Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023
Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan
Live Work Play DRAFT 2019-2023
1 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
NORTHVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
City Members
Ken Roth, Mayor
Nancy Darga, Mayor Pro-Tem
Township Members Robert Nix, Chairperson, Township Supervisor
Marjorie Banner, Township Treasurer
Mindy Hermann, Township Trustee
School Board Member Jim Mazurek
Administrative Staff
Chip Snider, Township Manager
Patrick Sullivan, City Manager
Mark Gasche, Parks and Recreation Director
NORTHVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Robert Nix II, Township Supervisor
Sue Hillebrand, Clerk
Marjorie Banner, Treasurer
Richard Allen, Symantha Heath
Mindy Herrmann, Fred Shadko
CITY OF NORTHVILLE CITY COUNCIL
Ken Roth, Mayor
Nancy Darga, Mayor Pro-Tem
Sam Ekong, Patrick Giesa
Marilyn Price
PLANNING CONSULTANTS
ROWE Professional Services Company
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Table of Contents
APPENDIX ...... 4 INTRODUCTION ...... 5 COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION ...... 6 Existing Land Use/Topography: ...... 6 Transportation: ...... 6 Natural Resources:...... 7 Population: ...... 8 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE ...... 9 Background: ...... 9 Administrative Operations: ...... 9 Parks and Recreation Department Staff: ...... 9 Current Funding Sources: ...... 10 Role of Volunteers: ...... 10 Relationships with Community Partners: ...... 10 RECREATION INVENTORY ...... 13 Inventory of Facilities: ...... 13 Local Parks and Facilities: ...... 13 School Facilities: ...... 19 REGIONAL RECREATION FACILITIES AND PARKS ...... 23 Regional Parks and Facilities: ...... 23 PLANNING PROCESS ...... 29 Public Input: ...... 29 Preliminary Plan: ...... 29 Plan Review: ...... 29 BASIS FOR ACTION PLAN ...... 30 Public Input Summary: ...... 30 Park Land Analysis and Service Areas: ...... 30 Facilities Analysis: ...... 32 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ...... 37 Mission: ...... 37 System-Wide Recommendations: ...... 39 Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan: ...... 41
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APPENDIX
A. Demographic information B. Master Plan Excerpts 7-mile Site Master Plan City Non-Motorized Plan Township CIP plan C. Public Input, misc. Community Partners Survey Focus Group Summary D. Documentation of Public Hearing and Approvals (advertisements, meeting minutes, resolutions, certification form) E. Post-Completion Forms
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INTRODUCTION
Parks and recreation services enhance a community's quality of life, and Northville area residents appreciate a high level of service. With Northville Parks and Recreation, residents enjoy all the benefits of an excellent local park system with envied recreational programming and facilities. County, state and regional parks enhance the parks and recreation choices available to residents. The Northville Parks and Recreation department is a shared service of the City of Northville and the Charter Township of Northville, has a collaborative relationship with Northville Public Schools, and partners with the local business community and other stakeholders. Joint stakeholders from Northville, Northville Township This “Community Parks and Recreation Plan” is a useful tool to guide the development and preservation of the park facilities and programming in a manner that is consistent with the motto of “creating community through people, parks and programs.” An approved recreation plan is required for various grants made available through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). This 2019 update includes evaluations of park facilities and programming to determine where improvements can be made. The plan is divided into separate sections that represent the planning process used in its development. In addition to this introduction the plan contains: • Community Description: An overview of the community’s current and projected social, physical and economic characteristics. • Administrative Structure: Identifies the entities responsible for administration of the park and recreation programs and facilities provided throughout the city. • Parks, Facility and Program Inventory: Describes the specific parks, facilities and programs that are offered through the Northville Parks and Recreation Department. • Planning Process: Describes the participatory process by the community and other partners; process will discuss the community description, recreation inventory, public participation, analysis, action program and plan completion and adoption. • Basis for Action: Analyzes the programs and facilities and contains a description of the public involvement process used in development of the plan. • Action Plan: Identifies the plan’s goals and objectives, all project and system recommendations and a five-year plan for investment. The Community Parks and Recreation Plan will be used as a solid foundation for future recreation facilities and programming improvements within the Northville community; as well as continued investments and policies that will continue to support a healthy, desirable quality of life for the residents in the service area.
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COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION
Northville Township was created in 1867, the same year Northville Village was incorporated. Later, the village reincorporated as a city in 1955. The community consists of approximately 20 square miles and 34,687 residents in the Detroit metropolitan area. (US Census July 1, 2016 estimate) Northville Township and most of the City of Northville is located in the northwestern corner of Wayne County. The City straddles the Wayne County boundary, with a portion of the city located in southwestern Oakland County. The community also borders the City of Novi in Oakland County to the north, Salem Township in Washtenaw County to the west, the City of Livonia to the east and Plymouth Township to the south, both in Wayne County. Historically, the heart of the community, the City of Northville, developed most intensively. This area is characterized as a traditional Midwestern community with a defined downtown; small- lot, single-family, residential neighborhoods; and historic architecture. During its early years, Northville Township contained farmland and large-lot, residential development. As neighborhoods expanded beyond the City's limits, the Township developed into a thriving, independent community offering a variety of residential, commercial and office land uses. Existing Land Use/Topography: The predominant land use in Northville is residential. Many new residential subdivisions have been added in the past several years, particularly in Northville Township, fueling the community's population growth and generating demand for new parks and recreational facilities. Map Five Land Use depicts the generalized land use plan for the Northville Community. Transportation: Northville residents rely on road and pathway networks to access regional parks and recreational facilities. No mass transit serves the community, but most park facilities provide parking to accommodate vehicular access. Senior transportation is available for City and Township residents through the Northville Community Senior Services Transportation program. Curb to curb service is provided Monday through Friday for medical appointments, grocery shopping, errand running, etc. for a small fee. The Northville Community provides non-motorized transportation opportunities as a means to access recreation areas and other important community features like schools and community centers. Northville Township has developed a community-wide pathways plan that includes bike path and sidewalk routes. New developments are required to construct paths along their frontages and new neighborhoods are required to provide open space and pathway connections in order to improve the pedestrian oriented environment of residents. Several rail corridors traverse the community and may one day provide rail-to-trail opportunities if their use is abandoned. A Non-Motorized Plan was completed for the City of Northville in 2014 and a Capital Improvement Plan was completed in 2018 for Northville Township that identified various non-motorized improvement projects.
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Aviation transportation is available through Detroit Metropolitan-Wayne County Airport in Romulus which operates daily flights to destinations, both domestic and international. Local public transit is also available through the SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation). Natural Resources: The Natural Features Map depicts the general location of key natural features within the Northville Community including wetlands, woodlands and bodies of water. These natural features provide substantial park and recreation opportunities. The western portion of the community offers gently rolling topography, while the eastern side is relatively flat. Elevations range from 970 feet in Maybury State Park in the northwestern portion of the Township to 730 feet at Phoenix Lake in the Township's southeast section. The community's primary natural water resources are the Middle Rouge River, which generally runs north-south through the middle of the community, and Johnson Creek, which bisects the western portion of the Township in a northeast-southwest direction. The creek is one of the only three in southeastern Michigan and the only one in Wayne County to support a trout population. The Friends of the Rouge and Johnson Creek Protection Society have formed to preserve and protect the environmental characteristics of both of Northville's primary waterways. Other important water features include the former gravel pits that are now Lake Success, Silver Springs Lake, Crystal Lake, Swan Harbor Lake and Stonewater Lake. Map 1: Natural Features Map
The Northville Community lies in the Rouge River Watershed. Development of land in and upstream of the community increases the risk of flooding. FEMA flood hazard maps indicate that approximately 580 acres of land within the community boundary are in the 100-year floodplain and approximately 95
7 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 additional acres are in the 500-year floodplain. Additionally, approximately 2,080 acres of wetlands exist within the community. Pockets of significant woodlands are associated with the Middle Rouge River, Johnson Creek and their tributaries. Land with important natural features is relatively difficult to develop and make prime candidates for affordable parks and recreational lands, while serving the dual purposes of environmental protection and recreation. Population: The U.S. Census from 2010 documented the population of the City of Northville Table 1: at 5,970 and Northville Township at 28,497. Currently, the U.S. Census estimate Year Population for Northville is at 5,979 and 28,708 respectively, per the 2016 estimate. The 1990 23,539 population trend from 1990 until the latest census and projected forecast for 2020 2000 27,495 is included on this page in Table 1. SEMCOG has calculated the population 2010 34,467 percentage for the next 27 years; and the findings have estimated that there will be 2015 36,134 a negative population change in ages 24 and under. The population that will 2020* 39,686 increase during this time will be 65 and over. Table 2 shows the age breakdown of the residents of the community. This change primarily revolves Table 2: Age Population around the aging demographics of the community compared with the Under 19 1,398 changing demographics of young people within the community. 20-44 1,562 45-64 2,046 Understanding the status of persons with disabilities will assist in planning 65 and Over 964 future programs and appropriate locations for recreational activities. Also, with the American's With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), all public services, including parks and recreation facilities, are subject to barrier-free requirements. Racial diversity includes a community that reports itself 80-92% White, with a 7% gain from 2000 to 2010 in the township for those that identify as Asian. As the population diversifies, park and recreation activities and programs may need to diversify to address changing cultural interests. Additional detailed demographic information is included in the appendix.
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ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE In 2018, approximately 51 percent Background: of the Parks and Recreation Department was supported by self- Northville Parks and Recreation is a shared service provided generated revenue from program through an agreement between the City of Northville and the fees and other sources outside Charter Township of Northville. Northville Parks and general fund balance. Recreation services the residents of both communities through programs in Recreation and Senior Services, along with parks and facilities in each jurisdiction. Northville Parks and Recreation is currently governed by a Parks and Recreation Commission comprised of elected officials from Northville Charter Township, the City of Northville, and the Northville Public Schools Board of Education. Policies are determined and established by the Parks and Recreation Commission; only the commission can change the policy or make exceptions to it. The Parks and Recreation Commission operates all city and township parks, playgrounds, athletic fields and recreational facilities and equipment. Members of the commission serve ongoing terms; meetings occur the fourth Wednesday in January, March, May, July, September, and November at 6:30 p.m. at Northville Township Hall, 4405 W. Six Mile Road. Administrative Operations: In August of 2017, Northville Township and the City of Northville reached an agreement to transition administrative, accounting and operational functions of the parks, facilities and recreation and senior programs to Northville Township, effective January 1, 2018. The main reason for this switch was to reflect the changing population demographics that have occurred since the original shared services agreement began in the 1970s, and to utilize the administrative and operational resources that are more available with the township. The change also recognizes the increased potential for growth of parks and recreation within township properties and facilities. Parks and Recreation Department Staff: Daily operations of the Parks and Recreation Department are the responsibility of the Parks and Recreation Director in Northville. The director oversees 6 full-time, 27 part-time, and 60+ seasonal staff that supervise, lead or maintain the parks and recreation system and programming in Northville. The Parks and Recreation Department offices are located in leased space within Hillside Middle School in close proximity to the indoor gymnasium space that the department uses for various programs in a joint use arrangement with Northville Public Schools. In addition, the Parks and Recreation department has a long-term lease agreement with Northville Public Schools to use the Community Center for senior services, adult and youth programming. Figure 1 details the organizational chart for the Northville Parks and Recreation Department. The Parks and Recreation Director is a full-time administrative position under the general supervision of the Manager of Northville Township. The director is responsible for assessing, developing and implementing all aspects of the community-wide recreation program. These items include budgeting, program development, public relations, promotion, facility management, park maintenance, equipment needs and staff management. The director also works closely with other departments in the township and city government, community groups/partners, and volunteer organizations. The Parks and Recreation Department provides parks, facilities, programs and services through three divisions: The Recreation Division provides programming in special events, youth recreation, youth athletics, teen enrichment, adult recreation and athletics and more. The Senior Services Division provides
9 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 programming in health and wellness, social, educational, enrichment and events. In addition, they offer day trips for seniors and operate a senior transportation program. The Parks and Facilities Division is responsible for a variety of neighborhood and community parks and pathways, a variety of park amenities and athletic fields, and two indoor recreation facilities. The staff, which maintains park properties and facilities, is comprised of 2 full-time, 10 part-time and 11 seasonal positions. It maintains over 231 acres on 11 developed park sites, plus 2 facility sites. In addition there are 5 other community park sites within Northville, totaling 63.5 acres, maintained by others. And further, there are five as yet undeveloped proposed park sites in Northville. Current Funding Sources: The Parks and Recreation Department is funded through numerous sources including program fees and charges, rental fees, grants, donations, sponsorships and general fund support from both the city and township. The township general fund support, which is provided through a dedicated millage, amounts to approximately 42% of the department budget, while the city general fund support provides approximately 8% of the department budget. See the Where the Money Comes From graph in the 2018 Annual Budget & Financial Plan Figure 2. Wayne County Parks also provides funding support for capital improvement projects through their Park Millage Fund, which is disseminated to local communities on a proposal basis. Role of Volunteers: Volunteers have proved to be extremely crucial for the success of the recreational programming for Northville. Without the support and dedication of the citizens and community stakeholders in providing assistance to many of the recreational programs in Northville, they would not be as successful. Recreation volunteers provide services such as coaching, refereeing and program leadership. Other volunteers perform field maintenance duties along with minor maintenance and up-keep of park properties. In senior services, many individual volunteers assist with special events, lead a variety of groups and clubs, instruct classes, make calls to home bound residents and assist with the distribution of health and wellness supplies. Some groups and organizations that work along with the Northville Parks and Recreation Department include the:
Northville Township Fire Department Northville City Fire Department Northville High School Rotary Interact Club Allen Terrace Saint Joseph Mercy Health System St. John Providence AARP The Senior Alliance Wells Brooke Premium Home Health Care Relationships with Community Partners: Northville Public Schools is a key community partner and stakeholder, providing office space and critical recreation space for indoor programs. The gyms at Hillside Recreation Center support daytime use of over 1,000 students and are programmed in the evening for community recreation programs. The Community Center gym and facility houses the Senior Center offices and program space, as well as provides space for youth and adult programs and events, and other community programs. Since the high school gym is not available for public use, there is a high demand for the three full size indoor gym facilities. The connection between an active population, enhanced by recreation programs and facilities, helps support a successful
10 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 and healthy community. Cooperation with the public schools is a critical area for the Parks and Recreation programs and services provided to the community. Thayer’s Corner Nature Area is a 57-acre park run by a volunteer group that operates 100 community garden plots; approximately 75% of which are used by township or city residents. This group connects with a large representation of the ethnic diversity within the community. Maybury State Park provides an opportunity to get involved in outdoor recreation activities in a state park setting. Maybury State Park is home to the Northville Parks and Recreation Summer Day Camp and the Maybury Family Camp Out. Friends of Maybury is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting Maybury State Park. They provide nature education programs at the park and support a variety of park maintenance projects. They also partner on several community programs provided by Northville Parks and Recreation. The Northville Community Foundation is a program partner and a funding source for senior programs, with an emphasis on agricultural and farm education programs, which support their operation of Maybury Farm. Maybury Farm is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enhance and enrich life in the community. They provide programs to educate children and families about animals and agriculture of Michigan. The Northville Downtown Development Authority provides a variety of art and entertainment community events around the downtown and in close proximity to local park facilities. They support the Tunes on Tuesday program held at Town Square, as well as schedule that facility for other community events and programs. The Northville Chamber of Commerce offers several community events, including at park locations. The Chamber also coordinates and manages the Northville Farmers Market. Other community partners and volunteer groups in the community include:
• Boy Scouts of America Northville Kiwanis Club • Eclipse Baseball Club of Northville • Northville Mainstreet League • Friends of the Rouge Northville Rotary Club • Huron Valley Girl Scout Council • Northville Soccer Association • Johnson Creek Protection Group Northville Township Firefighters Charity • Mother's Club of Northville • Northville Youth Assistance • Northville Arts Commission • Schoolcraft College • Northville Baseball-Softball Association • Western Wayne County Therapeutic • Northville District Library Recreation • Northville Garden Club • Northville Historical Society Figure 1 – Organizational Chart: Figure 2 – Budget Analysis: The operating budget for the Parks and Recreation Department is annually adopted by the Township Board Parks and Recreation Commission for the fiscal year, which runs from January 1st to December 31st. Northville continues to seek other funding sources (i.e. grant programs, private donations) to generate
11 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 resources that support various capital improvement projects and help provide programs, services and park amenities.
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Inventory of Facilities: The Northville Community contains a wide variety of well-maintained public parks and recreation facilities. Seventeen public parks and facilities, encompassing just over 295.1 acres, are available for use by the residents of Northville. An inventory of public parks and facilities is described below and depicted in Map One Parks and Recreation Inventory and Table Three Public Parks and Facilities Inventory. These parks are further broken down into three categories based on size and function. The categories (Mini/Neighborhood, Community, and Regional) are suggested by the National Recreation and Parks Association and are meant to aid in determining the primary purposes and uses of existing facilities within the community. The Recreation Master Plan includes an inventory of recreation facilities, programming and events that occur within Northville. Understanding the specific facilities and events available to the residents of Northville will aid decision making in the future. The following summaries address existing conditions and the accessibility of the Northville park properties regarding compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG). In general, all construction since 1991 was required to comply with these guidelines. A general ranking for each park was determined through site visits as follows: 1. None of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines 2. Some of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines 3. Most of the facilities meet accessibility guidelines 4. The entire park meets accessibility guidelines 5. The entire park was developed/renovated using the principals of universal design Local Parks and Facilities: Mini/Neighborhood Parks Mini parks are categorized as small, specialized parks that are usually less than 1 acre in size and serve the needs of residents in the immediate neighborhood. These parks usually serve a limited population or specific demographic group. Neighborhood parks are typically multi-purpose facilities that serve as the recreational and social focus of a neighborhood. They provide areas for both passive and active recreation activities such as field games, court games, playgrounds, picnicking, etc. Neighborhood parks are generally between 5 and 10 acres in size and serve residents within ½ mile. The Northville community contains five parks that can be classified as Mini/Neighborhood Parks, as follows:
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Cabbage Town Park Cabbage Town Park is located at the intersection of Baseline Road and Carpenter Street in the City of Northville. This small park provides picnic benches and playground equipment to residents of the surrounding neighborhood and is serviced only by on-street parking. Renovations to update the park, in terms of accessibility and equipment, were finished in 2004. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 1.0 Acres ADA Accessibility: 1 Cady Street Dog Park The Cady Street Dog Park was developed in 2003. The dog park provides community residents with an off- leash safe place area to socialize and to exercise their dogs. Amenities include a fenced yard, watering facilities and benches. It is located behind and shares parking with The Art House. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 0.8 Acres ADA Accessibility: 1 City Hall Open Space The area behind Northville City Hall and adjacent to the Northville District Library is open green space, though not officially considered a park. It contains mature trees, a manicured lawn and landscape areas, picnic tables and benches. It is used regularly for community events. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 0.2 Acres ADA Accessibility: 1 Joe Denton Park Joe Denton Park, a ½-acre of open space, is located along Eaton Drive at Fairbrook Street in the City of Northville. The park offers an open green surrounded by mature trees and primarily serves residents of the immediate neighborhood. It is not counted among the Parks and Recreation Department’s inventory of parks. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 2.0 Acres ADA Accessibility: 1
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Sheldon Road Park The Sheldon Road Park is located on Sheldon Road between Five-Mile and Six-Mile in Northville Township. This park serves residents in and around the Northville Hills Golf Club neighborhoods and provides a play structure and benches. It is adjacent to the pathway along Sheldon Road. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 4.4 Acres ADA Accessibility: 1 Community Parks Community parks typically contain a wide variety of recreation facilities to meet the diverse needs of residents from the community. Community parks may include areas for intense active recreation as well as passive recreation opportunities not commonly found in mini or neighborhood parks. Community parks are generally between 30 and 50 acres in size and serve residents within a 3-mile radius. Community parks also include smaller parks that are more specialized in nature and are meant to serve the entire community. Coldwater Springs Twenty-eight (28) acres of open space were provided to the Township as part of the Coldwater Springs development. This open space contains fields, woodlands, wetlands, an 800-foot boardwalk and a walking path. DNR Recreation Grants: TF06-010, 2006, Boardwalk, fishing deck, parking, pathways Size: 28 Acres ADA Accessibility: 2 Fish Hatchery Park Fish Hatchery Park is a 17-acre multi-use facility located on Fairbrook Street. The park contains five tennis courts, two ball diamonds, a play structure, a picnic shelter with grills, nature trails and pond. The tennis courts had crack repair work done in 2018. The park is adjacent to Johnson Creek, one of only three coldwater streams in Michigan’s lower peninsula. The streambank has been a focal point of grant applications to naturalize the bank, develop fish habitat and improve the adjacent pond in the park.
DNR Recreation Grants: 26-01023 R2. 1977 BF93-227, 1993, Bridge, trail, dredging, tennis courts Size: 17 Acres ADA Accessibility: 1
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Ford Field Ford Park is a 6-acre park in the heart of downtown Northville. The park includes Ford Field, a lighted ball field, playground area, accessible play structure, picnic tables and walking paths. Middle Rouge River runs through the park. The park is adjacent to Mill Race Village Park. DNR Recreation Grants: TF94-274, 1994, Purchase 2.4 acres along Rouge River CM99-252, 1999, Ballfields, pedestrian bridge, observation deck, pathways, parking lot Size: 6 Acres ADA Accessibility: 4 Henningsen Park This 3-acre park is located behind the Northville Township Police Department on 6 Mile Road and provides residents with two ball diamonds. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 2.8 Acres ADA Accessibility: 3 Mill Race Village Operated by the Northville Historical Society, Mill Race Village is a 4-acre living museum in downtown Northville. The village contains several houses and buildings from the 19th century, along with benches, access to Mill Pond, and a paved parking lot. It is located next to Ford Park and Field. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 4.0 Acres Accessibility: 4 Millennium Park Located on Six Mile Road across from Northville High School and behind the Northville Township Fire Department Administrative Building, Millennium Park is a 34-acre park providing multiple recreation opportunities, including four ball diamonds, five sports fields, two play structures, walking paths, concession stand, restrooms and a picnic pavilion with grills. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 34.5 Acres Accessibility: 4
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Marv Gans Community Park Marv Gans Community Park, renamed in 2017 after its former Township Trustee namesake, is the community’s largest park at 119 acres. The park contains 3 ball diamonds, 12 athletic fields, accessible play structure, 2 picnic shelters, a dog park, 2 restrooms, 1 concession facility, and an archery area.
DNR Recreation Grants: 26-01332, 1984, Develop 2 ballfields, soccer area, ice rink Size: 119 Acres Accessibility: 4 Thayer’s Corner Nature Area Thayer’s Corner Nature Area is a 57-acre park located at the corner of Six Mile and Napier. The park contains community gardens, hiking trails and a pond. The site also contains a vacant residential home and a barn. An updated concept plan for development was completed in late 2006. Thayer’s Corner Nature Area is operated by the Friends of Thayer’s. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 57 Acres Accessibility: 2 Town Square (Bandshell) Town Square is a landscaped, urban plaza located on Main Street in downtown Northville serving all of the residents of the Northville Community. Concerts and other downtown events are held at this facility, which contains benches, tables, chairs, plantings, a stage and a fountain. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 0.3 Acres Accessibility: 4 Veteran’s Memorial Park This 16-acre park in Northville Township is located along Tournament Drive off of Sheldon Road. It contains a forest preserve with trails, an area with benches, and a memorial to America’s service men and women. DNR Recreation Grants: TF09-174, 2009 Linear park acquisition of 51 acres to connect State Hospital property to Hines Parkway TF10-140, 2010 Linear park acquisition of 51 acres to connect State Hospital property to Hines Parkway Size: 16.4 Acres Accessibility: 2
Community Facilities
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Northville has two facilities that fall into the category of Community Parks, based on use characteristics. They are heavily used by both Township and City residents. Northville Community Center (NCC) Located next to the Northville District Library on Main Street, the Northville Community Center houses the Senior Center, has a gym, banquet room, service pantry, meeting rooms, restrooms, stage and fitness area. During daytime hours Monday-Friday the facility serves mainly as the Northville Senior Center, but in the evening and on weekends it is used for a variety of activities. Many indoor parks and recreation programs are held at the center, from social events to fitness, educational and enrichment, and sports programs for residents of all ages. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 0.9 Acres Accessibility: 4 Recreation Center at Hillside (RCH) Housing the offices of the Northville Parks and Recreations Department, the Recreation Center at Hillside is located in the rear of the Hillside Middle School. Facilities include two full-size gymnasiums, two multi- purpose mini gyms and two classrooms. It is the primary location for indoor parks and recreation programs. The school pool, which had been programmed by parks and recreation, was closed in 2016 due to maintenance issues. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Size: 0.8 Acres Accessibility: 4 Undeveloped Park Land In addition to the many developed parks within Northville, the community owns a number of undeveloped properties that have the potential to be developed for active or passive recreation or be left in their natural state to contribute to the natural open space that adds to the community’s appeal. 7 Mile Road Property Seventeen (17) acres of heavily wooded land on the south side of Seven Mile Road, the property is surrounded by the former State Hospital property. The township has invested in a master planning effort for this facility that includes extensive recreation development, it is included in the appendix. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Allen Drive Located at the intersection of Eight Mile and Novi Roads, this 2-acre area is surrounded by residential areas in the City’s northeast corner. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A
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Township Property Over 100 acres of open space adjacent to Coldwater Springs were provided to the Township as part of a development. This open space contains open fields, woodlands and wetlands. The Township is working on the development of a pathway through the park. DNR Recreation Grants: N/A Lot 374 Undeveloped land in the City of Northville surrounded by residential property. Maplewood Park Undeveloped land in the City of Northville surrounded by residential property. School Facilities: The many school facilities within the community contain various types of outdoor facilities that are used by school teams, organized youth sport organizations and residents. Although priority use is given to school programs, they are widely used by athletic organizations and residents so they are incorporated into the plan analysis. Private school facilities are generally not open to the general public and are primarily used by enrolled students and members. A complete inventory of school sites within Northville is listed in Table Four Public and Private Schools Inventory and shown on Map One Parks and Recreation Inventory. For the purposes of this inventory, all school facilities were classified as neighborhood parks with the exception of Northville High School, Northville High School 8 Mile Athletic Complex, the Hillside Middle School and Ward Church which were considered community parks.
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Table 31: Public Parks and Facilities Inventory
Purpose Field Purpose
-
Course
Park/Facility Name Community Acres Accessibility Ball Diamond Hoop Basketball Dog Park Golf Grills Gymnasium Multi Parking Table Picnic Shelter Picnic Equipment Play Structure Play Restroom/ Station Comfort Hill Sledding Field Sports Pool Swimming Court Tennis Path Track/Walking Court Volleyball Mini/Neighborhood Parks Cabbage Town Park City 1.0 1 ------Y - Y ------Cady Street Dog Park City 0.8 1 - - Y ------City Hall Open Space City 0.2 1 ------Joe Denton Park City 2.0 1 ------Sheldon Road Park Twp 4.4 3 ------Y Y - - - - - Y -
Mini/Neighborhood Park Total - 8.4 - 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Community Parks and Facilities Coldwater Springs Twp 28.0 2 ------Y Y ------Y - Fish Hatchery Park City/Twp 17.0 1 2 - - - Y - 1 Y Y Y Y Y - - - - 5 Y - Ford Park and Field City 6.0 4 1 - - - - - 1 Y Y - Y Y - - - - - Y - Henningsen Park Twp 2.8 3 2 ------Mill Race Village City 4.0 4 ------Y - Millennium Park Twp 34.5 4 4 - - - Y - - Y Y Y Y Y Y - 5 - - Y - Marv Gans Community Park Twp 119.0 4 3 - Y - - - 1 Y Y Y - - Y - 11 - - - - Northville Community Center City 0.9 4 - 2 - - - Y - Y Y - - - Y ------Recreation Center at Hillside City 0.8 4 - 4 - - - Y - Y - - - - Y - - Y - - 1 Thayer’s Corner Nature Area Twp 57.0 2 ------Y Y Y - - Y - - - - Y - Town Square (Bandshell) City 0.3 4 ------Veteran’s Memorial Park Twp 16.4 2 ------Y ------Y - Community Park Total - 286.7 12 6 1 0 2 2 3 9 7 4 3 3 5 0 16 1 5 7 1 Regional Parks Hines Parkway City/Twp 325.6 - 2 - - - - - Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y - - - Y - (Wayne County) Maybury State Park (State of Michigan) Twp 926.2 - 2 - - - Y - Y Y Y Y Y Y Y - - - - Y - Regional Park Total - 1251.8 - 4 0 0 0 1 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0
Public Parks Total - 1546.9 16 6 2 0 3 2 5 11 10 6 7 6 7 1 16 1 5 10 1 Source: Northville Parks and Recreation Department
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Table 4: Public and Private Schools Inventory
Field
Purpose Field
-
School Name Community Acres DiamondBall Basketball Hoop Challenge Course Football Field Gymnasium Multi Play Equipment/Structure Soccer Swimming Pool TennisCourt Track/Walking Path Volleyball Court Northville Public Schools Amerman Elementary City 8.2 1 3 - - Y Y Y - - - - - Cooke School City 10.4 1 2 - - Y Y - 1 - - - - Hillside Middle School City 21.0 2 2 1 - Y Y - 1 - 4 - - Meads Mill Middle School Twp 18.2 2 5 - - Y - - - - - Y - Moraine Elementary Twp 10.1 - 2 - - Y Y Y - - - - - Northville High School Twp 48.8 2 - - - Y - - 1 Y 10 Y - Northville High School 8 Mile Athletic Complex City 22.6 2 - - 1 ------Y - Old Village School City 3.0 - - - - Y - Y - - - - - Ridge Wood Elementary Twp 15.3 1 3 - - Y Y Y - - - - - Silver Springs Elementary Twp 29.2 2 1 - - Y - Y - - - - - Thornton Creek Elementary Novi 3.7 1 3 - - Y Y Y 1 - - - 1 Winchester Elementary Twp 8.1 1 - - - Y Y Y 1 - - - 1 Subtotal 198.6 15 21 1 1 11 7 7 5 1 14 3 2 Plymouth-Canton Community Schools Tanger Elementary - Closed Twp 7.5 1 1 - - - Y Y - - - - - Private Facilities Northville Christian Academy Twp 15.7 - 2 - - Y - Y 2 - - - 1 Northville/Novi Montessori School Novi 0.8 ------Our Lady of Victory City 0.2 - 3 - - Y ------St. Paul’s Lutheran School City 1.8 - 3 - - Y - Y - - - - - Ward Evangelical Presbyterian Church Twp 93.6 2 2 - - Y - - - - - Y 2 Subtotal 112.1 2 10 0 0 4 0 2 2 0 0 1 3 School Total - 295.6 18 32 1 1 15 8 10 7 1 14 4 5 Source: Northville Parks and Recreation Department
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Map 2: Existing Parks and School Facilities Map
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REGIONAL RECREATION FACILITIES AND PARKS
Regional recreational facilities offer unique natural features that are particularly suited for outdoor recreation, such as viewing and studying nature, wildlife habitats, fishing, boating, hiking and trail use. Many also include active play areas. Some of these locales are readily available and within driving distance to the residents of Northville. Many are made available through the Wayne County Parks; others through the State of Michigan DNR.
Map 3: Regional Recreation Facilities Map
Regional Parks and Facilities: Regional parks offer unique natural features that are particularly suited for outdoor recreation, such as viewing and studying nature, fishing, boating, hiking, and trail use. Many also include active play areas such as ball fields or courts. These parks are used for some formal programming by the Northville Parks and Recreation Department, and they provide many active and passive recreational opportunities to the residents of the community. The regional parks located within the Northville Community boundaries, Maybury State Park and Hines Parkway are depicted on Regional Parks and Recreation map. In addition to those located within the community, there are several regional recreational opportunities located within close proximity. Regional facilities are provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority, and Wayne, Oakland, and Washtenaw counties. Michigan State Parks There are a number of Michigan State Parks that provide recreational opportunities to Northville Community residents. These state facilities provide a variety of activities including camping, picnicking,
23 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 swimming, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, hiking, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Maybury State Park Maybury State Park is located within the Northville Community and is the largest recreational resource within the community limits. The 926-acre park offers playgrounds, pier fishing, day camp, picnic areas and shelters with fire pits and grills, horse stables, 11-mile bridle trails, cross-country skiing, ball diamonds, and soccer fields. The park also offers paved mountain biking and hiking trails. Maybury hosts the Summer Day Camp and Family Campout programs offered by Northville Parks and Recreation. In addition to Maybury State Park, three state recreation areas are located within approximately 15 miles of Northville and provide recreational opportunities to residents: • Brighton Recreation Area (Howell) • Island Lake Recreation Area (Brighton) • Proud Lake Recreation Area (Wixom) County Parks The Wayne County Park System is a regional system with a number of facilities located within the Northville Community. These parks are a part of the Edward Hines Parkway, which runs through Northville along the Rouge River. Edward Hines Parkway The parkway follows the Middle Rouge River for approximately 18 miles as it traverses the park. The trail starts just south of Northville Downs and stretches southward for roughly 2 miles until it exits Northville. The paved, multi-use trail connects to the I-275 bike trail and to the Lower Huron Metropark. Additionally, the trail offers 10 miles of bridle trails along the river. Bennett Arboretum This arboretum was founded in the 1930s by J. Merle Bennett, the Director of Forestry and Parks for Wayne County and is the oldest public arboretum in Michigan. It is located within Wayne County’s Hine’s Park and is a part of the Rouge River Watershed. “Arboretum” means ‘a collection of trees and shrubs cultivated for scientific and educational purposes’ and thus the original plan for the Bennett Arboretum was to plant over 500 trees for public education. There is now a ½-mile, 8-foot wide pathway with interpretative signage about the Rouge River Watershed that runs along Sheldon Road between Six and Seven Mile through the Bennett Arboretum. This pathway provides a connection between the Township and City of Northville and serves as an educational tool about the Bennett Arboretum. Cass Benton Hills Disc Golf Course Cass Benton Hills Disc Golf Range, next to the Cass Benton Recreation Area, offers an 18-hole disc golf range. Cass Benton Recreation Area The Cass Benton Recreation Area provides a play structure, picnic shelter, restrooms, and a winter sledding hill.
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Northville West Recreation Area The Northville West Recreation Area provides rollerblading, sand volleyball courts, a picnic shelter, play structure, two ball diamonds, and restrooms. Northville Parks and Recreation runs their sand volleyball leagues at this site. Meads Mill Recreation Area Meads Mill offers a picnic area and recreational open space. Waterford Bend Recreation Area Waterford Bend provides Northville residents with a ball diamond, a playground with ADA-compliant paths, a picnic shelter, and restrooms. In addition to the above facilities located within the community, eight other Wayne County parks are conveniently located within a short distance from Northville, providing athletic fields, golf courses, swimming pools, trails, playgrounds, and picnic shelters, including: • Bell Creek (Redford Township) • Crosswinds Marsh (New Boston) • Inkster Valley Golf Course (Inkster) • Lola Valley (Redford Township) • Lower Rouge Parkway (Inkster) • Nankin Mills (Westland) • Warren Valley Golf Course (Dearborn Heights) • William P. Holliday Forest and Wildlife Preserve (Westland) The Oakland County and Washtenaw County park systems also maintain park lands within a short distance from Northville, providing additional recreational resources, including picnicking, playgrounds, golf courses, and trails: • Glen Oaks (Farmington Hills, Oakland County) • Lyon Oaks (Lyon Township, Oakland County) • Park Northfield (Northfield Township, Washtenaw County) • Superior Center (Superior Township, Washtenaw County) Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority The Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA) is a regional park district that encompasses the counties of Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Livingston. Since its inception in 1940, the HCMA has obtained over 20,000 acres of park land, all located in the metro Detroit region. The parks provide a variety of outdoor recreation and educational activities including picnicking, hiking, golf, biking, winter sports, water-related activities, horseback riding, and special programs. The HCMA regional parks within approximately 15 miles of Northville are: • Kensington Metropark (Milford) • Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton) • Lower Huron Metropark (Belleville)
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Local Parks and Facilities Surrounded by six different communities, Northville residents benefit from the proximity of neighboring communities’ parks and recreation facilities. The following parks are located within 2 miles of the City or Township limits and provide additional recreational facilities:
Bicentennial Park (Livonia) Greenmead Park (Livonia) Blue Grass Park (Livonia) Greenwood Park (Livonia) Castle Gardens Park (Livonia) Hough Park (Plymouth) ITC Community Sports Park (Novi) Kellogg Park (Plymouth) Don Massey Field (Plymouth) Plymouth Township Park (Plymouth Township) Ella Mae Power Park (Novi) Robert McCann Park (Livonia) Founder’s Sports Park (Farmington Hills) Tiffany Park (Livonia) Village Wood Lake Park (Novi) Villa Barr Art Park (Novi) Novi Dog Park/Ice Arena (Novi) Rotary Park (Novi) Private Parks and Facilities Private Businesses Several privately-owned recreation facilities located within or near the Northville Community provide recreational opportunities that complement those provided by the Parks and Recreation Department. Although these facilities are privately operated and may charge a user fee or require membership, they are considered in the plan analysis because they meet specific community needs. Private facilities include: • Bowling Alleys: Novi Bowl, Lucky Strike Novi • Dance: Arthur Murray Dance Studios, Center Stage Dance Company, Piazza Dance Company, Performers Edge Dance Company Timberlane Dance Studio • Fitness Clubs: Anytime Fitness, BodyFit, Hines Park CrossFit, FIT4MOM, Hot Yoga Detroit, Lifetime Fitness, MEGA Fun and Fitness, Northville Yoga Center, Northville Swim Club, Orangetheory Fitness, Planet Fitness, Rejuvenation Fitness LLC, Sports Club of Novi, TITLE Boxing Club, Warehouse Pilate Company • Private (Members Only) Golf Courses: Meadowbrook Country Club • Private (Open to the Public) Golf Courses: Bushwood Golf Course, Northville Hills Golf Club, Salem Hills Golf Club, St. John’s Golf Club • Miscellaneous Facilities: USA Hockey Arena, Northville Downs Race Track, Riverside Arena, Novi - Soccer Zone, Ward Church Public/Private Partnerships In addition to the businesses listed above, many businesses have created partnerships with the Northville Parks and Recreation Department to provide a variety of opportunities for residents. Some businesses and organizations who partner with the Parks and Recreation Department include: • American Red Cross • Neal Levin • Center Stage Dance Co. • Novi Parks and Recreation • Get It and Go Fitness • Renaissance Karate • Jump-A-Rama • Total Golf Adventure • Kids Power Karate • Skatin Station • Leisure Unlimited • Todd Beyer Tennis • Michigan Futsal Factory Academy
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Private Open Space In addition to the private facilities listed above, Northville is very proactive in obtaining privately owned open space throughout the community to protect natural features and preserve the character of Northville. Northville Township requires new residential developments to provide open space based on the number of units. These private open spaces are a valuable resource, providing areas for passive leisure pursuits and adding to the aesthetic appeal of the neighborhoods, although they are not available to the general public. Community Recreation Programs The Northville Parks and Recreation Department offers a large variety of recreational programs and activities for residents. An understanding of the types of programs and activities currently offered aids in identifying unmet programming needs. The Parks and Recreation year is divided into three programming sessions: Winter, Spring/Summer, and Fall. Non-residents may participate in programs and events but are subject to an additional non-resident fee. The following is a partial list of programs offered through the Parks and Recreation Department. A more detailed listing of program offerings can be found in the department’s activity brochures, printed each season. Youth Sports and Classes
Acro Cheer Kiddie Sports & Games Archery Lacrosse Babysitter Training Safety Town Basketball Science Camp Dance Skiing & Snowboarding Club Fitness Program Summer Day Camp Futsal Tennis Golf Toddle Time Gymnastics Volleyball Karate Adult Sports and Classes
Badminton Softball Basketball Table Tennis Dance Tennis Group Fitness Volleyball Pickleball Walking Sand Volleyball Special Events
Day Trips Holiday Luncheon Daddy Daughter Dance Mother Son Dance Family Camp-Out Pancakes and Pajamas Festival of Trees Senior Fest
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St. Patty’s Day Celebration Tiny Pumpkins Thanksgiving Luncheon Trick or Treat Trail Tigers Opening Day Party Tunes on Tuesday Concerts Senior Adult Programs and Activities
Bingo Group Fitness Program Blood Pressure Workshop Pickleball Cards and Games Reflexology Dancing Social Groups Day Trips Transportation Driver Safety Volleyball Enrichment/Lifelong Learning classes Walking Friday Flicks Pathways A comprehensive pathway system adds to the overall quality of life for residents by providing access to various community facilities and parks and by offering a source of recreation for residents that bike, jog, walk and other activities for recreation and exercise. Map Three Pathways System depicts the type and location of pathways that currently exist or are proposed to be provided in the future. Northville has been very proactive in promoting pathways and making them a priority. The pathways system is widely used by residents and has consistently been included amongst residents’ top desires. To encourage the expansion of the system, pathways are required along main roadways for new development and redevelopment projects. Residential development projects are also required to provide sidewalks in the development to enable residents to better access main roadways and key destinations, including schools and parks. A regional pathway that follows I-275 touches the Township’s southeast corner. This 40+ mile long pathway is a key north-south component of the Southeast Michigan non-motorized network that connects the City of Novi to Monroe County. An additional pathway was developed collaborating with Wayne County, City of Northville and Northville Township. Northville Bennett Arboretum Pathway was completed in 2011 and is maintained by Northville Parks and Recreation. Non-Motorized Plan A Non-Motorized Plan integrates pedestrians, bicyclists, and users of other forms of non-motorized transportation into the transportation system. It is a transportation plan that seeks to identify a network of pedestrian walkways and bikeways to connect neighborhoods with parks, schools, commercial areas, and other destinations. Throughout the master plan process, input from residents is recorded for possible non-motorized connection options.
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PLANNING PROCESS
Northville’s Parks and Recreation Department and Recreation Commission directed the update for this Five-Year Recreation Master Plan for providing a guide for future facility improvements, program enhancements and funding sources through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) for the community. The planning process resulted in a plan that reflects the needs and ideas of those who are residents of the city. The following process is explained below: The Northville’s Parks and Recreation Department hired ROWE Professional Services Company in 2016 to assist with the update to the recreation plan. At that time, there was a transition in the Parks and Recreation Director position. It was determined that a protracted planning effort would allow parks and recreation staff and management to better direct the master plan. It would also allow a more engaged process as a tool for the department to interact with the community and establish a vision for the moving forward. Public Input: Public participation in the plan's development included guidance from a Park and Recreation Advisory Committee. A stakeholder/focus group meeting was held with Northville’s Parks and Recreation Department on June 8, 2018. The stakeholder survey occurred after the transition of the parks system. They were based on personal invites to groups that represented interests in recreation within the community such as athletic/ indoor facility users, seniors, passive recreation, HOAs and various other organizations. A copy of the invite lists and a summary of comments is included in the appendix. Preliminary Plan: When developing this parks and recreation plan, the committee met to review public engagement results. Representatives on the committee provided input from other sources and public comments gathered since the compilation of the last plan. Staff also developed strategic recommendations for administrative activities within the department to be referenced in the plan. A draft plan was prepared for staff review in November 2018. Plan Review: Based on staff comments, a draft was revised including goal and objective statements and Action Plan items. It was distributed to the committee. Comments were provided and a draft plan was prepared for presentation to the Parks and Recreation Commission. With support from the commission, the draft plan was advertised on ______in the Northville Record and posted for community review and input for a one-month period from ______to ______. Comments were received and evaluated by the Recreation Advisory Committee. Appropriate revisions were made to the plan. The plan was recommended for approval by the Parks and Recreation Commission on ______. A notice was issued for each of the agencies public hearings to adopt the plan on ______. The plan was then presented to each of the jurisdiction's governing bodies at public hearings. Resolutions of adoption were approved at public meetings. The plan was adopted by the Northville Township Board on ______. The plan was adopted by the City of Northville City Council on ______. All resolutions of adoption, meeting minutes and public notices are included in the Appendix.
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BASIS FOR ACTION PLAN
The proceeding sections of the recreation plan provided information related to the current operations and development of park properties in Northville. The basis for the Action Plan is meant to evaluate the information collected to summarize the needs and priorities for the existing and future park properties within the city. Actions are described in this section of the plan based on the planning process and goals and objectives developed from: • On-site observations and discussions with users • Physical evaluation of each park and recreational facility • Analysis of community demographics • Interviews with recreation staff • Interaction with community members and leadership • Surveys of citizens and recreation providers • Existing master/action plans Public Input Summary: The following recommendations were summarized from the focus group meetings that were held:
Maintain facilities at a high level as a priority over adding new facilities (note current staff is at two full time versus five in prior years). Pathways serve the entire community; make regional connections to meet needs of the community and for grant funding requirements, tie into 7-mile park. Acquire land for key trail connections but not for other facilities. Include updated township non-motorized pathway CIP in the Action Plan. Events at Ford Field used to bring the community together; fees discourage this as well as other field availability. Increase connection from Ford Field to downtown, replace playground and add restrooms in future to increase use of this park. Deep water pool needs met by other communities (Plymouth, Novi, Livonia); consider a splash pad that is less costly to develop and maintain. Pocket parks already addressed by residential developments, identify on the inventory map. Future developments require greenspace as part of ordinance. Consider changing trends and meeting needs of growing cultural diversity with the community. Identify ways to communicate on a regular basis with the community and stakeholders to coordinate recreation needs. Use multiple methods, the new website app from the Township, print, etc. Include college as a recreation resource. Park Land Analysis and Service Areas: Roughly 1865.1 acres of park and facilities exist within the City and Township of Northville, of which 295.1 acres are managed by the Parks and Recreation Department; 206.1 acres are public schools and 1,251.8 acres are regional parks. As required by the MDNR, the Northville Community Park land and recreation facilities were compared to the minimum guidelines set by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA, 1983). Although the NRPA’s guidelines were set over 30 years ago, the MDNR still recommends their use as standards to
30 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 establish minimum community needs in terms of land area and number of facilities. Caution must be exercised in the interpretation of these results as these guidelines were set over three decades ago and may not represent current popular activities and trends. Area-to-population requirements tend to oversimplify the purpose of recreation planning. Each community, based on its own particular resources and resident preferences/demands, are encouraged to establish its needs and requirements so that the plan best suits the community’s desires for recreation. Recreation needs are further documented through public input rather than relying solely on the national guidelines. As a result, this Northville-specific information is provided in Appendices C and E. The NRPA guidelines and the MDNR standards were considered in the development of the Action Plan but not weighted heavily. The MDNR Public Park Land Acreage Analysis and the following discussion compares the amount of park land as it relates to the conditions of the community and the MDNR standards based on the July 2016 estimated population of 34,687. Park classifications used by the MDNR are defined as follows: • Mini/Neighborhood Park. Mini/Neighborhood parks serve an area up to ½ miles distance and are typically less than 10 acres in size. Northville’s five mini/neighborhood parks and numerous school facilities provide more than the recommended acreage of mini/neighborhood-scale parks. The vast majority of the acreage however is derived from school facilities, which are not controlled by the Parks and Recreation Department, who control 8.4 acres of park land. If some school facilities were to close or change use, Northville would more than likely face a mini/neighborhood park deficiency. Because of each school’s vital role in providing park land, the Northville community and the school district should maintain on-going communication to ensure that the need for mini/neighborhood parks continues to be met. • Community Park. Community parks are typically between 30 to 50 acres in size and serve residents within a distance of ½ to 3 miles. With a recommended range of 174 to 278 acres, Northville has a surplus of at least 101.1 acres of community park land by national guidelines. • School Park. School properties can fulfill the space requirements for other classes of parks such as neighborhood, community, sports complex, and special use. All of the school parks were classified as neighborhood parks because of their size and their function to serve neighborhood residents, with the exception of Northville High School, Northville High School 8 Mile Athletic Complex, and Hillside Middle School which were considered community parks. • Regional Park. Northville is fortunate to have a surplus of regional park land within its borders. Regional parks account for 1,251.8 acres of park land, which is well over what is recommended as a minimum for a community the size of Northville. The regional facilities offer a variety of active and passive recreational opportunities which help in meeting the need for local parks and help balance the deficiencies found on Northville parks. These regional parks primarily serve informal, family recreation but are also used for some programming Northville Parks and Recreation. According to the above guidelines, the Northville community exhibits a surplus in all public park land categories. This analysis includes all Northville public parks, public schools, Wayne County and State of Michigan parks located within the community. The numerous private facilities and subdivision private open spaces only add to the amount and type of park land available for Northville residents.
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Table 2: MDNR Public Park Land Acreage Analysis NRPA Recommended Public Public Public Guideline Northvill Surplus Park Classifications Acreage in Northvill Regional School Minimum e Total (Deficiency) Northville e Park Park Park³ Acres¹ Mini/ 1.25 to 2.50 43 to 87 8.4 0.0 106.2 114.6 27.6+ Neighborhood Parks Community Parks 5 to 8 174 to 278 286.7 0.0 92.4 379.1 101.1+ Subtotal - 217 to 365 295.1 0.0 198.6 493.7 128.7+ Regional Parks 5 to 10 174 to 348 0.0 1,251.8 0.0 1,251.8 903.8+ Total - 391 to 713 295.1 1,251.8 198.6 1,745.5 1,032.5+ ¹ Per 1,000 residents ² Based on the July 2016 SEMCOG population estimate of 34,687 ³ All school parks were considered neighborhood parks except for Northville High School, Northville High 8 Mile Athletic Complex, and Hillside Middle School which were classified as community parks Although the overall amount of park land in Northville is sufficient by national guidelines, it is important to consider the type of parks, their location, and their disbursement around the community. When evaluating parks and recreation service areas, it is important to closely consider where the residents of the community live. The MDNR establishes a recommended service area for each park classification to determine which areas in Northville are lacking easy access to park land. The service area boundary for each type of park is as follows: • Mini/Neighborhood Parks 0.25-0.5 miles • Community Parks 0.5 to 3.0 miles • Regional Parks 30-minute driving time The parks and recreation service areas are shown on Map Four Parks and Recreation Service Areas. For the purpose of determining service area size, the mean (or half-way point) of the suggested range was used. For example, Mini/Neighborhood Parks serve between a 0.25- and 0.5-mile radius, the mean of which is 0.33. Due to their size, the service area for regional parks is not shown on the map because the entire region is served. It should be noted that the parks are generally well dispersed throughout the community for convenient access by all residents and the majority of the community is serviced by at least one type of park. Therefore, the analysis is that Northville’s existing park land service area generally meets most residents’ needs for park land. Facilities Analysis: Soccer Field at Millennium Park In addition to park land, existing and potential facilities were analyzed to determine if the current facilities are adequate to meet the needs of residents based on national averages. The analysis takes into account a variety of factors including specific needs and existing conditions within Northville, information obtained from the public, programming needs, site conditions, as well as national averages. Potential surpluses and deficiencies are shown in the Park Facility Analysis table below. The following comments were prepared to provide further perspective and assist in identifying key issues.
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Athletic Fields (Baseball/Softball, Multi-Purpose, Football, Running Tracks) The number of athletic fields in Northville reflects a surplus in each of the categories based on national guidelines. The different types of athletic fields are specifically discussed below. • Baseball/Softball Fields. The analysis of ball fields within Northville resulted in a large surplus in facilities. Therefore, key issues include field maintenance and improvement. A need for additional ball fields has previously been identified by the Baseball/Softball Association for roughly three to four more fields; however the use of school facilities and modifications to the scheduling could provide access to a greater number of fields for the baseball/softball program. • Multi-Purpose Fields. According to the national guidelines, there is a surplus of fields in the community. Unlike the national guidelines, the popularity of soccer and lacrosse in Northville has resulted in above average demands for fields for all ages. Due to the increasing popularity of the sports and expanding programs, Northville should consider the development of additional fields if the need arises. The younger age groups have shown an increase in the number of participants in the past and it is likely that a percentage of these young children will continue to move up through the higher age brackets within the programs. The current number of fields are not able to accommodate all of the field rental requests that the department receives. • Football Fields. The need for football fields is met by the local school districts. With anticipated growth, there may be a need for new practice fields. • Running Tracks. Running tracks are provided at a number of schools, which meet all current and expected need for running tracks.
Table 3: Park Facility Analysis Recommended Public Public NRPA Northville Surplus Facilities in Northville Regional School Facility Guideline¹ Total (Deficiency) Northville Facility Facility Tennis 1/2,000 17 5 0 14 19 2 Playground 1/3,000 12 5 2 8 15 3 Baseball/ 1/5,000 7 12 4 16 32 25 Softball Basketball 1/5,000 7 6 0 21 27 20 Volleyball 1/5,000 7 0 0 2 2 (5) Soccer 1/10,000 3 16 0 5 21 18 Football 1/20,000 2 0 0 1 1 (1) Running 1/20,000 2 7 0 3 10 8 Track Swimming 1/20,000 2 0 0 0 0 (2) Pool Golf Course 1/25,000 1 0 0 0 0 (1) 9-Hole Golf Course 1/50,000 1 0 0 0 0 (1) 18-Hole Ice Rink 1/100,000 1 0 0 0 0 (1) ¹ Source of Standard: Lancaster, Roger A., Ed. 1983. Recreation, Park and Open Space Standards and Guidelines. Alexandria, VA : NRPA Mertes, J. D. and J. R. Hall.1995. Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Guidelines. Alexandria, VA : NRPA ² Based on July 2016 SEMCOG population estimate of 34,687
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Court Sports (Tennis, Basketball, Volleyball) The Northville community has a surplus in tennis and basketball courts but has a lack of volleyball courts. Court sports are generally low-cost improvements, do not occupy much land, do not require organized team participation, and promote convenient and active recreation. Those parks that do offer court sports should be maintained to continue long term use. The three different types of court facilities are briefly discussed below. • Tennis Courts. A total of 19 tennis courts are provided at Northville parks and at school sites, most of which are school courts. The Parks and Recreation Department may want to consider additional municipally run tennis courts and to analyze the tennis courts maintenance and operations cost long-term • Basketball Facilities. Northville has a number of basketball backstops, or half-court basketball facilities, located at a number of parks and schools. The popularity of basketball continues to remain high and additional courts should be considered at mini/neighborhood parks in order for Northville youth to be able to access them. • Volleyball Courts. There is a deficiency of five outdoor volleyball courts according to the national guidelines. Additional volleyball courts should be included in future park development, especially at larger-scale parks that serve a greater portion of the community. Ice Rinks The national guidelines reveal that the Northville Community needs an indoor ice arena, however many neighboring communities including Novi, Plymouth, and Farmington Hills have arenas that are frequently used by Northville residents to help meet the demand for ice hockey and figure skating. Northville may wish to consider the development of a rink to help meet these needs if demand increases. Playgrounds The amount of playground facilities in the community exceeds the population needs according to the guidelines, however less than half of the playgrounds are run by Northville. Additional ADA-accessible play structures, serving young children under 5, and separate structures for older children ages 6-12, are needed at many of the parks. Golf Courses There are no municipally run golf courses tallied in this evaluation. The analysis sights a deficiency of 9-hole and 18-hole courses; however, the number of public and private courses in the area more than exceeds the recommendations. Swimming Pools Based on the NRPA guidelines, Northville has a deficiency of swimming pools now that the Hillside Middle School pool is closed. There is a private outdoor swimming pool/club in Northville as well as indoor pools available to the public in Novi and Plymouth. However, residents have voiced the need for a public pool or splash park to take advantage of the Michigan summers.
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Community Centers The Northville community is served by two community centers. The majority of recreation programming is offered at the Recreation Center at Hillside Middle School. A need for a larger community center to hold more classroom space, additional gymnasiums, teen center, and a community fitness center has been identified by some residents. A recent trend in recreation programming is the development of large, modern multi-purpose centers that provide a wide variety of recreation opportunities for all ages to serve populations of 75,000 or more. Communities of this scale, such as Livonia, Dearborn and Canton have each developed these types of multi-purpose centers that offer a number of innovative features. Since the population of Northville is well below this scale, Northville could consider coordinating with neighboring communities to investigate the feasibility of a new multi-purpose center to serve multiple municipalities. Another possibility would be to build a smaller specialized community center to meet the Northville residents’ needs and compliments the current space available at RCH and NCC. Passive Recreation In addition to these active recreation facilities, it is important for Northville to provide ample opportunities for passive recreation and un-programmed activities, such as walking, jogging, picnicking, nature observation or just sitting in the park reading a book. Northville has identified the need to set aside open space and to avoid the over-development of park land. When developing and improving parks, it is important to incorporate walking paths, picnic areas, benches, fitness stations or other amenities that further enhance passive recreation opportunities. Programming Analysis The Northville Community recreation programs are very popular. The great number of programs offered and residents’ participation in these programs are facts that speak very highly on how important recreation programming is to the community. Recent participation and changes in programs and events offered by Northville Parks and Recreation Department are identified in the table of Program and Participation Trends below.
Table 6 Program and Participation Trends
The population is again requiring adjustments in programmed activities and facility design features, such as Senior Adult enrichment and active classes. Reductions in funding requires examination of other funding sources and user fee increases. Technology enhancements allow for improved registration and program participation tracking. Natural resources protection and historical preservation continue to be areas of interest in the Northville community. Greater ethnic diversity requires responsive and appropriate new programming. Strong and increasing interest is seen from participants in unsupervised and unstructured play. Source: Northville Parks and Recreation Department The ability of the Parks and Recreation Department to track participation has significantly improved and is a useful tool to monitor program success and shortcomings. The department has taken the initiative to experiment with different program offerings, which has proven to be effective and retains interest by various segments of the community. The table below depicts the Parks and Recreation Department activities and events with the largest number of participants. The programs with the greatest participation over the last three years are Open Pickleball, Tennis, Open Volleyball, Youth Basketball, Volleyball Leagues, Open Badminton, Pre-School and Early
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Elementary age programs, and Dog Park Passes. It is important to note that even though the participation numbers are not as great for individual activities as they are for group/team activities, they do represent a significant and growing interest in the community. It is also important to note that programs of a “drop in” nature continue to have strong participation. These “open” programs provide flexible time slots when residents play a quick game without having multi-week program commitments. Future programming and facility scheduling in Northville should continue to incorporate drop-in programs.
Table 7: Programs with the Largest Participation (>400) Insert Table 7 here
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GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
By using the comprehensive planning process of trend identification, focus group meetings, surveys and a public meeting, the Northville community has effectively established a framework for the Action Plan. The Action Plan describes recommendations for improvements and enhancement of the Northville Parks and Recreation system, as well as identifying the tools needed for implementation of the plan components. A complimentary component of the Action Plan is the Capital Improvement Plan. Action strategies that may require significant capital investment from the community have been organized into a five-year plan. The specific projects have been prioritized in the Capital Improvement Plan in order to better manage the parks and recreation budget and equally distribute the projects over the five-year cycle. The timing of these projects may be influenced, moved or eliminated depending upon economic conditions, available funding and/or grant awards. However, the spirit and intent of the project priorities are well defined in the Capital Improvement Plan. The Action Plan is organized into three sections: • Goals and Objectives • System Wide Recommendations • Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan To provide a guideline for decision making, the Parks and Recreation Department has developed a mission statement and a list of goals, objectives and action steps. Together, these express a unified vision for future investments, projects, and other efforts. Mission: The Northville Parks and Recreation Commission is dedicated to providing quality recreation experiences that encourage healthy lifestyles, enhance social and community development, and cultivate lifelong enrichment opportunities for all ages on a year round basis, while striving to be good stewards of our natural resources. The following goals and objectives are intended to provide an operational framework for future decisions related to provision of parks and recreation for the Northville Community. These goals and objectives should be reviewed annually and modified as necessary. Goal #1: Create a Sense of Community and Belonging The Northville Community is a unique place. An older, developed City and a growing, and now mostly developed Township share one school district and many resources successfully. Strong volunteer efforts enrich the community, such as youth sports league administration, commissions, planning efforts, and historical and natural resource preservation efforts. Multiple organizations and agencies work together collaboratively to create a strong sense of one, made stronger by the partnerships, trust and communication with stakeholders and elected officials.
Collaborate with community organizations, agencies, civic groups, and businesses to provide community festivals, functions, and events. Provide volunteer opportunities in program delivery and improvement projects. Explore opportunities with Wayne County, Oakland County, Michigan State Parks, and other local jurisdictions to jointly provide desired programs and services, while minimizing duplication and competition between agencies.
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Recruit civic and business organizations to assist with park improvement projects. Goal #2: Maintain and enhance parks and amenities that provide clean, functional, safe, and attractive environments. High quality and well maintained parks and facilities are important to the Northville community. Safe parks and facilities are also critical, as is beautification. It is essential that public parks reflect the same values exhibited by Northville residents.
Evaluate and improve universal accessibility at all parks. Maintain and update park equipment and amenities as needed, including playground equipment, hard pavement surfaces, and landscaped areas. Study the need for a multi-use outdoor community gathering area that serves as a venue for concerts, festivals, art and other cultural programming. Promote the inclusion of green space, trail connections, recreation amenities, etc. as new developments are planned. Monitor the use of athletic fields and facilities to determine additional needs. Coordinate efforts with the Johnson Creek Preservation Group for opportunities to preserve open space and provide public access along the Johnson Creek. Analyze park maintenance operations and implement plans to most efficiently maintain the parks through the use of full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff, and contractual services. Develop a comprehensive annual park maintenance plan. Implement a broad based training program for all park maintenance staff. Goal #3: Provide diverse, quality recreation facilities and programs that meet the needs and interests of the community. Northville has an active resident base who embrace a wide variety of healthy recreational activities. There is also a changing demographic within the community reflecting a growing older adult population who indicate diverse recreation opportunities are important to their quality of life. In addition, Northville residents celebrate their community with a variety of family oriented festivals and events.
Provide recreational opportunities that promote and encourage healthy lifestyles for all ages. Increase programs and services to active older adults that provide social, health & wellness, travel, and lifelong learning options. Create recreation opportunities that go beyond the traditional team sports, such as individual sporting pursuits, fitness training, enrichment, environmental education, cultural, and multi- generational programs. Continue to maximize programming opportunities within the shared Northville Public Schools facilities. Evaluate and improve universal accessibility at all recreation facilities. Study the need for, and possible location of, a new recreation facility. With the closing of the Hillside pool, and no other public aquatic facilities in Northville, explore the feasibility of a new aquatic facility, such as a splash pad. Goal #4: Manage efficient administrative and operational systems within the Parks and Recreation Department.
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Delivering the gold standard of customer service is a necessity in order to remain competitive in providing leisure services, especially since 50% of the department’s operational budget is generated through program and facility fees & charges, along with grants and donations. Providing high value programs, services, and experiences in a customer friendly way is also expected.
Recruit and train team members who understand and appreciate the importance of giving high quality customer service, and who share the values for providing programs and services that meet the needs and expectations of the community. Provide ongoing staff training in customer service and operational procedures. Expand web-based marketing efforts, with less reliance on printed materials, to conveniently inform residents of programs, facilities, and services. Review Parks and Recreation Master Plan annually, and update as needed, to establish priorities and ensure alignment with the CIP Develop policies and procedures that clearly outline the Commission’s philosophy on parks, programs, facilities, and services to the customers and staff members, i.e. Park and Facility Use Policies, Fees & Charges Policies, Park and Facility Rental Policies.
Goal #5: Expand multi-modal transportation connections between parks, schools, community facilities, shopping districts, and historical sites to provide access for residents.
Support the Northville Township Pathways Plan. Support the City of Northville Non-Motorized Plan. Collaborate with Wayne County and other communities on regional trail/pathway connections. Collaborate with Wayne County in the planning for and implementation of the Hines Park Mill Run Project. Work with the developers of The Downs Project and other stakeholders to establish trail connections with the Bennett Arboretum Pathway, Hines Park, and the City of Northville Non- Motorized Trail Plans. Work with the developers of The Downs Project and other stakeholders to daylight the Rouge River, which runs underneath Northville Downs. Create an accessible route connecting downtown Northville from the street grid to Ford Field. Work to establish a greenway along the Johnson Creek to encourage preservation, enhancement and an increased community understanding of this important watershed.
System-Wide Recommendations: In addition to capital investments into the parks and recreation system, the Parks and Recreation Department must also provide effort to maintain the high quality of the system. The following items describe system- wide suggestions that should be coordinated each year. Barrier Free Accessibility The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has established guidelines to provide barrier-free accessibility at public facilities. It is important to provide access to the Northville facilities according to these guidelines so that all residents can enjoy the facilities. As parks and facilities are improved and developed, a high priority must be placed on upgrades that improve barrier-free accessibility with improvements to proper
39 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 surfaces for wheelchairs, accessible picnic tables, and play equipment that provides universal access. Outside consultants may be valuable in assessing barriers. Park Design Improvements As the park system evolves and each park undergoes its own degree of improvements, it is important to clearly mark park entrances and visually unify the parks so residents are aware facilities they use are part of Northville’s park system. This can be accomplished by a uniform set of design themes that symbolize Northville parks and are used in the design of lighting, benches, signs, waste receptacles, bike racks, and other amenities. Pathway Connections Northville has been committed to the development of pathways locally as well as regionally. The Parks and Recreation Department, in cooperation with the Township Trustees, City Council, Wayne County Park Department, Northville School District and several other supporting agencies, should continue to seek opportunities for planning, land acquisition, access easements, and trail development to assist this effort within the community. Natural Resource Inventory As opportunities become available, the Parks and Recreation Department should analyze any critical natural areas in the community through inventories and appropriate studies. This information is critical to prioritizing resources for the acquisition, protection, and management of park natural areas. The Parks and Recreation Commission should support and encourage Park/Open Space requirements for new developments. Recreation Programming The Northville Parks and Recreation Department is only one of several sources of recreation programming for community residents. A variety of leagues, programs, and services are offered by Schoolcraft College, State and County programs, volunteer youth sports organizations, private businesses, and other groups. To complement these other resources, the Parks and Recreation Department should partner with these service providers when appropriate. Staffing The Parks and Recreation Department needs to annually monitor staffing levels and operational facility needs for efficient administration, operation, programming and maintenance of the parks and recreation system. Park Promotion The Parks and Recreation Department should use creative promotional approaches to increase awareness of the features available at the various parks. Promotional ides could include: park maps, park events and use of social media platforms that reflect the current practices of the public it serves. Increased awareness of the parks will increase appreciation and support for the park system and could also generate a spirit of volunteerism for maintenance and development projects. Fund Raising
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Develop new and creative ways to raise funds for park improvements such as events, service projects and local fund raising. Other possible funding resources include the establishment of a Park Foundation and the re-establishment of the previously successful Friends of the Parks group. Public Involvement The Parks and Recreation Department should continue to solicit residents’ suggestions on planning, use, and improvement of parks and programming. This can be accomplished with focus groups, public meetings, surveys, or through resident feedback solicited at parks and recreation events. Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan: This section summarizes the overall system recommendations as well as specific improvements to individual parks. Some are multi-year efforts that will involve primarily staff time and coordination, while others are park improvements that require primarily investment. The Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan table below incorporates the top recommendations that require capital improvement in the next five years. Priorities should be reviewed on an annual basis and adjusted to respond to updated findings and identification of funding opportunities. In particular, costs should be closely monitored, as the proposed plan estimates are in 2018 dollars and are strictly preliminary. Actual costs for each project will be more specifically determined as site surveys, programming elements and engineering plans are developed. If funding levels are lower than required to implement the plan based on the schedule provided, the implementation could be stretched over additional years.
Table 4: Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan Year Facility/Improvement/Equipment Estimated Funding Sources Cost
Year 1: Replace Ball Field Infields (3) at MGCP: $90,000 NTWP Park Millage, NBSA 2019 Install new engineered infield material to improve drainage, increase drainage, and improve player safety and field conditions.
Replace 2003 Pickup Truck: Used for daily $35,000 P&R Operating Budget operations. Year Facility/Improvement/Equipment Estimated Funding Sources Cost Year 2: Rewire Irrigation System/Replace $25,000 NTWP Park Millage 2020 Components in Irrigation System at MGCP: The irrigations system, which was installed in 1999, is a critical component of athletic field maintenance. Replace Fort Griswold at Ford Field: $250,000 City Capital Improvements Replace 20+ year old wooden play structure w/new metal & plastic structure that meets current safety standards. Replace Dog Park Fencing at MGCP: $50,000 NTWP Park Millage Replace original fencing with commercial grade materials to reduce dogs getting out of park. Parking Lot Resurfacing at Millennium $120,000 NTWP Park Millage Park: Mill and resurface, and stripe this original parking lot.
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Pave Parking Lot at Fish Hatchery Park: $100,000 City Capital Improvements Improve conditions in gravel lot and reduce silt runoff into pond. Replace 2007 Pickup Truck: Used by Park $30,000 P&R Operating Budget Rangers Replace Bleachers at NCC: Remove larger, $25,000 P&R Operating Budget original bleachers that are in disrepair and cumbersome, with smaller portable bleachers. Year Facility/Improvement/Equipment Estimated Funding Sources Cost Year 3: Replace Outfield Fencing (3) at MGCP: $45,000 NTWP Park Millage 2021 Current fencing is rusted and in poor condition. Downsize fields with new fencing to age appropriate size, and create addition play/programming space outside the fenced area. Replace Sideline Fencing (6) at MGCP: $45,000 NTWP Park Millage Replace sideline fencing that is in poor condition on 3 fields, at more age appropriate distances. Baseball Dugout Roofs (4): Install dugout $25,000 NTWP Park Millage, NBSA roofs on two fields at MGCP to increase protection for the players and reduce maintenance of the dugouts. Replace Play Structure at Fish Hatchery $75,000 City Capital Improvements Park: New structure to meet current safety standards. Purchase New Ballfield Groomer: Used $30,000 P&R Operating Budget for ballfield maintenance. Construct Storage Room in Gym at NCC: $25,000 P&R Operating Budget In space where bleachers are removed. Used for storing sports equipment and tables/chairs for facility. New Splash Pad: New water feature for $400,000 Wayne Co. Park Millage, Grants, parks. Private, P&R Budget New Picnic Pavilion at Ford Field: No $50,000 City Capital Improvements shelter currently. Used for picnics, gatherings, events, etc Replace Sideline Fencing at Henningsen $40,000 NTWP Park Millage Park: Install fencing on 2 fields at appropriate heights to improve spectator safety. New Dugouts at Henningsen Park (4): $40,000 NTWP Park Millage/NBSA Install chain link dugouts with solid roofs on two fields to give players some protection from weather and separation from spectators. Replace Bleachers at RCH: Old bleachers $25,000 P&R Operating Budget in disrepair, aren’t fully functional, and too high. New bleachers would be smaller and portable. Replace Dump Box: Park Maintenance $15,000 P&R Operating Budget truck. Bank Restoration at Fish Hatchery Park: $500,000 EPA Grant Improve bank along Johnson Creek at FH
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Park; natural resource protection, create fish habitat, allow for access to creek. Year Facility/Improvement/Equipment Estimated Funding Sources Cost Year 4: Soccer Field Drainage at MGCP: $50,000 NTWP Park Millage/NSA 2022 Underdrainage on 2 fields to improve playability and assist with maintenance. Replace Utility Vehicle: Used daily for park $28,000 P&R Operating maintenance. New Restrooms at Ford Field: Currently $120,000 City Capital Improvements use port-a-lets. Baseball/Softball Dugouts (8) at MP: $100,000 NTWP Park Millage/NBSA Install block dugouts with solid roofs on 4 fields at Millennium Park. Replace Portable Stage: Used for concerts $25,000 P&R Operating Budget/Wayne Co. and events. Park Millage Replace Gym Partition at RCH: Used to $80,000 P&R Operating Budget run different programs at RCH simultaneously. Perimeter Walking Path at MGCP: Install $50,000 NTWP Park Millage/Grants a destination multi-modal 2.5 mile pathway around the park perimeter, connection adjoining neighborhoods and park areas. Enclose HVAC System on stage at NCC: $25,000 P&R Operating Budget For noise reduction and to make stage more programmable. Replace Carpeting at NCC: Carpeting will $20,000 Donation Fund/Building be 18 years old. Improvement Fund New Dugouts on Ball Field at Fish $40,000 City Capital Improvements/NBSA Hatchery Park (2): Install chain link dugouts with solid roofs on one field to give players some protection from weather and separation from spectators. Sideline Fencing at FH Park: Install $20,000 City Capital Improvements/NBSA fencing on 1 field at appropriate height to improve spectator safety. Year Facility/Improvement/Equipment Estimated Funding Sources Cost Year 5: Archery Range Structure: Construct $35,000 NTWP Park Millage/Grant 2023 structure over shooting area and include storage area at archery range in MGCP. Play Equipment: Install new play $50,000 NTWP Park Millage equipment in the front section of MGCP to service the families attending soccer & baseball games in that area. Replace Backstop & Sideline Fencing at $40,000 City Capital Improvements Ford Field Replace Light Fixtures on Ball Field at $25,000 City Capital Improvements Ford Field Replace Tables/Chairs (40/200) at NCC $30,000 P&R Operating Budget Purchase Scissor Lift: For use at indoor $28,000 P&R Operating Budget facilities. New Dugouts (2) on Ball Field at Fish $20,000 NBSA Hatchery Park: Install chain link dugouts with solid roofs on one field to give players
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some protection from weather and separation from spectators. Sideline Fencing at FH Park: Install $20,000 City Capital Improvements fencing on 1 ball field at appropriate height to improve spectator safety. Year Facility/Improvement/Equipment Estimated Funding Sources Cost Year 6: Soccer Field Drainage at MGCP: Install $50,000 NTWP Park Millage/NSA 2024 underdrainage on 2 fields to improve playability and assist w/maintenance. Replace Boardwalks/Bridges at MP: 25,000 NTWP Park Millage Wooden structures that provide access from adjacent neighborhoods to park. Ball Field Lights: Install lights on 1 field at $80,000 NTWP Park Millage, NBSA, Grant MP to increase playing opportunities, enhance experience, and create a “Premier” field. Access Ramp to Ford Field: Replace $100,000 City Capital Improvements, DDA wooden stairs leading from downtown to Ford Field. Pavilion at MGCP: Install new picnic $50,000 NTWP Park Millage pavilion in front section of MGCP to use for picnics, gatherings, and events. Netting for Tennis Courts at FH Park: $25,000 City Capital Improvements Install netting between south ball field and tennis courts to prevent baseballs from being hit onto tennis courts. Play Equipment: Install new play $50,000 NTWP Park Millage equipment in the back section of MGCP to service families attending soccer & baseball games in that area. Replace Living Room Furniture at NCC $20,000 Donation Fund Replace Backhoe $100,000 P&R Operating Budget
The scope of recreation improvements proposed for the Five Year Capital Improvement Plan can be financed through a combination of resources. Aside from the general fund managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, these potential sources are described below. Special Millage A property tax millage can be used to finance specific park and recreation projects such as parkland improvements and facility upgrades. A millage is an effective method to divide costs over time among all the taxpayers in the community to provide matching grant funds or finance projects out-right. A millage allows more flexibility in how the money is used than a bond. User Fees Northville should charge reasonable fees to participants of recreation programs in order to allow programs to continue. Since 50% of the Parks and Recreation budget is derived from fees and charges, it is vital to maintain program and rental fees that support the departmental offerings. Every year, Northville should evaluate the fees to ensure they are providing the appropriate amount of funding to sustain the programs
44 Northville Community Parks and Recreation Plan 2019-2023 and facilities. It would be prudent to develop a fees and charges policy to reflect competitive rates for municipal programs that support operational costs. Recreation Bond A number of bond programs can be used to finance construction of parks and recreation facilities. General Obligation Bonds are issued for specific community projects, such as park improvements and park land acquisition, and may not be used for other purposes. These bonds are usually paid for with property tax revenues. Revenue Bonds are issued for construction of public projects that generate revenues. The bonds are then retired using income generated by the project. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) MNRTF provides funding assistance for the purchase of land (or interests in land) for recreation or protection of land because of its environmental importance or scenic beauty and the development of recreation facilities. This assistance is directed at creating and improving outdoor recreational opportunities and providing protection to valuable natural resources. The improvement grants are between $15,000 and $500,000 with a required minimum local match of 25%. Acquisition grants vary depending upon the value of property and local match amount; therefore there is not a minimum or maximum amount. This grant is ideal for implementing community park plans and for land acquisition in the future. Applications are due in April and September of each year for acquisition projects and April of each year for development projects. Recreation Passport Grants The objective of this MDNR program is to provide funding to local units for the development of public recreation facilities, including new facilities and renovation of old facilities. A minimum 25% local match is required and funding ranges from $7,500 to $150,000. Applications must be submitted into MiRecGrants by April 1st each year with grant award notification expected to occur annually in December. Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) Projects eligible for CDBG funding must be in a low-moderate income service area and/or provide access to the disabled in order to qualify. Investments using CDBG funds must provide a documented benefit to low-moderate income households. Projects eligible for funding include public infrastructure improvements and those that provide ADA accessibility. Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) LWCF provides funding assistance for communities to acquire and develop land for outdoor recreation. The minimum award is $15,000 and the maximum of $500,000 with a 50% local match. The eligibility criterion emphasizes preservation of natural resources such as waterways. This grant is ideal for implementing community park plans and for land acquisition in the future. Applications are due in April. Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) TAP provides funding for numerous types of projects that support the enhancement of transportation facilities and promote safe and efficient multi-modal transportation methods. This is a reimbursement program that originally comes from the federal level and is administered by Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). Under this program, Northville is eligible to apply for funding to implement non- motorized pathway priorities and some enhancement projects related to transportation. A minimum of 20% local match is required for proposed projects.
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Michigan Natural Resources Tree Planting Grants Through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, there are three tree planting grant programs that will assist in funding landscape enhancements at the parks and re-foresting projects. Applicants must provide at least 50% of the total project cost. MEDC Patronicity Crowd Funding The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has developed an additional way of securing funding for community development projects by using crowd-funding to support developments. Communities, non-profits, and municipalities can submit projects by applying to the Patronicity campaign. The projects that meet the programs parameters and successfully crowd-fund their goal will receive a matching grant from the MEDC of up to $50,000. Urban Community Forestry Program- Arbor Day Mini-Grants This mini-grant is designed to provide information and technical assistance to municipal governments and volunteer groups for urban and community forest activities related to Arbor Day. Applications are due in July with maximum grant requests of $20,000. Urban Community Forestry Program This program provides information and technical assistance to municipal governments and volunteer groups for urban and community forest activities, plus management plans, inventories and maintenance activities. Applications are due in July with maximum grant requests of $20,000. Arbor Day Foundation Becoming a member of the Arbor Day Foundation will provide Northville with additional resources related to tree planting and maintenance. Northville should investigate becoming a designated Tree-City USA, which provides additional advantages towards park enhancement projects. Detroit Edison Tree Planting The Detroit Edison Tree Planting program is conducted in partnership with the MDNR to address greenhouse gas emissions. Cost-share funds are available to municipalities in Detroit Edison's service area on a competitive basis for tree planting projects. A total of up to $4,000 may be granted to eligible tree planting projects on public and school property with a 50-50 local match. Applications are due in February. Conservation Easements A conservation easement is a method of preserving open space that is guaranteed through formal documentation. This technique can also be used to preserve open space if it is not feasible or practical for Northville acquire the land. Rather than obtaining fee simple or complete ownership, an organization or community can purchase or acquire by gift an 'easement' to the property. Public-Private or Public-Public Partnerships Reduced funding at the public and private sector has created a need for various partnerships between public and private entities, as well as between two or more public entities to accommodate specialized large-scale recreation demands. Donations
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Businesses, corporations, private clubs, community organizations, and individuals will often contribute to recreation and other improvement programs to benefit the communities in which they are located. Private sector contributions may be in the form of monetary contributions, the donation of land, the provision of volunteer services, or the contribution of equipment or facilities. Foundations A foundation is a special non-profit legal entity that is established as a mechanism through which land, cash, and securities can be donated for the benefit of parks and recreation services. The assets are disbursed by the foundation Board of Directors according to a predetermined plan. Possible specific interest foundations that could be explored for Northville include a Parks Foundation or a Trails/Pathways Foundation. Sometimes local foundations, like the Northville Community Foundation, allow for specific funds to be established under the umbrella of their foundation.
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APPENDIX A: DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
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APPENDIX B: MASTR PLAN EXCERPTS
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APPENDIX C: PUBLIC INPUT
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APPENDIX D: DOCUMENTATION OF PUBLIC HEARING AND APPROVALS
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APPENDIX E: COMPLETION FORMS
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