to the sanitary sewer system where possible. Dry wells may be used if sanitary tie-in is not possible. • Provide benches with center arm rests or single seat benches to discourage sleeping. • Avoid the use of skate stopper devices where possible. Seat walls should be designed with texture and jointing and located to discourage skateboarding and graffiti.
Additional Recommendations • Neighborhood parks should have site furnishings specified from the furnishings and equipment list. Regional parks with high visibility or urban pocket parks may consider use of custom site furnishings, with city approval.
durable furnishings of matching style grouped De Anza Park together outside of turf area
3-86 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
SHADE
• Shade is provided primarily in the form of tree canopies as well as WHAT the use of shade structures when natural shade is not viable.
• Shade provides protection against exposure to heat and UV rays WHY from direct sunlight as well as from other weather elements. • Shade creates welcoming environments for rest and relaxation and also supports social gatherings.
• Shade is encouraged. WHEN
• Provide shade at seating and gathering areas. WHERE • Provide shade at active recreational uses and playgrounds for children, who don’t often seek shade on their own
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-87 PARK DESIGN
General Approach used to calculate shade coverage should not include the field of play within sports fields. Shade should be provided throughout the park for the health and well-being of park users. The use • Provide a minimum of twenty percent of natural shade elements such as large canopy (20%) total shade coverage over seating areas, picnic areas, and playground areas at trees is the preferred method to provide shade. the time of park opening. Shade coverage Shade structures should be utilized if needed to is calculated by adding the square provide immediate shade opportunities during footage of shade structure roofs, immature the initial years of a new park. All assets, including tree canopies (to be measured based on active and passive activities, require shaded container sizes) and existing tree canopies. areas. Tree canopy coverage at maturity should not be included in calculations for determining shade coverage at park opening. Layout • Provide shade at seating areas for • Parks should have a minimum of thirty percent playgrounds, sports fields, sports courts, (30%) shade coverage over the entire park exercise areas, dog parks, picnic areas, site. Shade coverage should be defined as walking loops and specialty activities. a combination of shade provided by shade • Provide shade structure at reservable picnic structures and tree canopies. Shade coverage areas. is calculated by adding the square footage of shade structure roofs and mature tree • Shade structures are an effective solution canopy sizes (defned for these purposes to for providing short term shade coverage at be size at 20 years of age, as specified in the park opening. Long term shade provided by Western Garden Book). The total park area large canopy tree species is preferred for the majority of the site’s shade coverage.
use shade sails or trees to provide shade over play areas
Branham Park
3-88 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Materials • Colors for shade structure poles, panels and sails should coordinate with other park amenities. Select shade sail fabric colors that are more fade resistant. Verify with the manufacturer that selected fabric colors do not have a reduced warranty. • Shade structures should have steel posts with rigid metal roofing or fabric sails. • All metal surfaces should have powder coated finishes. • All shade structure materials should be fre resistant in accordance with the California State Fire Marshal requirements and Fire Code.
Additional Recommendations • Shade sails should be designed and located to be inaccessible to the public and at a sufficient height to deter vandalism. • Consider integrating shade sails into play equipment posts in lieu of placing as stand- alone shade elements.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-89 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-90 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
HARDSCAPE
• Hardscape includes, but is not limited to, pavements used for parking WHAT lots, vehicular maintenance paths, pedestrian circulation as well as plazas and gathering spaces.
• Hardscape provides durable surfacing for frequent and all-weather WHY foot and vehicular traffic. • Guides pedestrian circulation and gathering locations within the site.
• Hardscape should be provided at all parks for pedestrian access and WHEN parking areas and should be considered for maintenance access.
• Locate hardscape wherever pedestrians are encouraged to circulate. WHERE • Provide vehicular pathways to areas that require regular maintenance access.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-91 PARK DESIGN
General Approach through the use of traffic calming measures such as speed bumps. Parking lot layout Pedestrian hardscape location and materials should ensure fre truck access as approved should be selecting according to the anticipated by the Department of Transportation. amount of foot traffic. Vehicular hardscape, • Parking stalls should be designed in including parking lots, roadways and maintenance accordance with City Zoning Ordinance and paths should be designed to accommodate Planning Division off-street parking design vehicular loads and to encourage slow traffic standards. speeds in and around parks. • Provide hardscape conservatively on park sites and instead provide recreational assets Layout and landscapes generously where possible. • Pedestrian paths and bicycle routes should be clearly identified and separated from Materials vehicular travel. • Hardscape surfacing materials include, • Primary pedestrian pathways should be but are not limited to, concrete pavement, designed to accommodate maintenance concrete pavers, brick pavers, asphalt vehicles. Pathways should be ten feet (10’) pavement, decomposed granite. Asphalt wide, capable of supporting vehicular loads, pavement should be used for roadway and and have curves with radii no less than twelve parking lot surfacing only unless approved by feet (12’). the City. • Secondary pathways should be designed for • Decomposed granite pathways should be pedestrian use only and be a minimum of four contained with either a concrete band or feet (4’) wide; six feet (6’) widths are preferred. paving on both sides. All decomposed granite areas that will receive foot traffic should • Roadways and parking lot drive aisles should be stabilized, except for dog parks. Avoid be designed to reduce vehicular speeds overspray from irrigation onto decomposed granite areas.
mix of pavers and concrete pavement help defne and separate gathering areas from primary pathways
Commodore Park
3-92 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
• Decomposed granite paving should not be utilized for pathways with greater than 3% slope. • Ensure permeable pavers are designed with the appropriate base materials to provide voids where water can easily pass through.
Additional Recommendations • All hardscape should be installed per the details and specifications provided by the City of San Jose’s Department of Public Works. Pavement sections should take into account intended loading. • Concrete pavement score joints should be laid out to avoid acute angles and sharp points that are more prone to cracking. Concrete color should be integral and decorative pavement markings should be etched, imprinted or inset into the concrete surface for durability.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-93 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-94 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
LANDSCAPE • Landscape consists of horticultural elements of the park including WHAT trees, shrubs and turf. • Landscape is the combination of horticultural elements honors nature and supports wildlife through intentional design to create a sense of place.
• Landscape provides recreational areas to play, gather and rest. WHY • Landscape fosters a connection between the natural environment and surrounding community. • Landscape provides environmental benefts including permeable surfaces that reduce stormwater runoff and absorb pollutants, biomass that sequesters carbon, habitat for wildlife, and evapotranspiration and shade that reduce the urban heat island effect. • Landscape helps to meet ActivateSJ goals of increasing the acreage of California-native plantings in neighborhood parks and similar civic grounds.
WHEN • All parks should provide landscape areas. • Landscape areas should be implemented in and around all asset WHERE types using compatible plant species placed in suitable locations.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-95 PARK DESIGN
General Approach • Trees should be located a minimum of ten feet (10’) from residential properties to minimize Landscapes should be incorporated at all parks pruning. to serve many functions including providing recreation, visual aesthetic, wildlife habitat, shade, • To ease mowing efforts, trees and concrete pads for site furnishings should be placed in a and reducing the heat island effect. Plant species landscape strip that is a minimum of four feet should be selected from the approved ‘Plant List’. (4’) wide; avoid placing trees and furnishing Consider regular maintenance requirements pads in turf. The landscape strip also acts as a when determining the plant species and location buffer to prevent clippings from mowers from of landscapes. entering the adjacent asset. • Avoid overplanting landscape areas. Space Layout plants appropriately to accommodate full mature size and minimize pruning. • Landscapes in parks should be designed to combat the impacts of climate change • Planting beds with trees, shrubs, and by reducing the urban heat island effect, groundcovers should be consolidated allowing rainwater to infiltrate, providing flood and limited to key points on a site to ease storage along creeks and promoting carbon- maintenance efforts. Planting beds should free transportation. have a minimum 5’ width unless approved by the City. Avoid small, dispersed planting beds • Landscape areas should maximize water throughout the site. Desirable locations for conservation through the grouping of similar planting beds include entries into parks and water use plants and minimize maintenance around park monument signs, picnic areas, through the use of simplified formsand and playgrounds. smooth edges that avoid tight curves and fussy edges, particularly with turf. • Turf areas should have a minimum width of forty feet (40’) to enable informal sports and • Locate trees and vegetation to shade passive uses such as throwing a frisbee. pavements where possible. Avoid small, purely decorative areas of turf.
Commodore Park install root barriers when a tree is planted within 5’ of hardscape
3-96 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
• Along park frontages and in areas where pine needle duff over barbeques should be security is a concern, planting material should avoided. not obstruct visibility. • Turf areas and shrub planting areas should • Trees that are moderate or large in size or be separated by a concrete mowband. tend to have shallow roots that are planted • Planting areas should be separated from within fve feet (5’) of hardscape should be decomposed granite or other similar loose provided with root barriers. Roots barriers surfacing with a header board or concrete should span a minimum of ten feet (10’) in mowband. both directions along the pavement edge from the center of the tree. • Turf cross slopes should not exceed five to one (5:1) to facilitate mowing. • Trees should be set back from residential fences and property lines to avoid • Mulch in stormwater bioretention areas overhanging branches above residential should be aged screened compost to properties. minimize floating during rain events while still providing plant nutrients. Mulch in non- Materials bioretention areas should be decorative • Incorporate California-native and drought- walk-on mulch. tolerant plants to support native wildlife and • Plant materials should be selected from the improve maintenance practices. Pollinator City approved plant lists. See Plant Lists in gardens are encouraged. Chapter 3. • Turf should be used for programmed Amenities activities such as sports leagues and non- prescriptive recreational use. Turf should not • Movable furnishings, such as soccer goals, serve only an aesthetic function as a ‘filler’ should not be stored on natural turf areas surface; instead, use groundcover or mulch to prevent mowing challenges. Provide a in those small, remnant areas. designated paved pad for storage. • Plant material that requires particular maintenance services, such as no mow Additional Recommendations turf, should be aligned with maintenance • Naturally occurring landscape features that operations. Review with park maintenance provide environmental value and enhance prior to specifying. the site’s character should be preserved • Tree species should be selected to prioritize where possible. the provision of shade with large canopy • Plant material should be installed per the trees. specifications provided by the Department of • Select a diverse palette of shrubs and trees to Public Works. create wildlife habitat by providing food and • In areas that lack sidewalks, avoid placing turf shelter to minimize the impacts of disease. adjacent to street curb where mowing would • For natural turf fields, proper soil preparation be challenging. and weed abatement should be exercised for • Consider the incorporation of a modular a period of time prior to turf installment. suspended pavement system (such as • Consider the potential litter produced by Silva Cells) for trees within fve feet (5’) of the plant material when locating near certain hardscape, where the budget allows. assets or near the primary ADA accessible • Large turf open spaces at regional parks may path of travel. For example, pine cones near be considered to be utilized as flexible event playgrounds, olives over hardscape, and spaces. When turf areas are determined as flexible event spaces, provide vehicle access from adjacent roadways and electrical outlets.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-97 PARK DESIGN
concrete mowband tree, typ.
4’ minimum landscape strip for trees and site furnishing pads located between hardscape and turf areas, typ.
walkway concrete pad for site 2’ x 2’ concrete pad for furnishings light pole in mulch area
Landscape Strip
3-98 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
IRRIGATION
• Irrigation is the system used to distribute water to landscape plants. WHAT
• Irrigation establishes plant material and maintains a healthy WHY landscape.
• Provide irrigation at any park with non-native vegetation that requires WHEN irrigation.
• Irrigation should be located within shrub beds, turf areas and tree WHERE locations.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-99 PARK DESIGN
General Approach systems to allow irrigation to recreational fields to be reduced when required. Irrigation should be designed to encourage water conservation and to distribute water • Install separate water meters to monitor water efficiently and effectively to landscape areas. use for reservable sports fields. Irrigation design and equipment selection should • Keep metal structures such as fencing, light comply with local agency requirements and City posts or shade structure posts a minimum standards. of twenty-four inches away from overhead irrigation to minimize corrosion. Spray heads should not be directed toward metal Layout structures. • Irrigation design should group vegetation into hydrozones with similar water requirements Materials as well as consider microclimates such • Provide watering systems at synthetic as hills, depressions, sun and shade. Turf, turf areas, where possible, for wash down shrubs and groundcover, and trees should be purposes. See Sports Fields and Dog Park in separate hydrozones. asset sections for watering system and • System should be designed to reduce runoff sanitation requirements. and overspray or similar conditions where • Use traffic-rated concrete valve boxes for irrigation water flows onto pavement areas. increased longevity. • Overhead irrigation should be avoided on narrow or irregularly shaped areas less than 10’ wide. Avoid locating overhead irrigation Additional Recommendations within twenty-four inches of impermeable • Irrigation design should comply with the surfaces. Use bubblers in the conditions latest revisions to California’s Model Water listed previously. Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) and City’s Municipal Code. • Low volume irrigation should be used for all shrub planting areas. • All irrigation equipment should be installed per the details and specifications provided • Irrigation system for sports fields should be by the City of San Jose’s Department of separate from systems for recreational Public Works, City Facilities and Architectural fields. Differences in maintenance levels and Services Division. drought responses require separate irrigation • Install deep root watering bubblers for trees.
Municipal Rose Garden
3-100 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
LIGHTING
• Park lighting primarily serves to provide security after dark and is WHAT not intended to extend stated park hours. Lighting designed for extended use after dark is only to be provided for a few select park assets.
• Lighting provides visibility at night for the safety of park users. WHY • Lighting provides a sense of orientation and direction within the park. • Lighting allows certain activities to take place after dark, such as organized sports. • Security lighting should be provided at parks with restrooms, parking WHEN lots or parks that have signifcant unlit spaces with insufficient spill- over lighting from adjacent street lights.
• Security lighting should be provided at parking lots, restrooms and WHERE primary walkways. • The provision of lighting at sports felds, sports courts, and other assets should be determined by park facility programming.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-101 PARK DESIGN
General Approach Lighting should be incorporated at parks to lighting located outside the perimeter of active provide a safe and comfortable experience recreational use area while the park is open. Security lighting should be incorporated at parks where necessary and should be designed to deter park use after hours. Sports lighting should be evaluated under site specifc conditions and provided only if approved by the City.
Layout • Provide sufficient lighting to all primary pedestrian areas and potential problem areas to allow for drive-by visual access without the encouragement of unauthorized nighttime use. • Provide exterior security lighting for all buildings. • Locate lighting outside the perimeter fence of active recreational use areas where possible to maximize run out space within the recreation zone. • Light poles should be located on concrete pads in shrub beds and mulch areas in lieu of turf areas wherever possible. When light poles must be located in turf areas, concrete pads should be in a square shape adjacent to the walkway. • Electrical pull boxes should be vandal resistant with lockable and traffic-rated lids. • Light fixture locations and tree locations should be coordinated so that tree canopies do not obscure the lights at maturity. • Light poles and irrigation head layout should be coordinated to allow for full irrigation coverage and to minimize overspray onto the poles.
Adjacencies • Consider adjacent assets and land uses when locating sports field or court lighting. Use fixtures that reduce light spillage and shield glare from adjacent properties.
Materials Backesto Park • Light posts in dog parks should be concrete or have concrete bases that are a minimum
3-102 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
of thirty-six inches in height to avoid corrosion caused by dog urine.
Additional Recommendations • Solar powered lighting is encouraged where possible. Consider remote monitoring for solar powered lighting and communication antennas necessary for transmitting data. • Light fixtures should meet Dark Sky requirements for glare protection and to reduce light pollution. • Utilize LED lights with a color range of 2,700 to 3,700 K to balance provision of warmer light with more natural color rendition of plants in the landscape. • The specifcations and details for lighting should be provided by the Department of Public Works.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-103 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-104 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
SIGNAGE
• Signage consists of messages that convey information and direction WHAT through a specialized display for people to use, navigate and identify elements in the park.
• Signage provides instructions for use of certain assets or equipment. WHY • Signage provides direction for people to fnd their way around the park. • Signage communicates rules and educates. • Provides a sense of identity through consistency in graphics and character.
• Signs should be provided at all parks to communicate a variety WHEN of messages including warning, educational, directional, or informational purposes.
• Signs should be placed in locations that are clearly visible and in WHERE conjunction to the relevant asset and amenities.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-105 PARK DESIGN
General Approach Signage should communicate clear intent, encourage cohesion throughout the park network, and enhance park identity. Signage should be used sparingly and should be located and oriented to provide clear sight lines.
Layout • The park entry sign should be located with clear sight lines from the adjacent street in a highly visible area such as a park corner. • Avoid locating signs in active use areas, sport courts, and play areas to prevent potential collisions. • Orient signs to be perpendicular and maximally visible to oncoming pedestrian or vehicular traffic. • Locate signs so they are not obstructed by other signs, structures or plant material.
Adjacencies • Thematic signage should enhance the City’s identity. • Signs adjacent to or attached to buildings should be integrated into the building façade using consistent materials, colors and proportions.
Materials • Signs should integrate themes and styles signage with using materials, colors and proportions that thematic graphics are harmonious with the surrounding assets and amenities in the park. sign located outside of active area • Signs and sign posts should be durable, vandal resistant and weather-resistant.
Additional Recommendations • Minimize the number and size of rules and regulations signs displayed at a facility to avoid overuse and making a negative impression on park visitors. • Incorporate multilingual signs at locations where it would best serve the local Branham Park demographic. • Landscaping in front of monument park signs should not exceed 12” in height. • Include signage to acknowledge sponsors or volunteer groups such as Adopt-A-Park. 3-106 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
PUBLIC ART
• Public art consists of artwork and exhibitions created by professional WHAT artists who are commissioned by the City of San Jose Public Art Program.
• Public art provides an attractive focal point and an appreciation for WHY art enhances community pride and activates the site. • Public art encourages dialogue and personal association and stewardship for the site. • Public art connects artists with the community.
• Provide public art at parks that will experience high levels of WHEN pedestrian traffic.
• Locate in an area that is easily visible and accessible to the public. WHERE • Locate near walkways with high foot traffic where it would enhance the pedestrian experience.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-107 PARK DESIGN
General Approach sculpture located Public art should be coordinated with the outside of path of appropriate departments and agencies early in circulation the design process to determine the optimal type and location of artwork for the park site. Public art should compliment the site and support the park’s identity.
Layout • Coordinate with the San Jose Public Art Program to determine the appropriate location for the artwork. • Large place-making art pieces are preferred over many small individual pieces. • Encourage murals, where approriate, on blank walls to avoid graffiti. • Art should not block circulation, access, windows, or sight lines.
Materials • Artwork that incorporates horticulture presents maintenance challenges and should be avoided. Consider the maintenance responsibilities between the City of San Jose Public Art Program and the Parks, Recreation & Neighborhood Services Department.
Additional Recommendations • PRNS staff will lead the public art process and coordinate with the park designer and public artist to integrate the artwork on site. • Identify conditions where public art can resolve a design challenge. • Incorporate the public art process as early in the park design process as possible with guidance from PRNS staff on the desired performance standards of public art at a given site. Public art should complement and enhance the overall park experience and not detract from or displace core assets a park is designed to provide.
Commodore Park
3-108 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Design Development and Construction Documentation
The following section includes resources for designers as the project progresses into the design development and construction documentation phases. City approved lists for furnishing and equipment manufacturers, products, and plant species include selections that have been successful in existing park facilities. Consistency in use of products and plants allows maintenance staff to efficiently maintain, repair and replace items when necessary. It also helps establish and reinforce a City park ‘brand’ and aesthetic across the park system.
Park designers should also refer to City standard technical specifcations and construction details in addition to turnkey park standards. See Resources List in the Appendix.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-109 PARK DESIGN
FURNISHINGS & EQUIPMENT LIST
The following section lists preferred manufacturers and products for common park amenities. Specifying products listed in the following pages does not guarantee City approval, as approval is still subject to City review at the time a project is submitted for review. Park designers should review all product warranties and ensure proposed installation of amenities comply with manufacturer requirements for warranty coverage. Specify a combination of amenities in the same furnishing family for a cohesive appearance. Furnishing families are shown on the following page.
3-110 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Furnishing Families
Urban Core
Picnic Table A Picnic Table B Bench A Trash Receptacle
Neighborhood
Picnic Table C Picnic Table D Bench B Trash Receptacle
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-111 PARK DESIGN
Picnic Table A
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Dumor MODEL Table 443 FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION 6’ long and 8’ long with ADA option
Picnic Table B
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Dumor MODEL Table 448 FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION Surface mount, with ADA option, optional game board
3-112 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Bench A
PARK ASSET SECTION Site Furnishings MANUFACTURER Dumor MODEL Bench 58 FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION With center armrest
Trash Receptacle
PARK ASSET SECTION Site Furnishings MANUFACTURER Dumor MODEL Trash Receptacle 157 FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION 32 gallon, BT Bonnet
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-113 PARK DESIGN
Picnic Table C
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Outdoor Creations MODEL 100S FINISH
COLOR
DESCRIPTION 92” length
Picnic Table D
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Outdoor Creations MODEL 107S, 107 AC (ADA) FINISH
COLOR
DESCRIPTION Round court table with ADA option, optional game board
3-114 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Bench B
PARK ASSET SECTION Site Furnishings MANUFACTURER Outdoor Creations MODEL Block Leg Bench 420 FINISH Concrete COLOR
DESCRIPTION 420SK for skate resistant model
Bench C
PARK ASSET SECTION Site Furnishings MANUFACTURER Outdoor Creations MODEL Block Bench FINISH
COLOR
DESCRIPTION 414S (24”x24”) 414L (54”x54”) 413ABC (18”x20”, 20”x20”, 22”x20”)
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-115 PARK DESIGN
BBQ A
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Pilot Rock MODEL A-20, B2 FINISH Steel fnished with high temp non-toxic enamel paint COLOR Black DESCRIPTION For individual picnic areas
BBQ B
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Pilot Rock MODEL L-1500/S Series FINISH Steel fnished with high temp non-toxic enamel paint COLOR Black DESCRIPTION For group picnic areas
3-116 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
BBQ C
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Outdoor Creations MODEL 3001AG-G FINISH
COLOR
DESCRIPTION For reservable picnic areas
Hot Coals Bin
PARK ASSET SECTION Picnic Areas MANUFACTURER Outdoor Creations MODEL 300CR FINISH
COLOR
DESCRIPTION For picnic areas with BBQ grills
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-117 PARK DESIGN
Drinking Fountain A
PARK ASSET SECTION Site Furnishings MANUFACTURER Most Dependable Fountains (MDF) MODEL 10145 SM FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION Specify flange for better surface mount option
Drinking Fountain B
PARK ASSET SECTION Site Furnishings MANUFACTURER Most Dependable Fountains (MDF) MODEL 125 SM FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION For dog parks
Color to be black 3-118 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Shade Structure
PARK ASSET SECTION Shade MANUFACTURER Poligon
Shade Fabric
PARK ASSET SECTION Shade MANUFACTURER USA Shade DESCRIPTION For fabric shade sails
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-119 PARK DESIGN
Play Equipment A
PARK ASSET SECTION Playgrounds MANUFACTURER Landscape Structures
Play Equipment B
PARK ASSET SECTION Playgrounds MANUFACTURER Elephant Play
3-120 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Play Equipment C
PARK ASSET SECTION Playgrounds MANUFACTURER Gametime
Play Equipment D
PARK ASSET SECTION Playgrounds MANUFACTURER Berliner DESCRIPTIONS Preferred manufacturer for rope play equipment
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-121 PARK DESIGN
Fitness Equipment A
PARK ASSET SECTION Exercise Area MANUFACTURER Greenfelds DESCRIPTION For exercise clusters
Fitness Equipment B
PARK ASSET SECTION Exercise Area MANUFACTURER Greenfelds DESCRIPTION For par course equipment
3-122 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Fitness Equipment C
PARK ASSET SECTION Exercise Area MANUFACTURER Gametime DESCRIPTION For exercise clusters
Fitness Equipment D
PARK ASSET SECTION Exercise Area MANUFACTURER TrekFit DESCRIPTION For exercise clusters
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-123 PARK DESIGN
Basketball Backboard
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Goalsetter MODEL MVP
Soccer Goal and Net
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams
3-124 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Baseball Bat Rack
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 1280-15P FINISH Powder-coated aluminum COLOR 290 Silver DESCRIPTION Capacity: 15 bats
Baseball Dugout Bench
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 1119-15G FINISH Aluminum with galvanized frame COLOR None DESCRIPTION Backless players bench, 15’ length, surface mount
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-125 PARK DESIGN
Baseball Foul Pole
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 1273 FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR 215 Yellow DESCRIPTION 3-1/2” O.D. posts, 20’ tall with 12’ H x 1’-6” W flag
Baseball Base
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams
3-126 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Scoreboard
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Daktronics
Bleachers
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 1171-515MESHA FINISH Anodized seat planks, natural fnish foot planks DESCRIPTION Standard 5-row aluminum bleachers with pre- assembled mesh guardrails, 15’ length, center aisle ADA
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-127 PARK DESIGN
Volleyball Posts
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 2214-00GP FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION 2-7/8” O.D. posts with fxed eyes and rope clamps
Volleyball Net
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 8361-10 DESCRIPTION Volleyball net with top cable/bottom rope ties, 30’ x 3’
3-128 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Tennis Net Posts
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 2205-BLK FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION 3” square, 11 ga steel housing posts with top pulley and net tightener
Tennis Net
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 8353
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-129 PARK DESIGN
Tennis Anchor and Tie-Down Strap
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 8371-20 (anchor) 8371-30 (strap) FINISH Hot dip galvanized steel (anchor)
Pickleball Net Posts
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 2202-11P FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION 3-1/2” O.D. posts with top pulley and net tightener
3-130 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Pickleball Net
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Courts MANUFACTURER Patterson Williams MODEL 8354 DESCRIPTION 36”x22”
Storage Chest
PARK ASSET SECTIONS Sports Fields, Sports Courts, Community Gardens MANUFACTURER Jobsite Products MODEL Jobox
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-131 PARK DESIGN
Storage Shed
PARK ASSET SECTION Community Gardens MANUFACTURER Tuff Shed MODEL Garden Ranch DESCRIPTION Note: Concrete or steel structures should be considered when proposing storage sheds at locations that are highly vulnerable to vandalism.
Turf A
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER West Coast Turf MODEL Tifway II DESCRIPTION For sports feld living turf, high impact applications
3-132 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Turf B
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER Field Turf DESCRIPTION For synthetic turf sports felds
Turf C
PARK ASSET SECTION Dog Park MANUFACTURER K9 Grass MODEL Classic DESCRIPTION For synthetic turf dog parks
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-133 PARK DESIGN
Infield Fines
PARK ASSET SECTION Sports Fields MANUFACTURER TMT Enterprises MODEL Pac-Bell Infeld Fines DESCRIPTION Fine grade of volcanic cinder fnes and clay
Decomposed Granite
PARK ASSET SECTION Hardscape COLOR California Gold
3-134 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Permeable Paver
PARK ASSET SECTION Hardscape MANUFACTURER Pacifc Interlock Pavers MODEL Eco Pave Hydro Flow series
Bollard & Striping
PARK ASSET SECTION Site Furnishings MANUFACTURER Columbia Cascade MODEL Timberform Metal Bollard 2190-RH-M FINISH Powder-coated aluminum COLOR Yellow DESCRIPTION Removable bollard with hasp/hole cover mount, specify yellow warning striping at bollards
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-135 PARK DESIGN
Fence A
PARK ASSET SECTION Fencing MANUFACTURER Omega II MODEL Elite Double Wire FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION Welded wire fencing
Fence B
PARK ASSET SECTION Fencing MANUFACTURER Ameristar MODEL Impasse II FINISH Powder-coated steel COLOR Black DESCRIPTION High security fencing, Steel palisade
3-136 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Fence C
PARK ASSET SECTION Fencing MANUFACTURER Direct Metals (for panel) MODEL Zoro #G1981119 FINISH Mill fnish COLOR
DESCRIPTION High security fencing Panel: carbon steel, expanded sheet metal
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-137 PARK DESIGN
this page intentionally left blank
3-138 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
PLANT LIST The following section includes City approved plant material for parks and a prohibited plant list. The use of California-native plants and drought-tolerant species are encouraged in park landscapes to support wildlife habitats, improve maintenance practices and promote beautiful outdoor spaces.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-139 PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Acer buergerianum Trident Maple 20-25'x20-25' M D Full Sun - Part Shade
B Acer campestre Hedge Maple 25-35'x25-35' M D Full Sun - Part Shade CA C Acer campestre Queen Elizabeth 25-35'x25-35' M D Full Sun - Part Shade `Evelyn' Maple D Acer circinatum Vine maple 15-25'x20' M D Part Shade - Shade E Acer grandidentatum Mesa Glow Maple 30'x20' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'JFS-NuMex 3' F Acer grandidentatum Rocky Mountain 15-25'x15' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'Schmidt' Glow Maple G Acer macrophyllum Big leaf maple 30-75'x30-50' M D Full Sun - Shade H Acer miyabei `Morton' State Street Maple 30-40'x30-40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade I Acer negundo Box Elder 40-50'x35-40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade J Acer palmatum Japanese Maple 15-25'x25-25' M D Part Shade - Shade K Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore maple 60-70'x40-60' M D Full Sun - Part Shade L Acer rubrum Red maple 50-65'x40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC M Acer rubrum Armstrong Maple 50-60'x15-25' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC `Armstrong' N Acer rubrum `October October Glory 40-50'x25-35' M D Full Sun - Part Shade Glory' Maple O Acer saccharinum Silver Maple 40-100'x50' M D Full Sun - Part Shade
Key: BB = attracts butterflies and/or birds, CA = California native, DE = deer tolerant, DT = drought tolerant, FC = fall color or showy foliage, FL = colorful or showy flowers, FR = fre resistant, , WL = attracts wildlife
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
3-140 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Acer saccharum Sugar Maple 50-80'x35-50' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC
B Acer tataricum Tatarian Maple 20-25'x25' M D Full Sun - Part Shade C Acer tataricum Rugged Charm 30'x15' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC `Rugged Charm' Maple Maple D Acer x. Freemanii Autumn Blaze 55-65'x30-40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'Jeffersred' Maple E Aesculus californica California buckeye 10-25'x20-30' VL D Full Sun - Part Shade CA F Aesculus x carnea Red Horse- 35-50'x35-50' M D Full Sun `Briottii' chestnut G Afrocarpus falcatus Fern Pine 50-65'x50'+ M E Full Sun - Part Shade H Allocasurina Mountain She Oak 20-35'x20-35' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB vertillicata I Araucaria Norfolk Island 100'x60' M E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes heterophylla pine J Arbutus 'Marina' Marina arbutus 40-50'x40' L E Full Sun FL K Arbutus unedo Strawberry tree 20-35'x20-35' L E Full Sun - Shade Yes L Callistemon citrinus Crimson 20-25'x25' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB bottlebrush
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-141 PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Callistemon rigidus Stiff bottlebrush 20'x10' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB
B Calocedrus decurrens Incense cedar 70-90'x10-15' M E Full Sun - Part Shade FR C Carpinus betulus European 35-40'x20-30' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB Hornbeam D Carpinus betulus Pyramidal 40-50'x40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB 'Fastigiata' European Hornbeam E Carpinus caroliniana American 20-35'x20-30' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB Hornbeam F Casuarina Coast Beefwood 70'x30' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB cunninghamiana G Ceanothus `Ray Mountain Lilac 12-20'x15-20' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, FR Hartman' H Cedrus deodara Deodar cedar 40-60'x20-30' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes WL I Celtis reticulata Western 25-35'x25-30' L D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE hackberry J Cercis canadensis Eastern Redbud 25-35'x25-35' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB K Cercis canadensis Forest Pansy 20-30'x20-25' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB `Forest Pansy' Redbud L Cercis occidentalis Western redbud 10-20'x10-20' LV D Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB M Cercis reinformis Oklahoma Redbud 15'x15' L D Full Sun - Part Shade BB `Oklahoma' N Cercocarpus Mountain 10-20'x10-20' VL E Full Sun - Part Shade CA, DE, FR betuloides ironwood
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N
3-142 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Chilopsis linearis Desert Willow 15-30'x10-20' VL D Full Sun - Part Shade CA, WL
B Chilopsis linearis Desert willow 15-20'x10-15' VL D Full Sun - Part Shade WL 'Bubba' C Chionanthus retusus Chinese Fringe 10-20'x6-12' M D Full Sun - Part Shade WL Tree D Chitalpa t. 'Pink Chitalpa 25-35'x20-30' L D Full Sun DT Dawn' E Chitalpa Chitalpa 25-35'x30' L D Full Sun - Part Shade tashkentensis F Corymbia fcifolia Red Flowering 18-45'x15-60' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB Gum G Cotinus coggygria Smoke Tree 10-15'x10-18' L D Full Sun - Part Shade FC, FL H Crataegus laevigata English Hawthorn 25'x25' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB I Cupressus arizonica Arizona cypress 40-50'x15-20' VL E Full Sun BB glabra J Cupressus Italian cypress 60-70'x10-20' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes WL sempervirens K Dodonaea viscosa Hop bush 10-15'x10-15' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB L Garrya elliptica Coast silktassel 12-15'x8-12' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB
M Geijera parviflora Australian willow 25-35'x20' M E Full Sun - Part Shade BB N Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo 35-65'x25' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC, WL O Ginkgo biloba Autumn Gold 25-50'x25-35' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC, WL 'Autumn Gold' Ginkgo
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-143 PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Ginkgo biloba Woodstock 50'x40'+ M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC, WL 'Emperor' Ginkgo B Ginkgo biloba Fairmont Ginkgo 50-75'x12-25' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'Fairmont' C Ginkgo biloba 'Halka' Halka Ginkgo 45'x40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC D Ginkgo biloba Presidential Gold 50'x40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'Presidential Gold' Ginkgo E Ginkgo biloba Princeton Sentry 50-65'x15-20' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'Princeton Sentry' Ginkgo F Ginkgo biloba Saratoga Ginkgo 40-50'x30' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'Saratoga' G Gymnocladus dioicus Kentucky 60-100'x40- L D Full Sun BB Coffeetree 50' H Gymnocladus dioicus Espresso 50'x35' L D Full Sun BB `Espresso' Kentucky Coffeetree I Heteromeles Toyon 15-25'x8-15' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB arbutifolia J Jacaranda Jacaranda 10-50'x15-30' M D Full Sun Yes BB mimosifolia (acutifolia) K Juniperus californica California juniper 10-40'x10-40' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB L Koelreuteria Goldenrain tree 20-35'x25-40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade paniculata M Koelreutreria Chinese Flame 20-40'x15-30' M D Full Sun - Part Shade bipinnata N Lagerstroemia indica Crape myrtle 25'x25' L D Full Sun FL O Lagerstroemia x. Purple Crape 5-15'x5-15' L D Full Sun - Part Shade FL `Catawba' Myrtle
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
3-144 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Lagerstroemia x. Red Crape Myrtle 20-25'x10-20' L D Full Sun FL `Dynamite Red' B Lagerstroemia x. Pink Crape Myrtle 20-25'x15-25' L D Full Sun FL `Muskogee' C Lagerstroemia x. White Crape 20-25'x15-25' L D Full Sun FL `Natchez' Myrtle D Lagerstroemia x. Red Crape Myrtle 18-25' L D Full Sun - Part Shade FL `Tuscarora' E Laurus nobilis Grecian Laurel 15-40'x15-30' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB F Laurus nobilis Saratoga bay 15-40'x15-30' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB 'Saratoga' laurel G Lophostemon Brisbane box 30-50'x10-30' M E Full Sun - Part Shade confertus (Tristania conferta) H Lyonothamnus Catalina ironwood 35-40'x15-20' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB floribundus ssp. asplenifolius I Maackia amurensis MaacNifcent 20-35'x15-25' N/A D Full Sun 'JFS-Schichtel1' Maackia J Magnolia grandiflora Southern 60-80'x50-60' M E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL magnolia K Magnolia grandiflora Little Gem 20'x10' M E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL 'Little Gem' Magnolia L Magnolia grandiflora Southern 30-40'x20-30' M E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL 'Samuel sommer' Magnolia M Magnolia grandiflora St Mary's Magnolia 20-25'x15-20' M E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL 'St Marys' N Maytenus boaria Mayten 30-50'x20-30' M E Full Sun - Part Shade BB O Melaleuca armillaris Drooping 15-30'x15-30' VL E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB melaleuca A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-145 PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Melaleuca linarifolia Flaxleaf Paperbark 20-30'x20-25' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL, DT
B Melaleuca Paperbark 20-40'x15-25' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT quinquenervia C Melia azedarach Chinaberry 30-50'x15-25' VL D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT D Metrosideros excelsa New Zealand 30-35'x30-35' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, FR Christmas tree E Nyssa sylvatica Black Tupelo 30-50'x20-30' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT, FC F Nyssa sylvatica Red Rage Tupelo 35'x20' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT, FC `Haymanred' G Olea "Swan Hill' Swan Hill Olive 25-30'x25-30' VL E Full Sun - Part Shade BB H Parrotia persica Persian Ironwood 15-35'x15-35' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FL I Pinus canariensis Canary Island pine 50-80'x20-35' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DT, WL J Pinus halepensis Aleppo pine 30-60'x20-40' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DT, WL K Pinus mugo Mugho pine 15-25'x15-25' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes L Pinus pinea Italian stone pine 40-80'x40-60' VL E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes source for pine nuts M Pinus radiata Monterey pine 80-100'x25- M E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, WL 35' N Pinus thunbergii Japanese black 25-30'x20-35' M E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, WL pine
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N
3-146 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Pistacia chinensis Chinese pistache 25-35'x25-35' L D Full Sun - Part Shade BB
B Pittosporum Victorian Box 30-40'x30-40' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FR undulatum C Platanus racemosa California 30-80'x20-50' M D Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, FR sycamore D Platanus x acerifolia Bloodgood 70-85'x50-70' M D Full Sun - Part Shade WL 'Bloodgood' London plane tree E Prunus caroliniana Carolina Laurel 20-30'x15-25' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT, FR Cherry F Prunus ilicifolia Hollyleaf cherry 10-30'x10-25' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, FR G Prunus ilicifolia ssp. Catalina cherry 25-35'x20-30' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DT, FR lyonii laurel H Prunus lusitanica Portugal laurel 30'x30' M E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT, FR I Quercus agrifolia Coast live oak 20-70'x20-70' VL E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, FR J Quercus buckleyi Texas Red Oak 30-50'x30-50' M D Full Sun WL (nutalli) K Quercus canbyi Sierra Red Oak 40-50'x30-50' L D Full Sun Yes BB, WL L Quercus chrysolepis Canyon live oak 70'x30' VL E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, WL
M Quercus coccinea Scarlett Oak 70'x50' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, WL N Quercus douglasii Blue oak 50-65'x40-50' VL D Full Sun - Part Shade CA, WL O Quercus frainetto Forest Green Oak 100'x70 N/A D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FR, WL 'Schmidt'
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-147 PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Quercus kelloggii California Black 30-70'x30-50' L D Full Sun - Part Shade CA, WL Oak B Quercus lobata Valley Oak 50-70'x50' L D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, FR, WL C Quercus macrocarpa Bur Oak 60-80'x30' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, WL D Quercus Chinquapin Oak 40-50'x50-60' L D Full Sun WL muehlenbergii E Quercus palustris Pin Oak 50-70'x30-40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, WL F Quercus robur English Oak 60-120'x30- M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, WL 80' G Quercus robur Upright English 50'x15' M D Full Sun BB, WL `Fastigiata’ Oak H Quercus robur x alba Street Spire Oak 45'x14' M D Full Sun FC 'JFS-KW1QX' I Quercus robur x alba Skinny Genes 14'x10' M D Full Sun 'JFS-KW2QX' J Quercus rubra Red oak 60-80'x50-70' M D Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, WL K Quercus shumardii Shumardii Oak 70'x40' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB, WL L Quercus suber Cork oak 70'x70' L E Full Sun - Part Shade FR, WL M Quercus tomentella Island Oak 20-50'x25-40' L E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT, WL N Quercus virginiana Southern live oak 40-80'x60- M E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, WL 100' O Quercus wislizeni Interior live oak 30-70'x40-80' VL E Full Sun - Part Shade BB, WL
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
3-148 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Quillaja saponaria Soapbark Tree 30-45'x15-25' L E Full Sun BB, DT
B Sambucus nigra Black Elderberry 10-30'x8-20' N/A D Full Sun - Part Shade BB C Searsia lancea African Sumac 20-30'x20-35' L E Full Sun - Part Shade FR, WL D Styphnolobium Japanese Pagoda 40-70'x40-70' L D Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB japonicum Tree E Tilia cordata Little leaf linden 30-50'x15-30' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB F Tilia cordata Greenspire Linden 40-60'x35-50' M D Full Sun - Part Shade BB `Greenspire' G Tilia tomentosa Green Mountain 65'x40' L D Full Sun - Part Shade BB `Green Mountain' Linden H Tilia tomentosa Silver Leaf Linden 40-50'x20-30' L D Full Sun - Part Shade BB `Sterling' I Tipuana tipu Tipu Tree 25-50'x25-50' M D Full Sun - Part Shade FC J Tristaniopsis laurina Swamp Myrtle 20-35'x15-30' M E Full Sun - Part Shade K Tristaniopsis laurina Elegant water 20-35'x15-25' M E Full Sun - Part Shade FC 'Elegant' gum L Ulmus parvifolia Chinese elm 40-60'x50-70' L E Full Sun - Part Shade DT, FR
M Ulmus x. 'Prospector' Prospector Elm 60'x50' L D Full Sun
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-149 PARK DESIGN
Trees
# Scientific Name Common Avg. Size Water Deciduous (D) Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable Name (H x W) Needs or Evergreen (E) Water Characteristics Tolerant A Ulmus parvifolia Lacebark (Allee) 60-70'x35-55' L D Full Sun - Part Shade DT, FR `Emer II' Elm B Ulmus parvifolia `True True Green 40-50'x30-40' L D Full Sun - Part Shade DT, FR Green' Chinese Elm C Ulmus propinqua`JFS Emerald Sunshine 35'x25' L D Full Sun - Part Shade DT Bieberich' Elm D Ulmus x.`Frontier' Frontier Elm 40'x30' L D Full Sun - Part Shade Yes DT E Ulmus x.`Morton' Accolade Elm 50-60'x25-40' L D Full Sun FC F Vitex agnus-castus Chaste tree 10-15'x15-20' L D Full Sun - Part Shade BB G Washingtonia flifera California Palm 50-70'x10-20' L E Full Sun - Part Shade Yes FR H Zelkova serrata Japanese zelkova 50-65'x50-65' M D Full Sun - Part Shade I Zelkova serrata Green Vase 50-65'x50-65' M D Full Sun 'Green Vase' Zelkova J Zelkova serrata 'JFS- City Sprite 20-25'x15-18' M D Full Sun DT KW1' Zelkova K Zelkova serrata Columnar Sawleaf 40-45'x10-15' M D Full Sun 'Musashino' Zelkova L Zelkova serrata Village Green 50-60'x45-50' M D Full Sun 'Village Green' Zelkova M Zelkova serrata Wireless Zelkova 25'x35' M D Full Sun FC 'Wireless'
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M
3-150 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Shrubs
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Abelia x 'Edward Pink abelia 4-6'x4-6' M Full Sun BB, DE Goucher' B Achillea millefolium Common yarrow 1-3'x0.5-1.5' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, FL C Agapanthus orientalis Lily of the Nile 2-4'x1-2' M Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL D Agave americana Century plant 3-6'x6-10' VL Full Sun Yes BB, DE, DR E Aloe spp. Aloe varies L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes FL F Amaryllis belladonna Belladonna lily 2-3'x2-3' VL Full Sun - Part Shade FL G Anigozanthos spp. Kangaroo paw 1-6'x1-3' L Full Sun DE, DT, FL H Arctostaphylos Vine hill manzanita 3-4'x5-7' L Full Sun Yes BB, CA, FL densiflora I Arctostaphylos hookeri Hooker's manzanita 1-6'x6' L Full Sun BB, CA, FL J Artemisia spp. Mugwort 2-5'x2-5' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL K Berberis thunbergii Japanese barberry 3-6'x4-7' M Full Sun - Part Shade DE, DT L Buxus spp. Boxwood 3-5'x2-5' M Full Sun - Part Shade M Callistemon viminalis Dwarf bottlebrush 3-5'x4-6' L Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL 'Little John' N Ceanothus spp. California lilac varies L Full Sun DT, FL O Chaenomeles 'Apple Flowering quince 6'x6' L Full Sun FL Blossom'
Key: BB = attracts butterflies and/or birds, CA = California native, DE = deer tolerant, DT = drought tolerant, FL = colorful or showy flowers
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-151 PARK DESIGN
Shrubs
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Chondropetalum Small cape rush 2-3'x3-4' L Full Sun - Part Shade DT tectorum B Cistus spp. Rockrose 4-6'x4-6' L Full Sun DE, DT C Coreopsis grandiflora Coreopsis 1-2'x1-2' M Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL D Cotoneaster Rockspray cotoneaster 2-3'x6-8' L Full Sun - Part Shade DT microphylla E Dendromecon harfordii Island bush poppy 6-10'x6-12' L Full Sun CA, DT, FL F Dendromecon rigida Bush poppy 3-10'x2-8' VL Full Sun BB, CA, DT, FL G Dietes spp. African iris 3-4'x2-3' L Full Sun - Shade Yes FL H Diplacus aurantiacus Sticky monkey flower 1-4'x1-4' VL Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, DE, DT, FL (Mimulus aurantiacus) I Elaeagnus pungens Silverberry 10-15'x10-15' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes J Epilobium bowman Bowman California 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun CA, FL fuchsia K Epilobium canum California fuchsia 1-2'x4-5' L Full Sun CA, FL (Zauschneria californica) L Eriogonum grande var. Red-flowered 1-2'x2-3' L Full Sun BB, FL rubescens buckwheat M Eriogonum latifolium Coast buckwheat 1-2'x3' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL N Eschscholzia California poppy 1-2'x1-2' VL Full Sun BB, DT, FL californica O Euonymus spp. Wintercreeper 5-10'x5-10' M Full Sun - Part Shade DT
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
3-152 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Shrubs
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Forsythia x intermedia Hybrid forsythia 8-10'x10-12' L Full Sun - Part Shade FL B Fremontodendron spp. Flannel bush varies VL Full Sun BB, DT, FL C Hemerocallis spp. Daylily 2-3'x2-3' M Full Sun specify evergreen varieties only D Heteromeles Toyon 6-10'x6-8' L Full Sun - Shade Yes FL arbutifolia E Heuchera maxima Island alum root 1-2'x1-2' M Full Sun - Part Shade CA, FL F Holodiscus discolor Cream Bush 3-10'x3-10' L Part Shade - Shade BB, CA, FL G Ilex cornuta Chinese holly 8-15'x8-15' L Full Sun - Part Shade FL H Iris foetidissima Gladwin iris 1-2'x1-2' n/a Full Sun - Shade FL I Juniperus chinensis Juniper 1-2'x6-9' L Full Sun Yes 'San Jose' J Lavatera spp. Tree mallow 4-8'x4-8' M Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL K Leucophyllum Texas ranger 5-8'x4-6' L Full Sun BB, DT, FL frutescens L Lotus scoparius Deerweed 2-3'x3' VL Full Sun BB, FL M Lupinus albifrons Silver bush lupine 3-5'x2-3' VL Full Sun BB, DE, FL N Mahonia aquifolium Oregon grape 2-6'x2-5' M Part Shade - Shade BB, CA, DE, FL O Myrtus communis True myrtle 8-12'x8-12l L Full Sun Yes DE, DT
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-153 PARK DESIGN
Shrubs
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Pelargonium x Garden geranium 1-3'x1-3' L Full Sun - Part Shade FL hortorum B Penstemon Foothill penstemon 1-2'x1-2' n/a Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT, FL heterophyllus 'Blue Springs' C Phlomis fruticosa Jerusalem sage 3-4'x3-4' L Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL D Phormium tenax New Zealand flax 1-6'x1-3' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT E Photinia fraseri Photinia 10-15'x10-15' M Full Sun BB F Pittosporum tobira Mock orange 10-15'x8-10' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes G Plumbago auriculata Cape plumbago 5-8'x5-8' L Full Sun - Shade Yes DE, DT, FL H Podocarpus Yew pine 15-20'x6-8' M Full Sun - Part Shade macrophyllus I Rhaphiolepis indica Indian hawthorn 4-6'x4-6' L Full Sun Yes BB, DT, FL J Rhamnus californica Coffeeberry 3-4'x8-12' L Full Sun - Shade Yes DT 'Mound San Bruno' K Rhus integrifolia Lemonade berry 6-10'x10-15' L Full Sun - Shade BB L Ribes speciosum Fuschia-flower 4-8'x4-6' L Full Sun - Shade BB, CA, FL gooseberry M Ribes viburnifolium Evergreen currant 3-4'x4-6' L Full Sun - Shade BB, CA, FL N Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary 2-6'x2-5' L Full Sun Yes BB, DE, DT, FL O Salvia apiana White sage 3-5'x4-6' VL Full Sun BB, DE
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
3-154 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Shrubs
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Salvia clevelandii Cleveland sage 3-4'x5-8' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT, FL B Salvia greggii Autumn sage 2-3'x2-3' L Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL C Salvia leucantha Mexican bush sage 3-4'x4-6' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DE, DT, FL D Salvia officinalis Garden sage 1-3'x1-3' L Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL E Solidago californica California goldenrod 1-5'x1-5' M Full Sun - Shade BB, CA, FL F Symphoricarpos albus Snowberry 3-5'x3-5' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, DE, DT, FL G Tulbaghia violacea Society garlic 1-3'x1-2' L Full Sun - Shade DE, DT, FL H Verbena lilacina De La Mina lilac 2-3'x3-4' L Cool Sun - Part Shade CA, FL I Viburnum Sweet viburnum 15-20'x15-20' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB odoratissimum J Yucca spp. Yucca 3-8'x2-3' L Full Sun Yes BB, DE, DT, FL Grasses # Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant K Agrostis pallens California bent grass .5'-2'x Spreading n/a Full Sun - Part Shade BB L Baccharis pilularis Dwarf coyote brush .5-2'x6' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes CA, DT 'Twin Peaks' M Bouteloua gracilis Blue gramma grass 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun CA, DT N Buchloe dactyloides Buffalograss 1'x Spreading n/a Full Sun CA, DT O Calamagrostis foliosa Leafy reed grass 1-2'x1-2' M Full Sun - Part Shade CA, DE, DT
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-155 PARK DESIGN
Grasses
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Carex barbarae Santa Barbara sedge 1-3'x1-2' L Full Sun CA, DE, DT
B Carex divulsa Berkeley sedge 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade (C. tumulicola) C Carex pansa Dune sedge 1-2'x1-2' M Full Sun BB, DE D Deschampsia California hairgrass 2-3'x1-2' L Full Sun BB, CA, DE, DT cespitosa E Festuca californica California fescue 1-4'x3' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, CA, DE F Festuca rubra Creeping fescue 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, DE, DT G Helictotrichon Blue oat grass 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DE, DT sempervirens H Juncus patens California grey rush 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade CA, DE, DT I Koeleria macrantha June grass 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun CA, DT J Leymus condensatus Lyme grass 2-3'x 2-3' L Full Sun CA, DT 'Canyon Prince' K Muhlenbergia capillaris Pink muhly grass 2-3'x 2-3' L Full Sun Yes DE, DT L Muhlenbergia rigens Deer grass 4-5'x4-6' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, CA, DE, DT M Pennisetum x advena Purple fountain grass 4-5'x3-4' M Full Sun specify sterile 'Rubrum' varieties only N Sisyrinchium bellum Blue-eyed grass 1'x1-2' VL Full Sun - Part Shade DT, FL
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N
3-156 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Groundcovers
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Acacia redolens 'Low Prostrate acacia 1-2'x10-15' VL Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL Boy' B Ajuga reptans Carpet bugle .5-1'x.5-2' M Part Shade - Shade BB, DE, FL C Aloe vera Aloe 1-2'x1-2' L Full Sun Yes DT, FL D Aptenia cordifolia Red apple iceplant .5'x1-2' L Full Sun Yes DT, FL E Arctostaphylos Emerald carpet 1'x3-5' M Full Sun CA, DE, DT, FL 'Emerald Carpet' manzanita F Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Bearberry 1.5'x10' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT G Bougainvillea glabra Bougainvillea 15-20'x12-15' L Full Sun Yes BB, FL H Ceanothus horizontalis Wild lilac 2-3'x8-10' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT 'Yankee Point' I Ceratostigma Dwarf plumbago 1'x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade FL plumbaginoides J Coprosma x. kirkii Coprosma 1-3'x4-6' L Full Sun - Part Shade DE, DT K Cotoneaster dammeri Bearberry cotoneaster 1'x4-6' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DT L Delosperma 'Alba' White iceplant .5'x1-3' L Full Sun Yes FL M Dymondia margaretae Dymondia 1-3"x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DE, DT N Erigeron glaucus Beach aster .5-1'x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, DE, DT O Ficus pumila Creeping fg 10-15'x3-6' M Full Sun - Part Shade Yes
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-157 PARK DESIGN
Groundcovers
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Juniperus conferta Shore juniper 1'x6-8' L Full Sun - Shade Yes DE, DT B Juniperus horizontalis Creeping juniper .5-2'x5-8' L Full Sun Yes DE, DT C Juniperus horizontalis Juniper .5-1'x5-6' L Full Sun DE, DT 'Blue Chip' D Lampranthus Purple iceplant .5-1'x1-2' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DE, DT productus E Lantana montevidensis Purple lantana 1-2'x3-5' L Full Sun - Part Shade Yes BB, DE, DT, FL F Lippia nodiflora Kurapia 1-2"x5-10' L Full Sun BB, FL G Lonicera japonica Japanese honeysuckle 15-30'x3-6' M Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT, FL H Mahonia repens Creeping mahonia 1-3'x1-3' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT, FL I Myoporum parvifolium Creeping myoporum 6-8'x6-10' L Full Sun - Part Shade DE, DT J Plumbago auriculata Dark blue plumbago 5-8'x5-8' L Full Sun - Shade DE, DT, FL K Portulaca grandiflora Moss rose 3-6"x.5-2' n/a Full Sun DT, FL L Rosa Flower Carpet Flower Carpet roses 2-3'x2-3' M Full Sun - Part Shade BB, FL varieties M Rosmarinus 'Prostratus' Trailing rosemary 1-2'x2-3' L Full Sun Yes BB, DE, DT, FL N Salvia leucophylla Purple sage 2-3''x8-10' L Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL 'Point Sal' O Salvia mellifera 'Terra Black sage 1-2'x6-8' L Full Sun - Shade CA, DT Seca'
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O
3-158 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Groundcovers
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant A Salvia sonomensis Creeping sage 1-1.5'x10-12' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, DE, DT, FL B Sedum sp. Stone crop .5"x1-2' L Full Sun BB, DE, DT, FL C Trachelospermum Star jasmine 2-6'x Spreading Full Sun - Shade Yes DE, DT, FL jasminoides Vines
# Scientific Name Common Name Avg. Size Water Solar Needs Reclaimed Notable (H x W) Needs Water Characteristics Tolerant D Bougainvillea 'San Bougainvillea 15-20'x12-15' L Full Sun Yes BB, FL Diego Red' E Campsis radicans Trumpet vine 20-40'x5-10' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT, FL F Jasminum polyanthum Jasmine 8-20'x3-5' M Full Sun - Part Shade FL G Rosa banksiae Lady Bank's rose 15-20'x6-10' L Full Sun BB, FL H Tecomaria capensis Cape honeysuckle 12-16'x6-8' M Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT, FL I Vitis californica California wild grape 10-40'x1' L Full Sun - Part Shade BB, CA, FL J Wisteria sinensis Chinese wisteria 10-40'x4-30' M Full Sun - Part Shade BB, DE, DT, FL
A B C D E
F G H I J
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-159 PARK DESIGN
Prohibited Plants
Prohibited plants are plant species that should not be planted in City parks and include those that are invasive, as well as those that pose safety issues, maintenance challenges, or are otherwise considered problematic for City parks. In the “Invasive” column: Cal-IPC: The plant is considered an invasive species per the California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC). The following tables only include a selection of common horticultural plants that are considered invasive. Refer to Cal- IPC for the latest list of invasive plant species and their invasiveness rating. Perry: The plant is considered an invasive species per the Landscape Plants for California Gardens book by Bob Perry.
3-160 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Prohibited Trees
# Scientific Name Common Name Invasive Notes A Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood acacia Cal-IPC B Ailanthus altissima Tree-of-heaven Cal-IPC
C Celtis sinensis Chinese hackberry aphid issues D Chamaerops humilis Mediterranean fan palm non-native palm E Cupressus macrocarpa Monterey cypress Perry F Eucalyptus River red gum Perry camaldulensis G Eucalyptus globulus Blue gum Perry H Ficus carica Edible fg Perry I Schinus molle California pepper Perry J Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian pepper Perry K Sesbania punicea Scarlet wisteria Cal-IPC L Syagrus romanzoffiana Queen palm non-native palm M Triadica sebifera Chinese tallow tree Perry (Sapium sebiferum) N Washingtonia robusta Mexican fan palm Perry
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-161 PARK DESIGN
Prohibited Shrubs
# Scientific Name Common Name Invasive Notes A Arundo donax Giant reed Cal-IPC B Cotoneaster franchetii Orange cotoneaster Cal-IPC
C Cotoneaster lacteus Milkflower cotoneaster Cal-IPC D Cotoneaster pannosus Silverleaf cotoneaster Cal-IPC E Cytisus scoparius Scotch broom Cal-IPC F Echium candicans Pride of Madiera Cal-IPC G Genista French Broom Perry monspessulanus H Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife Cal-IPC
I Myoporum laetum - Perry J Nandina domestica Heavenly bamboo invasive tendencies K Nerium oleander Oleander Perry sap is a skin irritant; toxic to pets L Pyracantha species Pyracantha Perry M Rubus armeniacus Himalayan blackberry Cal-IPC N Tulbaghia violacea Society garlic unpleasant odor
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N
3-162 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK DESIGN
Prohibited Grasses
# Scientific Name Common Name Invasive Notes A Cortaderia jubata Jubatagrass Cal-IPC B Cortaderia selloana Pampasgrass Cal-IPC
C Pennisetum setaceum* Crimson fountain grass Cal-IPC D Stipa tenuissima Mexican feathergrass Cal-IPC
* = may be planted if sterile varieties are specifed
Prohibited Groundcovers
# Scientific Name Common Name Invasive Notes E Carpobrotus edulis Highway iceplant Cal-IPC
Prohibited Vines
# Scientific Name Common Name Invasive Notes F Delairea odorata Cape ivy Cal-IPC G Hedera canariensis Algerian ivy Cal-IPC
H Hedera helix English ivy Cal-IPC
A B C D E
F G H
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-163 PARK 4 RENOVATIONS the park should be evaluated. Replacement plant Design Approval species should match and complement existing plant species. The advantages of coordinating plant Process species is not only aesthetic, but also functional, To best maintain the original design intent, park since the plant palette was selected and located for renovations that affect the character or form of a park a specifc purpose determined during the original that are carried out by maintenance staff should be design phase. reviewed by a landscape architect from PRNS- CIP or DPW-CFAS. This typically involves work such as Park staff should acquire as-built plans, when possible, tree and plant replacements and replacement of to review the existing plant list and layout. Plant site furnishings. On rare occasions it may involve species selected should correspond to the water- reconstruction of an area within the park and a change use zone, solar requirements, available space, and in use. The park manager should provide photos of reclaimed water tolerance of each specifc landscape the existing site and proposed changes in written or area. Biotreatment areas should only be planted with graphic form for design staff to review. Work should species approved by the Santa Clara Valley Urban not begin unless written approval is provided. Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) Appendix D: Plant List and Planting Guidance for The park manager should review the park master Landscape-Based Stormwater Measures. plan and as-builts prior to making renovation decisions. Renovations should be consistent with the Where matching the existing palette is not possible goals and objectives identifed by the master plan or desirable (such as due to disease outbreaks), park process. As-builts provide design details and product staff should utilize the approved plant list in these specifcations to enable staff to install replacement Guidelines to select a suitable replacement species. elements such as trees and benches that are consistent with the existing site features. Site Furnishing Replacement Site furnishing replacements occur when existing Plant Replacement furnishings are damaged, vandalized, outdated and Replacement of park landscape planting, including lack replacement parts, or have exceeded their shrubs, groundcover, vines or trees, is a common lifespan. Replacement furnishings should be selected practice that is necessary due to damage, disease, from the Guideline’s Furnishing and Equipment list. and other factors. Prior to selecting replacement Furnishings should be selected to match the style of plant material, the existing plant palette within existing site furnishings on site. Park staff should refer
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES PARK RENOVATIONS to the park master plan for guidance on the designer’s original furnishing style and intent. The Furnishing and Equipment list has grouped various furnishings together based on material and style. Replacement furnishings should use the grouping from the approved list that matches existing manufacturer, model and color of the furnishings on site or as similar of a style as possible.
Sport Court Conversions
Conversion of an existing court from one sport to another (such as tennis to futsal) should only be allowed if the sport to be replaced is accommodated elsewhere in the neighborhood. Proposals for court conversions must include an inventory of existing courts of both sports within a 1 mile distance from the replacement site. The replacement site should be evaluated to determine the feasibility and ease of conversion, including site improvements required and cost of conversion. Project proponent should conduct community outreach to confrm that the community supports the proposed conversion. Once feasibility and community support have been confrmed, design and preparation of construction drawings may proceed.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 3-165 5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS CITY STAFF
Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhood Services Department
Yves Zsutty, Division Manager
Sara Sellers, Associate Structure/Landscape Designer - Capital Projects
Alex Pearson, Parks Manager
Hayde Pacheco, Parks Manager - Captial Projects
Jeff Gomez, Parks Facility Supervisor
Steve Ryan, Recreation Supervisor
Troy Trede, Parks Manager
Public Works Department
Al Smith, Associate Landscape Architect
Mike Pruitt, Associate Landscape Architect
Tala Fatolahzadeh, Landscape Architect
CONSULTANT
Callander Associates Landscape Architecture
Marie Mai, Principal-in-Charge
Grant Huang, Job Captain
Melinda Wang, Designer/ Graphics
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 5-1 6 APPENDICES TABLE OF CONTENTS
APPENDIX A: RESOURCES LIST
APPENDIX B: MASTER PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS OUTLINE
APPENDIX C: PROJECT MEETING SUMMARIES
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: RESOURCES LIST
Web Links Related City Guidelines The following list includes links to the City’s website The following is a list of City documents relevant to that provide additional information to support the the park design process: park design process. ActivateSJ Strategic Plan (2020) Gang Intervention Community Garden Guidelines (2006) https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/ departments/parks-recreation-neighborhood- Community Garden Program Study (2016) services/gang-intervention Greenprint (2009) PRNS GIS Viewer - Park Amenity Inventory *Guidelines for the Selection of Plants for City https://csj.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/ Landscape Projects (2010) index.html?id=eb498127c412469999a18024f25cf629 Turnkey Project Process and Submittal Requirements (2019) Data and Maps - Demographics https://gis.sanjoseca.gov/apps/mapsgallery/
Development Policies - Public Outreach Policy https://www.sanjoseca.gov/home/ showpublisheddocument?id=12813
Department of Public Works - Standard Specifications and Details https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/ departments/public-works/resources/standard- details-and-specifcations
*Note: In the case of conflict between recommendations found in another guideline, the Park Design Guidelines (2021) will take precendence.
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 6-1 APPENDICES
APPENDIX B: MASTER PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS OUTLINE Master Plan Table of Contents
How to Use this Template: DO NOT DELETE sections or sub-‐sections, -‐ re organize, or add additional sections. ntegrity Retain i of Table of Contents. Items in red are descriptions and/or examples, not to be included in TOC, but to guide necessary information. If sections and sub-‐sections are not relevant, keep them anyway and give a brief explanation. DO NOT include ‘not applicable’ in your description. See 5.3 for example. The Master Plan should be a combination of written text, maps, illustrations, graphics, photographs, and other visual aides. For further reference, review the Three Creeks Master Plan. List of Figures List of Abbreviations and Acronyms Section 1: Executive Summary 1.1 Purpose & Background: Explain purpose of a Master Plan in general terms. State what it seeks to accomplish such as a well-‐defined guide for future design, it captures site challenges and opportunities, defines how a project fits in a broader context, and confirms community engagement and support. 1.2 Master Plan Overview: Give a general description of the master plan findings: size, function, design theme, needs met, primary challenges, primary opportunities, etc.. This is a preview of the document. 1.3 Master Plan Process: Explain sequential steps of planning following the structure of the TOC: Site Setting, Goals and Objectives, Planning Process, etc..
Section 2: Site Setting 2.1 Context-‐ Regional: San Jose (template paragraph about City’s history, its position in the bay, its climate, current economy, etc.), area of city, council district. 2.2 Context-‐ The Park and Trail System: Describe how the area to be master planned relates to the larger park and trail system and what needs it may meet or gaps it may fill. Assess surrounding park and trail assets both current and planned, including publicly open parks that are not city owned. Include data on park size, assets, themes, trail connections or possible connections. What recreational interests e ar served and not served? What are existing design or place making themes? 2.3 Context-‐ Neighborhood: Describe the district of the city, the neighborhood history and character, adjacent zoning, adjacent streets,
6-2 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDICES
APPENDIX B: MASTER PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS OUTLINE history and demographics. Demographics should explore income levels, age groups, ethnicity, health, access to food and transit, etc.. 2.4 Context-‐ Site Analysis: Two sections should be presented here. One that focuses on labeling existing site features and another that studies the features through the activate SJ lens. For existing site features it may be best represented in illustrative and graphic form. Label items on a map such as: existing trees, topography, busy adjacent roads, viewsheds, shade studies, photos of existing site, flood limits, projected growth, neighboring uses such as schools or coffee shops. Investigate site conditions through the Activate SJ lens. Are there existing elements that relate to Activate SJ that should be preserved and strengthened? This will inform the next section for opportunities and constraints. 2.4.1 Stewardship: Present Condition, Phase I / Phase II test findings, 2.4.2 Nature: Existing landscape, features to be preserved, biological resources such as plant communities and wildlife, sensitive, endangered or listed resources. 2.4.3 Equity and Access: Explore 10-‐minute walk map, access (streets, nearby major arterials, transit, trails, and other means of access), major access barriers, communities of concern. 2.4.4 Identity: Historical land use, significant events, culture and influences, persons that may have relation to site. 2.4.5 Public Life: Local events occurring nearby, community interests. 2.5 Opportunities and Constraints: This may be represented best in illustrative and graphic form, labeling opportunities/strengths and constraints/weaknesses of items such as: edges, paths, nodes, landmarks, compatible and incompatible uses, adjacent attractions, visual barriers, connections, etc... The site analysis should inform this investigation. Are there Activate SJ elements in the site analysis that should be identified as an opportunity? Are there constraints that limit any Activate SJ goals?
Section 3: Goals and Objectives 3.1 General: Explain the goal of the new park/trail project. Will it fulfill an unmet need? 3.2 Alignment to Activate SJ Guiding Principles: Reiterate the findings from the site analysis and opportunities and constraints that may lead to planning goals. 3.2.1 Stewardship 3.2.2 Equity and Access 3.2.3 Nature 3.2.4 Identity 3.2.5 Public Life
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 6-3 APPENDICES
3.3 Environmental Resources: This section is most applicable to trails. For parks, describe any environmental resources that should be preserved on site such as mature trees and natural drainage features. 3.4 Land Use: Describe general patterns of space like setbacks from neighbors, buffers from streets, access points into park, etc.. 3.5 Aesthetic: Describe general character of park and material considerations. Example: if it’s an old farm site the palette may be rustic features, barn like architecture, plant palettes of ornamental fruit trees and grasses, rough sawn wood fences, ornamental windmill, etc..
Section 4: Planning Process 4.1 Project Start Up: Identify procedures, standards, formats, project schedule, project concerns, planning objectives, community workshop strategies and agendas. 4.2 Technical Advisory Committee: Identify needed committee such as public safety, regulatory agencies, partner agencies, and internal experts. 4.3 Community Outreach Objectives: This section should describe the process and objectives. 4.3.1 Community Meeting No. 1: The Project Manager should present/host the first Community Meeting with detail about the site, its opportunities and constraints, the voids in programming the site seeks to fill and 2 or 3 rough sketches of how the park site may accommodate a variety of needs. The purpose of the first meeting is to share information with the community and have them become familiar with the site and the role of community. 4.3.2 Community Meeting No. 2: The second meeting is intended to gather community feedback and investigate design alternatives. 4.3.3 Community Meeting No. 3: The third meeting is intended to present the Master Plan and seek final comments on refined plan. 4.3.3.1 Facility Naming: Generate preliminary draft for facility names that reflect site features such as history, habitat type, donor names, etc.. Present at third community meeting and gather feedback. 4.4 Community Outreach Process & Outcomes: This section should describe the actual community meetings that took place. Include meeting dates, location, number of community members, stakeholders present, discussions, surveys, and design alternatives. 4.4.1 Community Meeting No. 1
6-4 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDICES
4.4.1.1 Attendees 4.4.1.2 Summary of outcomes: Include Appendix documenting detailed input. 4.4.1.3 Graphics shared 4.4.2 Community Meeting No. 2 4.4.2.1 Attendees 4.4.2.2 Summary of outcomes: Include Appendix documenting detailed input. 4.4.2.3 Graphics shared 4.4.3 Community Meeting No. 3 Attendees 4.4.3.1 Summary of outcomes: Include Appendix documenting detailed input. 4.4.3.2 Graphics shared 4.4.4 Summary of Community Process 4.4.4.1 Specific guidance to address Opportunities and Constraints 4.5 Master Plan Refinement: Describe the input from the first two community meetings and how they led to a refined plan. 4.6 Diagrammatic Planning: This may be represented best in illustrative form to describe a well-‐defined site plan, giving clarity on circulation, uses, allocation of space, and specifics on recreational features, in terms of play but not on product. Provide sufficient detail on a planning level that can be handed over to the design team. 4.7 Environmental Analysis and Clearance: Describe environmental analysis such as CEQA.
Section 5: Interagency Coordination 5.1 Property Ownership: This section is more relevant for trails but would also include topics such as joint use sites and shared ownership. 5.2 Environmental Requirements: This section is more applicable to trails but may include topics related to environmental performance. 5.3 Agency Requirements: This section is more applicable to trails but may include jurisdiction requirements. If there are no agency requirements you may include: “This park site is entirely upon City-‐owned property and to be designated as parkland. There are no shared use or inter-‐agency requirements at this park site”. 5.4 Operational Requirements: Describe requirements outside of the typical park recreation needs 5.4.1 Programming needs 5.4.2 Event Space 5.4.3 Special Considerations
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 6-5 APPENDICES
5.5 Maintenance Requirements: Does this require special maintenance such as Iris Chang’s artwork or Del Monte’s synthetic turf? 5.5.1 Work to be performed: Synthetic turf requires a groomer ff to flu the turf. 5.5.2 Proposed funding or collaborative arrangement for maintenance
Section 6: Park Development 6.1 Park Design: Describe character, amenity types, and aesthetic justifications without getting into specific details or specified equipment which will be developed by the design team. 6.2 Opportunities and Constraints: These are refined from previous section and tied with community recommendations. This may be best represented in table or chart form. 6.3 Circulation: Describe general circulation goals such as park entries to align with urrent c circulation patterns, sidewalks, and crosswalks. 6.4 Education: Describe educational component and necessary signage. 6.5 Activate SJ Goals: How does this MP apply Activate SJ goals? This may be best represented in table or chart form. 6.6 Articulating Spaces: Define spaces such as edges, paths, nodes, and landmarks. Define attributes such as playgrounds, soccer fields, picnic areas, walking loops, etc.. 6.7 Palettes and Design Themes: Provide mage i rich content. If identity is from a historic farm then the imagery may be of distressed wood, ornamental grasses and fruit trees, windmills, and barn like structures. 6.8 Site Furnishings: Provide content similar to Palettes and Design Themes.
Section 7: Development Guidelines 7.1 Summary of Improvements: Describe the park or trail space as developed through the community input plan refinement and list the priorities for improvements. If funding is cut, what will be the priority? Avoid specifying equipment or design level details that will be performed later by the design team. 7.2 Street Crossings: Describe any necessary changes or additions to street crossings. 7.3 Planting: Describe the planting style at a general level such ratio as of landscape areas to turf or natural versus formal planting style. 7.4 Miscellaneous Site Amenities: Describe at a general level without going into design such as “A Drinking Fountain will support multi-‐hour use of the playground. It should be installed between the Tot and Youth Lot”. 7.5 Maintenance 7.5.1 Guidance for minimizing maintenance tasks and duration
6-6 PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDICES
7.5.1.1 Access to turf for mowing 7.5.1.2 Reduction of non-‐recreation turf 7.5.1.3 Strategic plant groupings 7.5.1.4 Spaces for volunteer-‐led maintenance
Section 8: Implementation 8.1 Estimated Hard Costs: Include information on inflation costs, 3-‐5% inflation rate for each year the project is on hold. 8.2 Estimated Soft Costs: Include information on inflation costs, -‐ 3 5% inflation rate for each year the project is on hold. 8.3 Priorities and Phasing: If there is lack of funding, create a strategy to phase construction, place utilities, ensure park usability throughout all phases, and discuss future funding. 8.4 Ongoing Operational Costs: Describe the cost of ongoing maintenance and the strategy for long . term care
Bibliography & Acknowledgements
Appendix A Technical Advisory Committee Meetings
Appendix B Community Meetings
Appendix C Community Input Matrix
PARK DESIGN GUIDELINES 6-7