Comprehensive Parks and Northwest Northeast Recreation Master Plan

Aboite Southeast Fort Wayne Parks and Southwest Recreation Department

August 2004

Prepared for: Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation 705 East State Boulevard Fort Wayne, IN 46805

Prepared by: Woolpert LLP 4141 Rosslyn Drive Cincinnati, OH 45209 PROS Consulting, LLC 5525 Georgetown Road, Suite L Indianapolis, IN 46254 Blank page to keep pagination correct Table of Contents

Executive Summary “A Bridge to the Future” ...... ES-1 The People’s Plan ...... ES-1 A Need for Balance ...... ES-2 Balancing the System ...... ES-3 Building the Bridge ...... ES-6

Section 1: Community Needs Assessment Introduction and Summary ...... 1-1 Focus Groups ...... 1-2 Stakeholder Interviews ...... 1-3 User Group Survey ...... 1-4 Citywide Citizen Survey ...... 1-6 Public Workshops...... 1-10 Public Open House ...... 1-12

Section 2: Planning Themes 2.1 Theme One: Rich Tradition of Stewardship ...... 2-1 2.2 Theme Two: Equitable Distribution of Parks and Services ...... 2-2 2.3 Theme Three: Physical Connectivity ...... 2-4 2.4 Theme Four: Essential Services ...... 2-5 2.5 Theme Five: Social Connectivity ...... 2-7 2.6 Theme Six: Economic Development ...... 2-7 2.7 Theme Seven: Sufficient Funding ...... 2-9

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan i-1 Table of Contents August 2004 Section 3: Plan Recommendations 3.1 Introduction ...... 3-1 3.2 Strategy One: Celebrate the park system’s rich tradition of stewardship...... 3-2 3.3 Strategy Two: Provide an equitable distribution of parks and services...... 3-2 3.4 Strategy Three: Connect the parks through greenways and trails...... 3-3 3.5 Strategy Four: Establish and define the park system’s essential services...... 3-5 3.6 Strategy Five: Connect the community socially through parks, facilities, and events...... 3-5 3.7 Strategy Six: Enhance the park system’s role in economic development...... 3-6 3.8 Strategy Seven: Secure sufficient funding to maintain and enhance the park system...... 3-6

i-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Table of Contents August 2004 Community Needs Assessment

Introduction and finalized based on the review of these public facilities, and programs. The community is discussions. proud of the park system’s rich tradition of Summary stewardship and wishes to build upon this for While all avenues of public input were vital to To ensure that the Fort Wayne Comprehen- the future. Park users and the community-at- the preparation of the plan, the citywide large are generally satisfied with the sive Parks and Recreation Master Plan meets citizen survey offers the best overall the leisure needs of the Fort Wayne commu- Department’s efforts, although there is picture of the opinions of the community. clearly room for improvement. Of people nity, the planning process included extensive Over 800 people participated in the survey, public input. This process was grounded in a responding to the citywide citizen survey, giving the data statistical validity to predict 91% indicated that their top priority for the citywide citizen survey and included a community-wide interest. The focus groups user group survey, focus groups, Department is to maintain clean and func- consisted of 37 individuals, and stakeholders tional parks. stakeholder interviews, and public included 36 people, all with considerable workshops. Information from each source involvement in the parks. These meetings The public recognizes that the Department is of public input was thoroughly reviewed to were by definition special interest meetings unbalanced as it relates to programs, facili- identify the park system’s strengths and that produced diverse viewpoints. The user ties, and the distribution of park locations and weaknesses. These findings, in turn, served group survey covered only organizations types. The establishment of new standards is as a foundation for many of the recommen- currently using parks or facilities. The viewed as critical in addressing the location dations provided in this master plan. results of the smaller group interviews and and type of parks and facilities needed. The draft plan recommendations were the public meetings serve well to color and Design standards are desired to ensure an published on the Parks and Recreation add depth to the results of the survey, but appropriate balance of passive and active website and copies placed in libraries and the communitywide citizen survey documents spaces and the placement of amenities that Department facilities. After a two week the prevailing community opinion. are appropriate for the location. review, a two-day public open house Upon reviewing the findings of the public There is a general consensus for expanding allowed citizens to discuss the plan individu- input process, it is evident that Fort Wayne the greenway system throughout the com- ally with staff and consultants. The plan was citizens desire high-quality parks, recreation munity. Citizens want a trail system that

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1-1 Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 connects neighborhoods to parks, schools, the community. There appears to be sufficient planning process. A total of four focus and other places of interest in the city and need within the community for a new family groups were conducted involving 37 individu- county. Improved connectivity is also desired aquatic center (indoor and/or outdoor) and als. Meetings were held with the strategic/ for parks and neighborhoods dissected by multi-court field house to warrant a feasibility master plan steering committee, park major roadways, rivers, or other obstacles. study. Support also exists for continued foundation members, current partners, and The strong desire for trails includes trails improvements to the children’s zoo. advocacy group representatives. The same within new and existing parks. agenda was used for each focus group to The citizens of Fort Wayne want a sustain- ensure consistency in the topics covered. Residents are generally satisfied with park able parks and recreation system. To achieve The detailed findings of the focus group maintenance levels, although satisfaction this, residents expect the Department to meetings can be found in Appendix 1.1. slightly decreases as people look to specific work cooperatively with partners to maxi- amenities or properties. Most of the public mize the community’s resources and avoid A common theme from the focus groups was accepts that current maintenance deficien- the unnecessary duplication of services. the need for a visionary plan based on public cies are the result of budget cuts imposed on Although there is also support for issuing a input to guide the future management of the the Department. The community is proud of tax-supported bond for acquisitions, im- Department. The plan needs to have the its older parks and has a strong sense of provements, and development of the park buy-in of all the major stakeholders, includ- ownership. People want to maintain and system, there is a strong sentiment to ing the Park Board, staff, partners, and improve the existing parks to meet their explore alternative funding sources. advocacy groups. Key stakeholders need to current needs. Before expanding the system, have their roles identified in the plan. A the community first wants to repair and Comments from each group or public coordinated effort is needed to achieve the properly maintain the existing assets. discussion are included as stated in the community’s vision for its park system. If this session. No adjustments have been made to Maintaining and conserving existing parks is is accomplished, participants are confident correct or clarify the comments based on that the needed funding to implement the clearly a value of the Fort Wayne community. factual differences. Beyond the advocacy groups dedicated to the master plan will follow. cause, survey results indicate the general Focus groups recognized a need to respect public also supports the maintenance of the the rich tradition of the Department and its older parks as a function of the Department. historic parks. The Cultural Landscape Program participants were largely satisfied Report outlines measures for the conserva- with the quality of programs provided by the tion of three of the historic parks. A need for Department. After operating well-maintained standards was identified to clarify the parks and facilities, the community views the appropriate design, development, and provision of programs as a top priority for maintenance of new and existing parks in the Department. Specifically, citizens view it accord with current user needs. Finding an as the responsibility of the Department to appropriate balance between passive and provide teen programs, special events for active recreation to meet the community’s people of all ages, toddler and youth pro- needs was a focus in all of the meetings. grams, and programs for people with Providing sufficient funding was also viewed disabilities. Focus Groups as critical to the success of the Department.

Residents are generally satisfied with the Focus group meetings were conducted by Other issues identified from the focus group quality and quantity of recreation facilities in the consulting team at the onset of the meetings included the following:

1-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 • There is a need for more trails and • The existing park system is out of balance from the staff to accept input or assistance improved interconnectivity between parks in respect to the number and location of from some community groups. and other key destinations. neighborhood, community, and regional parks. Participants hope to have a comprehensive • More park land is needed in newly or master plan that is visionary, sparks excite- soon-to-be-annexed areas of the city. • There is an expectation of improved ment in the community, establishes design intergovernmental planning for parks and and maintenance standards, strikes a fair • Existing partners are interested in con- recreation at the city, county, and state balance between various user and interest tinuing, if not enhancing, their relation- levels. groups, and respects the rich tradition of the ships with the Department. parks system. There is a strong desire to • Some groups believe that a landscape have a usable plan that can be implemented • Safety concerns exist on the architect should be added to the despite political and administrative changes. rivergreenway and in some parks. Department’s staff to implement and The development of the plan needs to be enforce design standards. accomplished through a sound public input • New facilities desired include additional process incorporating the needs and desires pavilions, a large field house, and addi- • The plan needs to proactively plan for an of the community. The plan should also tional tournament-quality ball fields. increasingly diverse population and clearly outline implementation steps, provide growing community. realistic goals, and reflect true capital and operating costs to ensure that everything is • There is some desire for a stronger Park Stakeholder Interviews Board that works cooperatively with properly maintained. advocacy groups. The consulting team conducted a total of 17 Several stakeholders expressed the desire to key stakeholder interviews involving 36 create the best and highest-quality parks • Department resources are stretched too individuals. Stakeholders were identified and system within the means of the community. thin, making it difficult to sustain the contacted by the Department and included Maintaining a high-quality system was a existing park and recreation system. community leaders, special interest groups, common theme throughout all the stake- and park support organizations. The ques- holder interviews. • The Park Foundation desires a better focus tions used for stakeholder interviews were to serve the needs of the Department. designed by the consultants and approved by One of the key issues facing the Department the Department. The same questions were is the maintenance and upkeep of existing • More adult, senior, and family-oriented used in each meeting to ensure consistency parks and amenities. While basic mainte- programs are needed. in topics covered. The detailed findings of nance (mowing, upkeep of flowers, etc.) of the stakeholder interviews can be found in parks was considered fairly good, it was • The lack of appropriate facilities limits the Appendix 1.1. repeatedly cited that many of the amenities Department’s ability to enhance or expand (pavilions, sidewalks, river/water edges) are programs. The general consensus of participants in the deteriorating and/or not well maintained. stakeholder interviews is that Fort Wayne Participants acknowledged limited financial • A forestry plan is needed to ensure a has a good parks system, although there is resources as a primary cause for the mainte- healthy canopy of trees in the city. room for improvement. The biggest issues nance deficiencies. identified related to budgetary constraints • There is a preference for quality over resulting in excessive deferred maintenance, There are some safety issues in parks and quantity in parks, facilities, and programs. lack of design standards, and resistance along the greenway that should be ad-

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1-3 Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 dressed. Areas mentioned included Swinney and design standards to maintain and pressed an interest in continuing, if not Park, McMillen Park, the rivergreenway trails, capture the beauty of the parks. enhancing, their relationships with the city. and Hanna Homestead Park. In some cases, The YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, Sports the issue of safety was considered mostly a There was some interest in the possible Corporation, and Convention and Visitors perception issue (for example, the trails and merger of the city and county parks systems, Bureau stand as potential partners for McMillen Park). although this was viewed as a hot political recreation and sports programs. The Boys topic and unlikely to occur. There was some and Girls Club was also interested in the idea Several participants felt the Board and park sentiment for at least some combined of sharing a new or existing facility. staff were not open to feedback or assis- planning and shared standards between the tance from the public or some groups. It was departments. Neighborhood associations, area businesses, also cited that staff are sometimes reluctant churches, and public schools appear to be to partner or collaborate with outside groups The biggest political sensitivity identified was untapped sources for in-kind services and due to territorialism. the recent mayoral election. The controversy adopt-a-park programs. Several participants over the zoo parking lot in Franke Park stated that the Department has simply failed There was a belief that the Board has no remains a public relations issue for the to ask for support—the support that is there bylaws from which to govern. Groups that Department. for the asking. Local universities, especially appeared to have differences with the Board Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Stakeholders place a high value on its park felt it should be enlarged and additional Wayne, also serve as potential partners for system, especially the quantity and location committees formed to provide input on programming and joint-use facilities. specialty areas. Several individuals ex- of parks throughout the community. There pressed the need for a conservancy group, were some equity issues emerging, primarily Foundations appear to be the largest source especially to look out for historical elements due to annexation and expansion of the city. of funds within the community, although the of the system. The zoo parking lot contro- Participants also expressed satisfaction in the amount of additional funds available for versy, along with differences in opinion or recreational offerings provided by the parks is probably limited. lack of trust with the Board/staff, resulted in Department, although there was a longing the formation of new interest groups, several for the return of summer park programs that User Group Survey provide supervision in neighborhood parks. of which were represented in the interviews. From May through August 2003, the consult- ants conducted a user group survey. The Among individuals interviewed, there was a Overall, the community seems well served by purpose of the survey was to gather input strong interest in (or at least acknowledg- the existing recreation facilities (based on from organizations that currently use the ment of) historical preservation as it pertains input from the participants). There was Department’s parks and recreation facilities. to the park system. Many stakeholders strong support for the expansion of the trail Responses were designed to better under- expressed the need to respect the rich system to connect parks and key destina- stand who the organizations serve, the tradition of stewardship of the parks system tions. There was some interest in an addi- needs of the organization, and the overall when upgrading existing parks or building tional ice rink on the north side of town. satisfaction with the parks and/or recreation new ones. There was some sentiment for Several requests were made for a sports facilities. Out of 25 organizations selected to the restoration of several historic parks to complex so that softball, baseball, or hockey participate in the survey, nine organizations their original plans. Conserving, if not tournaments could be hosted. responded, generating 11 completed surveys restoring, historical structures like the WPA There appear to be some partnering oppor- (two organizations had two separate indi- pavilions was considered important. Those tunities for the Department in its implemen- viduals complete surveys providing different with a strong interest in restoration lobbied tation of the strategic/master plan. All of the answers). The detailed findings of the user the need for an on-staff landscape architect groups represented in the interviews ex- group survey are available in Appendix 2.2.

1-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 Participating organizations serve a wide meet their needs. Safety was the largest variety of users ranging from youth to concern among respondents, with 15% stating seniors. Programs provided by these organi- that facilities did not meet their needs. zations include sports, cultural activities, youth programs, senior programs, and Approximately two-thirds (69%) of the educational programs. Organizations vary in organizations indicated that they have a staff size, serving between 12 and 285,000 person from the Department specifically participants on an annual basis. assigned to work with them. A quarter (23%) of the respondents did not know if Nearly half (46%) of the participating they had an assigned staff contact. organizations use facilities on a seasonal basis. Almost a quarter of the organizations use facilities throughout the year (23%) or for special events or tournaments (23%). All One-third (36%) of the organizations did not of the seasonal usage is during the summer know if there is any type of agreement in months, especially from June through place. Of the user groups that have agree- August. Facilities are most often used during ments, approximately half (46%) have open- weekdays, with the highest usages on ended arrangements with no definitive Thursdays and Mondays. Organizations as a contract period. whole have minimal demand for facilities on Saturdays and Sundays.

When asked what the organizations most liked about the facilities they use, location was Respondents to the survey were largely the primary factor. Suggestions for improving satisfied with facility conditions, locations, facilities included: creating more appropriate dates and times of availability, cleanliness and Nearly half (46%) of the respondents spaces for the specific programs (i.e., smaller maintenance, and space or size. In these indicated that they have a written facility use classroom, better pavilions, river access), categories, no more than 8% of the participat- agreement with the Department. An addi- grooming ball fields, installing handicap- ing organizations indicated facilities did not tional 18% have an oral agreement in place. accessible restrooms, and installing a security

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1-5 Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 system. Most respondents (64%) were • Foster Park is the park most visited by • At 43%, restrooms had the highest unsure if their organizations could help share household respondents. Other parks with percentage of respondents rate it as one the cost of any proposed improvements. high visitation rates included Franke Park, of the three most needed improvements. Lakeside Park, Shoaff Park, and Four other improvements were rated by Citywide Citizen Survey McMillen Park. at least 20% of respondents as the top The consultants conducted a community three improvements they would like to attitude and interest survey from April to • Thirty-three percent (33%) of respondent have made: walking/biking trails (24%), June 2003. The survey was designed to households rated the physical condition of drinking fountains (24%), benches/picnic obtain statistically valid results from house- all Fort Wayne parks they have visited as tables (20%), and lighting (20%). holds throughout the City of Fort Wayne and excellent, and 54% rated the parks as (Table Q4). Allen County. Surveys were administered by good. An additional 12% rated the mail and phone. physical condition of parks as fair and • Out of 25 recreational facilities listed, five only 1% rated them as poor. The remain- of the facilities had over two-thirds of The goal of the survey was to obtain at least ing 2% indicated that they did not know. respondent households indicate they have 800 completed surveys and a minimum of a need for them. The facilities that the 125 completed surveys from each of the highest percentage of respondent house- city’s five planning districts. This goal was holds indicated that they have a need for accomplished with a total of 804 surveys included the children’s zoo (76%), large completed. The results of the random community parks (76%), paved walking/ sample have a 95% level of confidence with biking trails (70%), picnic shelters/areas a precision of at least +/-3.5%. (68%), and the botanical conservatory (68%). Facilities with the lowest need The detailed findings of the citywide citizen included skateboarding/roller/inline survey can be found in Appendix 2.1. Key skating (25%), soccer fields (25%), findings of this survey are as follows: outdoor volleyball courts (23%), off-leash dog parks (22%), and outdoor football • Three-fourths (75%) of respondent fields (21%). (Table Q5). households indicated that they have visited Fort Wayne parks in the past year. • Nine of the 25 recreational facilities listed had at least half of respondents indicate Have You or Other Members of Your Household the facility completely meets the needs of Visited a Community Parks During the Past Year? their households. The facilities with the National Average Fort Wayne highest percentage of respondents Yes Yes 73.0% 75.0% indicating the facility completely meets their needs include the children’s zoo (84%), botanical conservatory (74%), theaters (66%), golf courses (64%), large community parks (61%), community No No centers (57%), youth baseball fields 27.0% 25.0% (55%), playgrounds (52%), and softball fields (50%). Facilities with the highest Copyrighted Source: Leisure Vision-2003

1-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 Table Q4 Table Q5

Table Q5 Table Q6

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1-7 Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 percentage of respondents indicating the activities for teens (73%), providing facility does not meet their needs include places for the enjoyment of outdoor off-leash dog parks (42%), outdoor programs (71%), providing activities for volleyball courts (41%), skateboarding/ people with disabilities (71%), and roller/inline skating (41%), indoor gymna- providing special events for residents of siums (40%), indoor exercise and fitness all ages (70%). (Table Q8). facilities (39%), indoor ice rink (36%), and indoor swimming pools/water parks • Operating parks and facilities that are (35%). It should also be noted that 22 of clean/well maintained (55%) had the the 25 facilities had at least 60% of highest percentage of respondents select respondents indicate the facility either it as one of the four most important completely or partially meets their needs. functions of the Department. Other (Table Q5). functions that at least one-third of respondents selected as one of the four • The children’s zoo (39%) had the highest • Nearly half (44%) of respondent house- most important include providing activities percentage of respondents rate it as one holds rated the quality of programs in for teens (42%), providing special events of the four most important recreation which they have participated as excellent, for residents of all ages (35%), providing facilities to their household. Other facili- with an additional 43% rating them as places for the enjoyment of outdoor ties in which a significant percentage of good. Only 7% rated program quality as sports programs (34%), and providing respondents rated them as one of the fair and 3% poor. Three percent (3%) facilities for toddlers and youth (33%). four most important include paved indicated they did not know. (Table Q9). walking/biking trails (31%), large commu- nity parks (25%), and small neighborhood • The top six functions for the Department, • When asked about options respondents parks (24%). It should be noted that the as rated by respondents as very impor- would support for acquiring and develop- children’s zoo also hade the highest tant, included operating parks and ing open space, over half (56%) indicated percentage of respondents rate it as the facilities that are clean/well maintained open space should be acquired and number-one most important facility. (91%), preserving the environment and developed for both passive and active (Table Q6). providing open space (73%), providing uses as one of two options they most support. In addition, 42% indicated open • Twenty-three percent (23%) of respon- space should be acquired and developed dents indicated they have participated in for passive usage. Only 13% indicated programs offered by the Department that no new open space should be during the past 12 months. acquired. (Table Q10). • Program flyers (39%) appear to be the • Exploring interest for new indoor recre- most effective means of informing house- ation, aquatic, and fitness programming holds about recreation programs. The Fun spaces, 57% of respondents indicated Times seasonal program guide (36%) and word of mouth (30%) were the next they would use an indoor, warm-water, largest source of information about family-oriented swimming center at least programs offered by the Department. a few times per year. An indoor running/ (Table Q7a). walking track (55%) is the other pro-

1-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 Table Q7a Table Q9

Table Q8 Table Q10

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1-9 Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 gramming space that over half of respon- • When asked how respondents would dents indicated they would use at least a allocate $100 among various parks and few times per year. (Table Q11). recreation categories, $42 was allocated to improving/maintaining existing parks, • The top reason for not using parks, playgrounds, zoo, and recreation facili- recreation facilities, or programs more ties. The remaining $58 were allocated as often was that respondents were too busy follows: acquisition and development of or not interested (39%). Other reasons walking and biking trails/greenways most frequently stated included not ($13), development of new aquatic and knowing what was offered (22%) or recreation facilities ($12), conservation being too far from the respondent’s and preservation of historic and cultural residence (19%). Only 2% of respondents parks and facilities ($11), acquisition of indicated poor customer service as a new park land and open space ($8), deterrent in using parks, facilities, or development of special facilities ($8), and programs more often. (Table Q12). construction of new game fields ($4). The Public Workshops remaining $1 was allocated to other. Two rounds of five public workshops were • From a list of 13 possible actions that the conducted by the consulting team in each of Department could take to improve the the city’s planning districts during September parks system, respondents were most 2003. Meetings were announced through supportive of preserving and conserving local news media and all interested citizens older parks (65%), fixing/repairing older were invited to attend. A sixth meeting was park buildings and facilities (63%), and held with community and business leaders upgrading the existing children’s zoo during each round. The same agenda was (63%). Respondents were least supportive used for each round of workshops to ensure of upgrading existing golf facilities (36%), consistency in the topics covered. The developing new skate parks (26%), and detailed findings of the public workshops can developing new athletic fields (24%). be found in Appendix 1.2. (Table Q13). A prevailing theme from all of the public • Fix up/repair older park buildings and workshops was the need to establish stan- facilities (46%) had the highest percentage dards for the park system. Standards of respondents select it as one of the four • Sixty-four percent (64%) of respondents responsive to the growth of the community actions they would be most willing to fund indicated that they would be either very are needed to identify the appropriate with their tax dollars. Other actions with supportive (30%) or somewhat supportive amount of park land by park classification. strong support included preserving and (34%) of the city issuing a tax-supported Also needed are design standards that conserving older parks (41%), upgrading bond to fund the acquisition, improve- address appropriate uses by park classifica- the existing children’s zoo (38%), and ment, and development of parks, trails, tion, safety issues, handicap accessibility, developing new walking/biking trails and and recreation facilities. and pedestrian access. Standards will ensure connecting existing trails (31%). that parks provide sufficient passive space (Table Q14). for visitors, a common concern among attendees.

1-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 Table Q11 Table Q13

Table Q12 Table Q14

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1-11 Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 The historic parks were discussed in all of several new needs were identified. Top improve the safety of users and increase the meetings. Some members of the com- among the needs is acquiring park land in the ease of use. munity have a strong desire to preserve and newly annexed areas of the city and celebrate the city’s historical and cultural proactively purchasing land in future growth • Underused parks need to be reviewed parks through the implementation of the areas. New facilities mentioned included a with appropriate changes made to Cultural Landscape Report for the three family aquatic center, skate park, field house, increase usage. The Department could parks it covers. Advocates expressed the and fitness center. Passive or non-traditional consider selling or donating park proper- importance of respecting the original design amenities such as benches, shelters, and a ties with minimal public benefit. principles of these parks. There was some chess park were also recommended. interest in placing the historical parks on the • A natural resource management plan National Register of Historic Places. Preserv- Limited comments were provided regarding needs to be developed for each park. ing and finding a productive use for the old the programs provided by the Department, fort downtown was also routinely mentioned. although several attendees perceived the • A comprehensive tree replacement need for increased youth, teen, and senior program needs to be implemented to Consistent requests were made to expand the programming. There appears to be some protect the vitality of the urban forest. existing greenway system throughout the city. desire for directed youth programs or Participants expressed a need for improved supervision in the neighborhood or smaller Public Open House connectivity between neighborhoods, parks, parks, similar to the old playground pro- schools, and cultural assets in the community. grams. Volunteers were identified as a The Parks and Recreation Department potential source for providing this service. conducted a two day Public Open House in Ensuring that the Department has sufficient July 2004, at the Community Center in and sustainable funding was a common Safety and vandalism were routinely cited as downtown Fort Wayne. Department person- concern among attendees. Participants an issue by participants. Requests were made nel and consultants were on hand to discuss acknowledged that inadequate funding has for increased lighting and/or the placement of the plan, take comments, and answer compromised maintenance standards emergency call boxes in secluded areas, questions. About 100 people attended. throughout the park system. Several individu- especially along the greenway. Design Copies of the plan were available along with als encouraged exploring alternative funding standards that provide for appropriate summaries of the strategies. Comment sources, from grants and in-kind services to amenities and improved access are needed to forms allowed citizens to record comments privatization of the municipal golf courses. deter undesired behavior in parks. at the open House or submit them later. Enhanced partnerships and intergovernmen- Other issues brought up by participants Over 45 written comments were received. tal cooperation were viewed as high priori- during the public workshops included: The comments range from specific sugges- ties to maximize the community’s limited tions for improvements to individual parks resources and prevent duplication of ser- • Marketing efforts need to be enhanced to and facilities, to questions, and comments, vices. Improved planning between, if not the better inform the public about parks, and even a long-range vision for the City of outright merger, of the city and county park facilities, and programs. Fort Wayne. Comments on the plan itself systems is desired. Neighborhood associa- were positive, and no significant changes tions were identified as an untapped partner, • The rivers need to be better utilized as a were suggested. Park specific comments especially for the historic and smaller parks. community resource by providing im- were logged and will be included in the proved access. While participants expressed a strong desire public input process to initiate and guide improvements to the parks. to take better care of existing parks and • Parks bisected by major roadways or facilities before expanding the system, landmarks need pedestrian crossings to

1-12 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 1: Community Needs Assessment August 2004 Planning Themes

Theme One: Rich is becoming increasingly inequitable due to becoming less efficient. In contrast, there is Tradition of Stewardship budget constraints on maintenance and a higher density of parks in the older unequal distribution of park types and open established neighborhoods of Fort Wayne, Celebrate the rich 100-year tradition of space in growth areas. Each of the planning and these parks were designed in a different stewardship, quality parks, open space, districts is unique, with needs varying time and in close proximity to a different and greenways by balancing the according to population. The parks infra- demographic mix of residents than today. organization’s resources to maintain structure is no longer in balance. existing parks and facilities, thus Public input from stakeholder and focus meeting the high expectations of the The community has grown and become groups, the survey, and public meetings community and creating standards for more diverse over the past few decades. shows both a high level of park use and a new development to perpetuate quality The density of population has shifted, and high level of satisfaction with parks and parks in the future. the population is aging and becoming more facilities and the way they are maintained. diverse. Urban areas of the community have Community growth and budget constraints more need for smaller block and neighbor- Community identification of priorities and have resulted in reductions in the levels of hood parks within walking distance of needs maintenance that threaten the Department’s homes, while suburban areas tend to need ability to sustain the quality that the commu- larger neighborhood and community parks. • Focus groups showed a preference for nity has come to expect and provide equi- Rural areas also have park needs focused quality over quantity and expressed a table maintenance throughout the system. on larger parks and park land reserves for concern that Department resources are The historic landscapes can no longer be future growth. While the residential popula- stretched too thin to maintain the parks at maintained consistently at levels needed to tion has shifted farther away from the city the levels of the past (Appendix 2.1). sustain some key features to a level satis- center, there has not been corresponding factory to the community. As the community growth in park acreage in all areas. There • Stakeholders placed high value on the expands, access to the park resources that are fewer neighborhood parks farther away park system and many expressed the are the foundation of the system’s tradition from the city center, and access to parks is need to respect its rich tradition of

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2-1 Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 stewardship by maintaining a high-quality the system’s tradition in this way should actions. system with standards that strike a continue to sustain support for the system balance between user needs and respect and funding for both maintenance of its Theme Two: Equitable for the rich tradition of the parks system. physical assets and acquisition and develop- This group also expressed concerns about ment of new compatible assets. Distribution of Parks and continued maintenance and acknowl- Services edged limited financial resources as a key Specific survey results that support this issue (Appendix 2.1.1). theme include: Provide an equitable balance of neigh- borhood parks, community parks, • The surveys show that maintenance and • A high percentage of respondents (75%) regional parks, special recreation conservation of older parks and buildings visit parks. areas, and greenways throughout the and fixing and repair are the most city. important functions to continue and the • A high percentage (over 80%) rate Community growth and budget constraints most important actions to improve the maintenance as good to excellent. have resulted in the uneven distribution of system (Appendix 1). • Respondents indicated they would park types and open space to the extent that areas of the community are not adequately • The 12 public meetings reinforced both allocate $42 out every $100 spent (more served. Sectors of the population, especially the stakeholder comments and the than double the next highest category) on in growth areas, are under-served by park surveys. A prevailing theme was the need parks and recreation to improve and and recreation facilities and greenways. to establish standards to respond to maintain existing parks and facilities. Changes in neighborhoods and demograph- growth needs and maintain ample levels ics have left parks and facilities in locations of passive space. There was a strong • While the most important functions that and with facilities that no longer serve desire to celebrate the city’s historical and the Parks and Recreation Department can current needs. The total park acres, number culturally significant parks and expand the perform are operate maintained parks and size of facilities, and number of different existing greenway. The need to take and facilities, (91% said very important) park types are out of balance. better care of existing parks before and preserve the environment and open space, all 12 functions listed are impor- expanding was as important as acquiring Public comments indicate that some groups, tant to over 80% of respondents. When new land to serve newly annexed areas such as toddlers, teens, and seniors, are not asked what the top four functions are, (Appendix 2.2). as well served as others. Top-priority survey 55% of respondents said operate well- desires, such as fixing up older parks and This pattern of responses reveals significant maintained parks and facilities. allocating resources fairly to different parts community pride in a system that has a of the city, reinforced workshop comments strong tradition of well-designed and The most important actions to improve the about equitable distribution of parks and maintained parks and open space. The parks and recreation system include fix up facilities. Department can celebrate this tradition of and repair older park buildings and facilities and preserve and conserve older parks, stewardship by dedicating staff and budget Focus groups expressed the concern that along with upgrade the children’s zoo, to conserving and maintaining current the system is out of balance with respect to upgrade existing youth/adult athletic fields, assets, and planning and budgeting for the the number and distribution of neighbor- and develop new walk/bike trails and distribution and development of new parks, hood, community, and regional parks. They connect existing trail. The athletic fields were greenways, and facilities that reflect the want the plan to help the Department slightly less important when respondents quality of the existing system. Celebrating proactively plan for a growing community were asked to pick the four most important

2-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 with an increasingly diverse population, areas of the city and proactively purchasing Facilities, and Programs More Often, More park land is needed in newly annexed land in future growth areas. Source: Leisure Vision/ETC Institute, and soon-to-be-annexed areas, and many June 2003) focus group members expressed a desire to Specific survey results that support this see improved intergovernmental planning theme include the following: The community has indicated strong support for parks and recreation. for developing standards for the types • When asked to rate the importance of (classifications) of parks and amount of park The stakeholders place a high value on various functions performed by the acreage and facilities based on population. the park system, especially the quantity and Department, 90% ranked the fair alloca- Standards will provide a very good founda- location of parks throughout the community. tion of resources to different parts of the tion for balancing the distribution of park However, they noted some equity issues city as somewhat to very (69%) impor- and recreation services. Acreage standards emerging, primarily due to annexation and tant. All 12 of the choices were ranked as should include total number of acres of park expansion of the city. The Southwest important by over 80% of respondents, land for the city and each planning district, Planning District is not well served and reinforcing the importance of balance in as well as the acres of park land for each needs stronger connections to the the system. (Q8. Importance of Various type of park. Park and facilities standards greenway. There was some sentiment for at Functions Performed by the Fort Wayne should include the appropriate level of least some combined planning and shared Parks & Recreation Department, Source: development and amenities for each park standards between the city, county, and Leisure Vision/ETC Institute, June 2003) state parks and recreation departments. The showcase parks are located in the older part • Sixty-four percent (64%) of respondents of the city; newer areas either have no were somewhat to very supportive of parks, undeveloped parks, and/or no issuing bonds for the acquisition, im- connections to the greenway. provement, and developments of parks, trails, and recreation facilities. (Q16. The citizens survey shows interest in Support for Issuing Tax Supported Bonds balancing the distribution of park types to Fund the Acquisition, Improvement, throughout the community. High importance and Development of the Type of Parks, was given to the equitable distribution of Trails, and Recreation Facilities That Are parks and the acquisition and development Most Important to Respondent House- of parks and greenways. Two of the top holds, Source: Leisure Vision/ETC reasons for not using parks were listed as Institute, June 2003) distance from home and not knowing locations of facilities (at least in part a result • The top reason for not using parks was of distance) totaled 40% of respondents, that respondents were too busy or not more than any other reason. interested (39%), but the combination of The 12 public workshops identified the being too far from their residences and need to establish standards that are respon- not knowing the locations of facilities sive to the growth of the community and accounted for 40% of the responses. identify the appropriate amount of park land (Q12. Reasons that Prevent Respondent by park classification. Top among the needs Households from Using Fort Wayne Parks cited is acquiring park land in newly annexed and Recreation Dept. Parks, Recreation,

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2-3 Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 classification and facility. Standards can be In addition to the existing greenway system, • The citywide citizen survey revealed applied to new development, but may best there are three miles of trail in the Aboite a strong desire for multi-use trails. be applied as guidelines for evaluating Planning District. Citizens also showed strong support for existing parks and facilities which may funding the maintenance of existing function well without conforming exactly to Most of the existing greenway trails trace trails and expansion of the greenway the adopted standards the boundaries of the planning districts system (Appendix 1.1). along the river courses. Community input Theme Three: Physical emphasized a desire to connect parks • During the 12 public workshops, Fort throughout the city. Wayne residents expressed the need to Connectivity improve connectivity between neighbor- The desire of the community to increase hoods, parks, schools, and cultural Connect neighborhood parks, schools, connectivity to parks is one factor related to assets throughout the city. The improve- and other destinations through the physical growth of the community. As ments to connectivity could range from greenways and trails to increase residential neighborhoods have expanded, expanding the greenway to enhancing recreational opportunities throughout the expansion of the park system has not pedestrian access to neighborhood the city. kept pace. Residential neighborhoods farther parks (Appendix 2.2). away from the city center have fewer Connecting parks by expanding the opportunities to access neighborhood parks Specific survey results that support this greenway system was a common desire by walking or riding bikes. In these neigh- theme include: expressed during the public involvement borhoods, access can be improved with process. Another key element of the public’s • designated bike trails and an expanded A high percentage of citywide survey desire for a citywide greenway system was greenway system. As growth continues respondents (70%) indicated that there the need for an increased sense of security farther from the city center, housing density is a need for bike and walking trails. on the trails. tends to be lower and residents are farther • City residents also rated trails second removed from many of the city’s cultural Currently, the greenway system consists of highest (31%) in the importance of institutions and resources. 15 miles of completed trails. Distribution recreational facilities to their family. among planning districts is not balanced; • Focus groups also supported the need Only the children’s zoo rated higher. there are: for a citywide greenway system. These • When asked how they would spend groups stated that connecting existing $100, city residents allocated the most • 5 miles of trail in the Northwest Planning parks and future parks, as well as other money ($42) to fixing/maintaining District key destinations throughout the city, existing parks. The second highest should be a priority of the city (Appendix allocation of money ($13) was for the • 3 miles of trail in the Northeast Planning 2.1). District acquisition and development of walking/ • The safety and security of parks and the biking trails and greenways. • 1 mile of trail in the Southeast Planning greenway system were concerns of • The third highest reason (19%) for not District stakeholders. Although safety in parks using city parks was that the parks were and greenway are a concern, stake- too far from their residences. • 6 miles of trail in the Southwest Planning holders expressed strong support for District the expansion of the trail system It is apparent that the residents of Fort (Appendix 2.1). Wayne strongly support pedestrian connec-

2-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 Based on public input gathered through the • Responses from the 12 public meetings focus groups, stakeholder interviews, citizen supported findings from the focus groups, survey, and public meetings, residents view stakeholder interviews, and citizen survey. the following services provided by the Participants emphasized the importance Department as essential: parks (especially of the historic parks, expanding the community, neighborhood, and older parks), existing greenway system, maintaining children’s zoo, botanical conservatory, existing park assets, better using the Headwaters Park, trails and greenways, park rivers as a community resource, and maintenance, recreation services, marketing, enhancing marketing efforts to keep the horticultural management, and riparian public informed about services management. (Appendix 2.2). tivity throughout the city. An expanded • Focus groups identified the strong Specific survey results that support this greenway system could continue to provide tradition of stewardship of the Depart- theme include the following: linkages from neighborhoods to parks, and ment and its historic parks. Participants the community’s hopes for future expansions also expressed a need for an expanded • Three quarters (75%) of households visit to the system could increase connectivity to greenway system and more adult, senior, city parks, a number 2% above the other institutions such as schools and and family-oriented programs (Appendix national average. cultural institutions. 2.1). • When asked about household needs for Theme Four: Essential • Findings from the stakeholder inter- various recreational facilities, 76% Services views mirrored those identified from the identified a need for large community focus groups. Additionally, stakeholders parks, 76% for the children’s zoo, 70% Establish and define the park system’s stressed the importance of maintaining for paved walking/biking trails, 68% for essential services and commit sufficient existing parks and facilities, addressing the botanical conservatory, and 63% for resources to meet the needs of resi- riparian issues, maintaining community small neighborhood parks. dents on an equitable, citywide basis. gardens, and providing appropriate mechanisms for public input and feedback • When asked to rank the four most To meet the needs of the Fort Wayne (Appendix 2.1). important recreation facilities provided by community, the Department provides a the Department, the children’s zoo ranked variety of essential services ranging from the • The citizen survey clearly indicated that as most important (with 39% of respon- provision and maintenance of parks and citizens view parks as important to their dents ranking it in the top four), followed greenways to the delivery of recreation community. Residents also placed great by paved walking/biking trails (31%), programs. Providing equitable, citywide importance in maintaining existing parks large community parks (25%), small access to essential park and recreation and facilities, preserving and conserving neighborhood parks (24%), and the services is fundamental to the Department’s older parks, using and enhancing the trail botanical conservatory (19%). mission and should remain a top priority. To system, providing recreation programs for ensure its continued success over the next people of all ages, and enhancing the zoo • Nearly one quarter (23%) of all house- 10 years, the Department should concentrate as a treasure for the community holds participate in programs offered by its resources and efforts on the essential (Appendix 1.1). the Department. services most desired by and beneficial to the community.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2-5 Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 • When asked to rank the importance of The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo and promotion of park services, citizens seek various functions performed by the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory more opportunities to participate in the Department, 96% indicated operating are both cherished by residents and viewed Department’s planning efforts for parks, parks and facilities that are well main- as key essential services of the Department. facilities, and programs. tained as important. Over half (55%) of Both institutions have high satisfaction levels all respondents ranked park maintenance with the public. While the children’s zoo In celebrating the history of the parks as one of the four most important func- operates with much autonomy, the public has system, many residents indicated a great tions of the Department. expressed considerable willingness to appreciation for the public gardens and publicly support continued enhancements at landscapes available in many of the older • At least 90% of respondents indicated the zoo. parks. Although upkeep of the landscapes that providing activities for people with could fall under park maintenance, maintain- disabilities, seniors, teens, toddlers, and Residents indicated a high level of apprecia- ing them at the quality level expected by the youth was important. Providing special tion for the Department’s greenways and public requires dedicated horticulture events for people of all ages was viewed trails. The public expressed a strong desire resources. Given the significant amount of as important by 93% of respondents. to expand the greenway and trail system to landscapes within the park system needing provide better connectivity between parks intensive maintenance, horticulture manage- • Preserving and conserving older parks was and neighborhoods, as well as throughout ment can be viewed as a stand-alone viewed as important by 87% of respon- the community. essential service. dents. An equal percentage of respondents Key to providing quality parks, greenways, As identified both by residents and the indicated that it was important to fix up or and facilities is properly maintaining these Downtown Fort Wayne Blueprint for the repair older park buildings and facilities. assets. Residents indicated a preference for Future, the rivers are a largely untapped properly maintaining existing assets before resource of the city. The community sees • The top four potential actions households expanding the park system. Dedicating Headwaters Park, at the confluence of the were most willing to fund with their tax sufficient resources for park maintenance is rivers, as an important community identity dollars included fixing up or repairing clearly viewed as essential by the community. symbol and gathering place for special older park buildings and facilities (46%), events enjoyed by a majority of citizens. To preserving and conserving older parks Fort Wayne residents place a high value on increase the recreational opportunities (41%), upgrading the children’s zoo the many recreation services provided by the available from the rivers, water quality (38%), and developing new trails and Department. The Department has received management will be essential. The Depart- connecting existing trails (31%). many well-deserved accolades, both locally and nationally, for its Lifetime Sports Acad- Fort Wayne citizens place a high value on the emy. Strong support exists within the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Depart- community for a continued investment in ment and the essential services it provides. prevention and socially-minded services for Fundamental to the Department’s mission is at-risk youth, seniors, and economically the provision of high-quality parks and public disadvantaged families in targeted neighbor- spaces. There is clear public mandate to hoods. All programs, in general, received respect and build upon the rich tradition of high levels of satisfaction from participants. the park system. Residents wish to preserve the beauty of the older parks while also Residents expressed the need for a well- ensuring equitable access to quality neigh- rounded approach to marketing by the borhood and community parks. Department. In addition to the improved

2-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 ment can work jointly with the Board of • Stakeholders expressed a strong Theme Six: Economic Works, Corp of Engineers, Environmental desire for a plan that sparks excitement Protection Agency, and other agencies to in the community and strikes a balance Development increase efforts to restore riverbanks and between increasingly diverse user and improve overall water quality. interest groups (Appendix 2.1). Enhance the park system’s role as a catalyst for economic growth in the city. Theme Five: Social • In the citywide citizen survey, residents responded that one of the top A well-maintained and managed park system Connectivity functions of the Fort Wayne Parks and can contribute to the economic wealth of a Recreation Department should be community. In a 2001 study by Miller of parks Connect the community socially to providing a balance of special events for in Dallas, Texas, homes facing parks were encourage broader participation in residents of all ages (Appendix 1.1). valued at 22% more than those over one- programs and events that unites half mile away. According to a 2003 study by neighborhoods as well as the entire • The 12 public workshops validated the Lindsey, Man, Payton, and Dickson on the community. results of the citywide citizen survey, impact of Indianapolis’ Monon Trail, property focus groups, and stakeholder meetings. located within one-half mile had a significant, The public involvement process revealed a The community’s desire for enhancing positive effect on value accounting for 15% desire for the Parks and Recreation Depart- programs for youth, teens, and seniors of average sale prices. Other studies have ment to increase the number of programs was matched by their recommendation shown a positive correlation between higher and special events that would serve a wide to increase the Department’s marketing property values and proximity to a park, golf range of interests throughout the community. efforts to grow these types of programs course, or greenway. The increased property values result not only in more net wealth for Fort Wayne has changed over the past few (Appendix 2.2). property owners, but also increased tax decades in many ways. The city continues to Specific survey results that support this revenue for local government. physically grow, population density is theme include: shifting, the population is getting older, and Harder to measure, but also important, are the community is becoming more ethnically • A high percentage of citywide survey the intangible impacts parks and greenways diverse. As the community grows and respondents (70%) indicated that there can have on a community. The beauty residents live farther and farther away from is a need for the expansion of special resulting from the mere presence of parks, downtown, there is the perception that there events for residents of all ages. greenways, boulevards, and streetscapes is no need to drive downtown when newer makes a city a more attractive and desirable Residents have identified the shifts in the commercial development is also located place to live—an ideal held closely by the community’s demographics as an important farther from the city center. In addition to city’s past planners. Residents and busi- development that should be addressed by population shifts, there is an increase in nesses often cite the availability of quality the Parks and Recreation Department. There ethnic diversity, particularly in the Hispanic parks and recreation programs as contribut- is great potential for bringing the community community. ing factors when relocating to a new com- together to celebrate the city’s parks and the munity. The Downtown Fort Wayne Blueprint • Proactively planning for an increasingly rich history within the park system; the for the Future and its vision to enhance diverse community is an important changing cultural diversity within the city; gateway entrances, update streetscapes, element of the department’s functions and the cultural institutions that enrich the unify signage, and maintain flowerbeds in according to focus groups (Appendix community. the central city are indications that city 2.1). leaders understand these benefits.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2-7 Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 Parks and greenways have been used by public meetings, there appears to be support • A high percentage of households indi- many communities to spark the redevelop- for using the park system as a catalyst for cated a need for the children’s zoo (76%) ment of depressed or neglected neighbor- economic growth. and botanical conservatory (68%), two of hoods. Updating parks and providing pro- the city’s top tourist attractions. grams targeted to specific areas can help • Focus group participants expressed the revitalize neighborhoods by providing positive desire for a visionary plan that both • Satisfaction levels for the zoo or conser- leisure time alternatives. Active parks and excites and fulfills the needs of the vatory are extremely high. Of those recreation programs are effective deterrents community. Several participants indicated expressing a need for the respective to crime, drug use, and other negative a need for high-quality sports fields to facilities, 97% indicated that the zoo activities that can drain the financial re- support amateur tournaments meets their needs and 96% indicated that sources of a community. (Appendix 2.1). the conservatory meets their needs.

The success and popularity of the Children’s • Stakeholders viewed the park system as • The zoo and conservatory were rated as Zoo, Botanical Conservatory, and Headwaters a great asset for the community and a the first and fifth (respectively) most Park illustrate the viable impact the park key contributing factor to the quality of life important recreational facilities provided system already has on tourism in the com- in Fort Wayne (Appendix 2.1). by the Department. munity. Efforts to market the many existing tourist attractions in Fort Wayne—provided • The survey results indicated that Fort • Providing special events was viewed as both by the Department and other organiza- Wayne citizens place a high value on their an important function of the Department tions—should be enhanced. Opportunities to park system, as reflected by the high use by 93% of respondents, 35% of which increase the number of special events and rate of parks. Residents are very support- rated it as one of its top three functions. jointly package these events with existing ive and appreciative of the Children’s Zoo attractions as family destinations should be and Botanical Conservatory, two of the • Strong support exists to improve the zoo explored. Increased coordination between city’s top tourist attractions. Residents (83%) and upgrade existing youth/adult the Department, Convention and Visitors view the provision of special events as athletic fields (81%). Bureau, and other organizations is critical to one of the top three functions of the increasing the economic contribution of Department (Appendix 1.1). By calling for a visionary plan, it is clear that tourism. Fort Wayne residents want their park system to contribute to the quality of life and overall As a regional destination, Fort Wayne also • Responses from the 12 public meetings generally supported findings from the vitality of the city. High-quality parks, recre- has the opportunity to benefit from amateur ation programs, and special events make sports tourism. The ice arena has led the focus groups, stakeholder interviews, and citizen survey (Appendix 2.2). Fort Wayne an attractive place to live and way in attracting regional and national visit. The park system serves as a catalyst competitions to the community. Opportunities Specific survey results that support this for economic growth by helping retain exist to attract events in other sports, theme include the following: current residents and businesses, attract including youth soccer, baseball, and softball, prospective employers and new residents, but they will require a capital commitment to • Three quarters (75%) of households visit and bring in visitors to its many attractions. build tournament-quality sports fields— city parks, a number 2% above the The park system’s contribution to the something largely lacking at this time. national average. community’s overall economy should be fully Based on public input from the focus groups, recognized and promoted. stakeholder interviews, citizen survey, and

2-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 The Department can further support eco- become more and more difficult for the • Stakeholders identified budgetary nomic development through participation in Department to maintain and enhance the constraints as a primary source for the implementation of elements of the system to the high standards expected by deferred maintenance issues. Stake- Downtown Fort Wayne Blueprint for the the public. holder also expressed the need to Future. Initial efforts have begun with the identify the true capital and operating Main Street median enhancement. Gateways To meet the park and recreation needs of costs of existing and proposed parks, on major community entries and lighting Fort Wayne residents, as well as accomplish facilities, and services (Appendix 2.1). improvements, not only on the bridges, but the public mandates identified in this plan, • throughout the downtown districts, can better the Department must continue utilizing Through the citizen survey, residents define downtown. Parks can include not only existing revenue sources and explore new expressed a desire for tax dollars to be the medians but also streetscapes, plazas, funding mechanisms. While many funding used to properly maintain existing park and linkages to the greenway system. sources exist for public parks and recreation infrastructure and facilities. The survey agencies, it is critical that strategies consis- further showed significant public support By developing a balanced green system of tent with the community’s values be pur- for a tax-supported bond to fund the boulevards with trees, flowers, lighting, and sued. New funding components outside of acquisition, improvement, and develop- gathering/sitting areas, downtown can feel user fees should be considered. ment of parks, trails, and facilities like one singular place. Treescapes could (Appendix 1.1). connect the downtown to greenways and The Department must use a sound business • community or regional parks, providing approach to its operations. This includes Responses from the 12 public forums connectivity and respite for people working in recognizing the true operating and capital generally supported findings from the and visiting downtown, as well as a strong cost of existing and proposed parks, facili- focus groups, stakeholder interviews, and identity for a city that truly celebrates its park ties, and programs. To avoid further strain- citizen survey (Appendix 2.2). tradition. ing the system, a policy should be estab- lished to prevent the development or Specific survey results that support this Theme Seven: Sufficient expansion of parks, facilities, and services theme include the following: until sufficient funding is secured to cover • When asked to rank the actions people Funding initial capital cost and ongoing operational would most be willing to fund through expenses. Secure sufficient funding to maintain tax dollars, fixing-up/repairing older and enhance the parks and recreation Based on public input from the citizen park buildings rated highest, ranked in system through revenue strategies survey, focus groups, stakeholder interviews, the top four by 46% of respondents. consistent with the community’s values. and public meetings, lack of sufficient funding • In allocating $100 among various park was clearly identified as a potential threat to and recreation activities, respondents on As the community has continued to grow, the Department’s long-term success. the Department’s funding sources have not average dedicated $42 for improving/ kept pace with the accompanying demand • Focus group participants suggested maintaining existing parks, playgrounds, placed on the parks and recreation system. that the lack of sufficient funding made zoo, and recreation facilities. This issue is exacerbated by the many park it increasingly difficult for the Depart- users who reside outside the city limits— ment to properly sustain the existing increasing demand for services while paying park system. Providing sufficient funding no taxes to support the system. With was viewed as critical to the success of resources stretched increasingly thin, it has the Department (Appendix 2.1).

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2-9 Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 • Nearly three-quarters (64%) of respon- Residents recognize the limited financial and community leaders is securing sufficient dents indicated they would be either very resources available to maintain and enhance funding consistent with the values of the supportive (30%) or somewhat support- their parks and recreation system. At the community. While there is support for a tax- ive (34%) of the city issuing a tax- same time, the public expects the system to supported bond, it is clear that new funding supported bond to fund the acquisition of be properly funded to meet the park and approaches will need to be considered if the parks, trails, and recreation facilities. recreation needs of the community. The Department is to have long-term success challenge presented to both the Department and vitality.

2-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 2: Planning Themes August 2004 Plan Recommendations

Introduction These seven themes then became the basis • Celebrate the tradition of stewardship of the vision strategies for the planning, • In order to balance the Fort Wayne Parks budgeting, and operations of the Depart- Make connections and Recreation system and ensure equitable ment. These strategies provide the basis for • Establish essential services based on the and sustainable management and develop- specific recommendations for the parks and needs of the community ment of the programs, parks, and recreation recreation facilities, programs, and essential facilities within the city, seven planning services. These recommendations will • Develop consistent management for themes were derived from public involve- ensure that the future development of the each signature facility ment meetings and interviews conducted by park system will be easily accessible and the strategic action master planning team. open to all of the citizens of Fort Wayne and • Provide an equitable balance of parks The seven themes are: beyond. The recommendations discussion is and greenways organized into seven overriding vision • Rich tradition of stewardship • strategies. Operate within funding resources • Equitable distribution of parks and • The vision strategies were developed from Implement consistent management services the seven planning themes identified in standards for parks, facilities, and programs • Physical connectivity Section 2: Planning Themes. The concepts recommended within these strategies will • Serve as a catalyst to economic devel- • Essential services act as a guide for the parks services and opment within the City of Fort Wayne programs within the City of Fort Wayne • Social connectivity Parks and Recreation Department. These • Establish new funding and an appropri- • Economic development strategies will: ate balance of funding strategies • • Sufficient funding Create a balanced approach to managing The vision strategies are detailed next. programs, parks, and recreation facilities

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 3-1 Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 • Develop design standards to guide the Strategy Two: Provide an design of new parks and facilities to achieve quality similar to the best of the equitable distribution of existing parks and facilities. parks and services.

• Balance maintenance across all parks The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation through maintenance standards that Department will provide an equitable achieve a level of upkeep consistent with balance of neighborhood parks, commu- the design quality and intent of the nity parks, regional parks, special existing parks. recreation areas, and greenways throughout the city. • Document the cost of providing mainte- Strategy One: Celebrate nance that will sustain the existing parks Goal: Balance the park and recreation and facilities at an appropriate level, and system by adopting standards for park the park system's rich apply this funding standard to a policy classifications and the amount of park land tradition of stewardship. that will provide increased funding for and facilities appropriate for the city and maintenance on pace with the cost of each of its planning districts. living and expansion of the system. The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Strategies: Department will celebrate the rich 100- • Establish a consistent approach to the year tradition of stewardship, quality • Adopt standards for block parks, neigh- endowment of new acquisition and parks, open space, and greenways by borhood parks, community parks, regional construction investments to fund future prioritizing resources to maintain parks, special recreation areas, and maintenance. existing parks and facilities to meet the greenways, including acres per thousand high expectations of the community, population. and by developing standards for design • Create park and recreation opportunities focused on the city’s rich cultural heritage and maintenance to continue sustain- • Recognize the different needs of urban by preserving and interpreting sites, able growth of the system in the and suburban neighborhoods in establish- celebrating events, and drawing on future. ing park standards historical elements to establish park and Goal: Recognize the qualities that distinguish greenway development, programming, • Adopt standards for facilities that reflect the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation System and design themes. and establish an operational and funding community needs and preferences, structure to maintain those qualities and including number and size per population. perpetuate them in future development. • Adopt design principles that support a Strategies: balance of active and passive parks, reflecting community needs, neighbor- • Conserve older parks, park buildings, and hood needs, and appropriate use of facilities, keeping them suitable for space. current users.

3-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 • Adopt a process for public input into the Strategies: park and facility design process. • Develop a comprehensive greenway • Secure the necessary funds to purchase system to connect major destinations new park land in under-served areas of throughout the city, allowing citizens to the city. move freely without conflict with vehicles.

• Adopt a policy to identify and reserve park • Support the expansion of the sidewalk lands in future growth areas in advance and bikeway system to supplement of development. greenway connections.

• Provide an equitable distribution of parks • Develop themed trails utilizing parks, by classification type throughout the community heritage features, and community. greenways. Themes may include cultural, historic, rivergreenway, river (water- • Use environmentally sound practices in based) trails, rail trails, fitness trails, the management of parks and public land. garden trails.

• Interconnect parks and recreation facili- • As water quality safety standards are ties through an expanded greenway achieved, develop water trails for canoe- system. ing and kayaking that link waterfront parks and greenway connections. • Recognize the true operating costs of parks, facilities, and programs based on desired community maintenance stan- dards, and aggressively pursue opportuni- ties to develop a secure funding stream. Strategy Three: Connect the parks through • Provide appropriate maintenance funds to operate and maintain parks to the greenways and trails. expectations of the public. The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department will connect neighborhood • Seek strategic partnerships to aid the parks, schools, and other destinations Department in serving the leisure needs through greenways and trails to in- of the community and fulfilling its mission. crease recreational opportunities throughout the city.

Goal: Develop greenways and facilities that interconnect parks and key points of interest in the community.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 3-3 Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 3-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 Strategy Four: Establish should be set up on an equitable level as much as possible. and define the park system’s essential • Develop a balanced communications plan for all capital improvement projects. services. • Review the Department’s fees and The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation charges strategy regularly to ensure Department will establish and define its economically disadvantaged citizens have essential services and commit sufficient adequate access to department pro- resources to meet the needs of resi- grams, services, and facilities. dents on an equitable, citywide basis. • Goal: Establish a clear vision for each Work with the county, Army Corp of essential service, create appropriate service Engineers, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Indiana Department of standards, and provide adequate funding to Strategy Five: Connect Natural Resources on flood control, water meet the needs and expectations of Fort the community socially quality management, and recreational Wayne residents. opportunities on the rivers through Fort through parks, facilities, Objectives: Wayne and Allen County. and events. • • Identify high-priority neighborhoods that Design parks based on the needs of the The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation require essential park services. neighborhood with the end goal of Department will connect the commu- creating a balanced system of available nity socially to encourage broader • Work with community members to park types. participation in programs and events identify and help address issues. that unite neighborhoods as well as • Develop a comprehensive greenway the entire community. • Develop programs, facilities, and parks in system that connects parks to neighbor- underserved areas. hoods and interconnects the community. Goal: Enhance existing parks and community heritage features and develop destination • Develop maintenance standards for all • Design and implement an ongoing parks and events that interconnect citizens parks, programs, and facilities based on community assessment process that and visitors and contribute to the overall the expectations of the public and obtain identifies citizen and community priorities quality of life in Fort Wayne. sufficient funding to achieve these for recreation services. standards. Strategies: • Use demographic information and analy- • Develop an appropriate level of tax sis to plan, develop, and deliver programs • Provide opportunities for families and subsidy for each essential service. and services without duplicating programs people of all ages to create and foster a offered by other providers. sense of community pride. • Create target partnerships with other agencies and groups to help support and • Support special events based on the fund essential services. Partnerships cultural heritage of the people of Fort

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 3-5 Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 Wayne that appeal to families and Strategy Six: Enhance focusing on auxiliary spending at local people of all ages. restaurants, retail stores, and hotels. the park system’s role in • • Customize existing parks to better serve economic development. Host prominent regional and national the needs of the community. events in sports, arts, and cultural activi- The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation ties to increase tourism to Fort Wayne. Department will enhance its role as a catalyst for economic growth in the city. • Develop sports complexes for soccer, youth softball, and youth baseball to Goal: Take an active role in supporting accommodate tournaments and promote economic development through the provision sports tourism. of quality parks and facilities, development of downtown gardens and landscapes, and sponsorship of special events to improve the Strategy Seven: Secure livability of the community and promote increased tourism. sufficient funding to maintain and enhance Objectives: the park system. • Track the property values of land adjacent to parks and greenways compared to The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation property further from park land to Department will secure sufficient measure the economic wealth generated funding to maintain and enhance the by the park system. Use this information parks and recreation system through to help illustrate the economic impact of revenue strategies consistent with the the park system. community’s values. Goal: Establish new funding sources and an • Work collectively with the Economic appropriate balance of revenue strategies to Development Department, Transportation help cover the operational and capital costs Department, and Convention and Visitors of the Department. Bureau to design and develop streetscapes, redevelop areas, and Strategies: provide special events in the city. Note: The following is a list of possible • Develop events and admission packages revenue strategies provided by the consult- between the Zoo, Botanical Conservatory, ing team for consideration only. This list ice rink, golf courses, and public gardens does not represent the official policy or to promote family getaways to position of the Board. Fort Wayne. • Establish a policy prohibiting the devel- opment or expansion of parks, facilities, • Assess the economic impact of visitors to and services without securing sufficient park attractions on the local economy,

3-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 funding to cover the initial capital costs communities of similar size; adopt or • Outsource the Fort Wayne Children’s and ongoing operations expenses. adapt best funding practices identified Zoo to the Zoological Society; indepen- through benchmark process. dence from the Department would likely • Create a policy requiring the identifica- place the zoo in a better position to • tion of tax subsidy levels for all core Pursue additional sponsorships and secure additional earned income. programs and facilities for Board and earned-income opportunities for parks, public review; establish tax subsidy level facilities, programs, and Fun Times. • Create a downtown benefit district to targets for each area consistent with fund landscape enhancements, uniform • community values (current tax subsidy Review existing relationships with signage, and decorative lighting. levels are provided in Appendix 7). concessions contractors; explore oppor- tunities to increase concessions revenue. • Establish a tree assessment through a • Expand the tax base through the contin- new benefit district as a new source of • ued annexation of unincorporated Develop more friends organizations to funding for management of the urban neighboring subdivisions. support efforts of raising funds to forestry. enhance specific parks and/or pro- • Explore the feasibility of outsourcing grams. • Expand the tax base through the devel- opment of a regional park authority; business operations; outsource opera- • tions that provide an increase in net Explore the feasibility of using subordi- legislative approval will be needed. revenue to the Department. nate leases where appropriate to develop recreation attractions and • Benchmark current funding practices supplement Department revenue (for against park and recreation agencies in example, some downtown parks).

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan 3-7 Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 3-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Section 3: Plan Recommendations August 2004 Comprehensive Parks and

Northwest Recreation Master Plan Northeast Appendices Aboite Southeast Fort Wayne Parks and Southwest Recreation Department August 2004

Prepared for: Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation 705 East State Boulevard Fort Wayne, IN 46805

Prepared by: Woolpert LLP 4141 Rosslyn Drive Cincinnati, OH 45209 PROS Consulting, LLC 5525 Georgetown Road, Suite L Indianapolis, IN 46254 Blank page to keep pagination correct Table of Contents - Appendices

Appendix 1: Surveys 1.1 Citywide Survey...... A1-1 1.2 User Group Survey...... A1-3

Appendix 2: Public Forums 2.1 Focus Groups ...... A2-1 Stakeholder Interviews ...... A2-2 2.2 Public Workshops ...... A2-25

Appendix 3: Demographics and Growth Trends 3.1 Demographic Overview ...... A3-1 Population ...... A3-1 Age and Gender ...... A3-3 Educational Attainment ...... A3-7 Race ...... A3-7 Households/Household Income ...... A3-11 Economic Overview ...... A3-12 Greenway/Making Connections ...... A3-12 3.2 Growth Trends ...... A3-14 Northwest Planning District ...... A3-17 Northeast Planning District ...... A3-19 Southeast Planning District...... A3-21 Southwest Planning District ...... A3-23 Aboite Planning District ...... A3-25 Summary ...... A3-27

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan i-1 Table of Contents August 2004 Appendix 4: Program Assessment 4.1 Programs Assessment ...... A4-1 Camps ...... A4-1 Community Center ...... A4-3 McMillen Ice Arena ...... A4-3 Jennings Recreation Center and Weisser Park Youth Center ...... A4-4 Outdoor Recreation and Education ...... A4-5 Athletic Programs ...... A4-6 Pools/Aquatic Facilities...... A4-7 Golf ...... A4-8 Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory ...... A4-10 Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo ...... A4-11

Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments 5.1 Introduction ...... A5-1 Park Land Standards ...... A5-1 Park Design Principles...... A5-2 Park Distribution ...... A5-3 Facility Standards ...... A5-8 Park Master Plan and Design Process ...... A5-10 System Overview ...... A5-12 Overall Facilities Assessment ...... A5-16 5.2 Northwest Planning District ...... A5-17 Park Types ...... A5-17 Park Deficiencies ...... A5-17 Selected Park and Facility Assessments ...... A5-18 5.3 Northeast Planning District ...... A5-20 Park Types ...... A5-20 Park Deficiencies ...... A5-20 Selected Park and Facility Assessments ...... A5-20 5.4 Southeast Planning District ...... A5-21 Park Types ...... A5-23 Park Deficiencies ...... A5-23 Selected Park and Facility Assessments ...... A5-23 5.5 Southwest Planning District ...... A5-28 Park Types ...... A5-28 Park Deficiencies ...... A5-28 Selected Park and Facility Assessments ...... A5-29 5.6 Aboite Planning District ...... A5-30 Park Types ...... A5-32 Park Deficiencies ...... A5-32 Selected Park and Facility Assessments ...... A5-32 i-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Table of Contents August 2004 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans 6.1 Camps ...... A6-1 6.2 Community Center ...... A6-7 6.3 McMillen Ice Arena ...... A6-10 6.4 Jennings Center and Weisser Park Youth center ...... A6-23 6.5 Outdoor Recreation and Education ...... A6-28 6.6 Athletic Programs ...... A6-34 6.7 Pools/Aquatic Facilities...... A6-44

Appendix 7: Program Facility Subsidy Levels (2002) ...... A7-1

Appendix 8: Public Open House ...... A8-1

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan i-3 Table of Contents August 2004 i-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Table of Contents August 2004 Appendix 1: Surveys

To ensure that the Fort Wayne Compre- administered through a combination of mail • One-third (33%) of respondent households hensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan and phone. rated the physical condition of all Fort meets the leisure needs of the Fort Wayne Wayne parks they have visited as community, the planning process included an The goal of the survey was to obtain at least excellent, and 54% rated the parks as extensive public input process. The diversity 800 completed surveys and a minimum of good. An additional 12% rated the physical of opinion recorded in the user group 125 completed surveys from each of the condition of the parks as fair and only 1% survey, focus groups, stakeholder city’s five planning districts. This goal was rated them as poor. The remaining 2% interviews, and public workshops confirmed accomplished with a total of 804 surveys indicated that they did not know the the necessity of conducting statistically valid completed. The results of the random condition of the parks. sample have a 95% level of confidence with communitywide citizen surveys to assess a precision of at least +/-3.5%. • At 43%, restrooms had the highest overall community opinion. Information from percentage of respondents rate it as one the survey was thoroughly reviewed to The detailed findings of the citywide citizen of the three improvements they would identify the strengths and weaknesses of the survey can be found in the “Community most like to have made. Four other park system. These findings served as the Attitude and Interest Citizen Survey” by improvements were rated by at least 20% foundation for many of the recommen- Leisure Vision, August 2003. Key findings of of respondents as the top three dations provided in this master plan. this survey are as follows: improvements they would like to have made: walking/biking trails (24%), drinking 1.1 Citywide Survey • Three-fourths (75%) of respondent fountains (24%), benches/picnic tables households indicated that they have visited (20%), and lighting (20%). The consultants conducted a community Fort Wayne parks in the past year. • Of the 25 recreational facilities listed, five attitude and interest survey from April 2003 • Foster Park is the park most visited by had over two-thirds of respondent to June 2003. The survey was designed to household respondents. Other parks with households indicate they have a need for obtain statistically valid results from high visitation rates included Franke Park, them. The facilities that the highest households throughout the City of Fort Lakeside Park, Shoaff Park, and percentage of respondent households Wayne and Allen County. Surveys were McMillen Park.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A1-1 Appendix 1: Surveys August 2004 indicated that they have a need for one of the four most important include functions of the Department. Other included the children’s zoo (76%), large paved walking/biking trails (31%), large functions that at least one-third of community parks (76%), paved walking/ community parks (25%), and small respondents selected as one of the four biking trails (70%), picnic shelters/areas neighborhood parks (24%). It should be most important include providing activities (68%), and the botanical conservatory noted that the children’s zoo also had the for teens (42%), providing special events (68%). Facilities with the lowest need highest percentage of respondents rate it for residents of all ages (35%), providing included skateboarding/roller/inline skating as the most important facility. places for the enjoyment of outdoor sports (25%), soccer fields (25%), outdoor • Nearly one quarter (23%) of respondents programs (34%), and providing facilities volleyball courts (23%), off-leash dog parks indicated they have participated in for toddlers and youth (33%). (22%), and outdoor football fields (21%). programs offered by the Department • When asked about options respondents • Nine of the 25 recreational facilities listed during the past 12 months. would support for acquiring and developing had at least half of respondents indicate • Program flyers (39%) appear to be the open space, over half (56%) indicated the facility completely meets the needs of most effective means of informing open space should be acquired and their households. The facilities with the households about recreation programs. developed for both passive and active uses highest percentage of respondents The Fun Times seasonal program guide as one of two options they most support. indicating the facility completely meets (36%) and word of mouth (30%) were the In addition, 42% indicated open space their needs include the children’s zoo next largest sources of information about should be acquired and developed for (84%), botanical conservatory (74%), programs offered by the Department. passive usage. Only 13% indicated that no theaters (66%), golf courses (64%), large new open space should be acquired. • Nearly half (44%) of respondent community parks (61%), community • Exploring interest for new indoor centers (57%), youth baseball fields households rated the quality of programs in which they have participated as recreation, aquatic, and fitness (55%), playgrounds (52%), and softball programming spaces, 57% of respondents fields (50%). Facilities with the highest excellent, with an additional 43% rating them as good. Only 7% rated program indicated they would use an indoor warm- percentage of respondents indicating the water, family-oriented swimming center at facility does not meet their needs include quality as fair and 3% poor. Three percent (3%) indicated they did not know. least a few times per year. An indoor off-leash dog parks (42%), outdoor running/walking track (55%) is the other volleyball courts (41%), skateboarding/ • The top six functions for the Department, programming space that over half of roller/inline skating (41%), indoor as rated by respondents as very important, respondents indicated they would use at gymnasiums (40%), indoor exercise and included operating parks and facilities that least a few times per year. fitness facilities (39%), indoor ice rink are clean/well maintained (91%), (36%), and indoor swimming pools/water preserving the environment and providing • The top reason for not using parks, parks (35%). It should also be noted that open space (73%), providing activities for recreation facilities, or programs more 22 of the 25 facilities had at least 60% of teens (73%), providing places for the often was that respondents were too busy respondents indicate the facility either enjoyment of outdoor programs (71%), or not interested (39%). Other reasons completely or partially meets their needs. providing activities for people with most frequently stated included not knowing what was offered (22%) or being too far • The children’s zoo had the highest disabilities (71%), and providing special events for residents of all ages (70%). from the respondent’s residence (19%). percentage of respondents (39%) rate it Only 2% of respondents indicated poor „ as one of the four most important Operating parks and facilities that are customer service as a deterrent in using recreation facilities to their household. clean/well maintained (55%) had the parks, facilities, or programs more often. Other facilities in which a significant highest percentage of respondents select it percentage of respondents rated them as as one of the four most important

A1-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 1: Surveys August 2004 • From a list of 13 possible actions that the the city issuing a tax-supported bond to especially from June through August. Department could take to improve the park fund the acquisition, improvement, and Facilities are most often used during system, respondents were most supportive development of parks, trails, and weekdays with the highest usage on of preserving and conserving older parks recreation facilities. Thursdays and Mondays. Organizations as a (65%), fixing/repairing older park buildings whole have minimal demand for facilities on and facilities (63%), and upgrading the Saturdays and Sundays. existing children’s zoo (63%). Respondents 1.2 User Group Survey were least supportive of upgrading existing Respondents to the survey were largely golf facilities (36%), developing new skate From May 2003 through August 2003, the satisfied with facility conditions, locations, parks (26%), and developing new athletic consultants conducted a user group survey. dates and times of availability, cleanliness fields (24%). The purpose of the survey was to gather and maintenance, and space or size. In input from organizations that currently use these categories, no more than 8% of the • Fix-up/repair older park buildings and the Department’s parks and recreation participating organizations indicated that facilities (46%) had the highest percentage facilities. Responses were designed to better facilities did not meet their needs. Safety of respondents select it as one of the four understand who the organizations serve, the was the largest concern among actions they would be most willing to fund needs of the organizations, and overall respondents, with 15% stating that facilities with their tax dollars. Other actions with satisfaction with the parks and/or recreation did not meet their needs. strong support included preserving and facilities. Out of 25 organizations selected to conserving older parks (41%), upgrading participate in the survey, nine organizations Approximately two-thirds (69%) of the the existing children’s zoo (38%), and responded and generated 11 completed organizations indicated that they have a staff developing new walking/biking trails and surveys (two organizations had two person from the Department specifically connecting existing trails (31%). individuals complete surveys). The detailed assigned to work with them. One-quarter • When asked how respondents would findings of the user group survey are (23%) of the respondents did not know if allocate $100 among various parks and available in the “User Group Survey” by they have an assigned staff contact. recreation categories, $42 were allocated Leisure Vision, August 2003. Nearly half (46%) of the respondents to improving/maintaining existing parks, indicated that they have a written facility use playgrounds, zoo, and recreation facilities. Participating organizations serve a wide agreements with the Department. An The remaining $58 were allocated as variety of users ranging from youths to additional 18% have an oral agreement in follows: acquisition and development of seniors. Programs provided by these place. One-third (36%) of the organizations walking and biking trails/greenways ($13), organizations include sports, cultural did not know if there is any type of development of new aquatic and activities, youth programs, senior programs, agreement in place. Of the user groups that recreation facilities ($12), conservation and educational programs. Organizations have agreements, approximately half (46%) and preservation of historic and cultural vary in size, serving between 12 and have open-ended arrangements with no parks and facilities ($11), acquisition of 285,000 participants on an annual basis. definitive contract period. new park land and open space ($8), Nearly half (46%) of the participating development of special facilities ($8), and organizations use facilities on a seasonal When asked what the organization most construction of new game fields ($4). The basis. Almost one-quarter of the liked about the facilities they use, location remaining $1 was allocated to other. organizations use facilities throughout the was the primary factor. Suggestions for „ Over half (64%) of respondents indicated year (23%) or for special events or improving facilities included: creating more that they would be either very supportive tournaments (23%). All of the seasonal appropriate spaces for the specific programs (30%) or somewhat supportive (34%) of usage is during the summer months, (i.e., smaller classrooms, better pavilions,

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A1-3 Appendix 1: Surveys August 2004 river access), grooming ball fields, installing handicap-accessible restrooms, and installing a securing system. Most respondents (64%) were unsure if their organizations could help share the cost of any proposed improvements.

A1-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 1: Surveys August 2004 Appendix 2: Public Forums

2.1 Focus Groups identify their roles in the plan. A coordinated • More park land is needed in newly or effort is needed to achieve the community’s soon-to-be-annexed areas of the city. Focus group meetings were conducted by vision for its park system. If this is • Existing partners are interested in the consulting team in November 2002 at accomplished, participants are confident that continuing, if not enhancing, their the onset of the planning process. A total of the needed funding to implement the relationships with the Department. strategic/master plan will follow. four focus groups were conducted involving • Safety concerns exist on the river 37 individuals. Meetings were held with the greenway and in some parks. strategic/master plan steering committee, Focus groups recognized a need to respect park foundation members, current partners, the rich heritage of the Department and its • New facilities desired include additional and advocacy group representatives. The historic parks as outlined in the Cultural pavilions, a large field house, and same agenda was used for each focus Landscape Report. A need for standards tournament-quality ball fields. group to ensure consistency in the topics was identified to clarify the appropriate • There is some desire for a stronger Park covered. The comments were recorded as design, development, and maintenance of Board that works cooperatively with stated. They may not all be factually correct, new and existing parks. Finding an advocacy groups. appropriate balance between passive and and show a diversity of opinion, sometimes • Department resources are stretched too active recreation to meet the community’s conflicting, and not necessarily that of a thin, making it difficult to sustain the needs was a focus in all of the meetings. majority of the community (Appendix 1). existing park and recreation system. Providing sufficient funding was also viewed A common theme from the focus groups as critical to the success of the Department. • The foundation desires a better focus to was the need for a visionary plan based on serve the needs of the Department. public input to guide the future management Other issues identified from the focus group • More adult, senior, and family-oriented of the Department. The plan needs to have meetings include: programs are needed. the buy-in of all the major stakeholders, • There is a need for more trails and • The lack of appropriate facilities limits the including the Board, staff, partners, and improved interconnectivity between parks Department’s ability to enhance or expand advocacy groups. Key stakeholders need to and other key destinations. programs.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-1 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • A forestry plan is needed to ensure a contacted by the Parks and Recreation This needs to be accomplished through a healthy canopy of trees in the city. Department. The interviews were conducted sound public input process incorporating the • There is a preference for quality over either individually or in small groups. The wants and needs of the community. The quantity in parks, facilities, and programs. same questions were used for each inter- plan should also clearly outline implementa- view to ensure consistency in topics covered. tion steps, provide realistic goals, and reflect • The existing park system is out of balance Due to time constraints, not all of the true capital and operating costs to ensure in respect to the number and location of questions were always asked based on the everything is properly maintained. neighborhood, community, and regional overall knowledge of the participants. The parks. questions were designed by the consultants Several stakeholders expressed the desire to • There is an expectation of improved with input from the Parks and Recreation create the best and highest-quality parks intergovernmental planning for parks and Department. system within the means of the community. recreation at the city, county, and state Maintaining a high-quality system was a levels. The findings from these interviews served as common theme throughout all interviews. a basis for further research in the develop- • A landscape architect needs to be added to ment of the master plan, including the One of the key issues facing the Department the Department’s staff to implement and development of a community-wide random is the maintenance and upkeep of existing enforce design standards. survey. parks and amenities. While basic mainte- • The plan needs to proactively plan for an nance (mowing, upkeep of flowers, etc.) of increasingly diverse population and A listing of all questions and responses are parks was considered fairly good, it was growing community. included at the end of this report. repeatedly sited that many of the amenities (pavilions, sidewalks, river/water edges) are Summary of Interviews deteriorating and/or not maintained well. The Process Participants acknowledged the limited The general consensus of participants in the Key stakeholder interviews were conducted financial resources as a primary root cause stakeholder interviews is that Fort Wayne for the maintenance deficiencies. by the consulting team between January 16 has a good parks system, although there is and February 5, 2003. A total of 17 inter- room for improvement. The biggest issues There are some safety issues in parks and views were conducted involving 36 individu- identified related to budgetary constraints along the greenway that should be ad- als representing various community leaders, resulting in excessive deferred maintenance, dressed. Areas mentioned included Swinney special interest groups, and park support lack of design standards, and resistance Park, McMillen Park, the Rivergreenway organizations. The purpose of the key from the staff to accept input or assistance trails, and Hanna Homestead Park. In some stakeholder interviews was to identify from some community groups. cases, the issue of safety was considered perceptions of the Parks and Recreation mostly perception (i.e., trails, McMillen Park). Department and important community issues Participants hope to have a strategic plan to be addressed in the master plan. The that is visionary, sparks excitement in the Several participants felt that the Board and comments were recorded as stated. They community, establishes design and mainte- park staff was not open to feedback or may not all be factually correct, and show a nance standards, strikes a fair balance assistance from the public or some groups. diversity of opinion, sometimes conflicting, between various user and interest groups, It was also cited that staff is sometimes and not necessarily that of a majority of the and respects the rich history and heritage of reluctant to partner or collaborate with community (see Appendix 1). the parks system. There is a strong desire to outside groups due to territorialism. have a usable plan that can be implemented The key stakeholder groups involved in the despite political and administrative changes. There was a concern that the Board has no interview process were identified and bylaws from which to govern. Groups that

A2-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 appeared to have differences with the Board There was some interest in the possible relationship with the city. The YMCA, Boys felt that it should be enlarged and additional merger of the city and county parks systems, and Girls Club, Sports Corporation, and committees formed to provide input on although this was viewed as a hot political Convention and Visitors Bureau stand as specialty areas. Several individuals ex- topic and unlikely. There was some senti- potential partners for recreation and sports pressed the need for a conservancy group, ment for at least some combined planning programs. The Boys and Girls Club was also especially to look out for historical elements and shared standards between the depart- interested in the idea of a shared new or of the system. The zoo parking lot contro- ments. existing facility. versy, along with differences in opinion or lack of trust with the Board/staff, resulted in The biggest political sensitivity identified was Neighborhood associations, businesses, the formation of new interest groups – the upcoming mayoral election. Clearly the churches, and public schools appear to be several of which were represented in the controversy over the zoo parking lot in untapped sources for in-kind services and interviews. Franke Park remains a public relations issue adopt-a-park programs. Several participants for the Department. stated that the Department has simply failed Among individuals interviewed, there was a to ask for support–support that is there for strong interest (or at least acknowledgment The community seems to place a high value the taking. Local universities, especially of) in historical preservation as it pertains to on its parks system, especially the quantity IPFW, also serve as potential partners for the parks system. Many stakeholders and location of parks throughout the commu- programming and joint-use facilities. expressed the need to respect the rich nity. There were some equity issues emerg- heritage of the parks system when upgrading ing, primarily due to annexation and expan- Foundations appear to be the largest source existing parks or building new ones. There sion of the city. Participants also expressed of funds within the community, although the was some sentiment for the restoration of satisfaction in the recreational offerings amount of additional funds available for several historic parks to their original plans. provided by the Department, although there parks is probably limited. Preserving, if not restoring, historical struc- was a longing for the return of summer park 1) What are your expected outcomes tures like the WPA pavilions was considered programs that provide supervision in neigh- of this long-range strategic master important. Those with strong interests in borhood parks. plan? restoration lobbied the need for an on-staff Overall, the community seems well served by landscape architect and design standards to • To serve as a map for the future; an the existing recreation facilities based on maintain and capture the beauty of parks. organized approach to confronting prob- input from the participants. There was lems; identify and address opportunities. strong support for the expansion of the trails Of the key stakeholders interviewed, there • Needs to be able to survive a change in clearly was a strong representation of system to connect parks and key destina- tions. There was some interest in an administration, whether a new mayor, groups with a preference for historical parks director, city council, etc. Include preservation compared to other interest additional ice rink on the north part of town. Several requests were made for a sports implementation steps so can survive groups. Although the preservation of change. historical elements in the park was a com- complex so that softball, baseball, or hockey mon theme in several of the interviews, the tournaments could be hosted. • Want a useable plan, not one that sits on consultant recommends that this issue be the shelf. There appear to be some partnering oppor- addressed and measured in the household • Should reflect the needs and wants of the tunities for the Department in its implemen- survey. This will better determine if the community. tation of the strategic plan. All of the groups preservation of historic park elements is a represented in the interviews expressed an • Incorporate successful ideas and trends true community value and high priority of interest in continuing, if not enhancing, their from other communities. Fort Wayne citizens.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-3 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 Interviews were held in January and early Interview Group Date/Time Participants February 2003 and included the following Number groups: 1 Parks Foundation January 16, 2003 Ian Rolland, Karen Kasper, 8:00 a.m. Madelane Elston, John Shoaff, Richard Waterfield, Tom Jehl, Will Clark 2 Rivergreenway Expansion January 16, 2003 Jack Stark, Jim Schroeder, 10:30 a.m. Roger Goodland 3 Planning and Development January 16, 2003 Mark Becker, Director Department 11:30 a.m. 4 City Council January 16, 2003 Tom Henry, Tom Smith 1:00 p.m. 5 YMCA January 16, 2003 Marty Pastura 2:00 p.m. 6 Utilities and Fire Department January 16, 2003 Greg Mezaros, Director of 3:00 p.m. Utilities; Tim Davie, Fire Chief 7 Cultural Landscape Committee January 16, 2003 Will Clark, Tom Carlin, 4:00 p.m. Julie Donnell, Dan Orban 8 Convention and Visitors Bureau January 17, 2003 Dan O’Connell, 8:30 a.m. Andrea Detlefsen 9 Boys and Girls Club January 17, 2003 Louise Jackson 8:30 a.m. 10 Friends of the Parks January 17, 2003 Julie Donnele, Dan Ernst, 9:00 a.m. Suzon Motz, Julie * Involved in spectator events, basketball Waterfield tourney, Purdue spring game. Proactive in 11 City Council January 17, 2003 Don Schmidt going after events with the facilities that 10:00 a.m. Ft. Wayne has. Would be willing to support larger scale tourneys, but have not 12 Invent Tomorrow January 17, 2003 Jeanne Shaheen been asked. 11:30 a.m. 13* Fort Wayne Sports Corporation January 17, 2003 Andy Bengs 1:30 p.m. ** ARCH (Architectural and Community Heritage) is a local organization dedicated 14 Chamber of Commerce January 17, 2003 Phil Laux to historic preservation. Just became an 2:00 p.m. affiliate with Historic Landmarks of Indiana. 15** ARCH Board January 17, 2003 List from A1-31 Deals with everything from sidewalks, 3:30 p.m. streets, places, and parks. Has an interest 16 City Council February 3, 2003 Tom Haghurst in the history of entire parks system. 9:00 a.m. 17 Mayor’s Office February 5, 2003 Tom Teague, 9:30 a.m. Chief of Staff

A2-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Visionary plan that is forward looking but to make the parks better. Identify how • Work to balance various interests that realistic to resources available. (Refer- each group fits in with the master plan. exist within the community (historical ence was made to the downtown plan, • Address relative role between private and significance, cultural landscape, mainte- which was viewed as presenting some public sectors in support of parks. (Public nance, contemporary active things, etc.) great but unrealistic ideas.) tax support of parks has been continually • Leveraging existing money that the • Prioritize needs based on the available eroded, resulting in less money for Department has to the best degree; resources so we can understand what is maintenance. Private contributors have developing economies of scale. achievable. become concerned that any investment by • More supervised recreation activities in • All improvements should positively it allows tax dollars to be cut. To con- the parks during the summer months; contribute to the parks system and tinue to receive private financial support, staffed program services; playground community. Do not make improvements need to have financial commitment from programs in selected parks. just to spend money. city leaders to properly maintain existing park resources. Headwaters Alliance in • Focus and identification of marketing • Factor in the Parks Foundation in a existence because people didn’t trust the strategies and operating strategies for the realistic way. Park Board to do an adequate job to parks department. • Ensure sufficient financial resources to maintain the park.) • Provide direction of where the Parks maintain existing elements and any • Outline any changes that need to be Department is going to go. proposed new improvements. Important addressed with the state legislature. • The Department has a great reputation in that improvements do not become a • Create bylaws for the Park Board. the community for doing a lot of things, financial burden to the parks system. but the plan should identify how to better • A lot of restoration work on existing parks • Build public trust in parks system. utilize the parks for the community. is needed. Especially need to improve • Address need to hire highly qualified • Outcomes of plan would help utilities in gateway parks, which enhance the overall designers to carry through with propos- future planning by know what Department image of the system. als. Currently do not have well-designed is doing. parks system. • Respects and builds off of the work of • Ability to review master plans from a previous consultants and the ideals of • Provide for the highest-quality parks safety perspective; provides information historic master plans (i.e. Kessler Plan). system within the realities of the budget. in development of rescue plans. These plans helped define the city, made • Rearticulate goals of the park system that it livable, contributed to attractiveness of • Overall broad-brush view of entire benefit the city. Showcase the pride the system, where it is going from a recre- neighborhoods, helped increase property community has in the parks system. values, and addressed human needs. ation and park infrastructure perspective. New plan should do the same without • More greenways connecting parks and • Where the park system heads from the destroying the work of previous plans. destinations (both new and expansion of perspective of conservation and reuse of existing trails). • Reflects the needs of a changing society. historical resources within the system–to • Renovation of historical parks that have this point there has been no particular • Need for open space. Keep recreation not been maintained. direction. Need direction, is there the areas as open space for drop-in activities. • Greenways expanded into a countywide recognition, what can be done to improve • Create a unified mission for Department, system–not just within the city upon these things. Park Board, and various support groups/ • Mainstreaming of maintenance and organizations so they can work together • Coordinate recommendations with growth areas of city. recognition of historical assets.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-5 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Comprehensive review of system to • Identification of future needs and areas • Provide five- and 10-year goals of where provide a balance between recreation, needing new parks based on future the Parks Department can fill in the gaps vehicle use, and historic parks. growth projections. of the community’s wants and needs. • Needs to respect historic city plans. • Strategy for overcoming funding limita- • Don’t have any. Not city resident so not • Define and understand role of parks and tions. familiar with overall system personally. recreation to the city. • Gaining input from wide range of park • Provide sense of community, green space, • Understanding of cultural, historic, and users and place for the community to escape natural resources • Evaluation of each park based on use and and relax. • Due respect is given to those resources perceived needs. • Revisit the heritage of the parks from a through the planning process. • Neighborhood parks–how heavily are design sense, and be respectful of that heritage. • Exciting, visionary, not average stuff, parks used and how valuable are they to incorporating the needs of the entire the parks system in general? • Address active and passive elements of community, useful, doable, and quite long • Reasonable plan that can be imple- parks. term. Community leadership plays a vital mented. Not a plan to sit on the shelf. • Bring back the luster of the formerly role. • Assessment of current structure for world-renowned system. • Provides implementation steps and administering and governing parks to • Restores current elements of parks and mechanism to provide the operational determine if it is efficient. Need an provides additional trails. resources. organizational review with • Respond to growth/sprawl of the commu- • Quality of the parks, how they are recommendations. nity to serve needs of the entire popula- maintained and designed, has to be the • Focus on proactive versus reactive tion. number one priority of every planning planning. • Maintain existing system at a high level of process. Need to have the best-quality • Improved park system. quality; maintain existing structures. amenity that we can have. With the • Provide generalities in totality as to how limited dollars, need to make the best • Visionary component to meet commit- the system should function. parks we can make. If not kept at the ments/expectation of annexed areas. top, people won’t want to contribute. Challenge is that they will expect them to • Have wonderful park system that has be pretty nice because they are used to been planned and managed; new plan • Build off the current successes; address country clubs. needs to respects that heritage. zoo and other attractions that impact tourism to avoid stagnation. • Expect to be a blueprint of what the • Look to enrich the whole system by community wants. building on its history. • Develop plan for the historic fort. • Needs to include maintenance expenses • Don’t want zero-sum gain (i.e., sacrific- • Don’t need any more parks, but physical of existing and new facilities. ing/removing a historical structure so improvements to the existing parks are have the resources to build a new facility, needed. • Flexible enough to change with the community’s needs. ball field, etc.). • Overall and specific recommendations for • Need to meet and exceed expectations of parks system in general and for specific • Painting clear and concise picture of the community. parks. physical and programming needs. • Continue to avoid duplication of service • Need guidelines/standards. and competition with other organizations.

A2-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Restore what have first, then provide city annexation efforts, a combine city- taxpayer, feel building community values more trails. county park system should be considered through park services is a good use of • Upgrading majority of city parks. to better utilize limited financial resources government resources. and overlap of services. • Making them more user friendly. • Safety is both a real and perceived issue. • Limited financial resources received from Need to make the parks places that • Efficiently and effectively spending the the state. Need to lobby to receive fair families want to go. additional resources the city is planning to share of tax support. put into parks. • The Hanna Homestead identified as a • Financial resources are available within small park where drug dealers line up • As an old planner by profession, has the community to implement the plan. against the fence to make sales. Park not higher expectations with regard to Money will come with a visionary plan. used due to fear of being there. process and outcomes of plan. • Lack of by-laws for Park Board. • McMillen Park used to be a place where • Mayor, chief of staff, and senior manage- • Equity issues exist in quantity and quality you could have a window shot out. ment staff of city should have substantial Safety has improved since expansion of input into deliverables. of park amenities in the southeast quadrant of town populated by minorities ice rink. • In mayor’s office, want to have evaluation and economically disadvantaged. • Swinney Park is not attractive for casual mechanism for every proposal to measure • Lack of coordination in park planning. users, known for unwanted homosexual success. A tangible and explicit evaluation activity. protocol is needed to determine if achiev- Parks are not aesthetically pleasing. ing objectives over course of the plan. City • Large parks system with 90+ parks makes • City provided police for additional security typically dedicates 10% to 12% of planning hard to pay attention to all parks. while Lifetime Sports Academy took place. No instances of arrest while police to evaluation. Fort Wayne is the first city • Lifetime Sports Academy is available for in America to use a protocol developed by are there. Parents have taken pride in golf, swimming, and tennis for free. the parks because of this. Motorola and has 70 to 80 people trained Highly successful program with all in statistical analysis. resources provided by public sector. • Use to have three levels of security. • Would like to provide input on evaluation Would like to see Fort Wayne provide Onsite caretakers, park police, and components. more free recreation programs and supervised park playground programs. • New skateboard park concept. lessons through public-private partner- • Centrally located parking lots can make it ships. possible for police to trap criminals in • Need or want for ice facility. • Improvements and repairs are reactive parks, but also result in innocent people • Issue is have to compete with relatively and complaint driven, not proactive. being trapped in by thugs. Not attractive scarce resources of the city. in integration of park. • Lack of common vision between the public and private sectors. Inability of commu- • Enormous amount of passive users in 2) What are the key issues that have nity to come to a consensus on anything– parks. been brought forward over the not just parks. No organized or cohesive • Park Board is a reactive board. Listens years that need to be addressed in method to address changing economic more to staff than the public. Need a the plan? and social climate. larger Park Board. Should be encouraged • Lack of joint planning between city and • Most important issue in community is to build committees. (Philharmonic Board county. crime. Best way to address this is to was given as a successful example of good board-staff structure.) • With continued growth of community and keep people active in the parks. As a

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-7 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Park staff perceived as territorial; takes • Problem is that Department is becoming complaint; not enough or well-maintained offense to public input. financially strapped. At one point parks bathrooms. • Trees removed and not replaced. Refer- received 30% of the city budget–at a high • Not enough pavilions. point of the system. ence to cultural landscape plan in number • Proliferation of baseball and softball of trees removed from historic parks. • Given land that the Department does not leagues that overrun the fields. No ability • Maintenance of existing facilities and want; no resources to maintain or for drop-in use for families/general parkland is a major issue. Every aspect develop. public. Need to designate some fields for of the park system has been allowed to • The showcase parks are located in the organized leagues and others for drop-in deteriorate over past three decades. older part of the city. Newer areas either use. • Water quality is key issue, but not just have no parks, undeveloped parks, and/or • Need more signage. People get confused with the parks. Lake in park that is no connections to the greenway. Need to as to where things are. drained and never refilled. establish new parks in the growth areas and connect them to downtown by • Complaints of young people are taking • Reluctance within the community to see greenways. over Shoaff and Foster Parks (sex in the and use the greenway as an alternative park, smoking pot, etc.). Some com- transportation source instead of just a • When developing parks, need to look at plaints valid, but probably mostly linear park. how park is currently being using so not perception. to drive out existing users. For example, • Removal of trees without replacement. some undeveloped parks are popular with • Swinney Park known for gay activity; • Need more appeal to teenage population. BMX bikers. addressed through legislation. • Swinney Park identified as a gay cruising • Cultural landscape, recognize interest • Festivals at Headwaters Park diminished area–reality and not just perception. groups and studies to understand the rich ability to use for passive purposes. Driving regular families out of the park. history of Fort Wayne parks. Important to • Most complaints received during summer; • Women feel rivergreenway is not particu- respect the integrity of historic parks little complaints in September through larly safe, and there have been a couple while blending with contemporary needs. April. of rapes, although it may only happen • Imperative to involving the public through- • Couple areas in community need more every five years. out the process. Zoo parking lot situation parks: due north (just recently annexed • Central corridor of greenway has large illustrates need to have public input. area), northwest (development has homeless population living in trees. Adds • Need for development of community-wide grown beyond Hamilton Park). Need to to perception of safety, although in reality standards between city and county. take a look at additional parks in growth areas of city. they are probably pretty harmless. • Pay close attention to physical beauty of • Graffiti also adding to safety issue parks. Past planning has diminished the • Rivergreenway is a real unused, undevel- (Packard Park, rivergreenways, etc.). way parks look, impacting aesthetics and oped asset. Not a pretty river like San Antonio, but does have nice river flow • No budget is allotted specifically to the natural beauty of parks. Illustrates need for a landscape architect. from downtown to Coliseum area – key greenways; has to compete with other place of development even for a couple maintenance issues resulting in its • Some parks look functional–which is city blocks for shops, restaurants. Un- neglect. Would like to see as a good, but not as inviting as they could be tapped resource. standalone budget item for greenways, for the passive user. • Beer not allowed at pavilions, would possibly like gardens in Foster and • Physical plant issues are the number one Swinney Parks. require change to city ordinances. If the

A2-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 Department would open up pavilions to Utilities have the ability to assist parks Park was designed by engineers and is beer, would provide revenue opportunities. with greenways, golf courses, etc. not an attractive place. Receive requests from companies and • Some parks have problems with access • Need to differentiate between a sports groups to hold parties, but want beer and control (dead-end entrances). complex (active) versus parks (passive). wine. Also an issue at the golf courses. • Swinney Park has gay cruising. McMillen Park no longer viewed as a park (Beer is allowed for special events at due to abundance of sports activities. Headwaters Park and at the Conservatory.) • Fire Department uses parks for training, youth wet-down programs. • Some people are scared to go to Foster • Parks Department can do a good job in Park and McMillen Park due to safety improving the quality of life for young • From a safety perspective, if have issue perceptions. people, for example building an extreme retention ponds, things on rivers, need to park for teens. Currently there is nothing have access for rescues. • Pool at Swinney Park only open during working hours so adults cannot enjoy it. like that for kids in Fort Wayne. Has been • Need barriers to keep people out of talked about but nothing has been done. dangerous areas. • Need for a conservancy group, with its Louisville is a good example of providing own mission and bylaws. Not an ad-hoc • Opportunity for combined park/fire station things for young people making it an committee of the Board. Park Board locations–mini parks providing places for exciting place to be. would cede some governance to the kids, exercise space for fighters, multi- conservancy on historic park issues. • City as a whole needs to think outside the use meeting rooms. Arrangement allows box as it comes to bringing businesses to Need to augment the small Park Board firefighters to interact with kids and serve with an entity that is committed to the community. Parks and recreation can as positive role models. be a major part of that. conservancy. • A lot of outside factions tug on parks–Park • Staff (excluding the director) have a • Sometimes it is okay to do expensive Board, staff, friends, etc. Makes it hard to things because the parks deserve it. reluctance when it comes to collabora- work with the Department because it will tion. Noticed a little reluctance to collabo- get multiple answers to questions. • Need to examine how Park Board and rate due to territorial issues. Need to community groups can work together to • Would like to see the Parks Department educate Parks Department employees get things done on preservation, or create focus on programs that encourage people that it is not their land, but the another organization that can get stuff that live in the neighborhood to use the community’s land. done. facilities in their local parks. • Have known last three directors (Bob, • A primary goal for the Cultural Landscape • Need to create programs that match the Phil, and Diane) and feel all are good Committee is to raise the community’s needs of the community. quality people; Department is headed in consciousness of the outstanding and the right direction. • Historic landscapes have been short- potentially wonderful parks system. If the changed, not on purpose but through • Kids are different today–have different community’s consciousness can be raised, actions and a lack of listening or under- interests. Have to think outside the box to it will be possible to obtain financial standing. serve their needs. support. • Hamilton Park improvements created a • Fort Wayne is a good place to raise a • No organization in place to ensure quality cookie-cutter park for sewer improve- family. Parks needs to provide opportuni- of work, efficient use of dollars is used. ments. Has created a mess through ties for kids and families. Should be role of the parks staff and a overcrowding. Property values have new conservancy group. • Often need to interface with parks for dropped. Has been an increase in crime. utility easements and improvements.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-9 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Park Board members are transitory, do park setting with a monument. There is a • Identify parking needs and proper location not have the time or knowledge to be longing in the community for a return to for system and specific parks and how dedicated to parks. some programming and activities. The best to address the issue. Parking lots • Size of park board is too small–mandated fort needs a plan. Currently is an image should not be central feature of parks by state law. problem for the city that needs to be (Franke Park, Lakeside Park). addressed. Becoming a visitor complaint • Design professional or landscape architect • There are no public hearings or press issue. There was a recommendation to coverage of Park Board. needed on staff to address design needs. move it to zoo so could be a used as Would be met with resistance by staff, • Only one committee for a Park Board of interpretive playground in conjunction with need strong person. four. Committee is struggling to under- another tourist attraction. See as viable stand and define role. Can bring in more alternative from a tourism perspective. • Have lost a lot of amenities in parks due expertise if form more committees. to lack of budget. Design and landscaping • A lot of day users come to park attrac- elements have made some structures • No bylaws for Park Board. tions and then leave (i.e. Headwater, difficult to maintain. Perhaps, with • Should create safety in parks though conservatory, zoo-90%). Have had some architect on staff, could have been programs. Playground programs. Place successes extending visits to zoo with redesigned for ease of maintenance activity in the park that many people can other programs. instead of removed altogether. join in on. • Receive a lot of visitor requests about the • Board and foundation don’t function in • Need to place historic parks on national rivergreenway. Parts of it are in disrepair. needed role. Not working boards. register–resistance from staff and mayor. Also trail is perceived to be unsafe due to Respect and vitality for parks needed periodic crimes (attacks, harassments, • The Department is a significant player in within organizations. stolen bikes, etc.), but in reality only the city’s economic means of attracting happens a couple times a year. This • Foundation sees its role as caretakers of visitors to the city, more so than other perception needs to be addressed money rather than critical planning. cities. Has vast land holdings, but also through more lights, police patrols, These entities don’t serve as true advo- facilities including the children’s zoo, emergency phones, etc. cates for the parks. They simply come to which is the number-one tourist attrac- meetings and rubber-stamp decisions tion, serving 500,000 visitors a year of • Kraeger Park has become a fabulous site made by park staff. which half are from out of town, and for soccer tournaments. There is a need for sports complex that can be used both • Accessibility to the parks is a key issue. provides a $3.2 million economic impact Many parks are split from neighborhoods to the city. by the community and for tournaments that have the potential to provide an by major thoroughfares and natural • Conservatory is similar operation, serving economic return through tourism. boundaries. Need enhanced pedestrian as an anchor for downtown. Provides and bike accessibility, maybe through opportunities to teach conservation, • Upkeep of parks. May be getting too tunnels, overpasses, etc. many parks for the available resources. fauna, etc. Host 70,000 per year, mostly • Leadership is a major issue. Many great children. • Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, and Park grassroots groups that need direction. • Headwaters Park offers variety of special Department seem to work independently, could work together more. • Staff needs to be respectful of community events important to tourism. wants and needs. • Historic fort was recently given to the city. • No procedures or public notice for changes made in parks. • Have actively tried to avoid nature Due to limited financial resources, the city preservation. Lindenwood Nature changed it from an interpretive center to a • No bylaws for Board.

A2-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 Preserve was an example. County tried • Need for neighborhood recreation pro- facilities that make people say wow. to obtain natural easement, had to go grams like old playground programs. Examples include Lakeside Park obelisk around to Board, which was supportive With turnover in housing, younger and flowers, reflecting ponds for ice but staff opposed. families have moved back into older skating, something unusual. • Buckner Farm Park was an outlying park neighborhoods. Appropriate in some • Need to elevate standards, both in area given 20 years ago. Recently a neighborhoods, but not all. maintenance and capital improvements. developer wanted to put sewer system • Play doesn’t have to be organized. Need • Need better/more monitoring of parks for through park. City was supportive to provide a place, if people will use it, to maintenance issues. Need to make because it wants a kick-back of money. provide unstructured but supervised play. repairs quickly. • Decisions in the city are about money, not • Planning Department needs to be sup- • Blessed with three rivers, have done what is good for the park. portive of aesthetics within the commu- nothing with them. Facilitate or rent • No lease between the Zoo Board and nity, especially when the Park Department canoes, kayaks and provide more river Parks Department. No legal relationship, is asked to create more spaces for access. Doesn’t make use of river like it definition or responsibilities. Need legal, politician agendas. Parks needs to play a should. If Fort Wayne has fumbled the binding agreement. role in development of standards. ball, it is on river development. • Need to beautify natural things. Rivers • Need new logo for Parks Department– • Old fort has been an albatross around the are in poor condition. image issue. Time for a new one. city’s neck. Take land and lease to some • Need to look at growth areas to maintain • Staff perceived as not having the time to restaurant. Should keep most of the green space. Look ahead to develop take on new initiatives. Resistant to help buildings. Provides nice overlook for green space and trail connectors. or input from neighborhood groups. rivers. Place for canoe rentals, etc. • Historic, cultural landscape studies have • Some communities, primarily in the • Some plans have been too grandiose. been tremendous step in preserving south, seem to be able to do things on a Need to have some small projects to kick historic parks. Implementation of historic different level than in Fort Wayne. off and build excitement before can studies should be park of master plan. Moved to Fort Wayne because it had a achieve the bigger projects. good park system and good reputation at • Interaction with Parks Department has • Tree canopy restoration needs to be part that time. Even as good as it was, it of regular plan. been very positive. Staff is good at didn’t measure up to some of the south- helping come up with ideas. • Parks need to be safe, have water, and ern cities. have trash receptacles. • People don’t recognize river as a down- • Some newer parks are off the beaten town issue. • Use to be rec supervisors in parks. track and not as easily accessible and not • Properties owned/controlled by Parks • Issue of park police seems to be brushed as used. Krieger Park was cited as an example and was the result of having Department not used as well as they could aside. Is there a reason? (Need to have be. Little outlet for food/concession, boat authority, territorialism, elevation to law land given to city. Like parks more like Lakeside. rentals, etc. Control fair amount of area enforcement status) Explore park downtown but they are passive. Currently rangers, cooperation with police, allot- • Newer parks have poor design, no Parks Department will not offer long-term ment of police patrols for problem areas. attention to detail, and therefore are not leases of park land for private operations. • Existing community center has never very aesthetic. Result of not hiring an architect. May cost more in the short run • Physical limitations with rivers–not really found its niche–not vibrant or a enough water for big boats. focal point. but will set the parks apart. Want

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-11 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Maintenance has been a huge issue with • Parks system does not do a good job of given the opportunity and invited to the shrinking budget. marketing self. table to help. • Could better utilize botanical garden. • People don’t understand that the Parks • Preserving the architectural and land- Would have more use if charged lower Department is part of the city. Need to scape architectural heritage of parks. rental rates. Need to encourage, not promote who they are and how they Avoid homogenization of parks. Lost discourage use. contribute to the community. touch as to how parks were designed, • Parks are great, but have struggled with • Most members of the business community and why–needs to be maintained in plan. money which is a shame. remember the two-year controversy over • Have treasure of WPA structures, that • Need to keep up with the growth of city. the zoo parking lot. need maintenance that was deferred, that The city has been aggressive with • Because of the lack of marketing, there is individually or collectively deserve to be annexation and the expansion of Fort a perception that all services are free. on the national register. Wayne. The Parks Department hasn’t People are surprised that there is a fee, • Have seen dramatic increase in amount of been keeping up with the expansion. even though nominal. People don’t know users in Foster Park–especially passive • Live in the northwest part of town. Need what they have or how much programs users (walking, biking, picnicking, play- parks that provide a place for families to are. grounds, etc.), but there is no mainte- go and socialize, practice sports, a place • Chamber started Sports Corporation. nance and things are deteriorating. to take dog with sports complex or open Lifetime Sports Academy has benefited by • Need to maintain passive parks, not fields. Existing park has education focus. corporate support. Need to continue this everything revenue driven. • Need for more partnerships to encourage program. One of best models, programs, • Some of primary goals of city pioneers active participation in sports by youth and showcases that the parks system has. were creating an attractive place to live. families. Goal should be getting families • Most people use parks for passive • Efforts lately have resulted in the neglect out to exercise together in a park. activities. of historical heritage in pursuit of the Provides opportunity for parks to grow. • Growth of city might necessitate need to dollar. • Currently no intramural programs at high make the greenway a trail system • Concern with views, building within parks. school level. Room for wider variety of throughout community, not just along the Avoid direct interface between active and sports, even if only a one month season. river. Trails/bike paths could be used for passive users. Need proper maintenance • Maybe more recreational league sports in alternative transportation. and upkeep. non-traditional sports. • Need to encourage in writing that should • Staff needs to be responsive and open to • Not a lot of adult leagues for recreational hire qualified architects, designers, etc. outside input from the public. play. when developing master plans for individual parks. • Consultants should review Ball State study • Park system adds to the quality of life to of Kessler Plan. Helps explain significance attract new corporate entities. In all of • Nobody is asking to maintain original plan of historical planning efforts made in Fort the deals however, the Chamber has exactly, but not compromise the original Wayne. goals and intents. never said the city has a great park • Preservation of street trees also impor- system. Still, the Chamber recognizes • When push comes to shove, Fort Wayne tant. that parks contribute to the inexpensive, will come up with funds for restoration of high quality of life. historic parks. Interest groups need to be • Lack of city and county strategic plan. Lack of smart growth.

A2-12 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Aesthetics of city is important component, • Mayor has given $5 million to parks, but • No major sensitivities. If there is a needs to be incorporated into plan. will be hard to get any additional funds political sensitivity, it is a renewed interest • Parks have a lot of old growth forest and out of the city. in the health of the parks system by trees; need to plan for new growth trees • Mayor has asked for help from Parks decision makers. so don’t loose the trees in the future. Foundation to lobby for home rule at state • When budget crunches come, parks • Need to have discussion about what legislature. Fort Wayne doesn’t have budget has traditionally been cut, philoso- specific goal-directed uses are carried out presence like Indianapolis to draw state phy is being reversed by community in parks, such as current plan for skate funds. leaders as witnessed in support of park, zoo parking lot, to formulate a • From the environmental/conservation strategic planning initiative. general policy of how to protect park perspective, expansion of parking lots and • Parking lot issue at Franke Park sparked land. sewer systems should not take place in formation of citizens groups, Friends of • Need for public discussion if going to parks. Parks, etc. Foundations threatened to eliminate one acre of park land. • Governance and cooperation between city pull funds. Lawsuits were filed to block the parking lot. Was a tough year of • Due to limited time in Fort Wayne, did not and county is a problem with greenways; many territorial issues. political jousting. Park Department was feel was in position to answer question. called everything in book. Also impacted • Merger of city and county park systems is zoo directors image since was a zoo too volatile an issue for consideration, 3) Are there political sensitivities that issue. Biggest political football in recent although probably wouldn’t be an issue history. we need to be aware of? with the public. • Upcoming mayoral election. • Competition between special interest • Would like to see greenway have unified groups; charges one group receiving • Tension and turf battles between city and governance, or at least unified standards preferential treatment over another. county make combined city-county parks and consensus between city, county, and system unlikely. within various departments with oversight • No. Always going to be naysayers. • Taxpayers don’t know and don’t care of the greenway. • Franke Park parking lot controversy. Not about duplication in government. There • Insure that public input process is sound, sure if Department simply did not do their are a few council members who are in both development and implementation homework or if it was just a small group supportive of a combined system and are of the plan. Need to have continual public of irritating citizens. Got tired of hearing talking about it. Need to have taxpayer involvement. Where Fort Wayne has about it in the press. Parks needs to support for combined system to happen. failed as a community in the past is make sure it is well prepared when making changes to avoid getting another • Plan should not identify with one particu- through lack of planning and failing to black eye. lar politician or party. implement plans that do exist. • Different constituents and special inter- • Mayor and parks director have opposed • Currently developing a combined city/ ests groups. designation of historic parks and facilities county comprehensive plan. There is an on the national register. existing dialogue to merge planning • Mis-steps with park staff with regard to departments. Would hope a combined community input. Didn’t sufficiently air • Inordinate amount of territorialism within park system could be looked at as well. issues due to lack of good process. special interest groups in the community. Implementation of merger could be an Resulted in a lot of negative energy. Sports groups and various special interest issue. groups are protective of their areas. • Resistance to change; conservative nature of community with regard to change.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-13 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Internal politics within Parks Department • Election year issues. Biggest one in the demand exact restorations of historical and Board. state this year, so should receive a lot of structures. Don’t want to go exact, but • Need to be sensitive to southeast quad- attention. instead have designs that are comple- rant of Fort Wayne, which has been • Have Parks Board, while highly interested mentary and respectful to existing short-changed. and capable, don’t have a clear under- structures and plans. Current park staff standing of how to manage the system. is not capable of doing this. Need to • Reports have generated two advocacy pursue designer that can do so. groups–challenge will be how do you Defer to staff. Lack of understanding as channel that positive energy. to what Fort Wayne has. • Parks are a form of leisure activity available to all, rich, poor, and middle • Potential problem with advocacy groups is • Voices of citizens get lost in the shuffle. Staff selectively filter concerns to the class. Need to ensure that everyone can how do you balance their wants against afford to enjoy and benefit from them. the needs of the entire system. board. • Need for board qualifications. • Explore more cooperation between city • City/county issues with turf protection. and county parks. There is very little park • Not aware of any. • Historically have had a legacy of strong space in suburbs. It is convenient that individuals on the Park Board, represent- • Park Board doesn’t always represent the the city is developing and planning for ing the community. Vision came through new parks in the growth areas, but need breadth of the community, tend to be the people. Mayor hasn’t looked to political appointments, busy people more to work with the county and encourage it putting people on Board who speak for to build more parks outside the city that than willing to let staff handle everything. the community and work together to Should be a governing board but haven’t can be enjoyed by both county and city create a shared vision. Park Board does residents. taken leadership roles. Hopefully plan will not have a focused mission. be a wakeup call. • There are a lot of stakeholders that have • Need for bylaws for Park Board. • Bring city and county together as far as a voice that need to be heard in the parks, given lack of dollars. Big sensitiv- • Formally lived quasi-independent. Had planning process. ity. City Department needs to demon- kind of leadership that was driven by the • Election year–important to make sure to strate an ethical commitment to preserva- community. hear the mayor’s point of view. tion and nature before county would • Parks director needs to demand that we • Jump start phase–action plan needs to support. County Board members were have a world-class parks system. Too call for some immediate infusion of concerned that merger would be focus of nice all the time. projects. friends group. • Need to maintain a balance between • Supportive of tying future parks and fire • Annexed areas are getting screwed over. special interest groups. If given the stations together. Have all the services from county they opportunity to highlight structures and want. Being brought into city against will, raise money, will do work for them. What facing 40% increases in taxes. One of they want is to help. 4) Who are the key partners and their expectations is quality parks and • McMillen Park has WBA pavilion that is no stakeholders we need to speak with recreation. longer aesthetically pleasing due to new regarding this project? • Safety of parks. Activity in some parks siding. Combined with Question 13 makes them undesirable for families. • Fort Wayne restorationist tend to be Especially in the evenings. realist. They understand the realities of • Not sure that there are any land mines. limited resources and as such seldom

A2-14 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 5) What are your expectations of • Trail systems. the character of the parks. Not right now, communication from the consultant? • Quality and extent of parks system is but if things continue the way they are, Question not asked. pretty impressive. they will all be identical. • At appropriate times, would like to see • Variety of opportunities. • Sense that parks were created in the first place based on the image and values of drafts of the plan to provide comment. • Physical beauty of park system; undevel- Doesn’t need to be one-on-one; okay to the people who created the city and their oped open space; subconscious fact of it aspirations. When have a vision like that, review along with groups of other stake- just being there. holders. when can put forth and maintain it, it is a • Good parks, well spaced, and beautiful. great thing. Staff has been good at • Appreciate inclusion of Pam from Planning maintenance and keeping parks clean, but and Development on the committee. • Number of parks is very attractive, per capita, location. does not have public support and financial Helps keep him informed about process. resources to maintain the vision. • Escape traditional consultants role and • For most part, parks are pretty well maintained. • Established quality that most of the parks exceed city’s expectations by being have–mature trees, nice landscaping– • Golf courses. innovative and creative. there are some intrusions, but overall • Incorporate or include role for wireless • Availability of green space. have nice amenities, well distributed, technology in Parks Department–mayor • Civil war enactments in city parks. easy to get to. has goal for a wireless city. • Existing amenities in parks (tennis courts, • Park master planning early in the century • Should not be a traditional consulting etc.) are in good shape. resulted in the creation of a network of engagement where all of the boxes are • Rivergreenway system. greenery–boulevards, urban forestry, park filled. strips (grass between sidewalk and • Ability to use parks as corridors for utility street). This collection of green space service into heavily urbanized area. beyond the parks contributes to the 6) What do you value most about your • Easily accessible, kept clean, provides a overall aesthetics of the community. Over park and recreation system? lot of things/activities to do, beautiful the years, people have disassociated park • Green space, fresh air, beauty with places to eat lunch, trees/flowers. strip trees with the Parks Department. nature, provides escape from the pres- • So many parks in so many areas. • Original planners envisioned a city living sures of city. Values that should be in the park. Integrates itself to the considered fundamental, not a passing • Fairly easy to create wonderful ball community in its entirety. fashion, and incorporated within the new diamond or good soccer fields. Much plan. more difficult to create a wonderful park • Manmade facilities are of very high quality that evokes a sense of beauty–takes an through philanthropic support and city • Greenways that go from border to artistic talent. Have several in the maintenance. City needs to commit border–unique for city this size. Unfortu- system, need to value those things, but resources to maintain these facilities. nately kind of ignored by the city. don’t screw up the things that we have City has responsibility to cover operational • Initially Fort Wayne was a leader in managed to create over time. expenses when donations are made to greenway development, but falling behind • Each park seems to be reasonably reach the attraction’s full potential. compared to other communities in unique, have its own character. Not • Well-maintained parks. Indiana and the Great Lakes region. cookie-cutter parks. Don’t have the same • Availability of parks open to the public. • Quantity and location of amenities. thing in every park–and that contributes to • Having green space. This is a real quality

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-15 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 issue for the community, local industry, • Of priorities that face Fort Wayne, the • Not sure of public perception. Overall not and manufacturing. issue of parks would be in top 10 if not that bad. • Value of history. Some pretty significant five. • Big system, larger than most cities. history in Fort Wayne park system. • Citizens place high value in parks system; Foster Park is outstanding. Neglect • Park programs. serves as cultural imprint of people. noticed in the older parks. • Having a park within walking distance. • Graffiti gives perception of gang activity and becomes safety issue. • A lot of nicely situated parks. 7) What are your general perceptions of the quality of the parks you use? • Generally the system is pretty good. • Willingness of new administration to work with Invent Tomorrow. • Have a few great parks (Foster and • Some issues related to maintenance. Lakeside Parks), others that are pretty • Overall quality of parks is good. • Zoo, botanical when had young children. good, and some that are just awful Foster and Lakeside now as drive (neighborhood parks). • Parks are for the most part well main- through. tained. • Appears no one cares about neighbor- • Beauty of parks. hood parks. • Quality of parks is perceived as excellent. • Wide variety of things parks offer includ- • Need to have more personnel in parks to • Witness a very high perception from ing flowers/trees, cross country skiing, implement programs similar to the old visitors to Fort Wayne. (Average score of disc golf, golf, nature center, zoo, etc. playground programs. Would provide a visitors’ survey conducted at the • Programming does nice job, concentrat- perception of safety, give parents more children’s zoo was 9 out of 10, when ing on seniors, youth sports, arts, etc. piece of mind in letting kids use the parks. most places get 6.) • Until recently, felt that entire community • Parks viewed as generally in good shape, • Lakeside rose garden and Foster Park are was well covered by parks. See gaps having received national recognition. very popular seasonally. now in growth area, but due to recent • Parks seem to be used, although maybe • Visit Foster Park frequently and think it is rapid growth. not to the degree they should be. a gorgeous, outstanding, well-maintained park. • Does nice job of providing the facilities. • Good personnel in place. • All parks may not be as nice, but still good. • Lifetime Sports Academy. • Pretty good system that is not broken; no • Open green space in a urban area that need to tear apart; just add to it. • Have roots for really wonderful park can be utilized by citizens of community in system, but not receiving vitality, respect, • Need for more summer activities and and community input needs. any way they like–walk the dog, toss a general expansion of recreation programs. ball, etc.–despite efforts to shrink and • Declining. If valuable, need to maintain it. replace the open space. • Parks are mainly neglected. Mow parks but let riverbanks overgrow. (Swinney • Detail is no longer there like 40 years ago. • New and upgraded pools, such as Park used to have elaborate garden Due to financial constraints, ease of McMillen Park, have been very popular system but non-existent today.) maintenance. Quality is stable, maintain- and kid/family friendly. ing at current standards, but not attractive. • Have allowed autos take up more space • Provides a sense of community pride, in the center of parks. • Have a good base to start from. Little sense of place, feeling that Fort Wayne is tattered around the edges, but don’t have a city of parks. • In large parks, would be nice to have a long way to go to get to where we need security, or at least someone there for the to be. • There is a duty, not just obligation, to users–volunteer or whatever. preserve and extend parks. • Excellent–especially the zoo.

A2-16 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Good and improving. Instead of just • WPA pavilions and structures in Foster • Lack of restroom facilities; if available providing a field, the Parks Department is and Shoaff Parks have been threatened restrooms are frequently locked up. providing top-quality facilities and main- with demolition. Would be a terrible loss Especially bad on golf courses, where taining sports facilities well, providing historically and aesthetically. Appears to golfers use the bushes and face arrest for venues for competitive, advanced play. be a total lack of appreciation for historic indecent exposure. The Parks Department is doing more than components of parks system. • Things are not maintained in original just mowing a field. • Maintenance division has poor time condition. Examples include pond at • Great. Perception is that there is a sound management, prioritization, and coordina- Swinney Park that was never refilled, infrastructure, sufficient leisure water tion for programs and special events. pathways covered with silt and not facilities, and good golf courses. • Perception that park maintenance crews cleaned up. Need to instill stewardship/ • No major issue. not performing work. GPS locators ownership within park staff. Appears to be a lack of pride within maintenance • Quality is excellent; good variety of needed on all park trucks so know location of park crews. staff. Maybe need to establish territories amenities; quite a bit of open space. and competition. Job appraisals for • Despite the fact of vandalism of facilities, • Vista management needed in Swinney maintenance staff should be based on Parks Department does good job of Park. Water and river edges poorly performance. keeping parks in good shape. maintained. Unable to see the river due to overgrowth. People don’t want to be • Signage is really poor. Signs with graffiti • Generally very high quality, always can be there because it is simply ugly and not a are either removed and never replaced or better. nice place to be. allowed to build up so they are not readable. • Perception is park system is well run and • Removed picnic tables, grills, and gar- well maintained. bage cans due to limited budget in all • Expressed need for playground programs. • Good leadership and volunteer support. parks. Makes parks less friendly and Appears have thrown all energy in Franke Park summer program. • Many issues that adversely affect parks usable. not necessarily under control of park • Parks need to be more user-friendly and • Do have a lot of programs–one of the management (i.e., unhealthy activities, attractive. Department’s strong points. Made reference to quarterly program guides. budget cuts, etc.). • Pond in Swinney Park was drained and never refilled. • Receive good customer service when in contact with staff. Experiences included 8) What areas of maintenance need the • Quick removal of graffiti. calling in maintenance issues, getting most focus? Please provide examples • Tree replacement and maintenance. permits, playing at golf course. When and explain why. (i.e. tree care, turf people call in maintenance problems, care, amenity care, infrastructure • Overgrowth of riverbank; blocks view of have been respectfully dealt with. Maybe improvements, landscaping, lack of river. need to advertise ability to call in mainte- appropriate amenities, trails, cus- • Spend too much time making parks into a nance issues so more members of the tomer services/cleanliness, user big manicured lawn. Need more natural public know about this service. behavior, program services) areas that require less maintenance time. • Need proactive tree replacement program. • No vista management; need for land- Too much energy spent on parking lots scape management. Many parks have and mowing. • Preventative maintenance schedule potential beauty, which is not capitalized • Need picnic tables. Old table removed should be developed and followed. on through proper landscaping. due to vandalism and not replaced.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-17 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 Amenity care impacted by deterioration issue–funds are not available. Loss of • Flagship parks are very well maintained and vandalism. trees and then growth of weed trees and (i.e. Foster Park). • Overall think landscaping is good. invasive species that disrupt ecology and • Smaller parks not as well maintained. visual appeal of space are issues. • Need to benchmark maintenance issues • Need to design landscaping from the and model off of best practices. • Zoo, large downtown buildings, and ice beginning, making it part of the basic rink seem to have priority over mainte- long-term plan. • Parks are good, but could be much better, nance resources. especially in terms of beauty and how • Monuments, structural elements need to they are laid out. • Do mowing well, but what is bad is be better maintained. beyond the mowing. Missing a pond in • Perception of parks is generally good. Swinney Park. An additional small pond • Soil erosion around some of the lakes • Need to mow along Dupont Road. is nasty, and with overgrowth on the should be addressed. • Some missing signs in parks. edges, it is not possible for the public to • Need for trash and water in parks. access. • Overall maintenance is good. • A lot of restrooms are closed, even in • Ruined McMillen Park WPA pavilion by summer time. • Removal of graffiti. putting plastic siding on it for ease of • Looking at appropriate park use, and • Greenway system is in disrepair at times, maintenance. providing the appropriate facilities. paths crumbling, graffiti, weeds, etc. • Staff sometimes too focused on doing • Maintenance facilities not well screened • Need more positive programs for chil- things economically, versus doing some- from park. Parks seem to be designed dren. Teach teamwork, interaction with thing aesthetically. for the convenience of workers, not park others, do things to attract them to • Problem is that Park Department has not users. Poor material selections have overcome “nothing to do” attitude. taken care of things, resulting in over- been used for maintenance facilities. • Playground equipment is getting older, not growth, which makes things not visible, • Work on a showcase park. Need to pay well maintained. which results in wanting to remove attention to the development of vistas. historical items. • Do well with mowing, trash removal, but • Do good job mowing, maintaining shrub- capital issues (pond in Swinney Park) and • Park system does not have the resources bery, flower and trees. large amenities are not taken care of. to manage system long term. Need a • Need to do a better job maintaining Solution seems to be if you don’t have the substantial infusion of capital to make amenities. resources, mow it down or remove it. systems more self-sustaining. Lack of • Do pretty good job removing graffiti, maintenance capital is starting to show up • High-visibility places need to have detailed mowing. Reason they have time for in big-ticket items. This is the result of attention. Maintenance is currently not these function is because the larger trying to do more with less. performed at needed levels. For ex- ample, apple trees given at bicentennial amenities have been removed because • Not just taking out structures, but the have not been cared for. they don’t have the time or resources to landscape elements too. Removing the repair structures and make them safe. things that make the parks attractive in • Landscape and architecture need closer • Staff is very territorial and doesn’t accept the first place. Results in a substantial attention. help well. loss of audience. • Rely on volunteer help from service clubs • Don’t replace trees taken down. Three • Some are better kept up than others as for maintenance issues. parks had significantly more trees in the far as landscaping, tree care, flowers. • No replacement program for trees. 1920s. Preventative maintenance is a big

A2-18 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Pavilions, bathrooms, paths, statues, and • Need to be innovative in focusing on city a positive image. Amenities are other structures are poorly maintained. security for parks. Every park should enjoyed by visitors. Many elements have disappeared all have a plan to maximize security. • Absolutely helps it. together. • Not comfortable addressing due to short • Parks contribute to a very family-oriented • Pedestrian bridges. Fort Wayne has one term in position. community. of the more elaborate pedestrian bridge • Foster Park tennis courts could be better • Probably helps. With all its problems, systems in Indiana and the Midwest. maintained–very low on the priority list. Bridges have become a deferred mainte- probably have a better parks system than nance item. If don’t maintain, will lose • No pressing needs. other communities of similar size. access to portions of parks. • Provide more resources so they can • Haven’t done all we can for parks as a • Have not maintained parks as they were improve existing facilities and efforts. community as has been done for the arts. originally planned. Placed elements as it • Living on past laurels. was convenient, not respectful of integrity 9) Do you think the current image of • Don’t think it is helping at this time, of plans. the parks helps or hurts the City’s status-quo, in decline. • Maintaining view of river, need for open image? • Important from an economic stand point, landscape. • Total agreement that the parks currently not sure it is fully recognized. A lot more • Not using smart planning currently. help the image of the city. could be done to help the image. Doesn’t • Need to have landscape architect on staff. • Overall image of parks helps the city. necessarily hurt the city. • Many of the historical structures that have Especially certain showplace areas • Image of parks has dropped in last been removed were in disrepair due to including the rose gardens, Lakeside Park, decade. Have always said Fort Wayne neglect and lack of maintenance. Should golf courses, greenway, and Foster Park. has an outstanding parks system and still be held accountable to maintain existing • Parks are a big asset to quality of life in would today. Just not at same level as a structures so don’t have to tear them Fort Wayne. Not having mountains, parks decade ago. down. really are the only asset. • Helps it. • Removal of restrooms. Lindenwood is • Parks definitely help the image, especially • There are some issues that detract from often closed. at the gateways (Swinney Park, Memo- the image. The Japanese garden is in • Need to maintain what currently have, not rial Park, Headwaters Park, etc.). disrepair. Have had a reputation of tear anything else down. • Parks help the image of the city. several parks being used as gay hang- outs. • More planting of new trees; tree replace- • Helps it. Still viewed as a strong positive ments. overall. • Helps. People in region realize that Fort Wayne has good activity parks and zoo. • Should not shut down any park, even if • Certain parks don’t help image, but as a unpopular, because it provides valuable whole system is a positive. Swinney • Think it helps the image. Need to do a open green space within the city. On Park, when the grass isn’t mowed, better job of marketing the positives. some parks not being frequently used, in provides a bad image at a major en- • Headwaters Park management group limited areas and only with citizen input, trance. People are not flocking to Memo- created some PR issues, but probably a could stop mowing and allow to become rial and Swinney Parks. Overall, the good way to go with limited resources. nature areas for wildlife. system still has potential. • Overall it helps the image of the city. If • The amenities within the parks give the

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-19 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 central city historic parks continue to be • More spray playgrounds could be used. that kids will continue to use it–extreme under maintained, don’t know if it will Headwaters Park fountain placed in as sports parks, etc. continue to help. attractive feature but became a popular • Additional trail development through • At the macro level is positive, looking at place for kids. coordinated efforts. Widening of several the system as a whole. On micro level, • Fishing popular in community; more major roads with no sidewalks is a looking closely at a single park, it is not so places needed. Turn Reservoir Park into shame. positive. fishing pond; dredge out pond in Lakeside • Using the river, providing river uses, boat • Looking from the outside, the quantity of Park. launches, canoes, docks, etc. parks is impressive. Can see lack of • Avoid building facilities as a stop-gap • Some parks have a perceived image maintenance, when you look closely, it measure. Need to be built through problem. Some are just not as pretty to becomes negative. proper planning and looking at the needs look at and never have been. of the community as a whole. • Helps, one of the draws for the city. • State-of-the-art baseball complex. When • Swinney Park gives a poor image. • Pathways. Seems the busiest amenities go to other towns for tournaments, have in the parks system are the walking trails beautiful baseball complexes. Don’t have • Image of parks is a huge plus for the city. at Foster and Shoaff Parks and the golf When medical groups are recruiting that here. When moved to Indiana from courses. People want to get out to walk, Charleston, WV, with all its flat land, Fort doctors, one of the first things they do is but there are too few trails within the city. show off the parks. Wayne would have beautiful complexes, • Supposed to have 50 miles of pathway but was disappointed as a newcomer. • Good image applies to certain parks such per 100,000. Have 18 miles for 200,000. Also serves as a nice destination/tourist as Franke Park, the Zoo, Headwaters impact. Park, Foster Park. • Ice facility, especially in northern area of city. Town is fairly attuned to hockey. • Extreme park could also bring in a lot of • Helps city enormously – no question. Figure skating is big with girls, but there other people to the community–from is no time available. small towns, dining, expos from pros, 10) What recreation facilities need the • Swimming facilities, especially up north. special events. most focus and why? Lots of private facilities, clubs, but not • Bike trails. Can serve as a destination • Maintenance and upkeep of structures everyone can afford. Private develop- point. need the most work. ments with clubs kind of isolate neighbor- • Need newer playgrounds. hoods from the rest of the community. • More picnic pavilions could be used. • Trail system. • Indoor Olympic size pool, beside the one Need to do better job of maintaining • Playgrounds. existing structures, especially historic on the south side. WPA pavilions. Need to also consider the • Need regular sweeping and plowing of • Non-existent entities (Swinney Park needs beauty of setting–should be attractive greenway. Portions are cleared but not a pavilion, used to have three). place to go. all of it. • Soccer and sports complex for tourna- • Ice arena in great shape. Concern that • Youth-oriented facilities and program- ments. proposed sports complex with ice for ming, including spray pools and aquatic • Plan for historic fort. downtown would hurt McMillen Park ice centers. Need to focus on all youth • Ball diamonds, soccer fields. Focus on rink, since would be more conveniently (teens, toddlers, etc.). Keep finger on athletic fields. located and attractive. pulse of changes that will help ensure • Pools and tennis courts are very good.

A2-20 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 Have done an excellent job maintaining friendly modern play structures like then 11) 12) How much do you think the city the three pools. Golf courses are good. ones showing up all over town. invests on a per capita level for • Softball and baseball field complex–need • Spray columns, like the one in Louisville’s daily park and recreation opera- to be lighted. Tyler Park, could be scattered around the tional maintenance costs? How much do you think it should invest? • Parks have tended to have little tennis city to provide places for kids to play and courts at neighborhood parks, but not cool off. Should be simple and economi- • Participants had no idea other than not sufficient with tennis players. Need cal. Doesn’t need to be elaborate spray enough. complexes. Sweeney has them, but not park, but a place where kids can play in • Park Department is just keeping head aesthetic. Improve surface of tennis the water. above the water on existing maintenance; courts. • Try to link parks together with greenway could increase by a substantial amount • Only one full-length golf course, but not system–beyond river area. and do better. sure necessary to expend more with • Bathrooms are the number-one com- • Come up with a budget of what they need number of existing private courses. plaint–both lack of facilities and limited to properly maintain the parks, not do Probably under-served municipally, but facilities being frequently closed. with what they have. The budget is over-served by private. • Pavilions are closed, but people expect to clearly nowhere near what it should be. • Year-round skating facilities are needed be open. • Need to increase maintenance budget • Rather see more tennis courts and • Need to keep facilities open more, or at when build new facilities; factor in the skating rinks versus golf courses. least post facility hours so public knows operational budget–not just do more with less. • Have plenty of visual attractions in beauty, when they will be open. want more interactive things like a • Need for supervised activities. Something • No idea. Would assume above national climbing wall. that was loved by parents. Good pro- average. • Connect trails to existing facilities. grams at Hamilton Park, Weisser Park, • Like past planning efforts of creating and McMillen Golf Academy, but need unique programs for different parks. • Lack of concentrated baseball park. Need more in different parks. McMillen for skating, Foster Park for three or four fields so can target adult flowers, Franke Park for zoo, etc. Want league tournaments. • Need to shovel snow off sidewalks around parks for walkers and passive users. to avoid cookie cutter parks that provide • Need more family recreation centers, not everything everywhere. just in lower income areas. A place for • Do pretty good job with trees, manicuring of yards, mowing, flowers, etc. • Not sure a lot of parks could support kids and/or families to go year round. additional activities. Could put ice rink in Potential partnership opportunity with the • Physical plant needs are more important. one of the northern parks. YMCA. • Courts in pretty good shape. • Pavilions could be a lot more attractive. • Shortage of ice. Need another rink up • Need quick removal of fallen limbs. Some They’re functional, but could look much north off of Dupont Road. appearance issues. better. • Restoration of existing historic structures • Additional pool space is needed, espe- cially on northside. • Almost all parks (around 90%) need upgraded playgrounds; more child-

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-21 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 13) What would you like to change in • Never has been an encouragement of • Need to make sure using current allot- the park maintenance work area if neighborhood associations to help with ment of funds efficiently before going you could? maintenance of parks. after new money. • Attention to detail, particularly in high- • Recreation clubs (bicycle club, hiking club, • TEA-21 grants for trails, etc. Note that visibility areas. Speaks to the pride of the etc.) will also go after these grants for down- community. Weeds and dead planting • Foundations have not been thinking of the town improvements. materials are left unattended at Headwa- parks as contributing to the wellness of • YMCA desires to do even more together. ters Park. Lawton Park sometimes has the community. Committee has been Perception is that staff is sometimes huge weeds at curbs. Was weeks into turned down for greenway development. reluctant to work together due to territo- spring before flowers were planted at the rial issues. courthouse • No clear ideas of funding sources. • Corporations that used to do things in city • At Solomon Farm, Roots is an outdoor • Crews should be more observant–have business, would rent cross-country skies. means to take care of detail issues but have closed doors or been purchased. Philanthropy isn’t there like it use to be. Should develop similar collaborations in don’t do it. other parks so can provide services at no • Task supervisors to walk the parks as • There is a core of people that have cost to city. promoted development of parks. Head- quality control measure. Have city • Park Foundation and Friends of the Parks employees call in maintenance issues. waters Park was speared by Irene Waters and Ian from Lincoln Life. together bring in a sizable amount of money. • Needs to be a new influx of power players 14) What other local companies, foun- in Fort Wayne. • Foundations have become a major source dations, not-for-profit groups, etc. of funding for everything in community. • Fort Wayne leaders have championed do you think it may be appropriate • Naming rights for pavilions, building, etc. for the city to partner with to many projects (i.e. courthouse), but not parks. Shoaff Lake—named after family but increase funds for improving the there is no sign—needs to be one. Gives maintenance quality of parks? • Indiana University-Purdue University Fort families way to leave legacy. Could be • Have not tapped volunteers (neighbor- Wayne is developing 13 soccer fields as a used for trails, buildings, pavilions, etc. hood associations, users, nearby corpora- community facility–not for school. Con- sidering a swimming facility. • Many council members use their discre- tions) as a cost avoidance resource. For tionary CEDIT funds to help support park example, the riverbank cleanup and street • Developers have approached consortium projects. The projects they fund serve as planning were successes. Took special regarding greenways. a tangible contribution to community that incentive to organize–no initiative by • Need to have internal communication voters see and appreciate. It is fun to Parks Department. between city departments to prioritize give for parks and it makes you feel good • Greenways Committee has put up mile- community needs before approaching as a councilman. age markers on trails, but was not asked funding sources. Don’t want to compete • Car shows at different parks. by Parks Department to do so. between various plans such as downtown • Not-for-profit groups with special interests. • Volunteer base will make it easier if Park plan. Need to have the mayor establish Department wants to build something the priority. • Hospital foundations. If can promote new, get it out to volunteers and they will • Adopt-a-park programs for corporations exercise, hospitals should be in for that. sell it to the community. and neighborhood associations. • Utilities; can continue to foster relation-

A2-22 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 ship. Hamilton Park detention pool and dollars from DNR. - Do historic features of the park add to improvements sited as positive example. • Comments on the random survey to be the enjoyment of the parks? • Need to try and focus on outside organi- administered to the entire community as - Would hope that the city council does zations (Colts, Pacers, etc.). Need to it pertains to the historical elements of more than look at just the survey. reach outside local box, look into other the parks system: - This group is concerned about the agencies that focus on recreation. - How important and significant are survey and wants to have input on it. • A lot of large corporations doing business historical parks to the community? Stated you can write a survey question with city have foundations. These Question to include, but concern is that so results support what you want. foundations could be leveraged to help the community is not educated, may - Avoid term cultural landscaping, with programs. not understand what this means. person thought was talking about • Foundations have been substantial - That the parks are historical is a point paving. supporting element with community of fact. Regardless of opinions - Restoration and rehabilitation are issues–blessed with resources. expressed by the entire community, terms used by the committee, not • Foundations that deal with historic they should be protected. preservation, which refers to keeping preservation and nature conservation. - Perception of historical preservation is the status quo. Parks hasn’t tapped into these sources. that it implies a freezing of things and - Sense of place, importance of place– This is because the staff seems to view has a negative impression. 10 years ago each of the larger parks itself as an urban parks system versus an - Possible wording for survey would be had a more defined sense of place. entity responsible for the preservation of support for the conservation and How important is or was that sense of natural resources. protection of historic parks and place? • Friends of the Parks. Organized the Great gardens. Other terminology is preser- • Of the different interests groups, sports Canopy Comeback to plant trees in the vation of historic structures, protection groups and those involved in active parks. There are a number of potential and restoration of natural resources. recreation are usually more organized. partnering opportunities. - People need to physically see what you Passive/social recreation users are • Leadership Fort Wayne. mean by preservation—show them the typically less organized and overlooked. • Neighborhood associations. Need to get park—for people to fully understand. • Hotel/motel tax is countywide, dedicated them excited. Key is for the city to show General public will not understand to for the next 20 years to the convention that the neighborhood associations will questions about historic preservation, center expansion. what is meant. get something back from the city for their • Current and past directors have been assistance. - Maintenance of pavilions, aesthetics of extremely effective at receiving grants • Don’t rule out possibility that an individual parks is what the public expects. If from foundations. Foundations include might pay for high-ticket items. Staff has ask people how they feel about having English-Bonner, Community, Foellinger, not developed these resources. gardens taken out of the parks they etc. will tell you. • Grant writing in recent years is not where • Need to partner with affluent individuals. it could be. For example, the Department - Whole point of historic preservation is Zoo has had success but parks has not has not tapped into TEA-21 grants to the not to preserve something historical, attempted. Park Board does not have the level it should. but to preserve something that connections and is not as powerful as it provided pleasure. • Have recently pushed away preservation has been historically.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-23 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 • Business community. • Schools. Some run after-school program. • Foundations in Fort Wayne have focused • Senior citizen groups as volunteers for Was some funding from the Follinger so long on social services (which over- rose garden, conservatory, etc. Foundation for partnerships with school, lap), that they have almost totally ignored but dried up. capital improvements like parks. • Women’s organizations and groups. • Friends of the Parks, not just funds but • Existing commercial recreational facilities. • Key issue is that Parks Department has not caring input. Should not be a problem with competing. asked for help or tapped into the potential Roots brings canoes in parks to use as for financial or in-kind assistance. • Headwaters Park Alliance is a model for some of the bigger parks. Group estab- start/stop places. • Companies more than foundations and lished to advocate for the park after the • YMCA maybe, but may be too much non-profits. Would think it would be hard commission went out of business. Con- overlap. to get money from foundations based on tract with Parks Department to oversee • Invent Tomorrow. personal experience and NFPs have no funds, planting, management. money. • Partner with correctional facilities (day • Up and coming businesses: Chocolate • Collaborative summertime programs with job workers, etc.) to assist with mainte- place, local restaurants, hospitals, nance needs. YMCA and Boys and Girls Club would be medical industry in general. Hospitals get good and beneficial. Happy to work on very turf oriented. • Sports Corp would be supportive in sharing facilities, program offerings, staff, partnering on state-sanctioned tourna- etc. • Attorneys really came through with ments for adult softball, adult soccer, high courthouse preservation. • Boys and Girls Club is looking for a fourth school soccer, basketball, etc. Willing to site and would receptive to a partnership • Need to figure out how to access funds go out of the way to work with the Parks with the city or use of an existing parks from attorneys and medical groups – Department to draw these events if facility if mutually beneficial. have traditionally been poorest givers. community has the quality facilities to attract them. Would take in a more • Park Foundation may be able to take a • Lakeside Park and Sweeney Park have neighborhood association as advocacy proactive role in participant events if bigger role, but there was some skepti- would. cism about how large a role the group parks. was ready to take. • During the interview, Friends of the Parks • Convention and Visitor Bureau would be supportive in assisting with tournaments. • Skate park group has found some money, were receptive to spearheading the may look at where they received funds. following programs on behalf of the • Sports Corp has always been centered on parks: partnerships. Has flexibility to respond to • Donations in Fort Wayne are primarily - Park Ambassador Program/Community needs of the community. Has worked with foundation driven; companies not as big a local colleges, pro teams, local clubs, etc. factor since not many companies are Watch Program: Neighbors have been headquartered in the city. trained to document problems in parks • Baseball and hockey clinics with pro and inspect playgrounds. Can be done teams are possible. Sports Corporation • Historically private sector has had a huge economically, paying usually $5-10. helped to fundraise for lifetime sports impact. Need to have a contract in place. academy. Willing to assist on a summer- • Neighborhood associations have a lot of Good to partner with neighborhood long sports fundamentals camp. There is potential (in-kind, supervisory, adopt-a- associations. a movement for after-school programs, park programs). - Workreation: Sweat equity scholar- which could be sports clinics. • Church groups, youth groups, church. ship program. • Work with local schools, colleges, high

A2-24 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 school athletic directors to develop - Concern with how questions are made and secured significant public and activities for kids, and not just kids on asked. Won’t get information that private pledged amounts for the parks. varsity teams. Currently no intramural there are matching grants. • Grew up in community, spent a lot of time programs at high school level. Room for - Need to make sure historical and in the parks growing up, and thinks parks wider variety of sports, even if only a one preservation interests are properly are important for the development of month season. Maybe more recreational represented in the survey. kids. Parks are especially important for league sports in non-traditional sports. - Conservation and` preservation kids of families who can’t afford summer Not a lot of adult leagues for recreational lake cottages or trips out of town. play–not just serious players. preferred term over restoration. • Need to maintain close relationship with • Friends of the Parks, need to consider the Sports Corp to maintain the Lifetime history of parks. 2.2 Public Workshops Sports Academy. Critical relationship that • River Greenway Commission. needs to be maintained. • Neighborhood park groups, like at Ne- Five public workshops were conducted by • Have done a decent job of grant writing. braska and Sweeney Park; form adopt-a- the consulting team in each of the city’s park, police the park programs. planning areas during September 2003. • Think that local foundations are pretty Meetings were announced through the local • High schools and other schools could tapped. Lilly Foundation may be a viable news media and all interested citizens were adopt parks near the schools, such as outside source. invited to attend. A sixth meeting was held Northside Park, which is used by the high • Private funds and volunteers. Community with community and business leaders. The school for tennis. has filled own needs in spite of the same agenda was used for each workshop government and lack of a plan. • See more partnering with local universi- to ensure consistency in the topics covered. • Little River Wetlands Project. ties and developers. • Want to see inclusion of universities— A prevailing theme from all of the public • ARCH. Parks Department has formal workshops was the need to establish relationship with ARCH on the heritage especially IPFW but other colleges as well—in planning process. standards for the park system. Standards trail, which provides content for guide and responsive to the growth of the community pays cost above routine maintenance on • Public school system–already use parks are needed to identify the appropriate trail. See flyer. A book is available. for variety of activities. amount of park land by park classification. • Have neighborhood interested in reforest- • Board of Health–had serious West Nile Design standards that address appropriate ing and restoring Swinney Park, and are outbreak and had to spray in the parks, uses by park classification, safety issues, willing to contribute money. Want created issue of whether safe for stu- handicap accessibility, and pedestrian access opportunity to help. Staff needs to be dents from schools to use parks. are needed. Standards will also ensure that responsive or open to input. Other comments: parks provide sufficient passive space for visitors, a common concern among • In discussions about the community • Appreciate fact that everyone involved in attendees. survey, the following issues came for- city leadership has bought into the ward: process of reviewing of and planning for The historic parks were a high priority in all - Want to make sure that respondents the parks system. Many times the parks of the meetings. There is a strong desire to reflect true composition of community, have been sacrificed in the past when it preserve and celebrate the city’s historical ethnic minorities, economically disad- comes to budget. and cultural parks through the vantaged, etc. • Appreciate that the current mayor has implementation of the Cultural Landscape

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A2-25 Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 Report. Participants expressed the and county park systems is desired. placement of emergency call boxes in importance of respecting the original design Neighborhood associations were identified secluded areas, especially along the principles of these parks. There was some as untapped partners, especially for the greenway. Design standards that provide for interest in placing the historical parks on the historic and smaller parks. appropriate amenities and improved access National Register of Historic Places. are needed to deter undesired behavior in Preserving and utilizing the old fort in While participants expressed a strong desire parks. downtown was also routinely mentioned. to take better care of existing parks and facilities before expanding the system, Other issues brought up by participants Consistent requests were made to expand several new needs were identified. Top during the public workshops included: the existing greenway system throughout among the needs is acquiring park land in the city. Participants expressed a need for newly annexed areas of the city and „ Marketing efforts need to be enhanced to improved connectivity between proactively purchasing land in future growth better inform the public about parks, neighborhoods, parks, schools, and cultural areas. New facilities mentioned included a facilities, and programs. assets in the community. family aquatic center, skate park, fieldhouse, „ The rivers need to be better utilized as a and fitness center. Passive or non-traditional community resource by providing improved Ensuring that the Department has sufficient amenities such as benches, shelters, and a access. and sustainable funding was a common chess park were also recommended. „ concern among attendees. Participants Parks bisected by major roadways or acknowledged that inadequate funding has Limited comments were provided regarding landmarks need pedestrian crossings to compromised maintenance standards the programs provided by the Department, increase ease of use and user safety. throughout the park system. Several although several attendees perceived the „ Underused parks need to be reviewed with individuals encouraged exploring alternative need for increased youth, teen, and senior appropriate changes made to increase funding sources, from grants and in-kind programming. There appears to be some usage. The Department could consider services to privatization of the municipal golf desire for directed youth programs or selling or donating park properties with courses. supervision in the neighborhood or smaller minimal public benefit. parks, similar to the old playground „ A natural resource management plan Enhanced partnerships and programs. Volunteers were identified as a needs to be developed for each park. intergovernmental cooperation were viewed potential source for providing this service. as high priorities to maximize the „ A comprehensive tree replacement community’s limited resources and prevent Safety and vandalism were routinely cited as program needs to be implemented to duplication of services. Improved planning, if an issue by participants. Requests were protect the vitality of the urban forest. not the outright merger, between the city made for increased lighting and/or the

A2-26 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 2: Public Forums August 2004 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis

3.1 Demographic This overview also includes data on the local Population economy, growth trends, land use, and Overview transportation as they relate to recreation Historically, the rate of population growth in and parks. Fort Wayne has varied dramatically. In the An element of the needs assessment for the 1950s, the city’s growth rate exceeded 26%. Fort Wayne Comprehensive Parks and The demographic analysis for the master The growth rate decreased to around 20% Recreation Master Plan is the demographic plan is based on the five planning districts in in the 1960s (20% is still very high). The analysis of Fort Wayne and Allen County. the City of Fort Wayne. The Fort Wayne growth rate continued to decline in the Planning Department had been utilizing four 1970s, and the population increased a more The demographic overview of Fort Wayne planning districts to provide boundaries for manageable 8%. Much of the city’s includes historical population data; researching demographic information and population growth in recent years has been population projections; and information on establishing planning policies. Because of related to annexation. The spatial age, gender, education, race, and household recent annexation, the city’s municipal distribution of growth in Fort Wayne and income. The review and analysis of boundary has expanded significantly, Allen County over the past three decades historical demographic data—and the resulting in a fifth planning district west of I- has varied. Although there has been overall population projections for this plan’s 69. Planning district boundaries are based population growth in the city, there are timeframe (through 2012)—will influence on natural features such as the St. Joseph areas that have experienced a decrease in the following aspects of the master plan: and Maumee Rivers and major arterials population in recent decades. Population • Recommendations for program such as Calhoun Street. Planning districts decreases have primarily been in the central development will be referred to as the Northwest Planning portion of the city; however from 1970 to District, Northeast Planning District, 1990, the southeast portion of Allen County • Size and type of recreation and park Southwest Planning District, Southeast experienced a small drop in population. facilities Planning District, and Aboite Planning • Distribution of resources throughout District. The planning districts are illustrated In 1990, the population of Fort Wayne was the city in Figure A3-1. 173,072. Allen County’s population increased

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-1 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 FIGURE A3-1

A3-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 to 300,836 in 1990. By 2000, Fort Wayne’s The Aboite Planning District had the greatest The City of Fort Wayne Planning Department population increased to 205,727, and Allen percentage increase in population, though calculated population projections for each of County’s population increased to 331,849. its population is the smallest of the five the planning districts for the years 2005 and The population within the five planning districts. The Northeast Planning District had 2010 (see Table A3-1). Population districts in 2000 was 250,007 residents. The the largest population in 2000 while the projections show a continued increase in population in the city increased at a more Northwest Planning District experienced the population in the Northwest, Northeast, and rapid rate than it did for the entire county; largest percentage increase during the Aboite Planning Districts; however, the rate however, much of the population increase 1990s. The Southwest and Southeast of population increase for the Northwest and was the result of annexation. Population Planning Districts experienced decreases in Aboite Planning Districts will slow through shifts have occurred within the city during population in the 1990s. Table A3-1 the year 2010. The rate of population the last decade. While there was an overall summarizes the population of Fort Wayne increase in the Northeast Planning District is population increase of 19% in the city, the and Allen County. projected to remain constant over the next population increases of the planning districts few years. The Southwest and Southeast varied. Figures A3-2 and A3-3 illustrate the spatial Planning Districts will continue to lose distribution of population change in Fort population, but the rate of population Wayne and Allen County over the past two decrease will slow. The primary sources of decades. demographic data used to develop this report were recently released data from the U.S. Census Bureau and from the Fort Table A3-1: Planning District Population Estimates Wayne Planning Department. 1990 2000 Percent 2005 2010 Percent Change Change Age and Gender 1990- 2000- Because different age groups have different 2000 2010 needs, the age distribution of city residents City of Fort Wayne 173,072 205,727 19 % — — — is an important element to consider when planning for services and amenities. Northwest PD 49,635 57,891 17 % 61,891 64,891 12 % Additional trends related to the aging Northeast PD 68,241 72,065 6 % 74,082 76,157 6 % population are evident. One trend is that longevity rates are not equal for men and Southwest PD 45,902 45,079 (2 %) 44,673 44,673 (1 %) women—women tend to live longer and Southeast PD 52,643 49,878 (5 %) 48,581 47,950 (4%) have a lower mortality rate than men. The 1990 U.S. Census reported that gender Aboite PD 17,324 25,094 45 % 26,994 28,894 15 % distributions in Fort Wayne and Allen County Total for PDs 233,745 250,007 7 % 256,221 262,565 5 % were consistent with nationwide trends. Both the city and county reported population Allen County 300,836 331,849 10 % NA NA NA distribution as 52% female and 48% male. Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000, City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003 In 2000, the gender distribution was essentially the same as 1990. For 2000, this ratio of female to male is consistent through the age of 65. From the age of 65, the

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-3 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 FIGURE A3-2

A3-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 FIGURE A3-3

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-5 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 percentage of females increases to 62% Table A3-2: Age/Gender Summary for the Year 2000 while the percent of males decreases to 38% in the city. In Allen County, females Years 0-9 Years 10-19 Years 65+ account for 60% and males account for 40% Fort Wayne of the senior population 65 and older. This Male 19,752 18,499 11,616 gender distribution trend is anticipated to Female 18,870 17,854 18,151 continue into the future. Total 38,622 36,353 29,767 To identify concentrations of elderly and Northwest PD youth within the city, specific age Male 4,410 3,948 2,608 breakdowns were analyzed for the planning Female 4,187 3,733 4,216 districts. The U.S. Census Bureau has Total 8,597 7,681 6,824 divided age cohorts differently over the years so comparisons are difficult. For this Northeast PD plan, the ages of city and county residents Male 5,217 5,119 3,996 are further refined to allow analysis of Female 4,952 4,965 6,247 youth, teens, and seniors. Utilizing U.S. Total 10,169 10,084 10,243 Census Bureau data for 2000, youth are Southwest PD ages 0 to 9, teens are 10 to 19, and seniors are 65 and older. Male 3,366 2,408 1,927 Female 3,308 3,010 3,460 In the year 2000, there were more males in Total 6,674 5,418 5,387 both the youth and teen category throughout Southeast PD the city. However, for the senior category, the trend reverses—there are significantly Male 4,834 4,310 1,832 more senior females than males throughout Female 4,590 4,235 2,885 the city. According to 2000 data, the greatest Total 9,424 8,545 4,717 number of seniors and youth are located in Aboite PD the Northeast Planning District. Table A3-2 Male 1,925 1,998 1,062 summarizes age and gender information. Female 1,344 1,913 1,344 Total 3,269 3,911 2,406 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000; City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003

A3-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Educational Attainment In 1990, 80% of the city’s population was portion of the city. The largest minority white. The second largest racial component population is currently in the Southeast Based on the 1990 population of persons was the African/American population (17%). Planning District. This district has the over age 25 for the city, 77% received at The Hispanic population was 3% and the greatest numbers of African/American and least a high school diploma (83,741 Asian population accounted for about 1% of Hispanic residents and is the only planning persons). Approximately 16% of these the city’s population. In 1990, Allen County’s district where the minority population is persons have completed some post-high population was 88% white, 1% African/ larger than the white population. The school education. Educational attainment in American, and 2% Hispanic. Asians planning district with the largest percentage the county was slightly higher in 1990: accounted for less than 1% of the county’s increase in minority population during the approximately 81% of county residents population. 1990s was Aboite Planning District; however, received at least a high school diploma and the number of minority residents in 1990 19% had completed a bachelor’s degree. By By the year 2000, the population of both the was so low that a small increase in total 2000, 83% of city residents had completed city and county had diversified to a greater minority residents accounted for a large high school and approximately 19% had extent. The percentage of white residents percentage increase. The largest completed at least a bachelor’s degree. declined to about 77% while the African/ percentage increase in minority residents Educational attainment in the county had a American population increased slightly to has been the Hispanic population. Growth of similar increase with approximately 86% approximately 19%. The Hispanic population the Hispanic community mirrors the spatial with a high school degree and approximately also increased during the 1990s to about distribution of the overall minority population 23% with at least a bachelor’s degree. 6%. The county’s white population in the city. Table A3-3 summarizes race decreased to 85% while the county’s information. Race African/American population increased to 12%. Hispanic populations also increased in Figures A3-4 and A3-5 illustrate the change The city and county’s population is becoming the 1990s to 4%. Although the Asian and in total minority populations in the city over more ethnically and racially diverse. This other ethnic populations increased slightly in the past two decades. Figures A3-4 and A3- trend was expected as African/American the 1990s, the total population is still a very 5 illustrate the increases in the Hispanic and Hispanic populations grow at a slightly small percentage of the overall population. population over the past two decades. more rapid pace than the white population because of higher birth and immigration The minority population in Fort Wayne has rates. This is consistent with national trends. historically been located in the central

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-7 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Table A3-3: Summary of Race in the City of Fort Wayne, 1990-2000 1990 2000 Percent Change Fort Wayne White 139,244 155,231 12 % African/American 28,989 35,752 23 % Hispanic 4,679 11,884 154 % Northwest PD White 47,324 52,411 11 % African/American 1,161 1,983 71 % Hispanic 736 2,178 196 % Northeast PD White 65,107 65,941 1 % African/American 1,877 2,974 58 % Hispanic 770 1,684 119 % Southwest PD White 41,997 37,563 (11 %) African/American 2,272 3,648 61 % Hispanic 1,372 3,626 164 % Southeast PD White 26,636 17,368 (35 %) African/American 24,218 27,566 14 % Hispanic 1,974 4,694 138 % Aboite PD White 16,946 23,477 39 % African/American 141 513 264 % Hispanic 186 534 187 % Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000; Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003

A3-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 FIGURE A3-4

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-9 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 FIGURE A3-5

A3-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Households/Household Income Table A3-4: Housing data There were a total of 108,601 housing units Housing Occupied Vacant Owner Renter in Fort Wayne in 2000. The Northeast Units Occupied Occupied Planning District has the most housing units Fort Wayne 108,601 99,983 8,618 65,725 34,258 in the city, and Aboite Planning District had the fewest. Most of the housing units were Northwest PD 25,489 23,840 1,648 15,914 7,927 occupied, and most were owner-occupied. Northeast PD 30,527 28,994 1,533 20,661 8,333 Table A3-4 summarizes housing data in Fort Wayne. Southwest PD 21,263 19,148 2,115 11,038 8,110

In 1990, there were a total of 69,627 Southeast PD 21,450 18,639 2,811 9,939 8,700 households in Fort Wayne. By 2000, the Aboite PD 9,872 9,362 510 8,173 1,189 number of households increased to 83,333. The number of households grew 14% in Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000; City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003 Allen County from 1990 to 2000. Although the number of households increased, the average number of persons in each Table A3-5: Household Income in the Year 2000 household declined. The number of persons per household in Fort Wayne declined Number of Average Percent of Residents slightly from 2.43 in 1990 to 2.41 by 2000. Households Household With Income Below The number of person per household in the Income Poverty Line five planning districts was 2.50 in 2000. The decline in Allen County was from 2.61 in Fort Wayne 83,333 1990 to 2.53 by 2000. Northwest PD 23,768 $50,186 9% Median household income increased in both Northeast PD 29,000 $56,317 5% Fort Wayne and Allen County between 1990 Southwest PD 19,058 $43,176 13% and 2000. Median income increased to $36,518 in Fort Wayne and $42,671 in Allen Southeast PD 18,478 $35,553 22% County. Although Allen County has a higher Aboite PD 9,393 $92,683 2% median income, residents in Fort Wayne did realize a larger percentage increase over Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000, City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003 the decade. The median family income in the city for 2000 was $45,040; however, there are areas within the community where incomes are lower and city residents are living below the poverty line. Table A3-5 summarizes household income information.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-11 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 In 2000, there were 4,885 families in Fort Table A3-6: Summary of Fort Wayne Employers Wayne living below the poverty line. This represents almost 10% of the total number Industry Number of Workers Percent of Total of families in the city. Of the families below Agriculture, forestry, fishing/hunting, mining 192 <1% the poverty line, 3,187 are families without fathers. The Southeast Planning District has Construction 5,559 5.5% the highest number of households headed Manufacturing 21,368 21.2% by single females with children. Wholesale trade 4,254 4.2% Economic Overview Retail trade 12,897 12.8% The City of Fort Wayne and Allen County Transportation and warehousing, utilities 4,655 4.6% economy is home to companies such as General Motors Truck and Bus Group and the Information 2,765 2.7% Parkview Health System. Health services, Finance, insurance, real estate 7,137 7.1% educational institutions, and manufacturing companies create a high percentage of jobs Professional, scientific, management 6,637 6.6% for local residents. Table A3-6 summarizes Educational, health, social services 19,681 19.5% the diversity of the city’s economy. The city’s annual unemployment rate for 2002 was Arts, entertainment, recreation, hospitality 8,096 8.0% 5.1%. The most recent monthly Other services 5,050 5.0% unemployment rate was December 2002. Public administration 2,386 2.4% The unemployment rate for the city in December 2002 was 4.9%, which was Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000 slightly higher than the county’s 4.8%. Attracting and retaining quality employees is a critical component of the region’s land uses create a wide range of traffic out from downtown with arterial roadways economic development efforts. With impacts, and transportation improvements bearing the brunt of the traffic volumes. unemployment rates dropping, competition have a direct effect on development. Without for workers becomes stronger and may a rational and efficient transportation require more recruiting efforts outside the system, road congestion would increase and region. Although many factors affect a the quality of life for residents and person’s decision to relocate or to stay in a businesses in the Fort Wayne metropolitan community, quality of life and recreation area would be degraded. opportunities are important factors in their The spine of the regional transportation decision-making process. system is Interstate 69, which connects Fort Greenway/Making Connections Wayne with Indianapolis and extends into Michigan. A bypass (I-469) was constructed Land use and demographic information around the east side of the city and provides provide the foundation for identifying a linkages to U.S. highways south and east of community’s transportation needs. Different the city. The city roadway system radiates

A3-12 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 The plan also addresses pedestrian Park, and Lakeside Park. Access to the trail circulation and transit services. The Citilink system is provided at trailheads in these transit system provides mass transit services parks. Additional trail access is located at primarily in the urban areas of Fort Wayne. bridges and street crossings. More details The system links residential areas with about the river greenway system can be employment centers, including downtown, found in the river greenway plan and at the commercial centers, and industrial areas. river greenway website. Washington and Jefferson Boulevards are Residential growth areas to the north, major east-west roads and Lafayette and northeast, and west and industrial/business According to the 2025 Transportation Plan, Clinton Streets are major north-south roads. development in the vicinity of the airport will the city’s river greenway system is eventually be added to the expanded Citilink scheduled for expansion. The expansion will The 2025 Transportation Plan—which was system. Many community and regional parks provide access north to Shoaff Park, east to prepared by the Northeastern Indiana are located on the Citilink system, but others Havenhurst Park and Moser Park in New Regional Coordinating Council (NIRCC) for such as Shoaff Park and Memorial Park are Haven, and southwest to Allen County’s Fox the Fort Wayne-New Haven-Allen County not. There are currently no bike routes or Island Park. Metropolitan Area—identifies the bike lanes on city roadways. transportation system and improvements for Access to parks and recreation facilities is the region. There is minimal new The river greenway system in Fort Wayne another important factor in the success of construction slated for the next two has expanded to approximately 15 miles of park and facility usage. As the city continues decades; however, a number of road linear trails along the St. Mary’s, St. Joseph, to grow, the transportation system needs to widening and improvement projects are and Maumee Rivers. The original river reflect that growth and provide multiple scheduled for I-69 and other roads, greenway plan was completed in 1984 and forms of access to places of employment, primarily in the northern portion of the proposed a greenway system that meanders shopping, and recreation. Access to these metro area. along the three rivers and extends out destinations should not be exclusive to each. through the county to eventually reach Transportation planning in the region regional greenway systems. The river reflects the needs of residents by identifying greenway plan was based on a greenway multi-modal options for residents. The corridor system that was intended to protect citywide pedestrian system is planned for riparian habitat along the rivers, enhance expansion and many parks are currently on economic and social activities in downtown, the city bus system. Enhancing the and increase outdoor recreational pedestrian system would help to maximize opportunities. opportunities for all city residents to improve The current greenway system provides their health and experience recreation direct connections to numerous parks along programs and parks throughout the city. the city’s rivers. Greenway trails extend from Tillman Park to the south, to Johnny Appleseed Park to the north, and east to Kreager Park. The trail system meanders 3.2 Growth Trends along the three rivers to connect Swinney The City of Fort Wayne has grown Park, Guldin Park, Headwaters Park, Lawton dramatically since the middle 1800s. Growth has varied, but the city has consistently

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-13 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 annexed property. With the exception of the The most recent (2002) existing city land use city parks, but also includes undeveloped 1930 to 1950 era, growth has occurred at a map is illustrated in Figure A3-7. The land within the city. A more accurate listing rapidly increasing rate. Historically, growth development pattern is typical of most cities of city parks in each of the planning districts has generally been concentric around the across the country. The commercial center of is provided in the park acreage tables. center of the city. Annexations in recent Fort Wayne dominates the older urban area. years have been focused to the north and Radiating out from downtown is a The city’s current land use plan was adopted northeast. The period from 1990 to 2009 heterogeneous mix of land uses. Further away in January 1987. City officials have will see the most extensive annexations in from downtown, the land uses become more determined that the Fort Wayne and Allen the city’s history. Most of the growth will homogenous, with larger land parcels being County land use plans were in need of an likely continue to be to the north, northeast, utilized for college campuses, large industrial update. The planning process is underway and west. By 2009, the city will encompass businesses, residential neighborhoods, and and the update will be completed in 2004. 68,000 acres (107 square miles) of land. community or regional parks. Actual park acreage in the Northwest Figure A3-6 illustrates the future annexation Planning District is summarized in Table A3-8. areas as well as the growth trends for the The existing land use categorization of There are almost 1,000 acres of park land in City of Fort Wayne. parks/open space in the land use summary tables is not a specific calculation of the Fort the Northwest Planning District. Most of the Wayne Park and Recreation Department properties. This categorization does include

A3-14 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 FIGURE A3-6

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-15 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 FIGURE A3-7

A3-16 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Northwest Planning District Table A3-7: Summary of Land Use Acreage in Northwest Planning District A mix of land uses anchored by large Type Use Acres of Use % of Total Area commercial and industrial facilities Commercial 2208.53 11.27% characterizes the Northwest Planning District. This planning district has had a Government 161.48 0.82% large population increase during the 1990s Utilities 220.38 1.12% (17%). Although the planning district has a Schools 464.10 2.37% growing population, it has a low percentage of parks/open space. Parks and open space Medical 0.00 0.00% only account for 6.9% of the acreage in the Church/cemetery 366.66 1.87% Northwest Planning District. Table A3-7 Non-profit 80.42 0.41% summarizes land use in this planning district. Agriculture 972.97 4.97% Single-family 5483.76 27.99% Two-family 88.75 0.45% Multi-family 717.95 3.66% Industrial 1594.53 8.14% Parks/open space 1356.59** 6.92% Transportation 301.82 1.54% Vacant/undeveloped land 2688.85 13.72% TOTAL ACRES 19592.60 *Total includes right-of-way **Includes open space in planned residential neighborhoods Source: City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-17 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Actual park acreage in the Northwest Table A3-8: Existing Park Acreage Ratios in Northwest Planning District Planning District is summarized in Table A3- 8. There are almost 1,000 acres of park 2000 Population:57,891 land in the Northwest Planning District. Most Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed of the park acreage is within the community 1000 Acres Acres/ park and regional park categories. 1000 The Northwest Planning District should Block 5 1.19 0.02 0.9 0.02 experience considerable growth by the year 2010. The increase in population is Neighborhood 5 52.8 0.91 52.8 0.91 projected to continue due to annexations Community 4 447.8 7.74 447.8 7.74 and the development of subdivisions within those annexations. As Table A3-9 indicates, Regional (metro) 2 363.8 6.28 170 2.94 the ratio of park acreage to population will Special Rec. Area 6 127.5 2.20 8 0.14 decrease suggesting a potential need to acquire more land. Because of the large Totals 22 993.09 17.15 679.5 11.74 number of community and regional park Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department 2003, Woolpert 2003 acres already existing, the need may be in neighborhood parks.

Table A3-9: Future Park Acreage Ratios in Northwest Planning District

2010 Population: 64,891

Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed 1000 Acres Acres/ 1000 Block 5 1.19 0.02 0.9 0.01 Neighborhood 5 52.9 0.82 52.9 0.82 Community 1 399.5 6.16 399.5 6.16 Regional (metro) 2 363.8 5.61 170 2.62 Special Rec. Area 6 127.5 1.96 8 0.12 Total Acres 19 944.89 14.56 631.3 9.73 Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department 2003, Woolpert 2003

A3-18 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Northeast Planning District Table A3-10: Summary of Land Use Acreage in Northeast Planning District The Northeast Planning District is Type Use Acres of Use % of Total Area characterized by homogenous land uses. The primary land uses are residential Commercial 923.97 5.70% neighborhood and large institutional facilities Government 538.10 3.32% that includes Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne. Much like the Utilities 342.38 2.11% Northwest Planning District, this district will Schools 514.94 3.18% grow through annexations and continued Medical 245.22 1.51% development of subdivisions. However, the university will influence population growth Church/cemetery 447.39 2.76% with increases in student population. This Non-profit 55.88 0.34% planning district has the largest population (72,065) and a relatively high percentage of Agriculture 1129.14 6.97% land categorized as parks/open space. Parks Single-family 6781.66 41.87% and open space account for 10.3% of the acreage in the Northeast Planning District. Two-family 122.87 0.76% Table A3-10 summarizes land use in this Multi-family 561.65 3.47% planning district. Industrial 0.00 0.00% Parks/open space 1673.14** 10.33% Transportation 0.00 0.00% Vacant/undeveloped land 742.10 4.58% TOTAL ACRES 16198.00 *Total includes right-of-way **Includes open space in planned residential neighborhoods Source: City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-19 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Existing park acreage in this planning district Table A3-11: Existing Park Acreage Ratios in Northeast Planning District is summarized in Table A3-11. The amount of park land per population is much lower 2000 Population: 72,065 than the Northwest District. However, much Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed like the Northwest Planning District, there is 1000 Acres Acres/ considerable acreage in the regional and 1000 community parks categories. There are few neighborhood parks and no block parks Block 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 within this district. Neighborhood 5 81.3 1.13 81.3 1.13 The Northeast Planning District will experi- Community 1 184.5 2.56 184.5 2.56 ence moderate growth by the year 2010. The increase in population is projected to Regional (metro) 1 223.6 3.10 223.6 3.10 continue due to normal growth trends and Special Rec. Area* 2 360.5 5.00 0 0.00 annexations. Table A3-12 illustrates that the ratio of park acres per population will not Total Acres 9 849.9 11.79 489.4 6.79 decrease significantly, but will remain much *Treats Hurshtown Reservoir as passive/undeveloped lower than other districts, suggesting a need Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003 to acquire more park land.

Table A3-12: Future Park Acreage Ratios in Northeast Planning District

2010 Population: 76,157

Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed 1000 Acres Acres/ 1000 Block 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Neighborhood 4 81.6 1.07 81.6 1.07 Community 1 184.5 2.42 184.5 2.42 Regional (metro) 1 223.6 2.94 223.6 2.94 Special Rec. Area* 1 360.5 4.73 0 0.00 Total Acres 7 850.2 11.16 489.7 6.43 *Treats Hurshtown Reservoir as passive/undeveloped Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003

A3-20 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Southwest Planning District Table A3-13: Summary of Land Use Acreage in the Southwest Planning District Much like the Northwest Planning District, Type Use Acres of Use % of Total Area the Southwest Planning District is Commercial 1228.97 8.64% characterized by a heterogeneous mix of land uses. The primary land uses are Government 143.29 1.01% residential neighborhood and large industrial Utilities 120.35 0.85% facilities such as the Fort Wayne/Allen County International Airport. This planning Schools 229.35 1.61% district has a population of 49,878 and the Medical 24.74 0.17% second highest percentage of parks/open space. Parks and open space account for Church/cemetery 172.00 1.21% 10.5% of the acreage in the Southwest Non-profit 93.74 0.66% Planning District. Table A3-13 summarizes land use in this planning district. Agriculture 851.86 5.99% Single-family 3456.90 24.30% Two-family 88.01 0.62% Multi-family 432.10 3.04% Industrial 1016.24 7.14% Parks/open space 1487.06** 10.45% Transportation 1271.32 8.94% Vacant/undeveloped land 1834.32 12.90% TOTAL ACRES 14224.00 *Total includes right-of-way **Includes open space in planned residential neighborhoods Source: City of Fort Wayne Planning District, 2003

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-21 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 The existing park acreage for the Southwest Table A3-14: Existing Park Acreage Ratios in Southwest Planning District Planning District is summarized in Table A3- 14. There is not currently a regional park in 2000 Population: 45,079 this district, suggesting the need to acquire Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed land suitable for a regional park. Overall, the 1000 Acres Acres/ Southwest Planning District has 443.14 acres 1000 of park land, approximately one-half of the park land found in the Northwest and Block 6 3.14 0.07 3.13 0.07 Northeast Planning Districts. While acreage is Neighborhood 10 81.2 1.80 81.2 1.80 lower, the ratio of park land to population is higher than the Northeast Planning District. Community 3 323.1 7.17 323.1 7.17

The Southwest Planning District will experi- Regional (metro) 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 ence a slight decline in population by 2010. Special Rec. Area 7 35.7 0.79 25.62 0.57 However, as Table A3-15 illustrates, the decline in park population will have little Total Acres 26 443.14 9.83 433.05 9.61 effect on the park land needed. Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003

Table A3-15: Future Park Acreage Ratios in Southwest Planning District

2010 Population: 44,673

Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed 1000 Acres Acres/ 1000 Block 6 3.14 0.07 3.17 0.07 Neighborhood 10 81.2 1.82 81.3 1.82 Community 3 323.1 7.24 323.1 7.24 Regional (metro) 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Special Rec. Area 7 35.8 0.80 25.62 0.39 Total Acres 26 443.14 9.92 424.85 9.51 Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003

A3-22 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Southeast Planning District Table A3-16: Summary of Land Use in the Southeast Planning District The Southeast Planning District is smaller Type Use Acres of Use % of Total Area than the other original planning districts. Commercial 682.06 6.44% Only Aboite Planning District has fewer acres. Residential neighborhoods are the Government 120.61 1.14% primary land use. Larger parcel land uses Utilities 152.11 1.44% include the Southtown Shopping Center (which is now vacant and will be Schools 249.66 2.36% redeveloped) and industrial facilities. This Medical 0.00 0.00% planning district has a population of 45,079 and the lowest percentage of parks/open Church/cemetery 160.59 1.52% space. Parks and open space account for Non-profit 32.94 0.31% only 4.5% of the acreage in the Southeast Planning District. Table A3-16 summarizes Agriculture 853.11 8.06% land use in this planning district. Single-family 3023.50 28.56% Two-family 52.95 0.50% Multi-family 504.31 4.76% Industrial 1235.38 11.67% Parks/open space 473.82** 4.48% Transportation 298.21 2.82% Vacant/undeveloped land 957.55 9.05% TOTAL ACRES 10585.60 *Total includes right-of-way **Includes open space in planned residential neighborhoods Source: City of Fort Wayne Planning District, 2003

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-23 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Table A3-17 illustrates the existing park Table A3-17: Existing Park Acreage Ratios in Southeast Planning District acreage for the Southeast Planning District. Besides Aboite Planning District, this district 2000 Population: 49,878 has the least amount of park land—385.19 Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed acres. However, the relatively low population 1000 Acres Acres/ results in a ratio of park land to population 1000 that exceeds both Aboite and the Northeast Planning Districts. There are no regional Block 10 6.32 0.13 4.18 0.08 parks in this district. Neighborhood 10 62.20 1.25 58.5 1.17 Much like the Southwest Planning District, Community 4 310.15 6.22 310.15 6.22 the Southeast Planning District will experi- ence a slight decline in population by 2010. Regional (metro) 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 Table A3-18 shows that the decline will not Special Rec. Area 4 6.52 0.13 1.92 0.04 significantly change the ratio of park land to Total Acres 28 385.19 7.72 374.75 7.51 population. Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003

Table A3-18: Future Park Acreage Ratios in Southeast Planning District

2010 Population: 47,950

Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed 1000 Acres Acres/ 1000 Block 10 6.37 0.13 4.23 0.09 Neighborhood 7 60.1 1.25 56.4 1.18 Community 3 310.2 6.47 310.2 6.47 Regional (metro) 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Special Rec. Area 4 6.56 0.14 1.96 0.04 Total Acres 24 383.23 7.99 372.79 7.77 Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003

A3-24 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Aboite Planning District Table A3-19: Summary of Land Use in the Aboite Planning District The Aboite Planning District has recently Type Use Acres of Use % of Total Area been added as a planning and research Commercial 206.37 2.51% district for the city. Soon to be annexed, it and is the smallest of the five planning Government 2.08 0.03% districts. Residential neighborhoods and Utilities 28.60 0.35% commercial are the predominant land uses. This planning district has a population of Schools 18.44 0.22% 25,094 and the highest percentage of parks/ Medical 108.27 1.32% open space in the city. Parks and open space account for almost 11% of the acreage in Church/cemetery 279.97 3.40% the Aboite Planning District. Table A3-19 Non profit 3.18 0.04% summarizes land use in this planning district. Agriculture 392.23 4.77% Single-family 4174.38 50.73% Two-family 16.50 0.20% Multi-family 163.79 1.99% Industrial 0.00 0.00% Parks/open space 891.72** 10.84% Transportation 0.00 0.00% Vacant/undeveloped land 500.82 6.09% TOTAL ACRES 8228.00 *Total includes right-of-way **Includes open space in planned residential neighborhoods Source: City of Fort Wayne Planning Department, 2003

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-25 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Existing park acreages are summarized in Table A3-20: Existing Park Acreage Ratios in Aboite Planning District Table A3-20. 2000 Population: 25,094 The population of the Aboite Planning District is projected to increase slightly by Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed 2010. Table A3-21 shows the fact that 1000 Acres Acres/ despite the large amount of open space, 1000 there is only one park and a very low ratio Block 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 of park acreage to population. Neighborhood 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Community 1 66 2.63 66 2.63 Regional (metro) 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Special Rec. Area 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Total Acres 0 0 0.00 66 2.63 Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003

Table A3-21: Future Park Acreage Ratios in Aboite Planning District

2010 Population: 28,894

Park Type Number Acres Acres/ Developed Developed 1000 Acres Acres/ 1000 Block 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Neighborhood 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Community 1 66 2.28 66 2.28 Regional (metro) 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Special Rec. Area 0 0 0.00 0 0.00 Total Acres 0 0 0.00 66 2.28 Source: Fort Wayne Park and Recreation Department, 2003, Woolpert 2003

A3-26 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Summary population has grown, it has also become district with the highest population. The more diverse. Minority populations have Southeast Planning District also has a high The size and the population of Fort Wayne steadily grown, and in recent years, the number of youth and teens, but it has a have continued to grow since the 1900s. Hispanic population has grown at a dramatic relatively low number of seniors. The ratio Much of the population growth, at least in rate. Although diversity in all planning of males to females is fairly constant recent years, has been directly tied to districts in the city has increased, the throughout most of the city and for most age annexation. The growth of the city will Southeast Planning District has the highest groups; however, the ratio does widen for continue to the north and west. The demand percentage of African/American and Hispanic the senior population. There are many more for park land will also increase to the north residents. The high percentage of minority senior females than males in all planning and west, creating the need for additional population in the Southeast Planning District districts. The Aboite Planning District has the park land in these areas around the city. continues to grow as the number of white highest average household income, while Future growth can be expected to include residents continues to decrease. the Southeast Planning District has the annexation. Therefore, the Department lowest. These factors need to be considered should continue to look for some of its new Other factors that influence programming when balancing the needs of residents park and greenway land outside the city in are age, gender, and income. The planning citywide versus the special needs for potential annexation areas. Acquiring park district with the most youth, teens, and residents within each planning district. land in advance of development will greatly seniors is the Northeast Planning District, reduce the cost of the land. While the which is to be expected since this is the

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A3-27 Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 A3-28 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 3: Demographic and Growth Trend Analysis August 2004 Appendix 4: Program Assessments

As a component of the comprehensive parks Camps While the Franke Park Day Camp continues and recreation master plan, the consulting to attract large participation numbers, it team performed an in-depth assessment of The Department currently provides three should be noted that its Native American essential services currently provided by the distinct nature camps for children during the theme may not be appealing to everyone in Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation summer months in addition to summer the community, especially ethnic minorities. Department. Conclusions and camps offered at the Fort Wayne Children’s Instead of expanding the Franke Park Day recommendations are based on Zoo and Foellinger-Friemann Botanical Camp, the Department should consider questionnaires completed by key supervisory Conservatory. Excluding the zoo and offering more summer camps at additional staff, a review of post-participation surveys conservatory camps, over 2,100 children locations throughout the city. The routinely conducted by the Department enrolled in summer camps during 2002. Department should also explore the (where available), and onsite assessments feasibility of offering an evening camp With nearly 60 years of history, the most performed by the consulting team. program at the Franke Park site. Any new successful nature camp is the Franke Park camps offered should utilize themes that Day Camp, which alone had 1,844 Program assessments included a review of appeal to a more diverse population. national and local participation trends to participants in 2002. The Franke Park Day estimate the Department’s share of the Fort Camp operates at maximum capacity during Participation in the Franke Park Day Camp Wayne market. Reviewing the Department’s the summer months. Increased summer before- and after-care program has steadily annual report, a revenue and expense participation will not be feasible without declined over the past five years. The analysis was performed to identify subsidy expanding the facility, adding new camp decline closely mirrors the reduction in the levels and cost recovery ratios for the sites in other parks, or offering evening total number of scholarships provided. This programs. Pricing strategies, facility camp sessions. Expansion opportunities in suggests a possible correlation between the scheduling (if applicable), existing partner- Franke Park appear to be limited without need for financial aid and participation in the ships, marketing efforts, and customer displacing other existing activities in before- or after-care program. A logical service practices were also reviewed. the park. conclusion is that families needing financial assistance rely on park programs for

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A4-1 Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 childcare during the workday. Efforts to camping experience, leaving parents to find covered, price accordingly. All camps, provide scholarships through the Parks alternative camps or services for the including the Franke Park Day Camp, should Foundation or other funding sources should remaining weeks of the summer. The implement a resident/non-resident pricing be continued and expanded as resources Department should better coordinate and structure. Camp prices for younger children permit. jointly promote all of its summer camp should only be lower if warranted by the programs, including sports camps and actual cost to deliver the program. The Salomon Farm Camp is a new program programs offered through the zoo and with much potential. In its first year of conservatory. If the Department offers a There is strong competition for camp operation, the camp had 215 participants. wider selection of camps with greater participants in the Fort Wayne community. The park site has the amenities and natural demographic appeal that span the entire The Department’s Franke Park and Salomon resources to accommodate a very unique summer, the potential exists to expand camp Farm Camps are unique and least impacted and successful camp program. To expand revenue. The Department should consider by other camp programs. The Lindenwood camp enrollments, the Department needs to adding more outdoor adventure camps, teen camps and workshops face the most head- reach out to youth organizations that focus and pre-teen camps, and travel camps. The to-head competition with programs offered on farming, nature, and history. Key groups Department should strive to be the one-stop by the County Parks Department and other include 4-H clubs, scouting troops, and source for summer-long entertainment providers (partially explaining the lower similar organizations. The Department through camps. participation). should also consider partnering with the neighboring YMCA to jointly develop and The expansion of camp programs will only With the development of new partnerships promote camps at this site. be possible through the addition of more with youth, nature-focused, or farm-related full-time and seasonal staff dedicated to organizations, there should be some The Lindenwood Nature Preserve provides a developing and running new camps. Ideally, opportunity to expand camp and workshop good site for nature-themed camps. The both the Lindenwood and Salomon Farm programming beyond the current summer obstacle to the success of camps at the sites should have a full-time, dedicated staff season. This is especially true for the preserve is the lack of an indoor nature member for camps and programs. Any Salomon Farm. Possible programs to center. A new facility would provide the expansion of the Franke Park Day Camp or consider include weekend camps, additional flexibility to offer programs during inclement new camps will also require additional staff. school programs, home school programs, weather and beyond the summer season. A and preschool programs. Facilities could be nature center would serve as a focal point Financially, the Franke Park Day Camp adopted by various youth organizations like for the park and create more traffic and serves as a good model for any camp 4-H clubs and scouts to help maintain or awareness for camps at Lindenwood. It is offered by the program. This camp is priced develop amenities on site (i.e., vegetable unlikely that programs or participation sufficiently to stimulate demand and cover gardens, flower gardens, etc.). numbers can be greatly expanded at all operating expenses. To ensure the Lindenwood without a nature center/ ongoing success of the camp, the operating All existing marketing and promotions efforts learning facility. surplus should be placed in a dedicated fund should be continued. Enhanced promotions to cover future capital investments in the are needed, especially for Salomon Farm The Department’s various camp programs camp. All the camps are economically priced and Lindenwood Camps. Post-program appear to be operated as largely but generally undervalued for the services evaluations should continue to be conducted independent entities with minimal efforts to provided. The Department should continue of all camps. Focus groups consisting of cross-promote or tie in with each other. to benchmark against other camp providers, parents and children could periodically be Most camps offered by the Department and as long as all operating expenses are conducted by marketing staff to ensure that provide participants with a one-week existing programs are meeting participants’

A4-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 needs and identify changes that should be Community Center lacks many amenities variety of programs for children under the made. Direct mailings promoting camps found in modern recreation centers, such as age of 6. Few programs are available that should be sent to the previous year’s a gymnasium, fitness center, indoor walking would truly appeal to pre-teens, teens, and participants. track, or indoor aquatic center. The facility young adults. Program opportunities resume does not have sufficient multipurpose space for adults, although most appear targeted to The Department should consider a pre- to accommodate a wider selection of pro- the senior population. The Department registration period for the following year’s grams for all age segments. There is limited should complete a service audience matrix to camp at the conclusion of camp sessions. A green space surrounding the center for ensure programs are targeted and offered small, non-refundable fee in the range of $5 outdoor activities. For these reasons, many for all age segments. to $10 could be charged to hold a spot with programs offered by the Community Center full payment due in the spring. This helps must be facilitated off-site in local schools Based on available information, center build the excitement of participants and and other facilities. operations and older adult programs are gives the Department an early indication of heavily subsidized by the city, recovering, on camp attendance. Low early enrollments can There is no membership or daily fee to use average, only 28% of their operating costs prompt the Department to either boost the Community Center, nor is the facility through user fees and earned income. promotional efforts in the spring or make currently operated in a manner to warrant or Despite cost recovery goals of 100%, which revisions to the camp to increase appeal. support a charge for admission. Although are consistent with industry practices, youth there is an information desk, the center lacks and adult programs generated only 78% of The Department should continue to conduct a centralized entrance point to effectively their operating costs. The Department should customer service training for all camp control entry. There are minimal areas within implement activity-based costing for every employees. Customer service policies should the facility to support self-directed recreation program offered to ensure that programs be incorporated into the employee policy beyond a game room and central lounge. A are priced effectively to meet established and procedure manual and provided to all small selection of fitness equipment is cost recovery goals. If prices based on the staff members. available, but the equipment is located in a true cost of delivering a program exceed the hallway and appears to be non-commercial public’s willingness to pay, the merits of The existing performance measures should grade. offering the program should be evaluated. continue to be monitored. Additionally, the Department should also consider measuring Over 5,300 individuals enroll in Community The community center has limitations of (for each camp) the cost recovery rate, Center programs annually, with nearly 60% space to accommodate more multi-purpose customer retention, program capacity, and of these participants enrolled in preschool or recreation use. However, it is a viable facility facility capacity against established goals. youth activities. Despite a significant amount for the uses it does provide. In projecting the Together, these measurements will be useful of senior program space within the facility, future uses of the community center, all to management in making future decisions fewer than 250 people typically enroll in spaces need to be evaluated according to regarding the programs. older adult programs offered through the current use. The greatest needs appear to center each year. Enrollments in community be larger fitness space and more general Community Center center programs have remained fairly purpose space. The community center still Originally built as a senior center, the stagnant since 1998. Attendance at the operates primarily as a senior recreation Community Center is responsible for the center has averaged slightly over 100 visitors facility and there is good participation in the Department’s preschool/youth, adult, and per day. programs provided. Ideally the City needs older adult programs. The facility is centrally more recreation center space in other parts As validated by the participation numbers, located but has limited parking despite a of the city to create the opportunity for the Community Center provides a good recent expansion of the parking lot. The people of all ages to recreate. This does not

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A4-3 Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 mean the city should eliminate the community participation during 2002 is following Currently, only two to three sessions are center because it is serving a need in the national trends. Countering these national being offered. Additional sessions catering community. and local trends presents a significant to targeted age or skill groups could be challenge to staff. offered. McMillen Ice Arena Based on sample schedules from the peak While over 40% of the ice arena’s revenue McMillen Ice Arena is a quality facility well and non-peak seasons, the ice arena has a comes from rentals, more rentals are suited to meeting the recreational and significant amount of excess capacity that needed to fill the excess capacity—especially sports ice needs of the Fort Wayne needs to be filled. During the peak season, during non-prime times. Local schools, community. The ice arena is an attractive, around 40% of the ice time between 6:00 colleges, daycare centers, and organizations well-designed facility that incorporates a a.m. and 11:00 p.m. was scheduled for like the YMCA serve as potential customers, good color scheme throughout. The pro public skating, programs, rentals, or special either through rentals or catered programs, shop and concession areas are prominently events. During the summer months, the to fill regular hours between 8:00 a.m. and located for high visibility among visitors. The capacity is around 17% when all three 4:00 p.m. lounge area is an attractive public space that sheets of ice are operational. An respects its prior history as a warming unscheduled facility cannot generate Additional efforts to promote the ice arena shelter for the original outdoor ice rink revenue. should be pursued. Minimally, 4% of the previously located on the site. operating budget needs to be dedicated to Although past efforts to expand public marketing and promotions and a higher Unquestionably, the biggest hurdle facing skating opportunities at the ice arena have investment is recommended. Pursuing McMillen Ice Arena is generating sufficient been unsuccessful, the number of public potential media partners, such as local radio revenue to cover both the operating costs skating hours in Fort Wayne is significantly or television stations, can be an effective and $410,000 annual debt service. Prior to lower than at many public facilities. Other and less expensive way to promote special its expansion in 2000, the ice arena was facilities typically offer 10 to 11 sessions events from weekly family nights to showing profit margins of 14% to 26%. each week with at least one session per day, tournaments. Since the renovation and addition of the as opposed to the three to six sessions per debt service obligation, expenditures have week offered by McMillen Ice Arena. Past Jennings Recreation Center and greatly exceeded revenue and resulted in a failures may be the result of poor time Weisser Park Youth Center recapture rate of 77.8% in 2002 (for a loss offerings or advertising efforts. Offering teen The Jennings Recreation Center and the of $237,139). or family nights, possibly sponsored by a Weisser Park Youth Center can best be local radio station, may be an effective McMillen Ice Arena is faced with the described as neighborhood centers that means of boosting attendance. Family night challenge of serving sports that, nationally, primarily serve youth residing in the rates of $20 to $30 per family (including have witnessed stagnant to declining surrounding neighborhoods. The strength of skates) can be effective in making skating participation rates in recent years. Hockey both centers is that they provide positive, events more economical and appealing. A participation in Fort Wayne exceeds the after-school and summer programs that reverse pricing method—charging adults national average, although ice skating in address the social, educational, and lower fees than children—may help general falls below the national norm. recreational needs of at-risk youth. Both encourage greater adult participation on Participation numbers at the ice arena were facilities have a strong social-services regular days. given a significant boost in 2001 due to the orientation and offer a variety of programs recent renovation and expansion. The There also is an opportunity to expand stick not typically provided by parks and decline in public skating and hockey and puck drop-in play at the arena.

A4-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 recreation departments in other Jennings Center, grants were also received on farm-related topics. Lindenwood Nature communities. for the Afternoon Rocks program ($8,000) Preserve needs an indoor nature center/ and Job Training ($5,000). learning facility to become a truly viable, While it appears that existing programs are year-round location for outdoor education. generally well-utilized, the relatively small Both facilities should continue to track all size of each facility hinders the ability to expenses (and revenues when applicable) Given the human resources available, the expand programs or increase participation by program or service area. This informa- Department offers a good number of rates. Both centers have a need for a tion will make it possible to calculate key outdoor education and recreation programs. gymnasium and additional multipurpose performance measures, such as the cost per A good mix of free and fee-based programs meeting space. Jennings Center’s lack of experience. Even if programs are provided are offered. To expand program offerings, open green space severely limits the ability for free, staff should complete an activity- more permanent staff is needed. Ideally, to expand this facility. Given the age and based costing sheet to determine before a both Lindenwood and Salomon should have relatively poor condition of Jennings Center, program is offered or continued the esti- a full-time staff member dedicated to the Department should consider replacing it mated delivery cost. Programs with a cost programming at these sites. This would with a new facility better designed to meet higher than an agreed to subsidy level allow for the development and expansion of today’s recreational needs. Given its park should either be revised to lower subsidy programs, including more family and multi- location and newer age, Weisser Park Youth levels, increase cost recovery, or canceled generational programs. Center appears to be better suited for outright. expansion. The Department is placing a greater Minimal numbers were available for pro- emphasis on the provision of outdoor The Department should consider implement- gram registrations and facility attendance. education programs to the exclusion of ing user fees to help support operations at Detailed statistics should be tracked for each outdoor recreation programs. While the the neighborhood centers. While it is program and facility. Performance measures societal benefit of education programs is not acknowledged that both centers serve should be implemented to monitor participa- questioned, there typically is a greater economically depressed and/or at-risk tion levels, program capacity, and programs revenue-earning potential for outdoor children, it is unheard of for a city to provide offered versus held. Memberships and recreation. In general, the Department all programs for free. Even a nominal program registration capabilities should be needs to offer more outdoor programs that registration fee would help reduce the added to each facility to effectively record the public will perceive as fun. overall subsidy level, possibly freeing up these statistics. Additionally, tracking Environmental education can easily be funding for additional programming staff or software could be used to maintain contact integrated within these programs to fulfill materials. The Department should work with and other vital information for youth partici- the educational mission. the Park Foundation and other sources to pants in the event of an emergency. ensure partial and full scholarships are The Department should consider offering available for those families or individuals Outdoor Recreation and Education more outdoor adventure programs in such unable to pay. sports as canoeing, kayaking, mountain Lindenwood Nature Preserve, Salomon biking, sailing, and related activities. If Farm, and Hurshtown Reservoir provide The Department should continue efforts to promoted and priced effectively, these three quality locations to provide secure earned income to help support programs should be able to recover their opportunities for outdoor recreation and programs offered at both centers. In 2003, operating expenses. More outdoor education. The addition of a learning center $63,000 in grant funds was secured at adventure camps focusing on specific sports at Salomon Farm provides a nice facility to Weisser Center for the SBA Academy. At should also be considered. Additional special base outdoor education programs, especially

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A4-5 Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 events should be provided and used to When program interest falls off, the cause is ability to successfully penetrate the market promote program offerings. usually due to program content, length of through expanded programming into soccer, session, and ease of access. baseball, softball, gymnastics, or youth Sporadic participation numbers in outdoor football is limited. The Department may programs suggests a lack of consistency in The pricing of services for outdoor want to consider providing sports leagues or program offerings. This is likely the result of recreation and education programs should programming in lacrosse, roller hockey, or the small number of staff dedicated to this evaluated based on their direct and indirect adult football (subject to the availability of service. Low participation rates in programs costs. Currently the Department is facilities). labeled “outdoor recreation” are alarming subsidizing programs on an average by given the high level of subsidy. These 87%. Many of these programs have better The Lifetime Sports Academy is a popular programs should be eliminated if they self-supporting capabilities. The Department youth program that has garnered the cannot recapture their operating expenses. should establish cost recovery goals by Department significant positive recognition program type and establish prices based on both locally and nationally. The academy has The outdoor education and recreation a full cost analysis. successfully introduced thousands of children programs need to develop service audience to sports that can be enjoyed throughout matrices that focus on program needs by Athletic Programs their lifespan. age segment or grade level (e.g., ages 2 through 5, 6 through 8, 9 and 10, 11 and 12, The Department currently provides athletic Overall enrollment in the Lifetime Sports etc. or grades kindergarten through second, programming in basketball, volleyball, Academy continues to rise each year, and in third and fourth, etc.). Currently, the program tennis, golf, and swimming through Youth 2002, was up 38% from 1998 (based on age segments appear too wide to be as Athletics, Adult Athletics, and the Lifetime 2002 participation numbers). While the effective as they could be. More targeted Sports Academy. A variety of free and fee- academy is valuable and should be marketing is needed by age group and type based programs are available for youth in continued, the Department needs to of activity. The length of classes or tennis, golf, and swimming. recognize that its free programs directly workshops should remain three hours or less. compete with several of its fee-based Based on national and state participation programs. Academy programs are generally statistics and program enrollments, the Greater effort is needed to create enticing structured to introduce youth to sports and Department appears to control the majority themes for outdoor recreation and education provide elementary skills. Advanced skill of the city’s youth market in tennis (99%) programs. Examples of appropriate themes development should only be offered through and golf (87%). With approximately 20% of include: Women in the Outdoors, Outdoor the fee-based programs of the Department. the youth basketball market enrolled in city Adventures, Teen Explorers, Outdoor Reality In this way, the academy can nurture programs, the Department also is a Programs, Life of a Farmer, and Eco- interest in lifetime sports and serve as a significant player in this market. The Trippers. Additionally, participants today feeder for other youth programs. The Department is not as dominant in the adult want shorter programs, workshops, and elimination of direct competition between market, reaching approximately 11% of clinics due to busy personal schedules. As the two programs will help ensure the likely volleyball players, 8% of tennis an example, participants often have the daily continued success of both services. constraints of demanding workdays followed players, and 5% of basketball players. by traffic congestion. It is understandable As funding sources permit, the Department Historically, the Department has taken the that participants want convenience and should consider a two-fold approach to role of providing sports facilities to comfort in the programs they participate in, expanding participation in the Lifetime accommodate programs offered by other and it is imperative that convenience be Sports Academy. Academy programs are community organizations. As such, the considered when developing programs. primarily offered at McMillen Park, located in

A4-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 the Southwest Planning District. The mutually agreed upon. The use agreement into the future if no significant capital Department should consider expanding the should also explicitly state rental rates and improvements are made. program to sites in the city’s other districts. identify priority-use arrangements of key The Department should also consider facilities by day of week and time of day. With the widest variety of family-friendly providing Lifetime Sports Academy programs amenities, Northside Pool witnesses the in additional sports (i.e., hockey, ice skating, The Department has established cost highest attendance of all the city pools with etc.) to increase exposure and demand for recovery goals of 80% for youth athletics 37,339 visitors in 2002. Swinney Pool, which its other youth programs. and 175% for adult athletics, which is a popular destination for teenagers, had consistent with industry practices. Between the next greatest attendance at 21,164. Except for basketball programs and the 1999 and 2001, the Department reported Attendance was 8,230 at McMillen Pool and Lifetime Sports Academy, participation in the cost recovery rates of 67% to 71% in youth 5,020 at Memorial Pool. Department’s athletic programs has athletics and 165% to 173% in adult generally declined over the past five years. athletics. Based on the financial information Over the past five years, the pools have While partially mirroring national trends, provided to the consultant, actual realized operating deficits between volleyball and tennis participation rates in performance by essential services area $200,000 and $250,000, resulting in a cost Fort Wayne have fallen at larger rates. could not be confirmed. recovery rate of 40.4%. Despite the limited When developing programs, staff should amenities at McMillen, Memorial, and closely review key participation To assist staff in establishing program fees, Swinney Pools, the Department should demographics to ensure programs are the Department should revise its current expect to recover 60% to 70% of the total targeted to the appropriate audience. program pricing form to incorporate all pool operating expenses. related direct and indirect costs for providing Having no Department-owned gymnasiums the service. This will allow staff to System-wide, the average subsidy per is a serious factor impacting the success of understand the true cost of delivery and to visitor over this time frame was $3.19. As many athletic programs. While the price programs to meet cost recovery goals. would be expected, the subsidy levels are Department has been effective in securing The Department should also benchmark significantly higher at the lower attended gymnasium space through local schools, the against its primary competitors annually to pools. In 2002, the average subsidy per lack of control over the space results in ensure fees are in line with the local market. visitor was $10.61 at Memorial Pool, $7.04 periodic scheduling changes, relocations, at McMillen, and $5.66 at Swinney. In and interruptions of programs. Sufficient Pools/Aquatic Facilities comparison, Northside Pool had an average gymnasium capacity does not exist within subsidy of $0.45 per visitor in 2002. The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation the community to significantly expand indoor Department operates four outdoor Unless significant amenity upgrades are sport programming. swimming pools within the city. While the made to the existing pools, the subsidy The Department should explore the feasibility facilities are well maintained and operated, levels will likely rise in the future as of building at least one centrally located, all but the Northside Pool lack many of the attendance continues to fall. The continued multi-court fieldhouse to host youth and adult modern leisure pool features that attract operation of Memorial and McMillen Pools is sports programs. In the interim, the families in large numbers. With no not logical from a purely financial Department should update its use agreement significant amenities added since the 1996 perspective, although it is recognized that with Fort Wayne Public Schools every three renovation, the pools have witnessed both serve neighborhoods in need of positive to five years. The contract should include declining attendance and learn-to-swim recreation alternatives. provisions that prohibit changes or the participation. This trend will likely continue cancellation of reserved times unless

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A4-7 Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 Given the demand at Northside Pool, the pool revenue. The Department should target There is some opportunity to expand Department should consider expanding this scout troops, 4-H clubs, church youth partnerships with the pool operations, facility to minimally include a lazy river. This groups, and other youth organizations for especially at Northside. Sponsorships could amenity alone would increase both the pool rentals via direct mailing efforts and be secured for the various pool features, appeal and capacity level of the pool, and community networking. such as the slides or umbrellas. Media would warrant an increased admission price partners could be developed to help promote for the experience received. In addition to existing after-hour birthday and sponsor special events at the pool, such parties, the Department should create as a weekly family night swim. With existing pools limited to older birthday party packages during public swim neighborhoods in the city, the Department hours. The package should provide a set Partnerships should also be explored with should explore the feasibility of building one number of entries; a reserved, shaded local youth organizations and area churches or two indoor or outdoor family aquatic location for 1.0 to 1.5 hours within the to expand the learn-to-swim program and centers closer to the growth areas of the facility; and meals or snacks from the facility rentals. The Department should community. These facilities could be concession area. Birthday party packages actively pursue camp business, both designed to recover most, if not all, are extremely popular and can contribute up internally and externally during low-use operating expenses. An indoor facility would to 5% of the total revenue based on morning times. With limited programming, allow for year-round programming and experiences in similar communities. Memorial Pool especially has the capacity to could be used to enhance existing learn-to- generate rental revenue or admission fees swim programming. Strategic placement of Despite recent increases, the current from area camps before public swim times. one or more new facilities could also allow admission prices at Northside Pool are for the closure of a non-producing facility. under-priced for the value received. Youth The Lifetime Sports Academy swim program admission prices should be in the range of is a valuable program that should be The Department should closely review its $3.50, with adult rates $1.00 above the continued at McMillen Pool. All costs related current arrangement for concession services youth fees. Other pool rates ideally should to this free aquatic program should be at the pools. Average food and beverage be raised $0.50 to $1.00, although this may closely tracked. Working with the Park expenditures per visitor at Northside and not be possible at Memorial and McMillen Foundation, corporate and individual Swinney Pools were under fifty cents per Pools given the economic realities of these sponsors should continue to be solicited to visitor. Given the attendance at these pools, neighborhoods. The Department should underwrite the associated operating cost of the average should minimally be $1.50 per consider implementing a resident/non- the pool for providing this program. visitor. More efforts to promote concessions, resident fee structure at all pools. such as hourly advertisements over the To address safety concerns, especially at public address system or promotional The season pass structure should be Memorial Pool, the Department could signage placed strategically throughout the reviewed to ensure greater equity in the implement safety patrols using off-duty facility, should be considered. Minimally, effective discounts received. Passes should police or a security service to crack down on vending machines should be installed. be priced so that savings are realized after a safety and language issues. The increased Consumption of beverages and snacks from minimum of 20 to 25 visits. As an alternative personnel will result in higher operating vending machines can be limited to to the season pass, the Department could costs and subsidy levels initially. If patrols designated areas within the facility. offer a punch card that provides 10 visits for are successful, this effort may help result in the price of nine daily visits. This would increased attendance over time as word More efforts should be undertaken to secure ensure that visitors pay an equitable share spreads and visitors perceive the pools to be after-hour pool rentals. Currently, rentals of the pool’s operating cost for each visit. safer. With continued reinforcement of rules only provide less than $6,000, or 3.6% of all by pool staff and park management, it may

A4-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 be possible to reduce or eliminate security Looking at each course individually, Shoaff management model, inadequate pricing patrols over time—depending on severity of has been the most consistent income strategies, insufficient programming of the the situation at the respective sites. producer for the Department, with the courses, ineffective marketing strategies, course experiencing profits every year and excessive competition. Golf through 2002. It should be noted, however, that Shoaff barely broke even in 2002 with There are six commonly accepted operating With golf courses at Foster, Shoaff, and net income of just $3,122. Foster’s first models used for managing public golf McMillen Parks, the Fort Wayne Parks and operating deficit was $7,706 in 2002, courses in the United States. These models Recreation Department offers the commu- decreasing from a modest net income of range from the total management of a nity three quality golfing experiences at an $7,339 in 2001. McMillen has consistently course by a municipality to the outsourcing extremely reasonable price. Each course is operated at a loss over the five-year evalua- of all functions. The model Fort Wayne has unique in its layout and provides a variety of tion period, with deficits ranging from in place utilizes a contracted golf pro who holes that effectively challenge the skills of $21,468 (1999) to $82,484 (1998), including receives all cart and pro-shop revenues, as golfers. Junior and adult programs, tourna- driving range operations. McMillen lost well as an annual salary. The pro also ments, and golf outings are also offered at $69,965 in 2002. It should be noted that manages and received all income from each course. Additionally, McMillen Golf funds are set aside each year in a non- concessions. The Department receives all Course offers an excellent nine-hole practice reverting capital account, and in 2002, an green and driving range fees to offset course for the Lifetime Sports Academy’s additional $125,000 was generated from maintenance costs. In the consultant’s free youth program. Driving ranges are fees at the three golf courses. For capital opinion, this model is outdated with fewer available at both Shoaff and McMillen Golf dollars from golf fees which offsets these public courses continuing to following this Courses. operating losses. The majority of public golf type of structure. courses receive no tax support for opera- Based on a review of financial statements The consultant recommends reviewing the tions. from 1998 through 2002, total revenue from current management model in place to all three courses has generally been on the The total rounds of golf played at the three ensure it is consistent with the community’s decline. During this timeframe, the net courses have declined by an astonishing values and Board’s expectations. The income from golf operations has ranged 30%, or 33,066 rounds, from 1998 to 2002. consults suggest considering a different from a profit of $88,184 (1999) to a deficit Each course has witnessed a decline in play management model based on specific of $74,549 (2002). The deficit was in the every year since 1998. In 2002, Foster had performance measurements to create golf operating fund. In addition, $125,000 the highest play with 29,003 rounds, fol- accountability for the desired goals. Re- was deposited in the capital fund from golf lowed by Shoaff at 27,216 rounds and gardless of the model used, business plans operations, which offset the loss in the McMillen at 19,417 rounds. By comparison, should be created for each golf course to operating fund. Ideally, Fort Wayne Parks 18-hole courses typically should expect guide the management practices. and Recreation should combine operational 40,000 to 45,000 rounds played and a nine- and capital funds into one report. The While a variety of youth and adult programs, hole executive course should expect 25,000 Department should seek to recover at least tournaments, and golf outings are offered to 30,000 rounds. 10% profit from golf as a general rule for and facilitated, it is the consultant’s opinion public-owned golf courses. Due to the Based on the consultant’s evaluation of golf that more programming is needed fill excess severe flooding in 2003, financial statements operations, the poor performance of the capacity. Efforts to further enhance the for this year were not reviewed. city’s courses in declining play can be junior program, tournaments, league play, attributed to five key factors: an antiquated and corporate golf outings should be pur- sued. Identifying the current market seg-

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A4-9 Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 ments being served at each course will The golf courses are currently promoted Foellinger-Freimann Botanical provide information to cater programs through the Fun Times seasonal brochure, Conservatory appealing to existing users and segments television and radio advertisements, fliers currently untapped. distributed at the pro shops, direct mailings, Located in downtown Fort Wayne, the Fort Wayne Golf Association mailings, and Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory Due to the current pricing strategy utilized at interviews on talk radio shows. While these is an extraordinary asset for the community. the golf courses, the existing green fees are marketing efforts are appropriate and The conservatory features three quality generally under-priced for the value re- should be continued, more efforts are indoor horticulture gardens, two with ceived. Prices are currently established needed to solicit public input and feedback permanent collections and one offering based on the going rate at competing from existing customers. rotating seasonal displays. Four outdoor courses. While benchmarking against prices gardens provide an attractive display of trees in the local market is a sound practice, it is To enhance marketing efforts, the consultant and flowers. The conservatory also features also advisable to consider the cost of recommends that the managing golf pros at a variety of fun, interactive exhibits to teach providing the service in pricing decisions. each course begin holding periodic focus children about horticulture and conservation. Although the 2003 green fees were competi- groups of existing customers. Post-partici- tively priced between $9 and $19 (depend- pation evaluations and on-site surveys The conservatory provides seven essential ing on the course and time of play), at most should be routinely conducted. Follow-up services or services for the public: youth courses it typically cost $14 to $16 to phone calls from the pro or appropriate programs, school tours and labs, adult tours, produce a round of golf. Current prices course staff should be implemented, espe- adult programs, special events, general leave little to no margin for profit. The cially in situations where a customer has a admissions, and facility rentals. These consultant recommends conducting a cost of complaint or suggestion. The feasibility of essential services attract a wide target services analysis for each golf course and surveying former customers should also be market and allow the conservatory to reach minimally pricing against an agreed to explored to identify reasons people are no every age segment in the community. Each subsidy level consistent with the longer using the courses. All of these of the seven areas is an appropriate and community’s values. mechanisms should be used to help identify viable line of business for the conservatory to the demographics of existing customers, pursue. With differential pricing for weekdays and peak and preferred usage times, customer Through all seven program areas, the weekends/holidays, the courses currently satisfaction levels, and new programs or conservatory serves approximately 70,000 utilize prime and non-prime pricing strate- services desired. This information will be visitors on an annual basis. gies. Actual use patterns at the courses useful in creating effective pricing strategies should be evaluated to implement different and enhancing program offerings. Currently the conservatory does not use a peak and non-peak rates to encourage business plan as a basis for management increase play during slow times of the day. A reality outside the control of the Depart- decisions. The consultant recommends To ensure that frequent users are not ment is the presence of 25 golf courses in development of a business plan that ad- subsidized at a significant level, the Depart- Allen County, 20 of which are open for public dresses each of the conservatory’s major ment should consider replacing the season use. Another 21 courses are located in the operations: horticulture gardens, programs, pass program with a value pass or similar surrounding counties. The availability of so facility rentals, gift shop, administration, multi-use discount program. Efforts to many public courses results in a very maintenance, and marketing and develop- cross-promote all three courses should also competitive and highly saturated golf ment. Specific budgets for each of these be implemented. market, which appears to be driving green areas should be developed. The business fees to artificially low prices. plan should include performance measures

A4-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 to identify the successful achievement of be enhanced to create multi-site packages million visitors. Annually, the zoo attracts goals and objectives. Appropriate measure- for visitors. More efforts are needed to approximately 450,000 visitors and supports ments would include, but are not limited to, market the facility for bus trips, as well as a a membership level of 11,370 people. The subsidy level per visitor or program areas, site for staff retreats and business meetings. zoo grounds and exhibits are extremely length of stay, average gift shop expenditure attractive and well designed, helping create per visitor, capacity levels, etc. The current admission prices for the conser- a memorable experience for youth and vatory range from $4 for adults to $2 for adults. The total operating budget in 2003 was youth. With the length of stay for most approximately $867,783, of which approxi- visitors estimated at approximately one hour, In 2002, a strategic business plan was mately half was dedicated to personnel the conservatory is appropriately priced for developed for the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo expense. Considering that personnel the value received. Increased prices would by the consulting team of Schultz and typically represent 55-60% of the budget in not likely be supported by the public unless Williams. Working with zoo staff, city staff, similar operations, this suggests that the significant facility enhancements are made to and the Zoological Society, the plan outlined conservatory is understaffed. Currently the increase the average visit beyond two hours. three key initiatives for the zoo to reach its conservatory employs only three full-time desired attendance and revenue goals. employees, along with some part-time staff While the existing gift shop serves as a These three initiatives included: and volunteers. The consultant recommends source of income for the conservatory, the adding at least one new full-time program- consultant recommends exploring the • Enhancing management effectiveness by mer, who can also assist with marketing and feasibility of small café for this attractive and consolidating the current duel governing development efforts, along with more part- valuable space. A restaurant has the ability structure into a single management time employees and volunteers. to generate significantly more revenue for structure headed by the Zoological Society the conservatory. The gift shop could be Commission The current marketing budget for the relocated to another area of the building. • Focusing on marketing and development to conservatory is only $8,200, which is consid- increase unearned revenue by growing To increase rental income, the conservatory erably low for this type of operation. The memberships through enhanced member should consider enclosing the existing consultant recommends increasing the benefits, increasing corporate partners and courtyard to make it more appealing for budget closer to 3% of the total operating sponsorships, and integrating the weddings and receptions. An exclusive budget. In addition to increased advertising, development campaign for planned giving caterer should be contracted to manage and an increase would help support efforts to with the annual fund drive better assess customer satisfaction, visitor book the site. For this type of arrangement, demographics, length of stay, and spending the conservatory should expect 15% of the • Increasing opportunities for added revenue patterns. Because attendance is key to the caterer’s gross revenue for all food and through improvements to the visitor conservatory’s ongoing success, this infor- beverage served. experience as it applies to rides and mation would in turn allow the conservatory enhancing concessions and retail spending Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo to better create exhibits and programs to increase visitation and participation numbers. Based on the consultant’s evaluation of the By focusing on these initiatives, the plan Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, it is easy to outlines a strategy to maintain the Fort The conservatory should continue its efforts recognize why the zoo is locally celebrated Wayne Children’s Zoo as the only self- to work with other attractions in the Fort and nationally recognized. The zoo has supporting, municipally operated zoo in the Wayne community and region. Cross- served the Fort Wayne community well over United States. promotional efforts with the Fort Wayne the last 36 years, hosting more than 14 Children’s Zoo and other attractions should

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A4-11 Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 As a component of the strategic action plan the current system is working, it is not cost • Create more pricing strategies. The for the Parks and Recreation Department, effective. Having the city take over total current visitor per capita spending was the consultant met with the zoo director and management of the zoo would be $5.89 for admissions, gift shop, food, and parks and recreation director at the zoo. significantly more expensive than the current rides, which is extremely low. The current Through this process, the consultant structure due to salary differences. Moving pricing of the zoo is low in comparison to reviewed the zoo’s existing management total management to the Zoological Society the length of stay. An average recreation plans, the agreement between the Park is the most feasible alternative. This option hour in the United States is $4.50 to $5.00 Commission and Zoological Society, and the would motivate the society to augment per hour. By tracking the length of stay, current operating and capital budgets for the earned and donated revenue activities by staff can measure the true value of the zoo. focusing the burden for financial support experience. Existing per visitor goals of solely on the Zoological Society. Being a $1.65 for rides and $1.10 for food service Overall, the zoo has accomplished a great private, not-for-profit zoo would likely is low. More efforts are needed to package deal. The $3.2 million operating budget and render requests for donations more food products together the way fast food visitation numbers are quite impressive. The appealing to potential donors than being restaurants do to increase user spending. strategies outlined in the business plan and perceived as part of the municipal Current gift sales of $1.07 per visitor is low donor development plan provide good government. The consultant recommends as well. Greater efforts to attract users direction for zoo staff to follow. The that all necessary parties, including the and to provide varying levels of items to performance goals outlined appear to be mayor, zoo director, parks director, Park purchase is needed to move gift sales to appropriate and attainable if the strategies Board president, and Zoological Society $2.50 to $3.00 per visitor. are followed. Overall, the zoo has had good president, meet to update the existing • In the 2002-2005 strategic plan, there is a direction and leadership during the past 20 agreement. list of action items that are well laid out years under Zoo Director Jim Anderson and and focus on all elements of the zoo Former Parks Director Bob Arnold. The following recommendations are experience. The goals, objectives, and provided to add value to the strategies action items need to incorporate It is the consultant’s recommendation that already outlined in the 2002 business plan: the framework outlined in the 2002 business performance measures on how well each plan be implemented. This includes the need • The zoo needs to conduct more market task is completed. Performance measures for a new agreement between the research that focuses on overall visitor should focus on user satisfaction, Zoological Society and the City of Fort length of stay, each exhibit visitor efficiency, revenue earned, customer Wayne. The existing agreement does not observation stay by age, and the distance retention, capacity levels, marketing recognize or authorize the current traveled to visit the zoo. This information impact, etc. management operation. It is cumbersome will allow the zoo to establish primary, • The donor development plan for 2001- and dilutes authority and responsibility for secondary, and regional marketing 2003 needs to be updated. The plan both the city and Zoological Society. strategies. offered three over-arching strategies: • Track more closely all cost centers as they increased awareness, increased market This strategic action plan provides the city apply to efficiency, cost per experience, penetration activities, and intensified with an opportune time to decide whether or and revenue earned per visitor. The cost market development. The zoo should not it wants to be in the zoo business. Sole centers should include maintenance, four consider developing a weekend management by the Zoological Society or areas of animal care, gift shop, programs, “Experience Fort Wayne” pass that people city would greatly simplify zoo operations volunteers, rides, concessions, events, can buy online or through the visitor’s and eliminate unnecessary duplication (i.e., exhibits, marketing, development, and bureau, which offers combo passes to payroll, purchasing, insurance, etc.). While administration.

A4-12 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 other attractions in the city such as the for the staff, public, and Park Board to • The zoo should consider developing a non- botanical conservatory. understand this relationship. prime time rate for off-season times to • The zoo should work with the other park • The zoo should consider licensing its name encourage more visitors. By tracking and recreation attractions to coordinate and materials to gain additional funding capacity levels on a daily basis, the zoo will joint marketing efforts and cross-promote support from outside retail vendors. be able to determine off-season or non- prime times. attractions in the city. • The zoo should consider contracting with • If management and possession of the zoo several of the local caterers to provide and • The city should consider transferring the is transferred solely to the Zoological host events on zoo grounds. This would Diehm Museum of Natural History to Society, the zoo director should report provide additional revenue and increase another site and allowing the zoo to rent directly to a new Zoological Society and exposure to the zoo, especially from the space to conduct zoo programs. With a not the parks director. It is very confusing corporations. current annual visitation of approximately 2,000 individuals, this space could be used in a more effective manner by the zoo.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A4-13 Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 A4-14 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 4: Program Assessments August 2004 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments

5.1 Introduction Park Land Standards citywide park land standards. These standards should also be used to anticipate This component is based on the input and The overall standards for the amount of the need for park land in potential conclusions drawn from staff interviews, each type of park land per population reflect annexation areas and to determine land stakeholder interviews, household and user the existing and projected demographic purchases, possibly outside of city limits in group surveys, and public workshops, as structure of the Fort Wayne community and advance of development well as an assessment of Department the current and projected usage of the programs and operations. National system. These standards are generally The parks in the Fort Wayne park system are benchmarks were used to help establish a within the ranges of standards found in classified into four types: regional parks framework for the standards and design comparable cities in the region. (formerly referred to as metro), community principles recommended for Fort Wayne. parks, neighborhood parks, and block parks. Total acreage in the system, including Acreage standards do not apply to block The parks and facilities are evaluated on boulevard strips and Hurshtown Reservoir, parks, which by definition are very small, with criteria developed specifically for Fort Wayne equals 2,789.41 acres in 84 parks. If value measured by function and location to guide park land standards, facility Hurshtown Reservoir were not included, the rather than size. Deficiency comparisons are standards, and design principles for each total would be 2,429.41 acres. Of this total, not shown for block parks, since the plan classification of park. These criteria are 919.28 acres (38%) of the total system lies recommends divestiture or reclassification of designed to guide the implementation of park within a floodplain. Total mowed acreage some block parks. land acquisition and program and facility (with athletic fields) is approximately improvements that will achieve the outcomes 1,508.21 acres (62%) of the total system. Based on the public input and comparisons of the plan’s seven foundational themes. Acreage in each planning district varies from to national and regional benchmarks, the the standards in different ways. The goal of following park land ratios can serve as this plan is to balance the system by bringing guidelines for developing standards for the all sectors into a close approximation of the City of Fort Wayne:

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-1 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 • Total park land: 12 acres/1,000 Block Park restrooms; playground targeted to ages 2 population through 8; no reservable shelters • Size of park: 2 acres or less • Revenue facilities: None • Service radius: 0.25 acres per 1,000 • Regional parks: 4 acres/1,000 • Land usage: 85% active/15% passive population residents • Programming: None • Community parks: 3 acres/1,000 • Length of stay: One-half hour or less population experience • Maintenance standards: Higher than • Age segments served: One to two maintenance levels of surrounding • Neighborhood parks: 1.5 acres/1,000 neighborhood population • Amenities: No signature amenities; • Signage: Strong signage throughout the park • All other assets (block parks, special minimal to no hard surfaces; no restrooms recreation areas, plazas, greenways): • Revenue facilities: None • Landscaping: Low level 3.5 acres/1,000 • Land usage: 100% active • Parking: Five to 10 spaces including population handicap spaces; typically angled parking • Programming: No essential services; park Park Design Principles use self directed • Lighting: Security lighting only • Maintenance standards: Higher than • Naming: Not named after a neighborhood In addition to adequate land area, each park maintenance levels of surrounding or person; can be named after a natural developed on the land must also be neighborhood landmark programmed, planned, and designed to • Signage: One park sign • Other: Customize to demographics of meet the needs of its service area and neighborhood; safety design meets classification within the overall system. • Landscaping: Minimal and low level established standards (CPTED); integrated The term programming, when used in the • Parking: None color scheme throughout context of planning and developing park • Lighting: One security light land, refers to the program or list of uses • Naming: Not named after a neighborhood Community Park and facilities, not recreation programs to be or person run by staff. The program for a site can • Size of park: 10 to 50 acres • Other: N/A include such elements as ball fields, spray • Service radius: 3 acres per 1,000 residents park shelters, restrooms, game courts, • Length of stay: Two- to three-hour trails, open meadows, natural preserves, or Neighborhood Park experience interpretive areas. • Size of park: 2 to 10 acres • Age segments served: Six to eight Each classification of park serves a specific • Service radius: 1.5 acres per 1,000 • Amenities: Four signature facilities (e.g. purpose and the features and facilities in the residents trails, sports fields, shelters, community park must be designed for the number of playground, recreation center, pool, sports age segments the park serves, appropriate • Length of stay: One hour or less complex, water feature, etc.); public length of stay, and assigned uses. Figure experience restrooms provided A5-4 illustrates appropriate service areas for • Age segments served: More than four these various park classifications. The • Revenue facilities: One to two (e.g. pool, • Amenities: One signature facility (e.g. sports complex, pavilion, etc.) following principles should be considered in major playground, bandstand, etc.); no developing design standards for each class non-producing/unused amenities; no • Programming: 65% active/35% passive of park:

A5-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 • Land usage: Four to five essential services • Land usage: Up to 50% active/50% Park Distribution can be provided (e.g. sports, camps, passive aquatics, etc.) • Programming: More than three core As described in the Demographic and • Maintenance standards: Higher than services provided Growth Trend Analysis section, the demographic shift that is ongoing in the city maintenance levels of surrounding • Maintenance standards: Higher than has an effect on land use patterns. In the neighborhood maintenance levels of surrounding older sections of the city (less than three • Signage: Strong signage throughout the neighborhood miles from the urban core), the land use park • Signage: Strong signage throughout the pattern is urban, with a greater mix of uses, • Landscaping: Strong landscaping park and in the newer areas, the land use pattern throughout the park • Landscaping: Strong focal entrance and is suburban and much more homogenous. • Parking: Sufficient for amenities; occupies landscaping throughout the park This land use pattern is reflected in all land no more than 10% of park • Parking: Sufficient for amenities uses, including parks. City parks in the older • Lighting: Acceptable (sports and safety) portions of the city are typically smaller • Lighting: Acceptable (sports and safety) block and neighborhood parks. Parks outside • Naming: Not named to a neighborhood • Naming: Not named to a neighborhood the three-mile radius from the urban core • Other: Strong appeal to surrounding • Other: Safety design meets established are typically larger community and regional neighborhoods; safety design meets standards (CPTED); integrated color parks, which are automobile oriented. established standards (CPTED); integrated scheme throughout the park; linked to Smaller parks within two miles of the urban color scheme throughout the park; major trail systems; public transportation core have historically served a large partnerships developed with nearby available; dedicated full-time staff with on- population, but that population density has schools or not-for-profit organizations; site manager looped trail connectivity; linked to regional declined over the past few decades. Because park or facility the population density was higher in the Greenway past, more, but smaller parks were located in closer proximity to these residents. • Age segments served: Six to 10 Regional Park Because of the proximity to neighborhoods, • Size of park: More than 50 acres • Amenities: Walk, bike, run; pedestrian access to block and neighborhood parks in this portion of the city • Service radius: 4 acres per 1,000 residents • Parking: Community or neighborhood trail access to parking is generally better than parks beyond the • Length of stay: All-day experience three-mile ring; however there are • Lighting: None • Age segments served: 10 opportunities for improvement to • Amenities: Restrooms at trailheads only neighborhood connections to the cultural • Amenities: 10 to 12 amenities to create a institutions in the urban core, schools, and signature facility (e.g. golf course, tennis, • Signage: Half-mile markers the greenway. Improvements to linkages fields, courts, lake, regional playground, 3+ • Maintenance standards: Higher than from neighborhoods to the greenway will shelters, recreation center, pool, gardens, maintenance levels of surrounding provide access to parks, schools, cultural trails, zoo, specialty facility, etc.) public neighborhood, with a consistent minimum institutions, regional park resources, and restrooms provided; special events site level throughout the city employment centers. • Revenue facilities: More than two; park • Other: 12 feet or wider; strong color designed to produce revenue scheme; connectivity to signature/regional parks/facilities or attractions in the city

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-3 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-1

A5-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-2

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-5 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-3

A5-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-4

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-7 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Facility Standards Playgrounds • River greenway (14 miles) • NHL-size indoor ice sheets (2) In addition to park land acreage, distribution • Individual playgrounds (61): At 52 parks • Outdoor skating facilities (3) of recreation facilities is important to • Water playground (1) balancing the system. Standards for • Community centers (3) numbers or size of facilities per population Historic Structures (listed on Historic • Pools/aquatic centers (4): All outdoors, all measurement reflect the demographics of Register) heated, one with zero-depth area Fort Wayne compared to benchmark • Public golf courses (3): Foster-18 holes, communities elsewhere in the region and • Swinney Homestead at East Swinney Park par 71/McMillen executive-18 holes, par are adjusted in response to public input on • Old Wells Street Bridge at St. Mary’s River, 65/McMillen Mad Anthony Threes-nine needs and preferences. Whipple Truss Bridge holes, par 3/Shoaff-18 holes, par 3 In 2003, the Fort Wayne parks and • Golf driving ranges (2): Shoaff and recreation facilities included 93 buildings Trees (not including woods and McMillen totaling 455,714 square feet (excluding the forests) • Campground (1): 36 RV/camper sites, children’s zoo), in addition to other facilities. • Street trees (51,362) electricity, water fill, dump station, showers/restrooms, phone/Internet sites Building Breakdown • Park trees* (10,000) available • Rental pavilions (18): Psi Ote Barn has • Total trees under the care of the • Nature preserve (1): Lindenwood Department (61,362) separate upper and lower rental areas • 1930s-era working farm (1) • Open shelters (13): Not reserved or rented Other Miscellaneous Facts • Tennis centers (2): Open shelters with restrooms • Basketball courts (44): 11 with lights, all • Community centers (3)* outdoors (30 full/14 half) • Bath houses (4): At the pools • Tennis courts (62): 39 with lights, all outdoors • Golf clubhouses (3) • Ball diamonds* (39): 18 with lights (11 • Ice arena (1): Two sheets of ice hardball/26 softball/2 pickup, including • Learning center (1): Salomon Farm some diamonds no longer scheduled or • Day camp buildings (2): Franke Park used by leagues) • Botanical conservatory (1) • Football/rugby/lacrosse fields (3): None • Greenhouse (1): 0.75 acre lighted *Existing community centers are undersized • Soccer fields (20): None lighted for modern community recreation centers • Sand volleyball court (1): Outdoors • Hard-surface volleyball court (3): Outdoors The remainder are support facilities, i.e. restrooms, maintenance, etc. • Cricket field (1): Not lighted • Boat launches (3)

A5-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Based on public input and comparisons to regional and national benchmarks, the following facility ratios can serve as guidelines for developing standards for the City of Fort Wayne:

• Playground: 1 per 2,500 residents • Adult baseball field: 1 field per 8,000 residents • Youth baseball field: 1 field per 4,000 residents • Tennis court: 1 court per 9,000 residents • Golf course: 1 hole per 6,000 residents • Outdoor basketball court: 1 court per 2,500 residents • Community pool: 1 pool per 50,000 residents • Family aquatic center: 1 per 125,000 residents • Indoor basketball court: 1 square foot per resident • Recreation center: 1 square foot per resident • Open picnic shelter: 1 per 5,000 residents • Enclosed pavilion: 1 per 30,000 residents (200-person capacity) • Dog park: 1 per 50,000 residents (5 acres) • Skate park: 1 per 50,000 youth residents • Restroom: 1 per 50 acres of community and regional park* • Soccer field: 1 per 4,000 residents • Rectangular field: 1 per 10,000 residents • BMX outdoor facility: 1 per 250,000 residents • Ice skating: 1 per 75,000 residents • Spray park: 1 per 25,000 residents • Fitness: 0.3 square foot per resident (cardiovascular, free weights, aerobic) • Nature education facility: 1 per 50,000 residents • Trail/greenway: 1 mile per 3,000 residents • Outdoor adventure: 1 park per 100,000 residents

* Restrooms for special parks and facilities, existing parks, and neighborhood parks will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-9 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Park Master Plan and project; seven or more can become General Scope of Work for Most Park unwieldy. Master Plans or Design Design Process b. For small projects (under $250,000 1. Data collection and site evaluation A consistent approach to selecting park in construction or $25,000 in fees): master planning design consultants will help a. A kickoff workshop with city staff to maintain balance in the system and • Solicit qualifications from and the steering committee to consistency in the quality and approach to appropriate design profession- confirm the development program design. The Department’s policy has been to als (landscape architects, and level of design for the park, select consulting landscape architects for architects, and engineers). agree on a schedule of meetings most planning and design projects. The and reviews, and assemble data • Select one to three firms for steps outlined below can expand that available from the city on the site open-end contracts to design process by adding selection procedures for small projects over a desig- b. Optional public workshop to gather engaging design professionals in smaller nated period of time (one or information on public wants, needs, projects using open-end contracts and two years), and set a cap for and concerns for the park prior to annual/biennial selections. the contract fees for each year. beginning analysis and program- Following the selection process outline is a ming (developing a list of uses) • As projects are identified, generic planning and design process that request project-specific propos- c. Site reconnaissance to verify data provides consistent public input at key als from the appropriate firms and assess visual qualities and stages in the design process. It can also with open-end contracts. natural land organization provide a consistent process that ensures ample public review. c. For larger projects (over $250,000 d. Summary memo and graphic site in construction or $25,000 in fees): analysis Consultant Selection • Request the firms’ credentials 2. Conceptual plans 1. Form a steering committee for the park and approaches to the project. project. a. Program of uses, facilities, and • Identify any special qualifica- improvements appropriate to the 2. Prepare and issue a request for propos- tions needed for the project. park als (RFP) for a landscape architect to design the park. • Short-list and interview three b. Up to three conceptual alternatives firms. of the proposed park improvements a. The selection committee should and a cost opinion for each consist of one or two Park Board • Negotiate the final scope and members, two to three Park and fee with the selected firm (if c. Public workshop to review, discuss, Recreation Department staff, and unsuccessful with the first firm, and refine the alternatives into a one stakeholder associated with the negotiate with the second- preferred concept plan specific park. An odd number of ranked firm). members is good for the selection 3. Draft master plan committee; three is generally small, but can be appropriate depending a. Draft master (general leading to a on the size and complexity of the master plan) or master site devel-

A5-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 opment plan (schematic, leading to • Cost opinions—8.5" x 11" preliminary construction documents) hardcopy and digital Excel file and cost opinion for the park, on disk including: • Workshop summaries and • Color-rendered illustrative plan written master plan summary with program elements listed with phasing—8.5" x 11" hardcopy and digital Word file • Black-and-white phasing plan on disk with program elements listed 5. Construction documents; the consultant • Opinion of probable construction should provide the following: cost a. Preliminary design (review at 30% • Sketches or sections if appropri- complete) ate (master site development plan) b. Final design (review at 60%, 90%, and 100% complete) b. Public workshop to review and approve the draft master plan c. Bidding assistance

4. Final plan (master plan) • Pre-bid meeting (if necessary)

a. Based on the third workshop, • Addenda finalize and submit the master plan. The final master plan docu- • Bid opening ments will be submitted in the • Evaluation of bids and recom- following formats: mendation for award • Site analysis and plan alterna- 6. Construction administration tives—22" x 34" colored hardcopy and digital PDF on CD • Preconstruction meeting

• Color-rendered plan—22" x 34" • Construction observation colored hardcopy and digital PDF on CD • Change orders (if required)

• Black-and-white master plan • Review of pay requests and showing notes and phasing— recommendation for payment 22" x 34" hardcopy and digital • AutoCAD 2000 file on CD Punch list • Final walk-through

• Project closeout

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-11 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 System Overview Northwest District

The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation • Trader’s Pointe • Northwood Middle School • Camp Allen Park Department desired to have an independent • Historic Old Fort • Salomon Farm Park • Bloomingdale Park E&W consulting firm assess and evaluate each of • Zeis Park • Buckner Farm Park • Superior Property the system’s 83 parks. This was accomplished by performing individual • Little Turtle Memorial • Lindenwood Nature Preserve • Wells Street Park walkover and/or windshield site • Griswold Avenue Playlot • Gren Park • Lawton Park assessments for each of the 83 parks. Photo • Vesey Park • Hamilton Park • West Swinney Park logs and field notes were created during a • Johnny Appleseed Park • Boone Street Playlot week-long tour of the park system. • Franke Park • Roosevelt Park Park staff insight and history was invaluable for formulating assessments and Northeast District recommendations. Subsequent meetings with the steering committee and input at • Bob Arnold Northside Park • Klug Park • Hanna’s Ford public meetings helped to complete the park • Jehl Park • Lions Park • Shoaff Park assessments and recommendations. • Kraeger Park • Hurshtown Reservoir • Lakeside Park Park assessments included the following (not observed) parks: Southeast District • Headwaters Park • Hanna Homestead Park • Weisser Park • Freimann Square • Jennings Center • McMillen Park • Japanese Garden • Summit Street Block Park • Turpie Playlot • Courthouse Green • East Central Playlot • Casselwood Park • Old Forte Park • Seiling Block Park • Tillman Park • East Central Park • John Street Block Park • Brewer Park • Nuckols Memorial Park • Bowser Playground • Lafayette Park • Brackenridge Playground • Williams Park • Reservoir Park • Memorial Park • McCormick Park

A5-12 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Southwest District • Packard Park • Study Park • Botanical Conservatory • Rudisill/Fairfield Park • Psi Ote Park • Salon Plaza • Kettler Park • Indian Village (Sears) Park • Community Park • Waynedale Park • Miner Playground • Orff Park • Waynedale Gardens • McCulloch Park • Guildin Park • Mason Drive LL Complex • Moody Park • Noll Park • Bass Playground • Rockhill Park • West Central Park • Strathmore Drive • Ewing Park • Foster Park • East Swinney Park

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-13 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Facility assessments included the following: The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation • Franke Park • Shoaff Park • Weisser Park Department manages nearly 2,670 acres of land and maintains and operates over 90 - Foellinger Theater - Clubhouse - Recreation Center structures with over 450,000 square feet - Center Restroom - Golf Maintenance Barn - Pavilion under roof. These structures range from a - Pavilion No. 1 - Conklin Pavilion • Botanical Conservatory modest, pre-engineered, metal, open-air pavilion to a 48,000-square-foot botanical - Diehm Museum - Riverlodge Pavilion - Building conservatory in the heart of downtown. The - Pond Pavilion - Restrooms • Community Center park land is comprised of several park types - Day Camp Nature Center • Jennings Center - Building and sizes. For planning purposes the system is considered in five planning districts. The - Long House - Building • Foster Park four original planning districts used by the - Pavilion No. 2 • McCormick Park - Golf Cart Storage Fort Wayne Planning Department–Northwest, - Heavy Equipment Barn - Pavilion - Golf Pavilion Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest– - Maintenance Barn - Restrooms - Golf Course Restrooms divided the city geographically into quadrants roughly defined by the rivers. Figure A5-5 • Historic Old Fort Park - Shelter - Golf Maintenance Barn depicts the planning districts. - Old Fort • McMillen Park - Pavilion No. 1 • West Swinney Park - Ice Arena - Pavilion No. 2 A fifth planning district, Aboite, has been - Bath House - Pavilion - Pavilion No. 3 added to the city’s comprehensive master plan in anticipation of the annexation of - Restrooms - Aquatic Center - Restroom near No. 2 Aboite Township. To date, no parks or • Swinney Park East - Golf Operation Center - Restroom near Baseball special recreation areas are owned or - Homestead - Ball Diamond Restrooms • Foster Park West operated by the Department in this district; therefore, no assessments were performed - Tennis Center - Pool Bath House - Soccer Field Restrooms for this planning district. The general • Bob Arnold Northside Park - Shelter at LSA Course - Pawster Dog Shelter recommendations apply to all five planning - Park Office • Memorial park • Lakeside Park districts.

- Pool Equipment Building - Pool Bath House - Pavilion No. 1 There are five types of parks distributed - Psi Ote Barn - Pavilion - Pavilion No. 2 throughout the planning areas, as follows:

• Block parks (21) • Neighborhood parks (28) • Community parks (12) • Regional (formerly referred to as metro) parks (3) • Special recreation areas (19)

A5-14 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-5

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-15 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Each district summary includes park assess- „ Management of potential risk to the facility 3 - Slight ments by type, size, distribution, and specific users and occupants The facility and/or use expose users to slight amenities. Following the general summary of „ Safety/security of the facility to protect the risk of harm or injury, such as falling or tripping. each district are selected individual park facility from criminal activity assessments illustrating different classifica- 2 - Moderate „ tions of parks as they exist in each district. In Facility compliance with ADAAG The facility and/or use expose users to addition, these assessments cover the broad The audits were performed by visual moderate risk of harm or injury, such as range of opportunities for the system as a observation only with some of the audits drowning or falling more than 36 inches. The whole. For example, Buckner Park may from the exterior of the facility. The presence of cooking appliances presents a represent regional parks in the Northwest following rating system was used: risk and should be evaluated. Planning District but may also represent new park additions in any planning district. Overall Facility Condition 1 - High The facility and/or use expose users to high Overall Facilities Assessment 4 - Excellent The facility is in new or almost new condition risk of harm or injury, such as drowning (unsupervised) or high-contact sports. In general, the facilities are in good and will not require additional capital expen- condition, provide a safe and secure ditures in the near future. Safety/Security environment, pose little risk to the Department, and comply with the American 3 - Good 4 - High Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines The facility is in good condition and will The facility is secure and safe. (ADAAG). The quality of the facilities is an require capital expenditures in the future asset for the Department; however, the costing no more than 25% of the total 3 - Moderate unbalanced approach to facility management replacement value. The facility is moderately secure and safe. of the different facilities creates confusion within the community. The Department’s 2 - Fair 2 - Low programs provide the residents of Fort The facility is in fair condition and will The facility is unsecured but reasonably safe Wayne with a wide variety of activities, require capital expenditures in the future during daylight hours. some of which are unique to traditional park costing no more than 50% of the total and recreation departments. This variety replacement value. 1 - None does create a lack of definition of what The facility is unsecured and has little visual constitutes essential and unique services, 1 - Poor control from nearby roadway or walkway, which diminishes the Department’s overall The facility is in poor condition and major even during daylight hours. image. The current facilities and programs restoration is required, and the cost will are an invaluable resource to draw from in exceed 50% of the replacement value. ADA Compliance defining the future of the Department. Demolition should be considered. 4 - Full Most of the existing structures were audited The facility was constructed or upgraded and rated on the following four categories: Risk Management under current ADA guidelines.

„ Overall facility condition to determine 4 - None 3 - Mostly condition and potential future capital The facility and/or use expose users to no The facility was constructed prior to current expenditures risk of harm or injury. ADA guidelines, but has been reasonably

A5-16 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 updated to meet current standards. Full Park Types • Roosevelt Park compliance would require additional investi- • Superior Property gation. The Northwest Planning District park types are categorized as follows: 2 - Partial Park Deficiencies Block Parks (5) The facility was constructed prior to current ADA guidelines and does not comply due to • Zeis Park When park land guidelines and park and facility classifications are adopted, some deficiencies; the facility could be • Little Turtle Park upgraded to comply with major renovations. deficiencies and excesses will be found. The • Griswold Playlot guidleines will help the Department balance 1 - None • Boone Street Playlot the system. For example, if guidelines for The facility does not comply with the ADA • Wells Street Park park land are adopted, the Northwest guidelines and should be replaced with a Planning District would have the following deficiencies: new facility. Parks are organized by planning Neighborhood Parks (5) district and listed in alphabetical order. • Vesey Park Neighborhood Parks (5) Facility data is gathered from a variety of sources and should be used as reference • Gren Park • Shortage of 34 acres material only; information provided should • Hamilton Park be verified prior to use for other purposes. Community Parks (4) • Camp Allen • Surplus of 274 acres Assessments by District • Bloomingdale East and West Park Regional Parks (3) 5.2 Northwest Planning District Community Parks (4) • Surplus of 132 acres • Franke Park There are 22 parks in the Northwest • Johnny Appleseed Park Planning District totaling 1,078 acres, Special Recreation Areas (6) including over 27 facilities with more than • Lawton Park • Shortage of 21 acres 80,000 square feet. The inner city areas are • West Swinney Park served with a preponderance of smaller parks while the outer areas are served with Total Park Land Regional Parks (2) a few larger parks. Approximately 85% of • Shortage of 15 acres the parks comprise two-thirds of the • Buckner Farm Park district’s park acreage and serve the inner • Salomon Farm city areas, leaving 15% of the parks comprising one-third of the district’s park Special Recreation Areas (6) acreage. Figure A5-6 depicts the service area for community, neighborhood, and • Trader’s Point regional parks in this district. • Historic Old Fort • Northwood Middle School • Lindenwood Nature Preserve

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-17 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Selected Park and Facility • Security/Safety: The facilities are hour expected of neighborhood parks. The Assessments reasonably safe and secure during daylight majority of the ball field area also serves as hours; however, the lack of visibility from a detention area for storm water runoff. Special Recreation Area: Historic Old the adjacent roadway prevents easy Flooding could cause scheduling delays for Fort Park monitoring of the facilities. league play. With defined signage, security lighting, and a maintenance plan, this park Park Assessment • ADA Compliance: The facilities do not comply with the ADAAG because of narrow could serve nicely as a small community This park is situated in the flood plain along entrances and non-paved paths. park. the St. Mary’s River. The site is extremely Community Parks: Franke Park difficult to approach from Spy Run Avenue. Neighborhood Park: Bloomingdale Park Proposed parking on the opposite side of Spy East and West Park Assessment Run Avenue will require extreme measures to ensure a safe pedestrian crossing over Park Assessment This 329-acre community park exceeds the Spy Run, either via an overhead pedestrian suggested 50- to 200-acre size range of a bridge or a pedestrian underpass as previ- Although slightly larger than the 2 to 10 regional park, and its multiple signature ously proposed. Potential flooding could acres suggested for a neighborhood park, facilities and revenue centers are typical create adverse safety conditions in any this 11-acre park has the appropriate amenities expected in a regional park. These proposed tunnels and a breach in the flood amenities to serve a neighborhood. The amenities support a length of stay of six to levee. This special recreation area is linked basketball courts and playground areas are eight hours, much longer than the two to to Headwaters Park via a pedestrian bridge typical signature facilities expected in a three hours expected of community parks. over the St. Mary’s River. Efforts to direct neighborhood park. The parking count This park is in the flood plain and much of pedestrian access from Headwaters Park exceeds the guidelines for a neighborhood the open space also serves as a detention would only improve the safety of this park. park. With defined signage, security lighting, area. With defined signage, security lighting, This park provides a place for a yearly re- and maintenance plan, this park will continue and a maintenance plan, this park could enactment event and therefore provides a to be an asset for the Department while serve as a major regional park. unique facility to the Department. protecting the riparian buffer along St. Mary’s River. Facility Assessment Facility Assessment Neighborhood Park: Hamilton Park Franke Park is home to the Fort Wayne The park is home to a replica of the second Children’s Zoo, Foellinger Theater , Diehm fort in Fort Wayne, built by John Whistler, Park Assessment Museum, Day Camp Nature Center, Long that illustrates historic construction types. House, BMX facility, two full rental pavilions, This 16-acre neighborhood park generally The park is now partially hidden behind a two maintenance barns, and a restroom meets the guidelines for a community park. new earth embankment, and is not entirely building. In general, the facilities are in good The size falls within the 10- to 50-acre size visible from the roadway. condition. The zoo structures were not of a community park, and its multiple assessed due to their unique qualities and „ Risk Management: The facilities have a signature facilities such as restrooms, tennis the fact that they are currently maintained by high risk rating. The structures are located courts, ball fields, basketball courts, and the Zoological Society under an agreement within the flood plain, are in deteriorated playground area are typical amenities with the Department. The Foellinger Theater condition, and portions are hidden from expected in a community park. These was rebuilt in 1976 and has undergone security surveillance. amenities support a length of stay of two to recent improvements. The lessee of the BMX three hours, much longer than the one-half

A5-18 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 facility maintains it. - Add new features periodically equate for the facilities offered. The swim- - Good marketing/promotion ming pool, which needs improvements, is the • Risk Management: The facilities have a featured revenue facility. Improvements slight risk rating. All the structures, except - Currently 500,000 visitors/year: Capacity could include sprays and slides to broaden for the BMX building and the nature center 600,000/year (10-year goal) activities and appeal. With defined signage, are located within the flood plain. - Open 365 days/year for programs; late security lighting, and a maintenance plan, • Security/Safety: The facilities are April to mid-October; general public 9:00 this community park will continue to be an reasonably safe and secure. a.m. to 5:00 p.m. asset for the community. Identified as a • ADA Compliance: The facilities, except for - Budget $3.2 million; 95% revenue cultural resource, future park improvements the nature center and the Diehm Museum, generated; 5% other earned income should adhere to the guidelines in the Cultural Resources Report. generally comply with ADAAG. The nature - 10,500 season pass holders/ center’s restroom entries are too narrow, memberships Facility Assessment and the showers are non-accessible. The - 38% visitors from Allen County museum is a two-story structure and may The park is home to a pool house and a require an elevator to comply. - 90% visitors from 50-mile radius restroom building. The pool house is nearly • Program Sampling - 330,000 participants/year for small 20 years old, and should be modernized. group formal programs - Park: Day camp (summer), outdoor • Risk Management: The pool facility has a - Some programs fee-based/some free education, outdoor recreation, trips moderate risk rating and should be (canoe, rock-climbing, caving, rafting, - Off-site: Visit third grade classes, evaluated. backpacking, hunting, and skiing preschools, and nursing homes • Security/Safety: The facilities are - Staff for entire program and three - More multi-use indoor program space reasonably safe and secure. nature centers (one full-time, one part- needed • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally time staff) - Liquor license needed for fundraisers comply with ADAAG. - Low attendance - Staff: 45 full-time/20 part-time/50 • Program Sampling: Lessons, water - Free outdoor education programs to seasonal/1,000 casual volunteers/200 exercise, rentals public active volunteers - Full capacity at free programs - Full-time staff dedicated to programs Regional Park: Buckner Park - Special events: 2,400 attendance Park Assessment - Low-cost programs for schools/Boy Community Park: West Swinney Park Scouts/Girl Scouts This undeveloped, 193-acre park is suited Park Assessment - Competition: Allen County/YMCA/YWCA for development as a regional park. High- quality natural features are an asset that - Collaborations with: Acres Land Trust/ This 48-acre park falls within the suggested should be preserved using sound Audubon/Hoosier Relief/Tri State 2 10- to 50-acre size range for a community development practices. Securing adjacent Cylinder Club (Antique Tractors) park and has the appropriate amenities to serve a community park. The gardens, ball undeveloped parcels could improve the - Zoo programs: Education about animals, fields, basketball courts, and playground flexibility to develop the park with minimal 50 sleepovers annually, teen programs area are typical signature facilities expected disruption to the best natural areas. Multiple in a community park. The parking is ad- revenue sources and signature amenities

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-19 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 can easily be situated on this property while Park Deficiencies ball fields, basketball courts, and playground maintaining its rural nature. area are typical amenities expected in a When park land guidelines and park and community park. These amenities support a 5.3 Northeast Planning District facility classifications are adopted, length of stay of two to three hours, much deficiencies and excesses will be found. The longer than the one-half hour expected of Nine parks in the Northeast Planning District guidelines will help the Department balance neighborhood parks. Parking is adequate for total 850 acres and include 18 facilities with the system. For example, if guidelines for the facilities; however, distribution could over 85,000 square feet. The inner city areas park land are adopted, the Northeast improve as some amenities lack convenient are served with a few smaller parks while Planning District would have the following access. The swimming pool is the featured the outer areas are served with a few larger deficiencies: revenue facility and the premier aquatic parks. Nearly 45% of the parks comprising center in the city. With defined signage, 5% of the district’s park acreage serve the Neighborhood Parks (5) lighting, and a maintenance plan, this park inner city areas, leaving 55% of the parks • Shortage of 27 acres could serve as a marquee community park comprising 95% of the district’s park acre- that is also the home of Department head- age. Figure A5-7 depicts the service area for Community Parks (1) quarters. community, neighborhood, and regional parks in this district. • Shortage of 32 acres Facility Assessment

Park Types Regional Parks (1) The park is home to the park headquarters, pool house, pump house, and two-level rental Block Parks (0) • Shortage of 65 acres pavilion. The lower level of the rental pavilion is available year round. The facilities are in Neighborhood Parks (5) Special Recreation Areas (2) good condition and most do not require • Bob Arnold Northside Park • Surplus of 36 acres immediate capital investment; however the • Jehl Park rental pavilion does require new wood exterior decking at the second floor entrance. • Klug Park Total Park Land • Lakeside Park • Shortage of 375 acres • Risk Management: The pool facility has a moderate risk rating and should be • Lions Park evaluated. Selected Park and Facility • Security/Safety: The facilities are Community Parks (1) Assessments reasonably safe and secure. • Shoaff Park Neighborhood Park: Bob Arnold • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally Northside Park comply with ADAAG. Regional Parks (1) Park Assessment • Kreager Park Neighborhood Park: Lakeside Park This 37-acre neighborhood park falls within Park Assessment Special Recreation Areas (2) the suggested 10- to 50-acre size range of a community park, and its multiple signature • Hanna’s Ford This 24-acre neighborhood park falls within facilities such as restrooms, tennis courts, the suggested 10- to 50-acre size range of a • Hurshtown Reservoir

A5-20 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 community park, and its multiple signature exceeds the guideline for a neighborhood and heavy timber facility. The Riverlodge facilities such as ponds, pavilions, restrooms, park. With defined signage, security lighting, Pavilion was originally constructed in 1910 tennis courts, basketball courts, and play- and a maintenance plan, this park will and has undergone several renovations. The ground area are typical amenities expected continue to be an asset and sustain the pavilion is available for rental three seasons in a community park. These support a length mature trees along Rolston Street. of the year; however, its proximity to the of stay of two to three hours, much longer adjacent waterway exposes it to frequent than the one-half hour expected of neighbor- Community Parks: Shoaff Park flooding. hood parks. Parking is adequate for the facilities and is centrally located to serve Park Assessment • Risk Management: The Riverlodge Pavilion has a moderate risk rating due to the most amenities. A rose garden and pavilions This 184-acre community park meets the frequent flooding of the adjacent waterway are the featured revenue facilities. With suggested 50- to 200-acre size range of a and should be evaluated. The two pavilions defined signage, lighting, and a maintenance regional park, with the multiple signature and restroom building are located within plan, this park could serve as a community facilities and revenue centers that are typical the flood plain. park. Identified as a cultural resource, future amenities expected in a regional park. This park improvements should adhere to the park is one of three city parks with golf (a • Security/Safety: The facilities are guidelines in the Cultural Resources Report. revenue center). These amenities support a reasonably safe and secure; the Riverlodge Pavilion should be evaluated for Facility Assessment length of stay of six to eight hours, much longer than the two to three hours expected risk from flash floods of the adjacent The park is home to two rental pavilions and of community parks. Parking and vehicular waterway. the rose garden. The facilities are attractive, circulation is poorly arranged and in need of • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally used regularly, and in good condition. reconfiguration. This park is in the flood plain comply with ADAAG, except for the and its open space also serves as a deten- clubhouse restrooms and park restrooms. • Risk Management: The facilities have a tion area; flooding can curtail play on the The park restrooms require a paved path. slight risk rating. golf course. With defined signage, security • Program Sampling: Junior golf, adult lighting, and a maintenance plan, this park • Security/Safety: The facilities are lessons, outings, leagues reasonably safe and secure. could serve as a regional park. - Operates at 90% capacity during prime • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally Facility Assessment time comply with ADAAG. The park is home to the golf clubhouse, - Operates at 80% capacity during non- prime time Neighborhood Park: Lions Park associated structures, park restroom building, and two rental pavilions. The - Par 3 course is 40 years old Park Assessment existing maintenance barn is in need of - Best course for outings extensive repair that will exceed 50% of the This 14-acre park is slightly larger than the 2 replacement value; therefore the structure to 10 acres suggested for a neighborhood should be evaluated for demolition and 5.4 Southeast Planning District park but has the appropriate amenities to replacement. The golf clubhouse is a small, There are 26 parks in the Southeast serve a neighborhood. The tennis and 1960s structure with limited space for a pro basketball courts, ball fields, and playground Planning District consisting of 383 acres, shop, concessions, and office. The park including 19 facilities with nearly 100,000 areas are typical signature facilities expected restrooms require renovation. The Conklin in a neighborhood park. The parking count square feet. The inner city areas are served Pavilion is an attractive, large, 1957 stone with a preponderance of smaller parks while

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-21 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-6

A5-22 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 the outer areas are served with a few larger • McMillen Park Total Park Land parks. 77% of the parks comprising one- • Memorial Park • Shortage of 224 acres third of the district’s park acreage serve the inner city areas, leaving 23% of the parks to comprise two-thirds of the district’s park Regional Parks (0) Selected Park and Facility acreage. Figure A5-8 illustrates the service Assessments area for community, neighborhood, and Special Recreation Areas (4) regional parks. Special Recreation Areas: Jennings • Courthouse Green Center Park Types • Freimann Square Facility Assessment Block Parks (10) • Japanese Garden The facility was built in 1947 and has had • Bowser Playground • Jennings Center numerous improvements. The building is in • Brackenridge Playground good condition but needs a new roof over • East Central Playlot (Eastside) Park Deficiencies the entry and some masonry tuck-pointing. The existing building and parking lot are • John Street Block Park When park land guidelines and park and undersized for a typical community center. • Nuckols Memorial Park facility classifications are adopted, • Old Fort Park deficiencies and excesses will be found. The • Risk Management: The facilities have a guidelines will help the Department balance slight risk rating. • Seiling Block Park the system. For example, if the guidelines • Security/Safety: The facilities are • Summit Street Block Park for park land are adopted, the Southeast reasonably safe and secure. Planning District would have the following • Turpie Playlot • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally deficiencies: • Williams Park comply with ADAAG. Neighborhood Parks (10) • Program Sampling: Sports, arts and crafts, Neighborhood Parks (8) • Shortage of 16 acres social programs, educational programs, after-school programs, special events • Brewer Park - Target market is 5 to 18, 19 to 25, • Casselwood Park Community Parks (3) seniors • East Central Park • Surplus of 161 acres - Programming is free based on the • Hanna Homestead Park economic depressed area • Lafayette Park Regional Parks (0) - Utilizes middle school gym and other • McCormick Park • Shortage of 200 acres community facilities for off-site programs • Reservoir Park - Most programs are walk-in and are at capacity based on the small size of the • Weisser Park Special Recreation Areas (4) center • Surplus of 23 acres - Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Community Parks (3) Monday through Friday; open on • Headwaters Park weekends for rentals only

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-23 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-7

A5-24 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 - Current staff: One full-time, five part- tive stone and heavy timber building, that will constructed in 1996 and has been main- time (eight part-time in summer) require a new roof and windows in the near tained well. The pavilion is in good condition. - Staff to child ratio is 1 to 25 (1 to 40 in future. • Risk Management: The center’s extensive summer) and should be between 1 to 10 • Risk Management: The facilities have a programs are non-traditional and should and 1 to 15 (summer) slight risk rating. be evaluated. - Volunteer base of 45 people for coaching • Security/Safety: The facilities are • Security/Safety: The facilities are and special events reasonably safe and secure. reasonably safe and secure. • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally Neighborhood Parks: McCormick Park comply with ADAAG; however, there is no comply with ADAAG. access to the shelter building with • Program Sampling: Trips, computer lab, Park Assessment restrooms via a paved path. tutoring, arts and crafts, meals, special events, pool, shuffleboard, table tennis, Although slightly larger than the 2 to 10 weight lifting, fitness, social programs acres suggested for a neighborhood park, Neighborhood Parks: Weisser Park this 12-acre park has the appropriate - Partners with other centers in area, Park Assessment amenities to serve a neighborhood. The existing leagues, metro football, Y leagues pavilion, basketball court, and playground This 20-acre neighborhood park falls within areas are typical signature facilities expected the suggested 10- to 50-acre size range of a - Operate at or over capacity; safety issue in a neighborhood park. The parking count community park, and its multiple signature with the number and ages of children; exceeds the guideline for a neighborhood facilities such as the recreation center, staff to child ratio is extremely high park; however, the basketball court lacks pavilion, tennis courts, basketball courts, and - Current staff: Three full-time, four part- appropriate access as parking often crowds playground area are typical amenities time, two grant-funded full-time around the intersection of McCormick Street expected in a community park. The adjacent - Normal hours: 12:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Redwood Avenue. Improved distribution school already draws the community to this Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to of parking would help relieve this crowding. location. These amenities support a length of 2:00 p.m. Saturday, events only on The on-call restroom would be an unneces- stay of two to three hours, much longer than Sunday sary amenity for a neighborhood park the one-half hour expected of neighborhood without a rented-out pavilion. If the pavilion parks. Parking is adequate for the facilities - Have 100 kids in Saturday school; had were not a revenue source, then users most offered and is centrally located to serve most almost 800 kids in park for event likely would not stay at this park for more amenities. The recreation center is the than one hour, and restrooms would not be featured revenue facility. With defined Neighborhood Parks: Brewer Park needed. With defined signage, security signage, security lighting, and a maintenance lighting, and a maintenance plan, this park plan, this park could serve as a community Park Assessment will continue to serve as a neighborhood park while preserving a stand of mature park. trees adjacent to Drexel Street. This 5-acre park generally meets the guide- lines for a neighborhood park, and has the Facility Assessment Facility Assessment appropriate amenities to serve a neighbor- The park is home to a pavilion, shelter, and hood. The ball field and playground areas The park is home to the Weisser Recreation are typical signature facilities expected in a restroom building. The pavilion is an attrac- Center and a pavilion. The center was

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-25 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 neighborhood park. Since this park lacks was built in 1960. The small size of the - Concessions and pro shop are leased out parking, five to 10 spaces should be added. structure limits its potential as a revenue to contracted vendors With defined signage, security lighting, and a source. The pavilion is a stone and heavy - Open public skating hours are Friday, 7:00 maintenance plan, this park will continue to timber building. p.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Saturday, 4:30 p.m. to be an asset by providing facilities for orga- 6:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 • Risk Management: The facilities have a nized groups. p.m.; Monday, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., slight risk rating, except for the pool house and Wednesday, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Community Parks: McMillen Park (moderate) and the ice arena (high). These two facilities should be evaluated. - Current staffing level is four full-time and Park Assessment 20 part-time • Security/Safety: The facilities are This 168-acre community park meets the reasonably safe and secure; however, the - The operation is at 80% cost recovery suggested 50- to 200-acre size range of a park suffers from the perception of being with an annual debt service of $400,000/ regional park, and its multiple signature unsafe because of the park’s inner city year facilities and revenue centers are typical location. - Pool: Lessons, water exercise, and sand amenities expected in a regional park. This • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally basketball park is one of three locations that provide comply with ADAAG, except for the golf - Renovated to add leisure pool golf (a revenue source). These amenities clubhouse, which needs new restrooms to components like slides, sprays, spray support a length of stay of six to eight hours, comply. pool, sand basketball, and drop slide much longer than the two to three hours • Program Sampling: expected of community parks. Multiple - Utilized for Lifetime Sports Academy revenue centers including the ice rink, the - Ice Arena: Youth hockey, adult hockey, - Golf course: Junior golf, outings, adult Lifetime Sports Academy, golf, and the beginning skating, figure skating, lessons, and leagues lessons, birthday parties, open public aquatic center could cause congestion and - Operates at 85% capacity at prime time conflicts. This park has significant infrastruc- skating, and ice rental - Operates at 60% capacity at non-prime ture improvement needs, especially improv- - Rent ice to Fort Wayne Youth Hockey: time ing drainage south of the area. Improved Five travel teams and six high school separation of pedestrian and vehicular teams Community Parks: Memorial Park circulation and an improved informal walking - There are currently 28 house teams and Park Assessment path are needed. With defined signage, two adult leagues programmed inhouse security lighting, and a maintenance plan, This 42-acre park falls within the suggested this park could serve as a major regional - Hockey is currently at 80% capacity with non-prime time available 10- to 50-acre size range for a community park. park and has the appropriate amenities to - Prime time is considered Monday serve a community. The walking trails, ball Facility Assessment through Friday, after 4:00 p.m., and all fields, basketball courts, pool, and weekend hours The park is home to the ice arena, pool playground area are typical signature house, pavilion, and golf clubhouse and - Prime time ice rental is $210/hour facilities expected in a community park. associated buildings. The ice arena was - Non-prime time nice rental is $150/hour, Unique to this park is a water play area that recently expanded in 2000, and a new 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. complements the signature facilities well. parking lot was added in 2003. The pool Parking is adequate for the facilities offered - There are two sheets of ice plus a studio house was built in 1949 and has had some and is centrally located. Efforts to reduce rink recent improvements. The golf clubhouse vehicular traffic through the park have

A5-26 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-8

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-27 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 succeeded. A swimming pool, water play 5.5 Southwest Planning District • Psi Ote Park area, and pavilion are the featured revenue • Rockhill Park facilities. Improvements are needed in the There are 26 parks in the Southwest Planning condition of some facilities. With defined District consisting of 443 acres, including 26 • Study Park signage, security lighting, and a facilities with more than 130,000 square feet. • Waynedale Gardens maintenance plan, this community park will The inner city areas are served with many • Waynedale Park continue to be an asset while preserving small parks while the outer areas are served unique open space. Identified as a cultural with a few large parks. 65% of the parks Regional Parks (0) resource, future park improvements should comprising one-quarter of the district’s park adhere to the guidelines in the Cultural acreage serve the inner city areas, leaving Resources Report. 35% of the parks comprising three-quarters Special Recreation Areas (7) of the district’s park acreage. Figure A5-9 • Botanical Conservatory Facility Assessment depicts the service area for community, neighborhood, and regional parks in this • Community Center The park is home to a pavilion and a pool district. • Guilden Park house. The pavilion is an attractive stone and • Mason Drive LL Complex heavy timber building. The pool house Park Types exterior was recently upgraded in 2003. • Noll Park Block Parks (6) • Salon Plaza • Risk Management: The pool house has a • Bass Playground moderate risk rating and should be • Strathmore Drive evaluated. • Ewing Park • Security/Safety: The facilities are • Miner Playground Park Deficiencies reasonably safe and secure. However, • Orff Park When park land guidelines and park and there is some concern with safety at the • Rudisill/Fairfield Park facility classifications are adopted, pool caused by the unruly behavior of a • West Central Play Lot deficiencies and excesses will be found. The few users. guidelines will help the department balance • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally the system. For example, if guidelines for comply with ADAAG. Community Parks (3) park land are adopted, the Southwest • Program Sampling: • East Swinney Park Planning District would have the following deficiencies: - Lessons, water exercise • Foster Park - Pool attendance is very low compared to • Foster West Park Neighborhood Parks (9) other pools within the park system. A • Surplus of 14 acres spray pool was installed adjacent to pool Neighborhood Parks (10) building, which may affect pool Community Parks (3) attendance • Indian Village Park • Kettler Park • Surplus of 187 acres • McCullough Park Regional Parks (0) • Moody Park • Shortage of 180 acres • Packard Park

A5-28 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Special Recreation Areas (7) - Liquor license in place • Program Sampling: • Surplus of 3 acres - Leases space to Council on Aging, - School course most popular; at capacity; program collaboration with Health curriculum for each age group/grade Total Park Land Visions - Youth: Starting to take off with new staff • Shortage of 108 acres - Programs are enrolled at over capacity programmer - Need more program staff; currently have - Adult: Educational/entertaining/ Selected Park and Facility four full-time, three part-time, and 60 botanical-oriented Assessments seasonal (during summer) - Special events: Seven to eight per year, - Have gone from nine full-time senior 1,000 to 2,000 participants per event, Special Recreation Areas: Community program staff to one full-time family-oriented Center - Current full-time staff for entire center - Rentals: Most profitable, only place like it Facility Assessment includes one center director, one adult in town for weddings/proms/parties programmer, one youth programmer, - Current staff: 10 full-time/part-time; do The Community Center is in good condition one office manager their own instruction or with volunteers and has recent interior improvements. The - Current part-time staff includes one - Strong volunteer group (350) with 200 building is over 30 years old and appears to custodian have been well maintained and modernized. active conservators - No dedicated capital funding source in • Risk Management: The facility has a slight Special Recreation Areas: Botanical place and endowment/foundation is risk rating. Conservatory declining • Security/Safety: The facilities are - Attendance was strong when first Facility Assessment reasonably safe and secure; however, the opened, has consistently gone down parking lot does not have controlled The conservatory is in fair condition, except - Goal is to increase attendance; Got grant access, which may be required given its for the heating and cooling plant. The plant for marketing and attendance is slightly up downtown location. is scheduled for replacement in the near • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally future, which should help reduce energy comply with ADAAG. consumption. The building is over 30 years Neighborhood Parks: Packard Park old and will require capital expenditures to • Program Sampling: Park Assessment modernize the remaining building systems. - Free programs, advice programs The facility does not have onsite parking for (health, taxes, financing, etc.), strong This 4-acre park generally meets the guide- visitors but is across the street from a public rental program lines for a neighborhood park and has the parking deck. appropriate amenities to serve a neighbor- - Few preschool programs on Saturdays, hood. The pavilion, tennis courts, ball field, • Risk Management: The facility has a slight billiards, wood shop, arts and crafts and playground areas are typical signature risk rating. - Strong rental program sometimes facilities expected in a neighborhood park. prohibits programming • Security/Safety: The facilities are Since this park has no parking, five to 10 - Facility layout is not conducive to reasonably safe and secure. parking spaces should be added. If the programming • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally pavilion were not a revenue source, then comply with ADAAG. users most likely would not stay at this park

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-29 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 for more than one hour, and restrooms timber construction; however, because asset to the community. Brush and young would not be needed. With defined signage, Pavilion No. 3 is severely deteriorated, trees along the river which block water views security lighting, and a maintenance plan, secluded, and difficult to patrol, it should be and visually separate East Swinney from this park will continue to serve as a neigh- relocated or removed. Pavilion No. 1 is in West Swinney should be thinned or re- borhood park need of a new interior tin ceiling, and moved. With defined signage, security Pavilion No. 2 is in need of a new roof. lighting, and a maintenance plan, this Community Parks: Foster Park community park will continue to be an asset. (including West) • Risk Management: The facilities have a Identified as a cultural resource, future park slight risk rating; however, Pavilion No. 3 is improvements should adhere to the guide- Park Assessment currently inaccessible and not visible from lines in the Cultural Resources Report. the roadway, making the facility vulnerable This 277-acre community park exceeds the to vandalism. All the structures are located Facility Assessment suggested 50 to 200-acre size range for a within the flood plain. regional park, and its multiple signature The park is home to a National Historic • Security/Safety: The facilities are facilities and revenue centers are typical Register-listed homestead and a tennis reasonably safe and secure, except for amenities expected in a regional park. This center. The homestead is an attractive 1880s Pavilion No. 3, for reasons noted above. park is one of three locations that provide home and is well maintained, but it will golf (a revenue source). Golf supports a • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally require ongoing monitoring to preserve it. length of stay of six to eight hours, much comply with ADAAG, except for Pavilion No. The tennis center was renovated in 1996 but longer than the two to three hours expected 3, which is not accessible via a paved path. will require a new roof in the near future. of community parks. Parking and vehicular • Program Sampling: Junior golf, adult circulation is in need of improvement. • Risk Management: The facilities have a lessons, outings, and leagues Improved separation of pedestrian and slight risk rating. - Operates at 90% capacity at prime times vehicular circulation is needed. Foster • Security/Safety: The facilities are Gardens is a special site amenity and - 80% capacity at non-prime times reasonably safe and secure. revenue center. With defined signage, - Par 72 course is 75 years old security lighting, and a maintenance plan, • ADA Compliance: The facilities generally this park could serve as a regional park. comply with ADAAG. Community Parks: East Swinney Park Facility Assessment Park Assessment 5.6 Aboite Planning District The park is home to the golf clubhouse, golf This 46-acre park falls within the suggested The existing park in the Aboite Planning restroom building, golf cart storage building, District is owned and operated by Aboite golf rental pavilion, three rental pavilions, 10- to 50-acre size range for a community park and has the appropriate amenities to Township. The school and township collabo- two park restroom buildings, and Pawster rate on management. The school totals 66 Dog Park. The clubhouse was recently serve a community. The pond, tennis courts, and playground area are typical signature acres and includes one facility. This park is renovated due to flood damage; however, currently the only park in the district. the existing size of the building is insufficient facilities expected in a community park. for the pro shop, concessions, and office. Parking is adequate for the facilities offered. Park Types The siding and roof on the cart storage A tennis center is the featured revenue building require replacement. The three facility with the potential to produce revenue Block Parks (0) pavilions are attractive stone and heavy at the historic Swinney Homestead. This homestead provides yet another unique Neighborhood Parks (0)

A5-30 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 FIGURE A5-9

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A5-31 Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Community Parks (1) Neighborhood Parks (0) Selected Park and Facility • Aboite Township Park • Shortage of 38 acres Assessments Community Park: Aboite Township Park Regional Parks (0) Community Parks (1) • Shortage of 9 acres Park Assessment Special Recreation Areas (0) This 66-acre neighborhood park generally Regional Parks (0) meets the guidelines of a community park. Park Deficiencies • Shortage of 100 acres However, it exceeds the suggested 10 to 50- acre size range of a community park, and its When park land guidelines and park and signature facility–a destination playground– facility classifications are adopted, Special Recreation Areas (0) and soccer fields are typical amenities deficiencies and excesses will be found. The • Shortage of 13 acres expected in a community park. These guidelines will help the Department balance amenities support a length of stay of two to the system. The Aboite District is a Total Park Land three hours, much shorter than the six to surburban area with green space provided eight hours expected of the larger regional • Shortage of 235 acres within planned neighborhoods. However, if parks, but typical of a community park. the guidelines for park land are adopted, the Aboite Planning District would have the following deficiencies:

A5-32 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 5: Parks and Facilities Assessments August 2004 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans

6.1 Camps Franke Park Day Camp p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Wednesday camp times are Description of Program and First established in 1946, this camp is the from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Services longest ongoing camp offered by the Department. Franke Park Day Camp Site amenities at Franke Park Day Camp The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation provides children with enjoyable outdoor include a nature lodge, large meeting Department offers a variety of camps for experiences that foster cooperation among room, trails, two ponds, a creek, canoes, youth ages 4 to 18. The camps are participants through learning, playing, and backpacking equipment. The camp has primarily hosted at Franke Park, Salomon working, problem solving, and socializing. access to the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, Farm, or Lindenwood Nature Preserve. The emphasis in this camp is on basic which is also located within Franke Park. Each camp typically has a unique theme camping skills, nature education, and Native with activities related to this theme. American dances and art. Salomon Farm Activities may include creative writing, Located on the outskirts of the city, nature study, outdoor camping skills, Programs are available for children ages 4 Salomon Farm is home to the Farmin’ Fun historical farm life, animal husbandry, art, and 5, 6 to 8, 9 to 11, and 12 to 18. The Day Camp. The camp allows kids to learn science, and Native American lore. advanced camper program, for youth ages 12 to 18, allows for progressive about farming life in the 1930s and 1940s, All camps are held weekdays during the advancement to the status of counselor-in- play period games, work in a garden, care summer months when public schools are training. Seven one-week sessions are for livestock (sheep and goats), explore out of session. Camps are generally offered, with campers up to age 11 limited nature, and make crafts. Salomon Farm scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 to enrolling in one session each summer. offers the only farm-related camp in the p.m., with before- and after-camp care The camp can serve 260 campers per Fort Wayne area. offered by the Franke Park Day Camp. week. Weekly camp fees are $73 per child Sessions are available for children ages 4 Camps are operated one to seven weeks ($63/week for counselors-in-training). and 5 and 6 to 12. Six sessions are offered each summer. Camp is held from 9:00 a.m. until 3:30 each summer with enrollment space for 30

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-1 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 to 50 participants per week. A resident/ pavilion, and picnic tables. The preserve is Use of the before- and after-camp care non-resident fee structure is used, with also home to a variety of wildlife. program has generally been declining over fees ranging from $50 to $96, depending the past five years. The number of on the age or resident status of the Other Workshops participants enrolled in this service is down participant. Camp is held from 8:00 a.m. 44.6% between 1998 and 2002. Only 98 Several outdoor-related workshops are until 12:00 p.m. for ages 4 and 5 and from children, or 5.3% of all campers, were provided by the Department at either 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. for ages 6 to 12. registered in the extended care program in Salomon Farm or Lindenwood Nature 2002. As recently as 1999, nearly 11% of Preserve. These one-day sessions cover a Salomon Farm also hosts Aartvarks Young all campers were part of this program. Artists Workshop for children ages 8 to 10. variety of topics such as entomology, This camp introduces participants to forestry, biology, and creating crafts from Historically, the Campership financial aid tempera paints, oils, pastels, inks, and nature. The length of the programs vary program has been offered to help children paper maché. Five concurrent one-week from several hours to most of the day. from economically disadvantaged families sessions can each accommodate eight to participate in Franke Park Day Camp. From Market Assessment 16 participants. The registration fee is $48 1998 to 2000, between 1.3% and 3.6% of to $58, depending on residency. Aartvarks Franke Park Day Camp all campers registered through the financial is held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. aid program. Over the past two years, no Participation at Franke Park Day Camp has scholarships were offered by the day Site amenities at Salomon Farm include a remained strong over the past five years, camp. new, air-conditioned learning center; large based on the total number of registrations. barn; outbuildings; summer kitchen; Since 1998, the camp has served, on Utilizing population data from the 2000 vegetable garden; creek; farm fields; average, 1,821 youth per year or 260 census, Franke Park Day Camp serves pond; wetlands; woods; and apple campers per session. Registrations in 2002 approximately 4% of the Fort Wayne orchard. were up a modest 6.2% from 1998. population ages 4 to 18. The camp has its Without expanding the camp facilities, highest market penetration in the 6- to 11- Lindenwood Nature Preserve future growth is essentially impossible year-old segment, reaching around 7% of the population. Approximately 1% of the This 110-acre wooded park is home to the given that the camp is operating at 97% teen population (ages 12 to 18) Outdoor Explorers Day Camp. This camp capacity. participates in the advanced camper and focuses on nature study, ecology, outdoor counselor-in-training programs. initiative, and cooperative games.

This camp is for children ages 6 to 8. Five Salomon Farm Camp concurrent one-week sessions are offered In 2002, the first year of this new program, in late June that can each accommodate 215 youth between the ages of 6 and 12 15 to 25 participants. The registration fee participated in the farm camp. Historical is $35 to $42, depending on residency. comparisons are not available due to the age of this program. This camp serves less Site amenities at Lindenwood Nature than 1% of the population in its target Preserve include four hiking trails (one of market of youth ages 4 to 12. which is wheelchair accessible), a pond, old-growth forest, fire range, open-air

A6-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Lindenwood Camps and „ Red Cedar since 1998, but are largely due to Workshops „ Salvation Army significantly higher natural gas rates. Substantial cost savings have been realized „ In 2002, 46 children between the ages of 6 Science Central over the five-year timeframe in contractual and 12 participated in the Lindenwood „ TAH CUM WAH Recreation Center labor (59.9%) and inhouse labor (57.4%). camps or workshops. Itemized registration „ YMCA/Camp Potawotami figures, as reported in the Department’s Program and Facilities Financial Statements „ YWCA and Attendance Report, were unavailable for camps offered at Lindenwood Nature Revenue and Expense Analysis Preserve. For this reason, a historical analysis could not be completed. The Over the past five years, Franke Park Day Lindenwood camps and workshops serve Camps has transitioned from a subsidized less that 0.5% of its target market of to a break-even program. The camp posted children ages 6 to 12. an operating gain of $12,106 in 2002, as opposed to the $20,623 deficit realized in Competition 1998. This change is the dual result of a four-year increase in revenues (27.9%) There are numerous summer camp and decrease in expenses (1.9%). programs offered in the Fort Wayne A detailed financial analysis could not be community beyond those provided by the performed on the Salomon Farm and Parks and Recreation Department. Other Lindenwood Nature Preserve camps based providers and camps include: on the information provided to the „ Camp Crosley consultant. These camps are services of other program areas and not maintained „ Canterbury School as independent cost centers. „ FAME Fine Arts „ Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Operations Assessment Conservatory (part of Parks Department) Pricing Strategies „ Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo (part of Parks Department) All of the camps and workshops offered by the Department, excluding Franke Park „ Fort Wayne Museum of Art As would be expected, personnel (regular, Day Camp, use differential pricing based „ Fort Wayne Sport Soccer Club seasonal, and benefits) represented the on residency. The Department should „ Fort Wayne Theater vast majority (74.3%) of all expenses in consider implementing a similar resident/ non-resident rate structure for the Franke „ Fox Island Day Camp 2002. Since 1998, personnel expenses increased by only 3.4%. Supplies and Park program to reward the taxpayers of „ Indiana Institute of Technology materials, which represents the second Fort Wayne. „ Kindermusic Summer Camp largest expense category, have increased Differential pricing is often used for camps „ Lincoln Museum by 47.2% in the past five years. Utilities with sessions catered to different age have also noticeably increased by 39.2%

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-3 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 segments. Staff provided a listing of arrangements should be documented. In register for recreation programs at their competitors with camp prices, suggesting addition to general terms, documentation convenience. that the Department does benchmark should include all associated benefits and against competitors’ prices. No other costs to both the Department and partner. Customer Service pricing strategies were identified by staff or The true costs (personnel expense, Currently, there is no customer service plan appear to be in place. supplies, utilities, etc.) to the Department in place for any of the existing camps. A of providing a service or facility should be Facility Scheduling plan outlining the appropriate delivery of noted. customer service should be developed and The current time offerings for existing Marketing and Promotions included in the employee policy and camps appear to be appropriate and in line procedure manual. The customer service with standard practices within the industry. The primary means of promoting summer plan should identify how to properly Extended care is available for the Franke camps to the public is through the communicate with campers and parents, Park Day Camp to ensure working parents Fun Times seasonal brochure. Other outline procedures for handling complaints, have the ability to enroll their children in advertising sources include printed and generally illustrate the type of the camp. As mentioned previously, the materials distributed through the schools experience participants should have while Franke Park Day Camp runs at (children’s brochure and Franke Park Day in a camp. approximately 97% capacity. Other camps Camp brochure), news releases, and flyers Customer service training is provided to all have excess capacity that could be filled available at various park facilities. Other employees on an annual basis for all but lack the available staffing to offer marketing efforts include a post- seasonal summer staff. Customer service significantly more programs. Camps participation survey. training should continue to be provided for currently do not extend beyond the all new hires and upon the start of the summer months. In addition to existing marketing efforts, the Department should provide direct summer season. Partnerships mailings to past participants, youth Performance Measures organizations (i.e., 4-H clubs, scouting Both Salomon Farm and Lindenwood organizations, church youth groups, Performance measures are a valuable tool Nature Preserve have a variety of parent-teacher organizations, etc.), and for Department management and the partnerships in place to benefit the camp the Home School Network. Paid newspaper Board of Park Commissioners to track the programs. Partners include Hoosier Relief, or radio advertisements could be run prior success of programs and services offered Tri-State Two Cylinder Club, local Boy and to registration deadlines. Additional news by the Department. Current measurements Girl Scout troops, Acres Land Trust, coverage from the local media both before used for the summer camps include cost University of Saint Francis, and Indiana and during the camps should be solicited per experience (costing form), customer Department of Natural Resources Division to highlight the history (Franke Park Day satisfaction (post-participation evaluation of Nature Preserves. Local schools (public Camp) or uniqueness (Salomon Farm surveys), revenue and expenses (annual and private), the Home School Network, Camp) of the programs. Focus groups with report), participation levels (marketing and 4-H clubs serve as prime potential parents (both of participants and non- report), and programs offered versus held partners to expand camp participation and participants) could be held to increase (marketing report). In addition to the programs. participation and identify program needs. existing measurements, it is recommended An enhanced and more visually appealing Current partnerships are not documented that the following performance measures website should be developed to make it in writing. In the future, all partnership be implemented: easy for the public to learn about and

A6-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 • Cost Recovery: Upon conclusion of a • Franke Park lodge and new learning • Availability of staff to expand programs at program or at set times for ongoing center at Salomon Park provide Salomon Farm and Lindenwood Nature services, the total revenue from a opportunities for programming beyond Preserve program or service should be divided by the summer months • Lack of indoor learning center at its associated expenses. This ratio will • Natural resources available at all three Lindenwood Nature Preserve indicate the profit or loss margin for the camp locations, providing excellent • Insufficient funds available to upgrade delivery of the program of service. The outdoor classroom recapture rate should then be compared facilities to an established subsidy or profit goal. • Energetic and dedicated program leaders • Insufficient space to expand Franke Park and camp staff • Customer Retention: Track the Day Camp without taking over BMX track percentage of returning participants from • Fee structure and containment of costs site previous sessions of the program to find allowing Franke Park Day Camp to be • Limited promotions beyond Fun Times clues to customer satisfaction (happy financially self-sufficient and brochures distributed at schools customers usually return!). Obviously, the • Reputation and history of the Franke Park • Existing entrance to Salomon Farm is higher the retention rate the better, since Day Camp poorly marked as a park site; has old it is usually easier (and cheaper) to keep • Franke Park Day Camp remains a popular family sign at entrance a returning customer opposed to program operating at 97% capacity • Many programs priced below other local attracting a new one. • Camps priced very economically camps; possibly undervaluing services • Program Capacity: Track the number of • Opportunities to increase participation provided program participants against the and programs through outreach to and • Many camps only provide one week of maximum spaces available for a program partnerships with youth-minded activities, and parents not able to enroll or service. Programs at low capacity organizations like 4-H, scouting troops, children for more than one week at should be reviewed to determine if they public and private schools, and home Franke Park Day Camp need to be changed or eliminated. school networks Programs at maximum capacity may need to be expanded due to demand. • Excess capacity to expand programs at Opportunities Salomon Farm and Lindenwood Nature • Facility Capacity: Track the actual number Preserve The following opportunities, or potentially of hours a facility or site is scheduled for positive issues outside the control of activities versus the total number of management, should be considered in any hours the facility or site can be operated. Weaknesses future decision-making: The following weaknesses, or negative • Salomon Farm is the only farm-related SWOT Analysis issues within the control of management to camp operated in the area, allowing the varying degrees, directly impact the Strengths Department to capture a niche market. success of the camps: The following strengths, or positive issues • Camps and workshops are offered only within the control of management, directly Threats during the summer months impact the success of the camps: • Low participation at Salomon and The following threats, or potentially • Facilities and amenities available at Lindenwood camps negative issues outside the control of Franke Park and Salomon Farms

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-5 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 management, should be considered in any Participation in the Franke Park Day Camp Currently, the most popular camp only future decision-making: before- and after-care program has allows campers under the age of 12 one steadily declined over the past five years. week of camping experience, leaving • High level of competition within the local This decline closely mirrors the reduction in parents to find alternative camps or camp market the total number of scholarships provided. services for the remaining weeks. If the • Some vocal opposition to further changes This suggest a possible correlation Department offers a wider selection of in Franke Park—although may be less between the need for financial aid and the camps with greater demographic appeal opposed to expansion of successful before- or after-care program. Single that spans the entire summer, the potential nature-related camp parents or two-parent working families are exists to expand camp revenue. The • Continued economic slowdown erodes most likely to need both the daycare Department should consider adding more discretionary income of Fort Wayne service and financial assistance. outdoor adventure camps, teen and pre- teen camps, and travel camps. The families, making it difficult to afford The Salomon Farm Camp is a program with camps Department should strive to be the one- much potential. In its first year of stop source for summer-long operation, the camp had 215 participants. entertainment through camps. Conclusions and The park site had the amenities and Recommendations natural resources to accommodate a very Expansion of camp programs will only be unique and successful camp program. To possible through the addition of more full- The Department provides high-quality expand camp enrollments, the Department time and seasonal staff dedicated to summer camp options for the children of needs to reach out to youth organizations developing and running new camps. the Fort Wayne community. In 2002, over that focus on farming, nature, and/or Ideally, both the Lindenwood and Salomon 2,100 children between the ages of 4 and history. Key groups include 4-H clubs, Farm sites should have a full-time, 18 enrolled in camps offered by the scouting troops, and similar organizations. dedicated staff member for camps and Department. Unquestionably, the most The Department should also consider programs. Any expansion of the Franke successful program is the Franke Park Day partnering with the neighboring YMCA to Park Day Camp will also require additional Camp, which dates back nearly 60 years. jointly promote camps. staff. This camp alone enrolled 1,844 participants in 2002. The Lindenwood Nature Preserve provides Financially, the Franke Park Day Camp a good site for nature-themed camps. The serves as a good model for any camp The Franke Park Day Camp is operating at obstacle to the success of camps at the offered by the program. This camp is maximum capacity during the summer preserve is the lack of an indoor nature priced sufficiently to stimulate demand and months. Increased summer participation center. A new facility would provide the cover all operating expenses. To ensure will not be feasible without the expansion flexibility to offer programs during the ongoing success of the camp, the of the facility or offering an evening camp inclement weather and beyond the operating surplus should be placed in a session. Expansion of camp facilities in summer season. A nature center would dedicated fund to cover future capital Franke Park will not be possible without serve as a focal point for the park and investments in the camp. the removal of the existing BMX course. create more traffic and awareness for The other alternative is to create a second camps at Lindenwood. It is unlikely that Camps are all economically priced, but camp location elsewhere in the city, programs can be greatly expanded at generally undervalued for the services although it would likely be difficult to Lindenwood without a nature center/ provided. The Department should continue replicate the history of the camp at a learning facility. to benchmark against other camp second site. providers, and as long as all operating

A6-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 expenses are covered, price accordingly. All periodically be conducted by marketing 6.2 Community Center camps, including the Franke Park Day staff to both ensure existing programs are Camp, should implement a resident/non- meeting participants’ needs and identify Description of Program and resident pricing structure. Camp prices for changes that should be made. Direct Services younger children should only be less if the mailings promoting camps should be sent cost of delivery is also less. to the previous year’s participants. Located at 233 West Main Street in downtown Fort Wayne, the Community There is strong competition for camp The Department should consider a pre- Center is a 17,000-square-foot facility built participants in the Fort Wayne community. registration period for the following year’s in 1977. The Community Center includes a The Department’s Franke Park and camp at the conclusion of camp sessions. central lounge, large multipurpose Salomon Farm Camps are unique and least A small, non-refundable fee in the range of assembly room, adjacent kitchen, several impacted by other camp programs. The $5 to $10 could be charged to hold a spot meeting rooms, computer lab, billiard Lindenwood camps and workshops face with full payment due in the spring. This room, gift shop, limited selection of the most head-to-head competition with helps build the excitement of participants exercise equipment, registration area, and programs offered by the County Parks and gives the Department an early staff offices. Department and other providers, which indication of camp attendance. Low early partially explains the lower participation. enrollments can prompt the Department to Originally built as a senior center, the either boost promotional efforts in the Community Center now provides programs With the development of new partnerships spring or make revisions to the camp to and services for all age segments in the with youth, nature-focused, or farm-related increase appeal. community. The core program areas organizations, there should be some include: opportunity to expand camp and workshop The Department should continue to „ programming beyond the current summer conduct customer service training for all Preschool/youth activities season. This is especially true for the camp employees. Customer service policies „ Adult classes Salomon Farm. Possible programs to should be incorporated into the employee „ Older adult activities consider include weekend camps, policy and procedure manual and provided „ Facility rentals additional school programs, home school to all staff members. programs, and pre-school programs. Facilities could be adopted by various Existing performance measures should Market Assessment youth organizations like 4-H clubs and continue to be monitored. Additionally, the scouts to help maintain or develop Department should also consider Community Center Registrations amenities on site (i.e., vegetable gardens, measuring each camp’s recapture rate and Attendance flower gardens, etc.). (against an established goal), customer retention, program capacity, and facility On average, over 5,300 individuals enroll in All existing marketing and promotions capacity. Together, these measurements programs through the Community Center efforts should be continued. Enhanced will be useful to management in making each year. Nearly 84% of all participants are promotions are needed, especially for future decisions regarding the programs. registered in preschool or youth activities Salomon Farm and Lindenwood Camps. which are held at other locations throughout Post-program evaluations should continue the city. This is due to a lack of space to be conducted of all camps. Focus groups available at the Community Center and many consisting of parents and children could classes require athletic fields or gymnasiums. Senior programs yielded 25,794, 20% of the

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-7 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 total registrations. Except for one-year interests are popular within households in could sponsor special events by providing increases in adult classes (1998/1999) and the Greater Fort Wayne area: free pre-event advertising and day-of-the- preschool/youth programs (1999/2000), event live coverage. Themed events could enrollments in community center programs Fort Wayne households are pursuers of center around upcoming holidays, popular have remained fairly consistent. Despite a communications technology. In over half of culture (ex. Harry Potter, reality TV shows, significant amount of senior program space all households, at least one person uses a etc.), or ongoing family events. within the facility, 250 people typically enroll personal computer (56.9%) and subscribes in older adult programs offered at the center to an online service (54.0%). IBM- To assess customer satisfaction, post- each year. There are 1,179 different compatible computers are most prevalent, participation surveys are conducted by the individual seniors listed as participating at with only 3.3% of households using Apple marketing division for programs. Results the Community Center. computers or iMacs. This indicates that from these surveys show that overall, there there is demand for computer-related is a high degree of customer satisfaction for Attendance at the Community Center training, a course already provided at the the programs and services provided. The reached 43,913 in 2002, a 15.4% increase Community Center. Department should continue to use these from 1998. Over the past five years, the instruments for customer feedback. With average annual attendance is 38,745. Most Marketing and Promotions stagnant participation, the center should visitors to the Community Center were consider holding some focus groups to fully The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation participating in recreation programs explore why people are not returning. The Department currently utilizes a variety of (27.8%), attending programs provided by secret shopper program currently in place advertising methods to promote programs outside organizations (24.6%), or enrolled for the pools and theatre should also be and services offered by the Community in other classes (21.1%). extended to the Community Center. An Center. The primary source of information enhanced and more visually appealing is through the Department’s seasonal website should be developed to make it easy program brochure, Fun Times. This for the public to learn about and register for brochure is mailed quarterly to random recreation programs at their convenience. households within the city.

All of the current promotional outlets are Customer Service appropriate and should continue to be Currently, there is no customer service plan utilized. As funding permits, other in place. A plan outlining the appropriate advertising sources should also be delivery of customer service should be considered. Targeted radio and television developed and included in the employee commercials can be effective for promoting policy and procedure manual. The special events or sparking demand during customer service plan should address how Fort Wayne Leisure Interests non-peak times. Tag lines on radio to properly address customers, outline commercials from the Department’s soda procedures for handling customer A key to having successful, well-attended provider may be available as a source of comments or complaints, and generally programs is matching Community Center free advertising. illustrate the type of experience customers offerings to the leisure interests of the should have when visiting the Community community. According to the 2003 SRDS Partnerships with local radio or television Center. Lifestyle Analysts, the following lifestyles and stations could also be developed around special events for the community. Stations

A6-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Since employees sometimes have a should then be compared to an established determine the percentage of the potential tendency of overlooking the importance of subsidy or profit goal. market that is utilizing the service or issues brought forward by immediate • Customer Retention: Track the percentage program. To effectively measure this, it is supervisors, it is helpful to use an outside of returning participants from previous important to track at least the ages of person for the periodic training sessions. sessions of the program. This information participants to compare to the national This can be accomplished by using staff provides clues to customer satisfaction. data. Age segments, if used, need to from other divisions (like marketing), Obviously, the higher the retention rate the correspond to the resources used. working with local colleges, or hiring better, since it is usually easier (and outside facilitators. A variety of training cheaper) to keep a returning customer Conclusions and programs are also available through the versus attracting a new one. National Recreation and Park Association Recommendations and other resources. • Programs Offered versus Held: Record the number of programs actually offered Originally built as a senior center, the Performance Measures against the number of programs planned Community Center is responsible for the and advertised to the public. Frequent Department’s preschool/youth, adult, and Performance measures are a valuable tool cancellation of programs could indicate older adult programs. The facility is for management and the Board of Park that the program is not adequately centrally located, but has limited parking Commissioners to measure or track the meeting the needs of the community. despite a recent expansion of the parking success of programs and services offered lot. The Community Center lacks many • Program Capacity: Track the number of at the Community Center. In addition to amenities found in modern recreation program participants versus the the existing instruments, it is centers, such as a gymnasium, fitness maximum spaces available for a program recommended that the following center, indoor walking track, or indoor or service. Programs at low capacity performance measures be implemented: aquatic center. The facility does not have should be reviewed to determine if they sufficient multipurpose space to need to be changed or eliminated. • Cost per Experience: Using existing data, accommodate a wider selection of Programs at maximum capacity may need the measurement calculates how much it programs for all age segments. There is to be expanded due to demand. costs the Department to provide a limited green space surrounding the center program or service for the average • Facility Capacity: Track the actual number for outdoor activities. For these reasons, participant. All costs, including direct and of hours of ice time scheduled for many programs offered by the Community indirect, should be included. This activities versus the total number of Center must be facilitated off-site in local information is valuable for effective hours the facility is operated. schools and other facilities. pricing. This ratio should be calculated for • Market Potential: Using data available each program and service at least once from resources like the American Sports There is no membership or daily fee to use per year. Data Superstudy of Sports Participation the Community Center, nor is the facility • Cost Recovery: Upon conclusion of a or National Sporting Goods Association currently operated in a manner to warrant program or at set times for ongoing Sports Participation Survey, determine or support a charge for admission. services, the total revenue from a the potential number of participants Although there is an information desk, the program or service should be divided by its based on national or regional averages. center lacks a centralized entrance point to associated expenses. This ratio indicates See Market Assessment as an example. effectively control entry. There are minimal areas within the facility to support self- the profit or loss margin for delivery of the • Market Share: Comparing the number of program of service. The cost recovery directed recreation beyond a game room participants versus the market potential, and central lounge. A small selection of

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-9 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 fitness equipment is available, but the goals. If prices based on the true cost of skate program along with a more equipment is located in a hallway and delivering a program exceed the public’s competitive advanced skating program. All appears to be non-commercial grade. willingness to pay, the merits of offering the program participants are registered with program should be evaluated. the United States Figure Skating Over 5,300 individuals enroll in Community Association (USFSA). Staff also work with Center programs annually, with nearly 60% 6.3 McMillen Ice Arena the Fort Wayne Ice Skating Club (FWISC) of these participants enrolled in preschool or to host skating competitions and special youth activities. Despite a significant amount Description of Programs and events at the ice arena. of senior program space within the facility, Services fewer than 250 people typically enroll in National Participation Trends and Located at 3901 Abbott Street inside older adult programs offered through the Demographics center each year. Enrollments in community McMillen Park, McMillen Ice Arena has center programs have remained fairly served the greater Fort Wayne community Utilizing the 2002 Superstudy of Sports stagnant since 1998. Attendance at the for nearly 50 years. The facility includes Participation, the following national center has average slightly over 100 visitors two full size ice sheets, one studio ice participation trends were identified for per day. surface, multipurpose room, concession hockey and ice skating. General stand, full-service pro shop, locker rooms, demographics of sport participants are also As validated by the participation numbers, and stadium seating for 1,024 spectators. identified. Please note that national the Community Center provides a good The concession stand and pro shop are participation statistics are not collected for variety of programs for children under the currently leased to private vendors. A $5- children below the age of 6. age of 6. Few programs are available that million renovation and expansion of the ice would truly appeal to pre-teens, teens, and arena was completed in the fall of 2000. • Hockey: Less than one percent (0.9%) of young adults. Program opportunities the American population, ages 6 and resume for adults, although most appear In addition to public skate times, a variety above, plays ice hockey at least once per targeted to the senior population. The of skating programs are offered at the ice year. Hockey participation in the state of Department should complete a service arena. Hockey services provided by ice Indiana slightly trails the national audience matrix to ensure programs are arena staff include the Hockey Initiation average, with only 0.7% of Hoosiers targeted and offered for all age segments. Program (for beginners to McMillen hockey playing hockey at least once per year. programs) and House League (recreational Frequent participants, or those playing hockey league). Travel hockey and high Based on available information, center hockey 25 or more days per year, school hockey leagues are facilitated by operations and older adult programs are represent only 0.3% of the national Fort Wayne Youth Hockey (FWYH). All heavily subsidized by the city, recovering population. These are the individuals youth hockey leagues are part of FWYH on average only 28% of their operating most likely to participate in a hockey and registered with USA Hockey. Other costs through user fees and earned program or league offered at the ice adult leagues are operated by outside income. Despite cost recovery goals of arena. Males represent 87.3% of all groups who contract ice time at the arena. 100%, which is consistent with industry frequent participants. While the average McMillen Ice Arena also serves as the practices, youth and adult programs age of frequent players is 19.9, children practice facility for the Fort Wayne Komets. generated only 78% of their operating under the age of 17 play hockey at the costs. The Department should implement highest rates of all age groups (1.1% or activity-based costing for every program McMillen Ice Arena has professional skating staff available for group and private teens age 12 to 17 and 0.8% of children offered to ensure that programs are priced age 6 to 11). Youth comprise 60.8% of effectively to meet established cost recovery instruction. The arena provides a learn-to-

A6-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 frequent players. The average household represent 68.0% of all skaters. The income of frequent participants is average household income of frequent $73,800. Generally speaking, the higher skaters is $65,900. Household income the household income, the more likely a does not play a significant role in the person will be a frequent player. likelihood of someone skating. During 2001, hockey experienced both According to the 2002 Superstudy of one-year (15.1%) and 14-year (2%) Sports Participation, ice skating has declines in participation rates. These experienced four consecutive years of changes are statistically insignificant declining participation through 2001 (the according to the Superstudy of Sports most recent year for which data was Participation. Within the 14-year period, available). From 1998 to 2001, the total hockey experienced some sporadic spurts number of skaters declined by 10.5%. of growth and decline. The average skater (both frequent and The average player (both frequent and infrequent) skates 7.3 days per year. Ice infrequent) plays hockey 34 days per year. skaters, on average, have skated 9.2 Hockey players, on average, have played years. Beginners, or those that have the sport 10 years. Beginners, or those that skated one year or less, represent 21.8% have playerd for one year or less, represent of all participants. Seasoned skaters that 15.2% of all players. Over a third (35%) have skated 10 or more years comprise have played 10 or more years. 29.9% of all skaters. Not surprisingly, 60.6% of hockey players Other sports activities that ice skaters are also ice skate (beyond playing hockey). most likely to participate in include: Other sports activities that hockey • Ice Skating: Nationally, 6.7% of the swimming (81.3%), bicycling (55.6%), players are most likely to participate in population, age 6 and above, ice skates bowling (53.4%), roller skating (52.7%), include: swimming (73.6%), camping at least once per year. Ice skating and camping (47.8%). Approximately a (53.8%), fishing (51.8%), roller skating participation in the state of Indiana is third of all skaters also do some form of (49.7%), bowling (48.6%), and bicycling similar to the national average, with strength training or conditioning, with (48.2%). Only 25.9% of hockey players 6.6% of Hoosiers skating at least once 35.1% using strength equipment, 32.6% also play roller hockey. A significant per year. using cardio equipment, and 28.1% using percentage of hockey players also do Frequent participants, or those skating 25 free weights. some form of strength training or or more days per year, represent only conditioning, with 45.5% using strength 0.3% of the national population. These equipment and 38.3% using both free are the individuals most likely to weights and cardio equipment. participate in an intermediate or advanced figure skating program offered at the ice arena. Females represent 60.7% of all frequent participants. The average age of frequent skaters is 17.3. Children under the age of 17 skate at the highest rates of all age groups and

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-11 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 programs, or were spectators at various events hosted at the arena. While this represents a 65.0% increase from 1998, the total number of people served by the ice arena was down 19.0% from the previous year.

• Public Skating: Public ice skating attendance in 2002 was 10,659. This represented a 36% increase from 1998. Similar to overall program participation, public skating also witnessed a drop in attendance during 2002. The 2.4% • Program Participation: Program decline, however, represented less than participation numbers have 300 people. In 2002, skate rentals were unquestionably benefited from the secured from 40.6% of the public addition of more ice at the arena. The skaters. This was down from a five-year stick and puck “drop-in” adult hockey high (as measured by a percentage of program more than tripled (3.4 times public skating attendance) of 55.1% in greater) between 1998 and 2002 to McMillen Ice Arena Participation 1999. 1,780 participants. Participation in special Trends programs, which includes tournaments, Based on participation statistics collected camps, ice shows, and other special from staff between 1998 and 2002, the events, dramatically increased from 184 following trends were identified for participants in 2001 to 3,009 participants McMillen Ice Arena: in 2002. The number of hockey and figure skaters witnessed a significant • Total People Served: Since its renovation one-year bump from the expansion, and expansion in 2000, McMillen Ice increasing by 167% from 2000 to 2001 Arena has served a greater number of (the first full year after expansion). The people through its various programs and impact, however, was somewhat short- services. Unfortunately, 2002 witnessed a lived with participation declining 24.1% in decline in participation in all program and 2002 to 79,794. Despite the recent service areas (as measured by the decline, the total number of hockey and number of participants), excluding special figure skating participants is still roughly programs. In 2002, a total of 282,164 17,000 greater than before the people either attended public skating, renovation. participated in hockey or ice skating

A6-12 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Hockey Participation Rates Competition

U.S. Estimated Estimated Estimated The sole competitor to McMillen Ice Arena Participation Fort Wayne Allen County Total within the greater Fort Wayne area is the Rate Participants Participants Participants Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. While public skating times are not offered, Total by Population 0.3% 559 344 903 ice rentals are available October through Total by Median HH Income 0.3% 559 344 903 May (see rates below). Memorial Coliseum does compete for some potential user Age 6-11 0.8% 149 96 246 groups, but McMillen Ice Arena generally Age 12-17 1.1% 193 139 331 has better ice times and a convenient location. Memorial Coliseum is also home Age 18-24 0.3% 66 28 94 to the Fort Wayne Komets of the United Age 25-34 0.3% 95 46 141 Hockey League. The arena has permanent seating for 10,000 spectators. See the Age 35-44 0.2% 62 45 106 following table for rental rate information. Age 45-54 0.1% 25 20 45 Ice Rental Rates in Fort Wayne Age 55-64 0.1% 15 11 26 McMillen Ice NHL (2) $210 $150 Age 65+ 0.0% 0 0 0 Arena Studio $80 $80 Total by Age Segment —- 605 384 989 Memorial NHL $185 $110 Male 0.6% 538 341 880 Coliseum Female 0.1% 97 58 154 Total by Gender —- 635 399 1,034 Market Potential and Share Range —- 559 - 635 344 - 399 903 - 1,034 Using Fort Wayne and Allen County populations based on the 2000 U.S. Census and national participation statistics as reported in the 2002 Superstudy of Sports Participation, the following estimates were made regarding market potential in the immediate service area. Sports participation ranges as a factor in national participation rates based on total population, median household income, age segmentation, and gender (national participation statistics are not collected for children below the age of 6).

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-13 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Ice Skating Participation Rates • Hockey: National trends suggest that between 559 and 635 Fort Wayne U.S. Estimated Estimated Estimated residents age 6 and above would play Participation Fort Wayne Allen County Total hockey on a frequent basis (25 days or Rate Participants Participants Participants more per year). Within Allen County (excluding Fort Wayne), there would be Total by Population 0.3% 559 344 903 an additional 344 to 399 frequent hockey Total by Median HH Income 0.2% 373 229 602 players. In total, there could be between 903 and 1,034 frequent hockey players in Age 6-11 1.1% 206 132 338 Fort Wayne and Allen County. Assuming Age 12-17 1.2% 210 151 361 participation rates at the national average, this is the pool of potential Age 18-24 0.6% 133 55 188 participants within the immediate service Age 25-34 0.1% 32 15 47 area for hockey programs offered by or facilitated at the ice arena, Age 35-44 0.1% 31 22 53 Of the hockey programs offered at Age 45-54 0.1% 25 20 45 McMillen Ice Arena, most participants fall Age 55-64 0.0% 0 0 0 between the ages of 3 and 17. Staff indicated that in fall 2002, there were Age 65+ 0.0% 0 0 0 700 participants in the hockey programs. Total by Age Segment —- 636 396 1,032 National participation rates predict approximately 577 frequent hockey Male 0.3% 269 171 440 enthusiasts in Fort Wayne and Allen Female 0.4% 387 231 617 County between the ages of 6 and 17. This suggests that hockey participation Total by Gender —- 656 401 1,057 rates in Fort Wayne are above the Range —- 373 - 656 229 - 401 602 – 1,057 national average and the ice arena’s service area extends beyond Allen County. Between McMillen Ice Arena and the Memorial Coliseum, the demand for hockey within the Fort Wayne community is likely being met. This conclusion is further supported by the 2003 community attitude and interest citizen survey, which found that only 4% of all households ranked the ice arena as one of the four most important recreation facilities operated by Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation. Staff also indicated that enrollment in hockey programs is generally full with periodic waiting lists.

A6-14 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 • Ice Skating: National trends suggest that increased by 114.8% and expenses rose by a typical municipal facility. Ideally, admission between 373 and 656 Fort Wayne 173.3%. With the new debt service of revenues should represent 12% to 17% of residents age 6 and above would ice $409,623 resulting from the expansion, total earned income. Additionally, higher skate on a frequent basis (25 days or total expenditures exceeded earned participation rates will positively impact more per year). Within Allen County revenue in 2002, resulting in an operating sales in concessions and the pro shop. (excluding Fort Wayne), there would be deficit of $237,139. an additional 229 to 401 frequent skaters. In total, national trends suggest that there could be between 602 and 1,057 frequent ice skaters in Fort Wayne and Allen County. This is the pool of potential participants within the immediate service area for ice skating and figure skating programs offered by the ice arena, assuming participation rates at the national average. Of the ice skating programs offered at McMillen Ice Arena, most participants fall between the ages of 3 and 17. Staff Total earned income in 2002 was The Board of Park Commissioners entered indicated that in fall 2002, there were $832,986. This represents an increase of into a lease agreement with Center Ice, 400 participants in the ice skating $495,452 (146.8%) over the past five Inc., to operate and manage the 1,310- programs. National participation rates years. Unfortunately, revenue slipped by square-foot pro shop in the ice arena. The predict approximately 699 frequent ice 3.6% between 2001 and 2002. This was one-year contract was executed in March skating enthusiasts in Fort Wayne and largely due to a 14.4% decline in the 2000 and provides automatic extensions Allen County between the ages of 6 and amount of program revenue brought in by for up to five years. The contract calls for 17. This suggests that ice skating the ice arena. Additionally, there was a the pro shop to be open minimally from participation rates in Fort Wayne are slight decline of 0.4% in concessions 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Monday through below the national average or McMillen revenue and a $5,706 reduction to revenue Friday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Ice Arena is not sufficiently meeting the due to credit card usage, refunds, and weekends. The Park Board reserves the needs of the potential ice and figure discounts. All other revenue sources right to review and approve all goods and skating market. Staff indicated that it is realized gains in 2001 from the previous services provided, prices and fees, and typically difficult to fill figure skating year. The most dramatic increase was in staff. Center Ice pays a monthly rental fee classes. special rental programs, which increased from $3,217 in 2001 to $14,268 in 2002. of $550. Annually, the operator pays the Revenue and Expense Analysis Board of Park Commissioners a sliding rate Nearly half (44.4%) of all earned income on gross sales based on the following Since its renovation and expansion in the at the ice arena comes from programs and sums: fall of 2000, McMillen Ice Arena has related fees. Facility rentals represent the experienced dramatic increases in both next largest share at 43.6%. Admissions • 1% if gross sales reach $150,000 revenues and expenditures. Comparing for public skating represented only 8.1% of • 2% if gross sales reach $250,000 1999 and 2001 (the first complete years total revenue, which is on the low side for before and after construction), revenue • 3% if gross sales reach $350,000

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-15 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 • 4% if gross sales reach $450,000 During this contract, revenue has increased be appropriate in relation to the size of the more than 34 times from $393 in 2000 up operation. Utilities were significantly higher to $13,403 in 2002. Between 2001 and than in past years as the result of a Over the three years of the existing contract, 2002, there was a minor decline of 0.4% roughly 15% increase in natural gas and revenue has increased by 226.8% from or $58 in earned revenue. Given the electricity rates. $2,451 in 2000 up to $8,010 in 2002. This slumping attendance, this decline was less dramatic increase is largely due to poor than expected. In 2002, gross sales totaled sales in 2000 due to the renovation. Dating $85,791 for concessions and $9,290 for back to 1998, revenue earned from the pro vending. The vast majority of the sales for shop has increased by a more modest both services (87.6% for concessions and 25.9%. Most of the income earned ($6,600) 74.2% for vending) took place in the first over each of the past two years was the and fourth quarters of the year. Prior to result of the monthly rental fee. Based on entering into the current contract, no the terms of the contract, the pro shop had concession income was reported for gross sales of $30,000 in 2001 and McMillen Ice Arena. $141,000 in 2002.

On the expense side, debt service A three-year contract was awarded to accounted for $409,623 or 38.5% of the Anthony Wayne Vending Company, Inc., in total expenditures in 2002. Prior to 2001 June 2000, for the operation and and the recent expansion, there was no management of the ice arena’s concession debt service for the ice arena. Although it stand and vending machines. The vendor is not unreasonable to expect the ice arena Operations Assessment pays the Board of Park Commissioners 7% to generate sufficient funds to cover of gross, after-tax sales of the concession operating and debt service expenses, many Pricing Strategies stand and 20% of gross, after-tax sales parks and recreation departments absorb With the goal of recapturing all operating from the vending machines. The minimum capital costs for their ice arenas through and debt-service expenses, McMillen Ice hours of operation are the same as the pro tax sources. Arena uses a variety of effective strategies shop. The agreement has an automatic Other large expenses for the ice arena to establish prices for programs and two-year extension clause. included personnel and utilities, which are services. Prime/non-prime and season/off- to be expected. Staffing levels appear to season rates are used for ice rentals to fill

A6-16 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 McMillen Ice Arena Rates periods with low demand. Group and Effective August 1, 2002 individual volume (punch card) discounts are available for public skating times. Ice Public Skating/Single Admission* $4.50 – Youth & Adults arena staff routinely benchmark against $3.50 – Seniors (age 55+)* similar ice arenas in other communities. $1.00 off for groups of 25 or more There have been no price increases since Public Skating/12 Punch Card $45.00 – Youth & Adults August 2001. During the previous seasons, $35.00 – Seniors (age 55+) prices were increased on average by 22% Rentals $2.50 – Skates in 1999/2000, 16% in 2000/2001, and $11.00 – Stick & Puck 14% in 2001/2002. Based on the current recession, staff is opposed to raising rates Ice Rentals/Full Rink $210/hour – Prime (weekdays after 4 p.m.; weekends) at this time in fear of lowering participation $150/hour – Non-Prime (weekdays before 4 p.m.) rates and loss of revenue. $165/hour – Summer (May 1 – Aug. 15; 20 hr. minimum) The ice arena is initiating a dasher board Ice Rentals/Studio Ice $80/hour advertising program in partnership with the Fort Wayne Komets. A revenue-sharing Adult League (9 week season) $195/person (excluding IMR/FWYH fees) program was established this season for Youth League (22 games, $285/person groups charging admission to events. The no practices included) general policy allows for gate sales up to $5 per person, with the ice arena receiving Youth League (22 games, $345/person between 10% and 15% of gross gate 9 practices) receipts and 10% of gross season pass Hockey Initiation (10 week season) $105/person (excluding IMR/FWYH fees) sales. The high school hockey league is grandfathered from this new policy. IMR/FWYH Membership Fees $35/person In addition to the existing strategies, the Beginning Figure Lesson $15/lesson ice arena should consider using prime/non- Figure Skating Package (45 minute $7.00/session – 10 sessions or more per week prime and season/off-season rates for ice session, 30 minute on-ice class $7.50/session – 5-9 sessions per week public skating. During the fall and winter with instructor, or 45 minute $8.00/session – 4 session or less per week months, it may be possible to charge rates off-ice class with instructor) $9.00/session – Walk-on $0.50 to $1.00 higher during the weekends as opposed to weekdays. With low Multipurpose Room Rental $10/hour – FWYH or FWISC programs participation in the summer, discounted $25/hour – Public Rate rates could be offered as long as the price of admission does not fall below the cost of providing the service. Resident/non- resident rates could also be used to reward individuals residing within city limits for being taxpayers.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-17 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 While benchmarking can be a valuable tool In both the peak and non-peak seasons, ice during the fall and winter of 2002/2003. in understanding how different ice arenas time is most frequently scheduled during the During the spring of 2003, skating sessions operate, staff should be cautioned that evenings and weekends as would be were offered five times per week for 9.5 prices only reflect part of the story. expected. hours. This summer, only three public Questions should also be asked about the skating sessions are being offered per facility’s revenue expectations: is it week totaling six hours. After expanding subsidized or expected to break even? It the facility, additional public skating times may also be helpful to receive a copy of were offered but were poorly attended and recent financial statements to fully subsequently canceled. compare operating revenues and expenses. Based on successful practices at other public facilities, the ice arenas typically Facility Scheduling offer 10 to 11 public skating sessions with times available on a daily basis. Weekday Upon analyzing representative facility times tend to be most popular during the schedules from both peak and non-peak late afternoon or early evening. If weeks, McMillen Ice Arena has significant scheduling permits, multiple times on During the summer season, ice arena staff excess capacity in which additional Fridays and Saturdays can also be typically run only one rink while using the programs and services could be provided. successful. Special sessions for teens or downtime to perform maintenance on the As would be expected, use of the ice arena family nights with discounted family passes other surfaces. This is an effective practice dramatically drops during the summer could also be implemented. Upon offering that also helps reduce operating costs months. The peak season with the highest new public skating times, these sessions while the ice is removed for painting and overall usage falls between October and should be extensively advertised to other repairs. Assuming only one rink is March. Operating hours for the ice arena properly inform the public. Special events actually in operation at all times during the are generally from 6:30 a.m. until 11:00 or themed nights can also be effective in non-peak season, the capacity rate at the p.m. daily. helping generate interest. ice arena increases to 53.4%. Assuming a possible daily operating Only two stick and puck sessions were While unrealistic to schedule 100% of the schedule of 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m., offered during the sample week in operating time for activities that generate there is a total of 597 hours of ice time November, and three were held in July. income, current scheduling practices have each week collectively for the three rinks One of the sessions in July was designated resulted in the underutilization of the ice (17 hours per day, seven days, three for teens only. The ice arena should arena. The ice arena should operate rinks). Many ice rinks in other communities consider offering stick and puck sessions at minimally at 68% capacity, at least during operate more than 17 hours per day, with least three times a week based on the peak season. This would allow rentals extending beyond midnight. During successful scheduling practices at other sufficient time for ice preparation between the summer week of July 6 through 12, municipal facilities. Some facilities have activities and recognize the difficulty of 2002, only 63.5 hours or 17.8% of the ice designated times and sessions for different filling non-prime hours weekdays during time was scheduled for public skating, skill levels or age groups. programs, or facility rentals. For the peak traditional office or school hours. season week of November 18-24, 2002, The ice arena offered six sessions or 11.5 scheduled activities accounted for 143.5 hours of public skating sessions per week hours or 40.2% of the potential ice time.

A6-18 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Partnerships Efforts to extend the Lifetime Sports can be effective for promoting special events Academy to include ice skating and/or or sparking demand during non-peak times. McMillen Ice Arena pursues various hockey components should be considered. Tag lines on radio commercials from the partnership opportunities to either increase With the close proximity of the Lifetime Department’s soda provider may be income or reduce costs. Sponsorships are Sports Academy activities already in available as a source of free advertising. pursued for jerseys to minimize the McMillen Park, this appears to be a logical program cost to participants in the House progression for the program. Partnerships with local radio or television League. Partnerships are in place with Fort stations could also be developed around Wayne Youth Hockey and the Fort Wayne Of the existing partnerships, only youth special events for the community. Stations Ice Skating Club to provide programs and hockey’s relationship is documented in could sponsor a special event by providing leagues at the ice arena, minimizing the writing. In the future, all partnerships free, pre-event advertising and day-of-the- amount of staff needed. Working with should be documented, along with event live coverage. Themed events could these two clubs, tournaments and associated costs and benefits to each center around upcoming holidays, popular competitions that bring in additional partner. Given the financial expectations culture (ex. Harry Potter, reality TV shows, revenue are hosted. Volunteers are used to for the ice arena, no partnerships should etc.), or ongoing family events (ex. Family assist with instruction and coaching in the be entered into in which the ice arena does Day every Wednesday at a discounted hockey programs. Dasher board not cover the costs of providing the rate). advertisements are sold through a service. partnership with the Fort Wayne Komets. To assess customer satisfaction, post- Marketing and Promotions participation surveys are conducted by the The ice arena should consider pursuing marketing division for all programs offered new partnerships with local schools to fill Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation currently by the ice arena. Phone surveys are also non-peak times. Opportunities may exist to uses a variety of advertising methods to conducted among former hockey incorporate ice skating and hockey into promote the programs and services offered participants that do not return. Results physical education programs at the at McMillen Ice Arena. The primary source from these surveys show that overall, elementary school, middle school, high of information about the ice arena to the there is a high degree of customer school, and collegiate levels. Intramural general public is the Department’s seasonal satisfaction for the programs and services programs may be a viable option. Special program brochure, Fun Times. This provided by the ice arena. The Fort Wayne fieldtrips are also a potential for younger brochure is mailed quarterly to random Parks and Recreation Department should students. households within the city. Other continue to use those instruments for advertising sources include individual customer feedback. With the recent decline The local YMCA and Boys and Girls Club program brochures distributed at the ice in participation, the ice arena should may serve as potential partners for joint arena, fall rink-specific program brochure consider holding some focus groups to fully programming or ice rentals, since neither directly distributed in the schools, direct explore why people are not returning. The of these organizations have their own ice mailings to past participants, and billboards secret shopper program currently in place facilities. Ice activities could be on bus shelters. for the pools and theatre should also be incorporated into summer camps offered extended to the ice arena. An enhanced All of the current promotional outlets are by these organizations either as special, and more visually appealing website should appropriate and should continue to be one-time events or ongoing elements of be developed to make it easy for the public used. As funding permits, other advertising their programs. to learn about and register for recreation sources should also be considered. programs at their convenience. Targeted radio and television commercials

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-19 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Customer Service Board of Park Commissioners to measure or • Programs Offered versus Held: Record the track the success of programs and services number of programs actually offered Currently, there is no customer service plan offered at McMillen Ice Arena. Current against the number of programs planned in place. A plan outlining the appropriate measurements used by the ice arena track and advertised to the public. Frequent delivery of customer service should be customer satisfaction (post-program cancellation of programs could indicate developed and included in the employee surveys), customer retention (phone survey that the ice arena is not adequately policy and procedure manual. The of participants that do not return), and meeting the needs of the community. customer service plan should address how participation levels (enrollment and to properly address customers, outline • Program Capacity: Track the number of attendance figures). In addition to the program participants versus the procedures for handling customer existing instruments, it is recommended that comments or complaints, and generally maximum spaces available for a program the following performance measures be or service. Programs at low capacity illustrate the type of experience customers implemented: should have when visiting the ice arena. should be reviewed to determine if they need to be changed or eliminated. • Cost per Experience: Using existing data, Programs at maximum capacity may need One to one and one-half hours of customer the measurement calculates how much it to be expanded due to demand. service training is provided to all costs the Department to provide a employees on an annual basis. McMillen program or service for the average • Facility Capacity: Track the actual number Ice Arena should provide training on a participant. All costs, including direct and of hours that ice time is scheduled for an quarterly, or at least twice per year, basis indirect, should be included. This activity versus the total number of hours to reinforce the importance of excellent information is valuable for effective the facility is operated. customer service. Customer service pricing. This ratio should be calculated for • Market Potential: Using data available training should also be provided for each each program and service at least once from resources like the American Sports new hire. per year. Data Superstudy of Sports Participation Since employees sometimes have a • Cost Recovery: Upon conclusion of a or National Sporting Goods Association tendency to overlook the importance of program or at set times for ongoing Sports Participation Survey, determine issues brought forward by immediate services, the total revenue from a the potential number of participants supervisors, it is helpful to use an outside program or service should be divided by based on national or regional averages. person for the periodic training sessions. its associated expenses. This ratio See the Market Assessment section as an This can be accomplished by using staff indicates the profit or loss margin for example. from other divisions (like marketing), delivery of the program of service. The • Market Share: Comparing the number of working with local colleges, or hiring cost recovery should then be compared participants versus the market potential, outside facilitators. A variety of training to an established subsidy or profit goal. determine the percentage of the potential programs is also available through the • Customer Retention: Track the market that is using the service or National Recreation and Park Association percentage of returning participants from program. To effectively measure this, it is and other resources. previous sessions of the program to important to track at least the ages of receive clues to customer satisfaction. participants to compare to the national Performance Measures Obviously the higher the retention rate, data. Age segments, if used, need to Performance measures are a valuable tool the better, since it is usually easier (and correspond to the resources used. for Department management and the cheaper) to keep a returning customer versus attracting a new one.

A6-20 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 SWOT Analysis • Total revenue increased each year from revenues; debt service represents 38.5% 1998 through 2001; each of these years of total expenses Strengths the ice arena recaptured over 100% of its • Current scheduling practices resulting in The following strengths, or positive issues expenses significant amounts of excess capacity which fall within the control of • The ice arena has strong programs and and lost income potential management, directly impact the success facility rentals • Limited sessions for public skating and of McMillen Ice Arena: • Tremendous success of special program stick and puck; minimizes opportunity for rentals in 2002 earned income from admissions and • The recently renovated and expanded concessions facility has tremendous flexibility with two • There is an appropriate mix of advertising NHL-size rinks, one studio ice surface, for the ice arena; opportunities for • No customer service plan is in place to one multipurpose room, concession partnerships with local radio and manage staff stand, full-service pro shop, locker rooms, television stations exist • Lack of perceived safety in McMillen Park and stadium seating for 1,024 spectators • Efforts to track customer satisfaction are completed on a routine basis • Available ice time to expand programs Opportunities and facility rentals • A wise mix of pricing strategies is used, • Convenient location of ice arena in although there may be additional The following opportunities, or potentially McMillen Park; proximity of Lifetime opportunities worth pursuing positive issues which are outside the Sports Academy in same park increases control of management, impact the local exposure among the public potential success of McMillen Ice Arena Weaknesses and should be considered in any decision- • Pro shop and concession stands located making: in highly visible areas within the facility The following weaknesses, or negative issues which fall within the control of • Multipurpose room provides ability for • The economy improves, resulting in more management to varying degrees, rentals for non-ice-related activities discretionary income for individuals and negatively impact the success of McMillen families to spend on ice-related activities • Existing partnerships with Fort Wayne Ice Arena: Youth Hockey and the Fort Wayne Ice • Interest in ice sports peaks each year Skating Club • Ice skating participation in Fort Wayne is between September and March • Favorable contract with concessionaire below the national average; due to low • The 2006 Winter Olympics, continued provides 7% of gross sales on concession participation, figure skating programs do success of the Fort Wayne Komets, or sales and 20% on vending not break even heavy national coverage of the Stanley • Existing programs are well designed for • Declining participation rates in programs Cup playoffs or international skating the primary target market (children age 3 and public skating competition sparks a renewed interest in to 17) • Growth of expenses outpacing revenues ice sports • Hockey participation rates in Fort Wayne over past two years, resulting in an • The ice arena has minimal competition appear to exceed the national average operating deficit in 2002 within the immediate region, providing it • New debt service of over $400,000 for to a service area extending beyond Allen • Rental rates are well priced and County competitive recent renovation and expansion expected to be paid out of operating

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-21 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Threats and $410,000 annual debt service. Prior to than at many public facilities. These facilities the expansion in 2000, the ice arena was often offer 10 to 11 sessions per week with The following threats, or potentially negative showing profit margins of 14% to 26%. at least one session per day, as opposed to issues outside the control of management, Since the renovation and addition of the the three to six sessions offered per week at impact the potential success of McMillen Ice debt service obligation, expenditures have McMillen Ice Arena. Past failures may be the Arena and should be considered in any greatly exceeded revenue resulting in a result of poor time offerings or advertising decision-making: recapture rate of 77.8% in 2002 (loss of efforts. Offering teen or family nights, $237,139). possibly sponsored by a local radio station, „ Perception that participation in ice sports is may be an effective means of boosting expensive McMillen Ice Arena is faced with the attendance. Family night rates of $20 to $30 „ People continue to limit spending due to challenge of serving sports that, nationally, per family (including skates) can be effective the real or perceived economic conditions have witnessed stagnant to declining in making skating events more economical and forecast participation rates in recent years. Hockey and appealing. A reverse pricing method— „ The popularity of hockey or ice skating participation in Fort Wayne exceeds the charging adults less than children—may continues to slump or remain stagnant, national average, although ice skating in encourage greater adult participation on resulting in declining participation or general falls below the national norm. regular days. limited potential for future growth Participation numbers at the ice arena were given a significant boost in 2001 There also is an opportunity to expand „ A new ice arena is constructed in Fort thanks to the recent renovation and stick and puck drop-in play at the arena. Wayne that directly competes with expansion. The decline in public skating Currently, only two or three sessions are McMillen Ice Arena and hockey participation during 2002 is being offered. Additional sessions that following national trends. Countering these cater to targeted age or skill groups could Conclusions and national and local trends presents a be offered. significant challenge to staff. Recommendations While over 40% of the ice arena’s revenue McMillen Ice Arena is a quality facility that Based on sample schedules from the peak comes from rentals, more rentals are is well suited to meet the recreational and and non-peak seasons, the ice arena has a needed to fill the excess capacity, sports ice needs of the Fort Wayne significant amount of excess capacity that especially during non-prime times. Local community. The ice arena is a generally needs to be filled. During the peak season, schools, colleges, daycare centers, and attractive, well-designed facility that around 40% of the ice time between 6:00 organizations like the YMCA serve as incorporates a good color scheme a.m. and 11:00 p.m. was scheduled for potential customers, either through rentals throughout. The pro shop and concession public skating, programs, rentals, or or catered programs, to fill regular hours areas are prominently located for high special events. During the summer between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. visibility among visitors. The lounge area is months, capacity ranges around 17% if all Additional efforts to promote the ice arena an attractive public space that respects its three sheets of ice are operational. An should be pursued. Minimally, 4% of the prior history as a warming shelter for the unscheduled facility cannot generate operating budget should be dedicated to original outdoor ice rink previously located revenue. marketing and promotions, and a higher on this site. Although past efforts to expand public investment is recommended. Pursuing Unquestionably, the biggest hurdle facing skating opportunities at the ice arena have potential media partners, such as a local McMillen Ice Arena is generating sufficient been unsuccessful, the number of public radio or television station, can be an revenue to cover both the operating costs times in Fort Wayne is significantly lower effective and less expensive way to promote

A6-22 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 special events from a weekly family night to District and serve a largely minority a baseball field are located within Weisser a tournament. population. Programs are primarily Park. targeted to youth and provided at no cost The ice arena should be commended for its to participants. Market Assessment full-circle approach to marketing. The use of customer satisfaction surveys and phone Located at 1330 McCulloch Street, According to the Programs and Facilities surveys indicates that staff understand that Jennings Center provides a variety of after- Financial Statements and Attendance marketing is more than advertising and school activities for youth ages 6 to 18, Report, 547 people registered for programs promotions. These public input processes with both recreation and education at Jennings Center during 2002. While last should be continued. Staff should consider focuses. Summer programs are offered at year’s registration was down 347 from the holding several focus groups, especially for the center, as well as Hanna Homestead previous year, program registrations at the programs that are experiencing declining Park and Memorial Park. Program offerings center were up 56.3% from 1998. Total participation or areas that receive low include arts and crafts, swimming lessons, attendance at Jennings Center for 2002 marks on the surveys. kickball/wuffle ball, table games, softball, was 37,342. math enrichment, advanced math, While registration and attendance figures To help measure the success of McMillen language arts enrichment, work on for Weisser Park Youth Center were not Ice Arena, the performance measures reading, better reading, practical math/ provided in the Programs and Facilities previously identified should be applications, volleyball, movie madness, Financial Statements and Attendance implemented. In addition to existing athletics, and drop-in recreation. During Report, staff indicated that 177 youth measurements in place, this information the summer months, Jennings Center participated in the essential services. will help management understand the true serves as a free meal site for the Fort Average daily attendance at the youth cost of operations and customer Wayne Community Schools Summer Lunch center is around 250. This does not include satisfaction levels. The measurements also Program. illustrate whether programs and facilities youth who attend open gym (hosted at the are being operated at appropriate capacity Weisser Park Youth Center is located at adjacent elementary school) or play in levels. The information is useful in 802 Eckart Street. The youth center has a outdoor sports activities in the adjacent determining what programs and services strong social services focus, with five park. are successful and which ones needed essential services that address If the target market for both centers is adjusted or eliminated. mathematics, language arts, personal youth residing in the Southeast Planning development, community service, and District, neither facility captures a large 6.4 Jennings Center and African American heritage. Programs market share. Based on the 2000 census, primarily target youth and young adults Weisser Park Youth Center the total population of youth (age 0 to 19) ages 5 to 23, although most participants in this district was 17,969. Less than 2% of Description of Programs and are between the ages of 8 and 13. Other the district’s youth are registered in Services services provided at the youth center programs offered at Jennings Center or include homework assistance, computer The Albert G. Jennings Recreation Center Weisser Park Youth Center. literacy, and a community feeding program. and the Weisser Park Youth Center are two General recreation offerings include pool, neighborhood-based community centers Revenue and Expense Analysis foosball, table tennis, computer games, operated by the Fort Wayne Parks and weight lifting, and cardiovascular As a provider of free programs, Jennings Recreation Department. Both facilities are machines. Basketball and tennis courts and Center is a heavily subsidized operation. located in the city’s Southeast Planning

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-23 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Over the past five years, the average available on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. until operating deficit (or subsidy) has been 1:00 p.m. Over the summer, programming nearly $124,000. In 2001 and 2002, the is provided from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. subsidy level exceeded $140,000. Factoring at Jennings Center, Memorial Park, and in earned revenue and operating expenses, Hanna Homestead Park. The center is the average subsidy per visitor in 2002 was available for public rentals daily from 9:00 $3.76. a.m. until 11:00 p.m., except during scheduled program times.

Weisser Park Youth Center provides activities to the public daily from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The majority of youth Because no financial statements were programming occurs after 3:30 p.m., after provided for Weisser Park Youth Center, schools have dismissed for the day. the consultant could not conduct a Partnerships financial analysis for this operation. In the future, the Department should include Jennings Center staff indicated that it financial statements and participation pursues partnerships, sponsorships, and information for this facility in its annual grants, although the details of these of Programs and Facilities Financial Earned revenue at Jennings Center is these partnership arrangements were not Statements and Attendance Report. negligible, with the primary source coming defined. Staff indicated that no written partnership agreements currently exist. A from room rentals. Only $1,200 in revenue Operations Assessment was generated in 2002. No revenue was public/public partnership currently exists earned from programs provided by the Pricing Strategies with the Fort Wayne Public Schools for the center. periodic use of the Lakeside Middle School With a philosophy of providing free gymnasium. The local YMCA recently Between 1998 and 2002, operating programs to the community, neither donated used fitness equipment to the expenses at Jennings Center have Jennings Center nor Weisser Park Youth center for use by program participants. increased by 44.8%. The largest increases Center has pricing strategies for their have occurred in contractual services programs. Given that many participants Weisser Park Youth Center staff indicated (386.9% or $20,206) and supplies and come from families with lower income that over 50% of the budget comes from materials (654.8% or $4,823). Salaries for levels, staff indicated that the grants and foundation support, although seasonal staff have more than doubled implementation of any program fees would this figure could not be confirmed by the over the past five years to $50,467 in severely impact participation rates. consultants. Staff also indicated that 2002. As would be expected for a program- sponsorships and partnerships are oriented facility, the primary operating Facility Scheduling pursued, although all partnership expense is related to personnel. arrangements are pursued by Department During the school year, Jennings Center administration. Written partnership offers after-school youth programming agreements currently exist with Fort Monday through Friday from 3:30 p.m. Wayne Community Schools and Identity until 8:00 p.m. Programming is also Counts-Fort Wayne Jenbe’ Ensemble.

A6-24 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Given the social-services focus of both center, surveys are provided to parents, • Cost per Experience: This measurement centers, the following organizations serve youth participants, and instructors of the calculates how much it costs the as potential community partners to help SBA Academy and related programs. An Department to provide a program or fund or assist in the delivery of programs enhanced and more visually appealing service for the average participant. All at Jennings Center or Weisser Park Youth website should be developed to make it costs, including direct and indirect, Center: easy for the public to learn about and should be included. This ratio should be register for recreation programs at their calculated for each program and service • Public/Public: Fort Wayne Community convenience. at least once per year. Programs or Schools, Indiana Family and Social services that exceed an established ratio Services Administration (Afternoons Customer Service should be altered or eliminated to reduce ROCK in Indiana), and Fort Wayne Police costs. Department Currently, there is no customer service plan in place. A plan outlining the appropriate • Customer Retention: Track the • Public/Not-For-Profit: Fort Wayne Park delivery of customer service should be percentage of returning participants from Foundation, Community Harvest Food developed and included in the employee previous sessions of the program to gain Bank, Identity Counts-Fort Wayne Jenbe’ policy and procedure manual. The clues to customer satisfaction. Obviously Ensemble, Stop the Madness, Minority customer service plan should address how the higher the retention rate, the better, Health Coalition, AIDS Task Force, to properly address customers, outline since it is usually easier (and cheaper) to Ministerial Alliance, YMCA, YWCA, Boys procedures for handling customer keep a returning customer versus and Girls Club, and community service comments or complaints, and generally attracting a new one. organizations (e.g., Kiwanis Club, Rotary illustrate the type of experience customers • Programs Offered versus Held: Record Club, etc.) should have when visiting the community the number of programs actually offered Marketing and Promotions centers. against the number of programs planned and advertised to the public. Frequent Limited efforts are made by the Customer service training is provided to all cancellation of programs could indicate Department to promote either Jennings employees internally. Continuing education that programs offered are not adequately Center or Weisser Park Youth Center opportunities are limited to a local meeting the needs of the community. beyond flyers distributed at park locations conference sponsored by the Allen and newsletters mailed to past Superior Court Family Relations Division. • Program Capacity: Track the number of participants. Jennings Center is also program participants versus the promoted in the Fun Times seasonal Performance Measures maximum spaces available for a program brochure, although Weisser Park Youth or service. Programs at low capacity Performance measures are a valuable tool Center is not mentioned in the Summer should be reviewed to determine if they for Department management and the 2003 edition. Beyond these minimal need to be changed or eliminated. Board of Park Commissioners to measure efforts, word of mouth appears to be the Programs at maximum capacity may need or track the success of programs and primary means of promoting these centers to be expanded due to demand. services offered at its community centers. and their programs. Current measurements used at both • Facility Capacity: Track the actual number of hours the center is scheduled for an Efforts are made to assess customer centers include customer satisfaction activity or rental versus the total number satisfaction through post-participation (post-program surveys) and participation of hours the facility is operated. surveys at both Jennings Center and levels (enrollment and attendance). It is Weisser Park Youth Center. At the youth recommended that the following performance measures be implemented:

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-25 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 SWOT Analysis the amount of individualized attention Threats given to participants and have potential Strengths to create an unsafe environment The following threats, or potentially negative issues outside the control of The following strengths, or positive issues • Insufficient staffing levels to successfully management, impact the potential success within the control of management, directly expand programs of Jennings Center and Weisser Park Youth impact the success of Jennings Center and • Jennings Center has limited open space Center, and should be considered in any Weisser Park Youth Center: for the expansion of facility or addition of decision-making: outdoor recreation equipment (e.g., • Facilities are located in areas with large playground equipment or basketball • Poor economic climate continues, minority populations courts) reducing the availability of tax revenues • Both centers reach out and provide and grants to subsidize operations at the • Limited parking available at Jennings programs to at-risk youth in the centers Center community • Insufficient classroom/multipurpose • After school and summer programs meeting room space at Weisser Park Conclusions and provide a positive, structured, and Youth Center for group meetings Recommendations supervised environment for youth • Centers lack access to registration/ • Free programs eliminate cost as a barrier Jennings Center and Weisser Park Youth membership software that will track to participation Center can best be described as local attendance of participants and maintain community centers that primarily serve vital information on children enrolled in youth residing in the surrounding Weaknesses programs in the event of an emergency neighborhoods. The strength of both centers is that they provide positive, after- The following weaknesses, or negative school and summer programs that address issues within the control of management to Opportunities the social, educational, and recreational varying degrees, negatively impact the The following opportunities, or potentially needs of at-risk youth. Both facilities have success of Jennings Center and Weisser positive issues outside the control of a strong social-services orientation, which Park Youth Center: management, impact the potential success partially explains the philosophy of • Lack of earned income (beyond minimal of Jennings Center and Weisser Park Youth providing all programs and most services rental income) makes facilities solely Center, and should be considered in any for free. dependent on tax subsidies and grants decision-making: While it appears that existing programs are • Lack of attached gymnasium limits ability • The provision of activities for teens generally well used, the relatively small to enhance sports-related programming ranked as the second-most important size of each facility hinders the ability to or accommodate large indoor events function of the Department based on the expand programs or increase participation • Limited promotional efforts to increase community attitude and interest survey rates. Both centers have a need for a awareness of and participation in • The provision of activities for toddlers gymnasium and additional multipurpose programs and youth ranked as the fourth-most meeting space. Jennings Center’s lack of • Small facilities limit ability to significantly important function of the Department open green space severely limits the ability expand current programs based on the community attitude and to expand this facility. Given the age and interest survey relatively poor condition of Jennings • Higher participant-to-staff ratios minimize Center, the Department should consider

A6-26 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 replacing it with a new facility better the agreed-upon subsidy level should either program registration capabilities should be designed to meet today’s recreational be revised to lower subsidy levels or added to each facility to effectively record needs. Given its park location and newer cancelled. these statistics. Additionally, tracking age, the Weisser Park Youth Center software could be used to maintain contact appears to be better suited for expansion. Minimal numbers were available for and other vital information for youth program registrations and facility participants in the event of an emergency. The Department should consider attendance. Detailed statistics should be implementing user fees to help support tracked for each program and facility. operations at the neighborhood centers. Performance measures should be While it is acknowledged that both centers implemented to monitor participation serve economically depressed and/or at- levels, program capacity, and programs risk children, it is unheard of for a city to offered versus held. Memberships and provide all programs for free. Even a nominal registration fee would help reduce Summer 2003 Programs the overall subsidy level, possibly freeing up funding for additional programming Outdoor Education Outdoor Recreation staff or materials. The Department should Free Fee-Based Free Fee-Based work with the Park Foundation and other sources to ensure partial and full Sunday Discovery Birthday Parties Nature Games Canoe the Pigeon scholarships are available for those families Walks or individuals unable to pay. Wild Edibles Intro to Tree ID Salomon Farm Primitive Skills Workshop Volunteers The Department should continue efforts to secure earned income to help support 100 Years of Flight Intro to Flight Stewards of Hurshtown programs offered at both centers. In the Woods Reservoir 2003, $63,000 in grant funds was secured 6th Annual Butterfly Bats: “Shadows Kid’s Fishing at Weisser Center for the SBA Academy. At Count of Night” Derby Jennings Center, grants were also received Nature Tales Owls: Primal for the Afternoon Rocks program ($8,000) and Trails Predators and Job Training ($5,000). Farmin’ Fun Camp Both facilities should continue to track all Outdoor Explorers expenses (and revenues when applicable) 2003 by program or service area. This information will make it possible to Arthropod calculate key performance measures, such Adventures as the cost per experience. Even if Terrific Trees programs are provided for free, staff Pondering should complete an activity-based costing sheet to determine a program’s estimated Aartvarks delivery cost before it is offered or Summer Nature continued. Programs with costs higher than Crafts

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-27 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 6.5 Outdoor Recreation and Public Outdoor Education years, attendance ranged from a low of Education Programs (Fee-Based) 4,828 in 1998 to a high of 11,906 in 2002. Description of Programs and Economically priced programming for Attendance patterns for outdoor education Services families and individuals of all ages provides vary significantly depending on the year hands-on environmental and historical and program category. This suggests a lack The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation education in a unique, natural setting. of consistency in programs offered year to Department provides a variety of Programs primarily are targeted to people year. Special activities and general public opportunities to learn about and enjoy ages 4 to 85. attendance have generally increased since nature through its outdoor recreation and 1999. Dramatic drops in participation have education programs. Outdoor programs fall Public Outdoor Recreation recently occurred in guided hikes and free within the five categories identified below. Programs (Free) programs. All outdoor recreation and education Free recreational activities are available programs are in their growth stages and that promote environmental awareness identified as high priorities by staff. and appreciation and physical fitness in a School and Scout Programs unique, natural setting. Programs are targeted primarily to people ages 2 to 85. Low-cost programming is available to local schools and scout organizations providing Public Outdoor Recreation hands-on environmental and historical Programs (Fee-Based) education in a unique, natural setting that addresses Indiana science proficiencies. Economically priced recreational activities Programs are targeted to students and promote and encourage environmental awareness and appreciation, physical scouts ages 4 to 18. Currently, over 26 Outdoor Recreation school programs are offered. Scouts can fitness, and the development of lifetime participate in over 20 programs to earn sports and hobbies in outdoor recreation. Participation in outdoor recreation badges, as well as any of the school Programs are targeted primarily to people programs has been on a steady decline programs. ages 5 to 85. Typically, two to four trips are since 1998. Last year, only 20 people offered each year. Services provided at participated in trips offered through Public Outdoor Education Hurshtown Reservoir also fall under fee- outdoor recreation. This figure is down Programs (Free) based outdoor recreation programs. from a high of 75 in 2000. Overall attendance has also declined, with 1999 Market Assessment Free programming for families and being the last year outdoor recreation individuals of all ages provides hands-on classes are listed. environmental and historical education in a Outdoor Education unique, natural setting. Programs primarily A total of 9,213 people participated in are targeted to people ages 4 to 85. outdoor education programs at Weekly programs typically are provided Lindenwood Nature Preserve and Salomon eight months out of the year. Farm during 2002. This number represented a 23% drop from the previous year’s attendance. Over the past five

A6-28 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 for an environmental catastrophe in the not- Revenue and Expense Analysis too-distant future. Outdoor Education While Americans generally view themselves as having a fair amount of knowledge In 2002, outdoor education experienced about the environment, this was not dramatic increases in both expenses and substantiated in a test of key revenues as a result of the opening of the environmental issues. Out of 10 questions Salomon Farm learning center. Compared asked regarding the environment, to 1998, expenses in 2002 more than respondents to the Roper Study answered, doubled (2.6 times greater) and revenues on average, only 3.2 questions correctly. more than quadrupled (4.3 times greater). Need for Environmental Education The study suggested that environmental Likewise, the operating deficit for outdoor According to the 1999 National education programs, like those offered by education increased from $37,610 in 1998 Environmental Education and Training the Department, are critical in helping to $90,334 in 2002. All increases can Foundations/Roper Report, relatively few inform people of all ages of environmental directly be attributed to Salomon Farm. people are knowledgeable about the issues and provide them with the environment, especially when it comes to knowledge base to make a difference in environmental issues that are likely to their own behaviors. dominate in the next 15 to 25 years. Of the Competition emerging issues, the report concludes that Americans will need to catch up if they are Various providers of outdoor education and to understand the coming issues in recreation exist within the Fort Wayne area environmental protection and help play a and compete with the programs offered by role in solving the current and emerging the Department. The primary competitor is problems. the Allen County Parks and Recreation Department, which offers programs at Fox Four environmental issues in the 1999 Island and Metea. Location (county parks In 2002, personnel expenses comprised nationwide survey were rated as very are located in southern and northern Allen 62.5% of all operating expenses. This was serious by two-thirds or more of the County) and cost (county offers no free down from the previous four-year average respondents: polluted water (74%), air programs, charges typically higher rates (1998-2001) of 81.8%. Compared to pollution (69%), freshwater shortages than city programs, charges admission to previous years, inhouse labor increased by (68%), and cutting of large forests (66%). parks) should provide the city with a 13% as a result of park crews preparing Population increases and the loss of animal competitive advantage. and plant species were each rated as very the Salomon Farm site. Utilities also rose important by at least one in two Internal sources of competition for significantly as a result of the new learning respondents. environmental education include both the center. The distribution of expenses should Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo and Foellinger- more closely represent the four-year Concern for the planet’s future exists Freimann Botanical Conservatory. average in subsequent years. within the country. Over half (56%) of respondents believe that we are headed

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-29 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Operations Assessment Recreation Pricing Strategies Over the past five years, outdoor Many of the programs offered by outdoor recreation has increasingly become a recreation and education are free to the subsidized program for the Department. In public. For fee-based programs, the 2002, outdoor recreation realized an following price strategies are employed: operating deficit of $2,393. Due to low participation numbers, revenue generated • Family discounts: Many programs are free from programs only offset 13.4% of to adults related expenditures. The cost per • Benchmark competition: Periodically will participant to run outdoor recreation lower fees to remain competitive programs in 2002 was a staggering Since the addition of Salomon Farm, the $119.67. This represents a nearly $100 • Differential pricing: Non-resident fees are cost per visitor (operating deficit divided by increase per participant since 1998. approximately 20% higher than resident attendance) has increased to $9.81. In fees comparison, the five-year average (1998- 2002) was $6.45. The lowest subsidy level per visitor was in 2001, with a $4.66 cost Facility Scheduling per visitor. The key to reducing the subsidy During a nine-week period spanning June level for outdoor recreation is to increase 16 through July 17, 2003, the Salomon visitation while containing costs and/or Farm Learning Center was, on average, increasing revenues. scheduled for programs 37.2% of the available facility time. This is assuming an 85-hour-per-week operating schedule (8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 12:00 p.m. until 7 p.m. Sunday). Between program use and facility rentals, the Department should strive to have the facility scheduled a minimum of 50% of the time.

A6-30 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Partnerships seasonal brochure. Other advertising service plan should identify how to properly sources include printed materials communicate with visitors and program Currently, outdoor recreation and education distributed through the schools (children’s participants, outline procedures for handling has existing partnerships with Hoosier brochure), brochures distributed at various complaints, and generally illustrate the type Releaf, Tri-State Two Cylinder Club, and park location, and news releases. A of experience participants should have. Acres Land Trust. The program works with program planner is also provided to area volunteers to help maintain both Lindenwood teachers to promote available programs for Customer service training is provided to all Nature Preserve and Salomon Farm. Grants school classes. employees on an annual basis. Customer and foundation support have previously been service training should continue to be received from the Indiana Department of To evaluate satisfaction levels, post- provided to all new hires and upon the Nature Resource, IPALCO, Salomon Trust participation surveys are provided to start of the summer season. Fund, Wilson Foundation, and the Park teachers and group leaders participating in Foundation for Salomon Fund. The Park school and scout programs. A guest book Performance Measures Foundation also maintains an endowment is also maintained at Lindenwood Nature Performance measures are a valuable tool fund for Lindenwood Nature Preserve. Preserve to track party sizes, frequency of for Department management and the visits, means of learning about the Board of Park Commissioners to track the To enhance participation in outdoor preserve, and general comments or success of programs and services offered education programs, enhanced suggestions. partnerships should be developed with by the Department. Current measurements both public and private schools in the area. In addition to existing marketing efforts, the used for the summer camps include cost Partnership opportunities for shared Department should provide direct mailings per experience (costing form), customer programming also exist with 4-H clubs, to past participants, youth organizations satisfaction (post-participation evaluation YMCA, YWCA, Merry Lean Environmental (i.e., 4-H clubs, scouting organizations, surveys), revenue and expenses (annual Learning Center, and Purdue Extension church youth groups, parent-teacher report), participation levels (minimum Services. Area businesses could be organizations, etc.), and the Home School versus maximum), and programs offered contacted to donate needed supplies and Network. Paid newspaper or radio versus held (registration). In addition to materials. Students and faculty from area advertisements could be run prior to the existing measurements, it is universities could be used as a source for registration deadlines for public classes. An recommended that the following program instructors. enhanced and more visually appealing performance measures be implemented: website should be developed to make it • Cost Recovery: Upon conclusion of a In the future, all partnerships should be easy for the public to learn about and program or at set times for ongoing documented, along with associated costs register for recreation programs at their services, the total revenue from a and benefits to each partner. All convenience. partnerships entered into should contribute program or service should be divided by to the cost recovery expectations Customer Service its associated expenses. This ratio established for outdoor recreation and indicates the profit or loss margin for education. Currently, there is no customer service plan delivery of the program of service. The in place for outdoor recreation and cost recovery should then be compared Marketing and Promotions education. A plan outlining the appropriate to an established subsidy or profit goal. delivery of customer service should be The primary means of promoting outdoor • Customer Retention: Track the developed and included in the employee percentage of returning participants from recreation and education programs to the policy and procedure manual. The customer general public is through the Fun Times previous sessions of the program. This

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-31 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 information provides clues to customer been on the rise amenities at Lindenwood Nature Preserve satisfaction. Obviously, the higher the • While costs significantly increased between • Several old structures at Salomon Farm retention rate, the better, since it is 2001 and 2002, a portion of the increase are in disrepair and need to be stabilized usually easier (and cheaper) to keep a was the result of one-time construction to prevent further deterioration; condition returning customer opposed to attracting costs related to Salomon Farm of large barn’s foundation is not safe and a new one. • Ability to develop unique joint programs presents a liability to the Department • Program Capacity: Track the number of with other divisions within the • Sporadic participation numbers in free program participants against the Department, including the zoo and programs and guided trails maximum spaces available for a program conservatory or service. Programs at low capacity • Declining participation in outdoor should be reviewed to determine if they recreation programs need to be changed or eliminated. Weaknesses • Average subsidy per outdoor education Programs at maximum capacity may need The following weaknesses, or negative visitor more than doubled between 2001 to be expanded due to demand. issues within the control of management to and 2002 to $9.81 • Facility Capacity: Track the actual number varying degrees, directly impact the of hours a facility, such as the Salomon success of outdoor recreation and Opportunities Farm Learning Center, is scheduled for an education: activity versus the total number of hours The following opportunities, or potentially the facility can be operated. • Strong emphasis placed on education positive issues outside the control of programs, which have a lower revenue management, should be considered in any potential, to the almost exclusion of future decision-making: SWOT Analysis recreation programs • Salomon Farm offers the only farm- Strengths • Limited offering of public and family- related camp program in the Fort Wayne oriented programs; need programs that community The following strengths, or positive issues appeal to seniors or grandparents and within the control of management, directly grandchildren impact the success of outdoor recreation • No year-round, after-school programs Threats and education: offered The following threats, or potentially • Recent opening of Salomon Farm • Insufficient staff for program negative issues outside the control of Learning Center development and implementation; with management, should be considered in any • Locations with unique nature resources only one part-time staff member future decision-making: and opportunities for educating the public dedicated to year-round programs at Lindenwood and Salomon Farm, current • Tight budgets prevent schools from about outdoor recreation and the taking field trips and participating in environment staffing levels prevent an increased number or variety of programs Lindenwood Nature Preserve school • Current programs well received based on programs evaluation of post-participation surveys • Limited indoor facility space beyond Salomon Farm Learning Center to support • Continued economic slowdown erodes • Attendance by the general public and in growth and expansion of programs discretionary income of Fort Wayne classes and special events has generally • Lack of indoor facility or basic modern

A6-32 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 families, making it difficult to afford for programs in such sports as canoeing, • Women in the Outdoors families to afford fee-based programs kayaking, mountain biking, sailing, etc. If • Outdoor Adventures promoted and priced effectively, these • Teen Explorers Conclusions and programs should be able to recapture their • Outdoor Reality Programs Recommendations operating expenses. More specific outdoor adventure camps, focusing on a specific • Life of a Farmer sport, should also be considered. Lindenwood Nature Preserve, Salomon • Eco-Trippers Farm, and Hurshtown Reservoir provide Additional special events should be three quality locations to offer provided to promote current and new opportunities for outdoor recreation and program offerings. In general, the In addition, participants today want shorter education. The addition of a learning Department needs to offer more outdoor programs, workshops, and clinics due to center at Salomon Farm provides a nice programs that the public will perceive as busy personal schedules. As an example, facility to base outdoor education fun. Environmental education can easily be participants often have the daily programs, especially on farm-related integrated within these programs to fulfill constraints of a demanding workday topics. The Lindenwood Nature Preserve the educational mission. followed by traffic congestion. It is needs an indoor nature center to become a understandable that participants want truly viable, year-round location for Sporadic participation numbers in outdoor convenience and comfort in the programs outdoor education. programs suggest a lack of consistency in they participate in, and is imperative that program offerings. This is likely the result convenience be considered when Given the human resources available, the of the small number of staff dedicated to developing programs. When program Department offers a good number of this service. Low participation rates in interest falls off, the cause is usually due to outdoor education and recreation programs labeled “outdoor recreation” are program content, length of session, and programs. A good mix of free and fee- alarming given the high level of subsidy. ease of access. based programs are offered. To expand These programs should be eliminated if program offerings, more permanent staff is they cannot recapture operating expenses. It appears that the cost of services and needed. Ideally, both Lindenwood and subsidy levels are relatively high for some Salomon should have a dedicated, full-time Outdoor education and recreation needs to programs and the Department may have to staff member dedicated to programming at develop a service audience matrix that take a hard look at these costs based on these sites. This would allow for the focuses on program needs by age segment the consumptive nature of these activities development and expansion of programs, or grade level (e.g., ages 2 to 5, 6 to 8, 9 when the operational needs of the including more family and multi- to 10, 11 to 12, etc. or grades kindergarten Department are high in other areas. generational programs. through second, third and fourth, etc.). Offering more services is not always the Currently, the program age segments answer. There may be a need to change The Department is placing a greater appear too wide to be as effective as they some programs’ focus in the future based emphasis on the provision of outdoor could be. More targeted marketing is on their maturity or decline. Evaluating education programs to the exclusion of needed by age group and type of activity. programs need to focus on effective outdoor recreation programs. While the Class and workshop length should be three program measures. These would include societal benefit of education programs is hours or less. where the program is in its lifecycle, not questioned, there typically is a greater customer satisfaction, program capacity revenue-earning potential for outdoor Greater effort is needed to create themes levels met, retention of users, costs, and recreation. The Department should for program areas. Examples of appropriate need. consider offering more outdoor adventure themes include:

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-33 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 The pricing of services for outdoor as opposed to programming in a saturated recreation and education programs needs market. to be re-evaluated when looking at direct and indirect costs. Currently, with the total Adult Athletics cost of services compared to the actual Lessons, leagues, tournaments, and program prices, the Department is recreational play for adults ages 19 to 60 subsidizing programs on average by 87%. are provided in tennis, basketball, and Many of these programs would have better volleyball. Adult sports programs are self-supporting capabilities based on the offered at numerous sites and various days community’s willingness to pay for them. and times throughout the city. The best approach to pricing of services is to establish the level of subsidy desired Lifetime Sports Academy „ Basketball: Nationally, 15.4% of the and back the price into it based on a full population, age 6 and above, play cost analysis. This free program provides children ages 8 basketball at least once per year. Given to 18 with the opportunity to learn sports the strong tradition of basketball in the 6.6 Athletic Programs that they can enjoy throughout their state, participation in Indiana exceeds lifespan. Offered at McMillen Park, the national averages, with 22.4% of Description of Programs & Lifetime Sports Academy provides lessons Hoosiers playing basketball at least once Services in golf, tennis, and swimming. Programs per year. are offered from 9:00 a.m. through 3:00 The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Frequent participants, or those playing p.m. weekdays during June and July. The Department offer sports programming in basketball 52 or more days per year, program is primarily funded by the Park the following three core areas: represent 3.5% of the American Foundation. population. These are the individuals Youth Athletics most likely to participate in a basketball Market Assessment league offered by the Department. Males A variety of lessons, leagues, and National Participation Trends represent 69.5% of all frequent tournaments are offered in tennis and participants, with 5.0% of males being basketball for youth ages 3 to 18. Youth Using the 2002 Superstudy of Sports frequent players. The participation rate sports programs are offered at numerous Participation, the following national among females is only 2.0%. The sites and various days and times participation trends were identified for average age of frequent players is 18.8, throughout the city. basketball, golf, tennis, and volleyball. reflecting the fact that youth, teens, and General demographics of sport participants Previous attempts by the Department to young adults represent the majority are also identified. Please note that provide programming in other sports such (81.1%) of all basketball players. These national participation statistics are not as soccer, volleyball, baseball, and football age segments also have the highest collected for children below the age of 6. helped cultivate the successful not-for- participation rates. profit organizations overseeing sports The average household income of programming in the community. For this frequent participants is $56,900. reason, the Department has adopted the Individuals with household incomes philosophy of helping facilitate these sports between $25,000 and $50,000 have the highest participation rates. Generally speaking, those from higher income

A6-34 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 families have slightly higher participation segments also have the highest rates than those from the lowest income participation rates. families. The average household income of During 2001, basketball experienced both frequent golfers is $76,700. Individuals one-year (3.0%) and 14-year (8.2%) with household income between $25,000 increases in participation rates, although and $50,000 have the highest the one-year change was statistically participation rates. Participation rates of insignificant. Despite the overall long- frequent golfers increase as household term growth, basketball participation income increases. appears to have peaked in 1997. During 2001, golf experienced a minor Basketball participation is projected to one-year decline in participation of 3.2%, continue its general upward trend in although the one-year change was participation. statistically insignificant. Overall, golf has The average player (both frequent and witnessed a 14-year increase of 11.9%. infrequent) plays basketball 43.6 days With the aging of baby boomers, per year. Basketball players, on average, participation rates should continue their have played the sport 9.1 years. upward trend in the coming years. Beginners, or those that have played one The average player (both frequent and or less years, represent 14.5% of all infrequent) plays golf 23.9 days per year. players. Over one-third (33.4%) have Golfers, on average, have played the played 10 or more years. sport 13.3 years. Beginners, or those that Other sports activities that basketball have played one or less years, represent players are most likely to participate in „ Golf: Nationally, 11.7% of the population, only 9.4% of all golfers. Nearly half include: swimming (61.1%), bowling age 6 and above, play golf at least once (46.7%) have played 10 or more years. per year. Participation in Indiana mirrors (45.2%), bicycling (42.4%), fishing Other sports activities that golfers are national averages, with 11.8% of (35.6%), and camping (34.0%). A most likely to participate in include: Hoosiers golfing at least once per year. significant percentage of basketball swimming (51.8%), bowling (40.9%), players also do some form of strength Frequent participants, or those golfing 25 walking (37.0%), fishing (33.3%), and training or conditioning, with 38.8% or more days per year, represent 3.4% of billiards/pool (30.3%). A significant using strength equipment, 32.2% using the American population. These percentage of golfers also do some form free weights, and 28.8% using cardio individuals are most likely to participate of strength training or conditioning, with equipment. in golf lessons offered by the 39.8% using strength equipment, 37.3% Department. Males represent 77.1% of all using cardio equipment, and 30.5% using frequent participants, with 5.4% of males free weights. being frequent players. The participation rate among females is only 1.5%. The average age of frequent players is 47.7, reflecting the fact that older adults age 45 and above represent over half (59.4%) of all golfers. These age

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-35 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 adults, and adults age 35 to 44 comprise the majority of tennis players and have the highest participation rates. The average household income of frequent participants is $68,100. Overall, participation rates generally increase with higher household incomes. During 2001, tennis experienced one- year (9.0%) and 14-year (28.6%) declines in participation. Given the current trends, it is likely that tennis participation will continue its downward spiral in future years. The average player (both frequent and infrequent) plays tennis 22.2 days per year. Tennis players, on average, have played the sport 10.3 years. Beginners, or those that have played one or less years, represent 18.2% of all participants. Over one third (36.4%) have played 10 or more years. Other sports activities that tennis players • Tennis: Nationally, 6.0% of the are most likely to participate in include: • Volleyball: Nationally, 5.1% of the population, age 6 and above, play tennis swimming (71.1%), bowling (49.7%), population, age 6 and above, play at least once per year. Participation in walking (49.6%), bicycling (47.5%), and volleyball at least once per year. Indiana exceeds national averages, with billiards/pool (37.9%). A significant Participation in Indiana exceeds national 7.3% of Hoosiers playing tennis at least percentage of tennis players also do averages, with 8.9% of Hoosiers playing once per year. some form of strength training or volleyball at least once per year. Frequent participants, or those playing conditioning, with 47.1% using strength Frequent participants, or those playing tennis 25 or more days per year, equipment, 46% using cardio equipment, volleyball 25 or more days per year, represent only 1.4% of the American and 37.3% using free weights. represent only 1.8% of the American population. These are the individuals population. These are the individuals most likely to participate in tennis lessons most likely to participate in volleyball or leagues offered by the Department. leagues offered by the Department. Males and females each comprise half of Females comprise 70.2% of frequent all players and play at rates similar to the players, with 2.5% of females being national average. The average age of frequent players. The participation rate frequent players is 34.6. Teens, young among males is only 1.1%. The average age of frequent players is 20.1, reflecting the fact that the majority of players

A6-36 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 (80%) are under the age of 25. Teens occurred in 2002. Youth athletic programs unquestionably have the highest have also been offered in volleyball, participation rates. soccer, self-defense, and gymnastics, but The average household income of subsequently canceled due to low frequent participants is $61,800. attendance. Participation rates remain similar regardless of the income level, with the exception of households with incomes under $15,000. Members of these households have significantly lower participation rates. During 2001, volleyball experienced a one-year increase of 5.5%. Since 1987, volleyball witnessed a 33% decline. It appears that volleyball participation rates may be stabilizing, although it is too early to detect a definitive trend. • Adult Athletics: Adult programs are The average player (both frequent and currently offered in basketball, tennis, infrequent) plays volleyball 27 days per and volleyball. Historically, tennis year. Volleyball players, on average, have programs have had the highest played the sport 5.2 years. Beginners, or registration numbers, although those that have played one or less years, enrollments have dropped by 61.5% over represent 23% of all participants. Only Program Participation Trends the past five years. Volleyball enrollments 16% have played 10 or more years. have also experienced a downward trend, Using registration statistics collected by the falling 37.9% since 1998. While Other sports activities that volleyball Department, the following participation basketball registrations are down 19.6% players are most likely to participate in trends were identified for youth athletics, over the five-year period, there has been include: swimming (67.9%), basketball adult athletics, and the Lifetime Sports a steady increase in enrollments since (65.7%), bowling (58.2%), running/ Academy: 1999. jogging (53.6%), and bicycling (49.5%). A significant percentage of volleyball • Youth Athletics: Currently, youth players also do some form of strength programs are offered only in the sports of training or conditioning, with 47.9% using basketball and tennis. Over the past five strength equipment, 43.0% using cardio years, basketball registrations have equipment, and 38.8% using free increased by 15.7%, with the majority of weights. this increase occurring in 2002. Prior to 2002, enrollment for basketball programs was consistently about 700 youth. Tennis registrations have decreased by 17.1% over the same five-year period. Like basketball, the majority of the decrease

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-37 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Indiana exceed national averages and Estimated Youth Golf Market Size athletic programs are open to non- Age City Participation Market residents, the potential market size Population Rate Size probably exceeds the amount reported. The market share should be viewed as the 6-11 18,685 0.7% 131 maximum likely amount of the market 12-17 17,513 1.9% 333 served by Department programs (national participation statistics are not collected for Total 36,198 —- 464 children below the age of 6).

• Youth Basketball: There are an estimated • Youth Swimming: There are an estimated 3,889 frequent basketball players 23,896 swimmers between the ages of 6 „ Lifetime Sports Academy: Total between the ages of 6 and 17 residing in and 17 residing in the City of Fort Wayne. enrollments in the Lifetime Sports the City of Fort Wayne. In 2002, 795 In 2002, 403 participants were registered Academy have increased each of the past participants were registered in youth in free swimming lessons provided five years. Registration is up 37.8% since athletic programs. It is estimated that the through the Lifetime Sports Academy. It 1998. In 2002, a total of 2,461 youth Department currently serves up to 20% is estimated that the Department were registered in the free program. A of the youth basketball market within the currently serves up to 2% of the city’s three-year trend of declining registrations city. youth swimming market through the in specific sports has been countered by academy. general enrollments in the six- to seven- Estimated Youth Basketball Market Size Estimated Youth Swimming Market Size week program. Age City Participation Market Population Rate Size Age City Participation Market Population Rate Size 6-11 18,685 6.1% 1,140 6-11 18,685 72.4% 13,528 12-17 17,513 15.7% 2,750 12-17 17,513 59.2% 10,368 Total 36,198 —- 3,889 Total 36,198 —- 69,722

• Youth Golf: There are an estimated 464 frequent golfers between the ages of 6 • Youth Tennis: There are an estimated and 17 residing in the City of Fort Wayne. 716 frequent tennis players between the In 2002, 403 participants were registered ages of 6 and 17 residing in the City of Market Potential and Share in the free golf instruction programs Fort Wayne. In 2002, 447 participants offered through the Lifetime Sports were registered in youth tennis programs. Using the 2000 U.S. Census data for Fort Academy. It is estimated that the It is estimated that the Department Wayne and the 2002 Superstudy of Sports Department currently serves up to 87% currently serves up to 63% of the city’s Participation, the following estimates were of the youth golf market. youth tennis market. made regarding market potential within city limits. Since participation rates in

A6-38 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 In addition to the fee-based program offered • Adult Tennis: There are an estimated Estimated Adult Volleyball Market Size by the Department, 258 youth were 1,869 frequent tennis players age 18 and Age City Participation Market registered in the free tennis programs above residing in the City of Fort Wayne. Population Rate Size offered through the Lifetime Sports In 2002, 153 participants were registered Academy. It is estimated that the in adult tennis programs. It is estimated 18-24 22,145 2.4% 531 Department currently serves up to 36% of that the Department currently serves up 25-34 31,504 0.8% 252 the city’s youth tennis market through the to 8% of the city’s adult tennis market. Lifetime Sports Academy. Between the free 35-44 30,766 0.7% 215 Estimated Adult Tennis Market Size and fee-based tennis programs, up to 99% 45-54 25,240 0.7% 177 of the youth tennis market is served Age City Participation Market 55-64 15,012 0.1% 15 through Department-sponsored programs. Population Rate Size 65+ 25,517 0.2% 51 Estimated Youth Tennis Market Size 18-24 22,145 1.9% 421 Total 150,184 —- 1,242 Age City Participation Market 25-34 31,504 0.9% 284 Population Rate Size 35-44 30,766 1.5% 461 Competition 6-11 18,685 1.3% 243 45-54 25,240 0.8% 202 The primary competitors to the youth athletic programs are Spiece and the 12-17 17,513 2.7% 473 55-64 15,012 1.3% 195 YMCA. The YMCA and Fairplay Volleyball Total 36,198 —- 716 65+ 25,517 1.2% 306 League serves as the primary competition to the adult athletic programs. There are • Adult Basketball: There are an estimated Total 150,184 —- 1,869 no comparable programs like the Lifetime 2,595 frequent basketball players • Adult Volleyball: There are an estimated Sports Academy offered within the greater between the ages of 18 and 54 residing 1,242 frequent volleyball players age 18 Fort Wayne area. To differentiate from the in the City of Fort Wayne. In 2002, 131 and above residing in the City of Fort competition, the Department attempts to participants were registered in adult Wayne. In 2002, 131 participants were provide lower-priced programs that provide basketball programs. It is estimated that registered in adult volleyball programs. It more sessions per dollar spent. The the Department currently serves up to is projected that the Department Department also strives to provide more 5% of the city’s adult basketball market. currently serves up to 11% of the city’s organized programs than its competition. adult tennis market. Estimated Adult Basketball Market Size Revenue and Expense Analysis Age City Participation Market Over the past five years (1998 through Population Rate Size 2002), athletic programs have had an 18-24 22,145 5.6% 1,240 average annual operating loss of $57,942. Over this time period, operating revenues 25-34 31,504 2.0% 630 have decreased by 12.0% while operating 35-44 30,766 1.7% 523 expenses have declined by 4.0%. On average, athletic programs have 45-54 25,240 0.8% 202 recaptured 64.0% of their operating Total 109,655 —- 6,484 expenses. The recapture rate in 2002 was only 61.7%.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-39 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 gymnasium space, represent an additional Based on 2003 to 2005 financial goals, 40% of costs. Over the past five years, current pricing strategies have resulted in personnel expenses have increased by a recapture rates of 165% to 173% since modest 2.8%. While contractual services 1999, suggesting that current pricing have decreased by 16.5% since 1998, with strategies have been effective. last year witnessing a one-year increase of 14.9%. The Lifetime Sports Academy is a fully subsidized program and does not charge participation fees. Pricing strategies do not apply.

Since 1998, each youth or adult sport Current pricing strategies used by the participant is subsidized on average by Department are appropriate for athletic $30.53. The average subsidy per youth or programs and should be continued. To adult athletic program participant has understand the true cost of delivery, the increased by 38% over this five-year Department should consider adapting its period. The subsidy amount reached a existing program costing form to include all five-year high of $38.29 last year. Annual direct and indirect expenses related to the reports do not report revenues and delivery of a program. expenses by program type (e.g., youth Operations Assessment basketball, adult basketball, etc.), so an The Department should annually analysis by program could not be Pricing Strategies benchmark program prices against performed. To understand the full delivery comparable programs offered by For youth athletics, the Department has cost of programs, these expenses should competitors. While the competitor pricing established an 80% recapture goal of be itemized and analyzed in subsequent serves to evaluate the going price within the revenues to expenses. The primary pricing years. community, it is also important for the strategy used to accomplish this goal is Department to price programs to meet competition pricing. The Department also established financial goals. uses differential pricing based on the residency of participants. Based on 2003 to Scheduling 2005 financial goals, current pricing strategies have resulted in recapture rates The scheduling of many youth and adult of 67% to 71% since 1999, suggesting athletic programs is subject to the that modest price increases should be availability of gymnasium space in the considered. community. Because the Department does not own or operate a facility with a Adult athletics has a recapture goal of gymnasium, space is rented from Fort 175%. The primary pricing strategies used Wayne Community Schools, Concordia to accomplish this goal are demand-driven Theological Seminary, and area private In reviewing athletic expenditures by and profit-oriented pricing. The schools. category, half of the expenses are related Department also uses differential pricing to personnel. Contractual services, largely based on the residency of participants. comprised of rental payments for

A6-40 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 While this arrangement allows the scholarships for the youth basketball league. Customer Service Department to provide programs at Foundation support funds nearly all the locations throughout the community, it also expenses for the Lifetime Sports Academy. Currently, there is no customer service plan results in periodic cancellations, in place for athletic programs. A plan relocations, and interruptions due to last- Marketing and Promotions outlining the appropriate delivery of minute scheduling conflicts with the customer service should be developed and The primary means of promoting athletic provider. Programs must be scheduled included in the employee policies and programs to the public is through the Fun around the availability of gymnasium procedures manual. The customer service Times seasonal brochure. Other advertising times, versus providing programs at times plan should identify how to properly sources include printed materials that might better maximize participation communicate with participants and distributed through the schools, news numbers. parents, outline procedures for handling releases, public service announcements, complaints, and generally illustrate the Partnerships flyers available at various park facilities, type of experience participants should have and the Department’s website. Other while participating in a program. The Department has a written agreement marketing efforts include a post- with Fort Wayne Community Schools for participation survey. Customer service training is provided to all the joint use of school and park facilities at employees before the start of each season. low to no cost. This arrangement, most In addition to existing marketing efforts, Customer service training should continue recently updated in 1998, has been in the Department should provide direct to be provided. place since 1963. It is recommended that mailings to past participants, youth the Department and schools routinely organizations (i.e., 4-H clubs, scouting Performance Measures update the agreement every three to five organizations, faith-based youth groups, Performance measures are a valuable tool years, with the following additions: parent-teacher organizations, etc.), and the Home School Network. Paid newspaper for Department management and the • Rental rates for commonly used spaces, or radio advertisements could be run prior Board of Park Commissioners to track the such as gymnasiums, should be explicitly to registration deadlines. Focus groups success of programs and services offered established with parents (both of participants and non- by the Department. Current measurements participants) could be held to identify used for athletic programs include • Scheduling priorities for commonly used customer satisfaction (post-participation spaces should be broken out by times to program needs. The Department should work with the schools (public and private) evaluation surveys) and participation levels provide ample time for the programming (marketing report). In addition to the needs of both parties to secure more opportunities to promote programs through the schools. An existing measurements, it is recommended • Terms should explicitly require that all enhanced and more visually appealing that the following performance measures reservations be documented in writing; website should be developed to make it be implemented: once a reservation is made, it may not be easy for the public to learn about and • Cost per Experience: Using existing data, canceled or changed unless mutually register for recreation programs at their the measurement calculates how much it agreed upon by both parties convenience. costs the Department to provide a The Department seeks sponsorships for program or service for the average the city tennis tournament. Grants have participant. All costs, including direct and previously been secured to provide indirect, should be included. This information is valuable for effective

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-41 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 pricing. This ratio should be calculated for • Market Share: Comparing the number of Theological Seminary and private schools each program and service at least once participants versus the market potential, for additional gym space per year. determine the percentage of the potential • Cost Recovery: Upon conclusion of a market that is utilizing the service or Weaknesses program or at set times for ongoing program. To effectively measure this, it is services, the total revenue from a important to track at least the age of The following weaknesses, or negative program or service should be divided by participants to compare to the national issues within the control of management to its associated expenses. This ratio data. Age segments, if used, need to varying degrees, directly impact the indicates the profit or loss margin for correspond to the resources used. success of the athletic programs: delivery of the program of service. The • No Department-owned gymnasium space cost recovery should then be compared SWOT Analysis available for programming; programs to an established subsidy or profit goal. subject to last-minute cancellations, • Customer Retention: Track the Strengths relocations, or interruptions due to lack percentage of returning participants from The following strengths, or positive issues of control over gymnasium space previous sessions of the program. This within the control of management, directly • The limitations on gym space reduce the information provides clues to customer impact the success of the athletic capacity of the Department to serve satisfaction, because happy customers programs: significantly more participants usually return. Obviously, the higher the retention rate, the better, since it is • In recent years, both youth and adult • The current agreement with Fort Wayne usually easier (and cheaper) to keep a basketball programs offered by the Public Schools was last reviewed in 1998 returning customer opposed to attracting Department have experienced increased and includes no provisions that establish a new one. participation numbers rental rates, priority scheduling of key facilities by time, or conditions that • Program Capacity: Track the number of • Overall participation in the Lifetime prevent the last-minute cancellation or program participants against the Sports Academy continues to rise, changing of scheduled times for maximum spaces available for a program although registrations in single sports programs or service. Programs at low capacity area have shown some decline in 2002 should be reviewed to determine if they • The declining attendance patterns in • The Department controls a substantial need to be changed or eliminated. youth tennis, adult tennis, and adult majority of the market in youth golf (up Programs at maximum capacity may need volleyball programs offered by the to 87%) and youth tennis (up to 99%); to be expanded due to demand. Department the Department also has substantial • Market Potential: Using data available penetration in the youth basketball • The Department reaches a relatively from resources like the American Sports market (up to 20%) small portion of the potential market in Data Superstudy of Sports Participation adult basketball (5%), adult tennis (8%), • The 2003 to 2005 financial goals for the or National Sporting Goods Association and adult volleyball (11%) Department indicate that adult athletics Sports Participation Survey, determine recaptured 165% to 173% of operating • Historically, the Department’s failure to the potential number of participants expenses between 1999 and 2001 provide programming in other sports based on national or regional averages. limits the ability to provide programs in See the Market Assessment section as an • Long working partnership with Fort different sports markets; soccer, baseball, example. Wayne Public Schools for joint use of and softball are already serviced by other facilities; arrangements with Concordia organizations

A6-42 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 • Overall recapture rate for all youth and management, should be considered in any lifespan. Except for the lack of a permanent adult athletics is only 62%; the average future decision-making: administration center near the golf course, subsidy per participant is $38.29 the facilities at McMillen Park are well suited • National trends generally show • The Department does not distinguish for academy programs. decreasing participation rates in volleyball revenues and expenses by essential and tennis Overall enrollment in the Lifetime Sports services (e.g., youth athletics, adult Academy continues to rise each year and is athletics, Lifetime Sports Academy) in the • People continue to limit spending due to up 38% from 1998. While the academy is annual Programs and Facilities Financial the real or perceived economic conditions valuable and should be continued, it should Statements and Attendance Report; and forecast be recognized that its free programs do limited performance measures are also directly compete against fee-based provided in this report Conclusions and programs provided by the Department. • Lack of a permanent, indoor learning Recommendations Academy programs should be structured to center at the golf course in McMillen Park The Department currently provides athletic introduce youth to sports and provide for the Lifetime Sports Academy to use as programming in basketball, volleyball, elementary skills. Advanced skill administrative space and shelter in the tennis, golf, and swimming through youth development should only be offered event of inclement weather athletics, adult athletics, and the Lifetime through the fee-based programs of the • Lifetime Sports Academy programs Sports Academy. A variety of free and fee- Department. In this way, the academy can compete with the Department’s fee- based programs are available for youth in nurture interest in lifetime sports and serve based programs in tennis and swimming tennis, golf, and swimming. as a feeder for youth athletics programs. The elimination of direct competition between the two programs will help ensure Opportunities Historically, the Department has taken the role of providing facilities for other sports the continued success of both services. The following opportunities, or potentially to accommodate programs offered by Except for basketball (youth and adult) and positive issues outside the control of other community organizations. As such, the Lifetime Sports Academy, participation management, should be considered in any the ability to successfully penetrate the in Department sports programs has future decision-making: market through expanded programming into soccer, baseball, softball, gymnastics, generally been on the decline over the past • National trends generally show increasing or youth football is limited. The five years. While the declines are partially participation numbers in basketball and Department may want to consider reflective of national trends, volleyball and golf; swimming participation has providing sports leagues or programming tennis participation rates in Fort Wayne remained fairly consistent for at least the in lacrosse, roller hockey, and adult have fallen at larger rates. Scheduling past four years football, subject to the availability of changes and availability of space are contributing factors for volleyball. In • State participation rates meet or exceed facilities. developing programs, staff should closely national rates in all sports in which the review the key participation demographics Department offers programs The Lifetime Sports Academy is a popular youth program that has provided the identified in this report to ensure that Department with significant positive programs are targeted to the primary Threats recognition both locally and nationally. The audience. The following threats, or potentially academy effectively introduces kids to sports that can be enjoyed over their Lack of Department-owned gymnasium negative issues outside the control of space is a serious factor impacting the

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-43 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 success of athletic programs. While the market enrolled in city programs, the Northside Pool Department has been effective in securing Department also is a significant player in gymnasium space through local schools, this market as well. The Department is not Located near the corner of State and Parnell the lack of control over the space results in as dominate in the adult market, reaching in the northeast quadrant of the city, this periodic schedule changes, relocations, and only 11% of likely volleyball players, 8% of facility is the largest and most-attended interruptions of programs. Sufficient tennis players, and 5% of basketball aquatic facility operated by the Department. gymnasium capacity does not exist within players. The current capacity of the aquatic facility is the community to significantly expand approximately 700 patrons. Amenities indoor sport programming. The Department has established recapture include the city’s only leisure pool with zero- goals of 80% for youth athletics and 175% depth entry, interactive water play features, The Department should consider building for adult athletics. Between 1999 and volleyball court, sand playground, grass at least one, multi-court field house to 2001, the Department reported recapture sunning areas, giant shade umbrellas, and house youth and adult athletics. In the rates of 67% to 71% in youth athletics and two water slides. A vendor operates a interim, the Department should routinely 165% to 173% in adult athletics. Based on portable concession stand under contract update its use agreement with Fort Wayne the financial information provided to the with the Department. Public Schools every three to five years. consultant, actual performance by core Additionally, the contract should be program area could not be confirmed. This pool is most popular with families and expanded to include provisions that smaller children. Northside Pool offers an prohibit changes or the cancellation of a To assist staff in establishing prices, the extensive selection of learn-to-swim reserved time unless mutually agreed upon Department should revise the current programs and is popular for private rentals. by both parties. This would help address program form to include all related direct This pool has the highest admission fees the disruptions currently experienced by and indirect costs to provide the service. and recaptured 86.6% of its operating the Department. The use agreement This will allow the Department to better expenses in 2002. should also explicitly state rental rates and reach its cost recovery goals. The McMillen Pool identify priority-use arrangements of key Department should also benchmark against its primary competitors at least annually to facilities by day of week and time of day. Located near the corner of Oxford and compare Department fees to the market. Hessen Cassel in the southeast quadrant, The Department faces some competition this facility boasts the city’s largest water within the various sports programs offered. 6.7 Pools/Aquatic Facilities slide. Other amenities include interactive In youth sports, the primary competitors water spray area, sand basketball court, are the schools, YMCA, and Speice. The Description of Programs and and giant shade umbrellas. A vendor YMCA and Fairplay Volleyball League Services operates a portable concession stand provide the most direct competition in Aquatic Facilities under contract with the Department. adult sports. The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation McMillen Pool is used exclusively weekday Currently, the Department controls the Department currently operates four mornings and early afternoons for the majority of the city’s youth market in outdoor aquatic facilities throughout the Lifetime Sports Academy’s swimming tennis (~99%) and golf (~87%). With city. All of the pools were most recently programs. Due to the social-economic approximately 20% of the youth basketball renovated before the 1996 season. Each status of the surrounding neighborhoods, facility is unique in design, user base, fee the pool is priced slightly less than Northside structure, and program offerings.

A6-44 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Pool. This pool recaptured only 14.4% of its Aquatic Programs Pool Rentals operating expenses in 2002. Specific aquatic programs offered by the Each of the four pools may be rented after Memorial Pool Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation hours for private parties and functions. Department can be classified into the Located at 2301 Maumee just east of following categories: Market Assessment downtown, this facility contains a traditional pool layout with drop slides. The Public Swim National Participation Trends and exterior façade of the bathhouse was Demographics renovated before the start of the 2003 Each of the four pools offers open Using the 2002 Superstudy of Sports season with the use of federal grants. A swimming hours for the general public. Participation, the following national combination spray and dry playground is Exact hours vary depending on the participation trends were identified for located within Memorial Park outside the location. Evening swim times are offered at swimming. General demographics of sport parameter of the pool fence. Free learn-to- Northside, McMillen, and Swinney Pools. participants are also identified. Please note swim programs are offered to other park Designated adult-only swim times are that national participation statistics are not programs (i.e., Jennings Center) and not- offered at Memorial Pool. collected for children below the age of 6. for-profit organizations working with Learn-To-Swim children in need (i.e., Salvation Army). Nearly four out of 10 people (37.3%) in the American Red Cross learn-to-swim classes United States, ages 6 and above, swim at Memorial Pool has the lowest attendance for various ages, skill levels, and abilities least once per year. Swimming in the state figures of any of the four city pools. Based are offered at Northside and Swinney of Indiana exceeds the national average, on the social-economic status of the Pools. Four sessions are offered during the with 43.0% of Hoosiers swimming at least surrounding neighborhoods and the low summer of 2003 with classes available in once per year. Nationally, the average attendance, this pool is also priced the both the mornings and evenings. A special swimmer swam 29.9 days during 2001. Of lowest. Memorial Pool recaptured less class session is available for children with all swimmers that swim at least once per 7.7% of its operating expenses in 2002. emotional and physical disabilities. Classes year, 35.6% are under the age of 18. Not Swinney Pool are designated for preschoolers (age 3-5), surprisingly, youth have the highest toddlers (age 4-5), and children (age 6- participation rates of all swimmers with Located at 1500 W. Jefferson, just 15). 72.4% of children age 6 to 11 and 59.2% southwest of downtown, this facility of teens age 12 to 17 swimming at least contains a traditional pool layout with drop Lifetime Sports Academy once per year. Generally speaking, the slides. The overall layout of this facility This free, seven-week program is designed older a person, the less likely he/she is to closely mirrors Memorial Pool. Swinney to teach basic swimming skills to children swim. Pool offers a limited learn-to-swim ages 8 through 18. Offered at McMillen program. Based on its location, this pool Frequent swimmers, or those swimming 52 Pool, the Lifetime Sports Academy includes has the most diverse user base consisting or more days per year, represent 6.2% of learn-to-swim programs, competitive swim largely of middle- and high-school-age the national population. These are the training, and junior lifeguard training. individuals. This pool recaptured 30.1% of individuals most likely to participate in Participants are also eligible to enjoy a free its operating expenses in 2002. swimming programs or purchase season open swim session every Friday from 9:30 passes to pools. Females represent 57.1% a.m. to 11:30 a.m. of all frequent participants. While the average age of frequent swimmers is 26,

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-45 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 children under the age of 18 swim at the participation levels involved exercise and 2002. This represents a one-year decline highest participation rates of all age groups strength training, with 30.4% using of 3.9% and four-year decline of 11.6%. (20.5% of kids age 6 through 11 and 11.2% strength equipment and 30.7% using cardio Attendance at all four pools has generally of teens age 12 to 17). Youth comprise equipment. Places where these activities been on the decline since 1998, an 51.6% of all frequent swimmers. The next occur could be targeted when promoting uncharacteristically hot summer. The largest age segment of frequent swimmers swim programs. most notable exception to the attendance is adults age 35 to 44 (12.9%), who likely trend is Memorial Pool; however, the represent the parents of youth swimmers. +50% increase in attendance over the The average household income of frequent five-year time frame is largely the result participants is $66,500. Generally speaking, of 1,499 free admissions provided to the the higher the household income, the more pool in 2002. When reviewing attendance likely a person is to be a frequent swimmer. for outdoor pools, it is important to note that weather plays a significant role in Participation rates in swimming have overall visitation. Just as a hot summer remained steady over at least the past four draws large numbers to a pool, a cool or years in which statistics were recorded by rainy season has negative impacts on the Superstudy of Sports Participation. pool attendance (and revenue) that is While there was a reported four-year next to impossible to overcome. decline of less than 1% in the total number of swimmers, this change was statistically insignificant. With over 93.5 million Americans swimming at least once during 2001, swimming remains the most popular sport activity in the United States.

Swimming is unquestionably a lifetime sport. Swimmers, on average, have been swimming for 18.5 years. Beginners, or those that have been swimming one year Fort Wayne Participation Trends or less, represent only 9.9% of all swimmers. Nearly one-third (28.3%) have Based on participation statistics collected been swimming for four to 11 years. from staff between 1998 and 2002 at the four city pools, the following trends were Because of the widespread popularity of identified for Fort Wayne Parks and swimming in the United States, there is not Recreation: a particularly strong correlation between • General Admissions: Excluding swimming and participation in another • Total People Served: Including attendance from learn-to-swim programs sport. Other sports that swimmers are attendance from daily admissions, season and the Lifetime Sports Academy, most likely to participate in include: passes, group sales, private rentals, and attendance from general admissions has walking (45.2%), bicycling (39.3%), aquatic programs, the Fort Wayne Parks closely mirrored overall attendance. bowling (38.1%), camping (36.5%), and and Recreation Department served During 2002, the city pools served 56,288 fishing (34.6%). The next highest 67,717 patrons at the four city pools in patrons through entrance from daily

A6-46 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 admissions, season passes, free passes, adults in attendance. This would be group sales, and private rentals. This expected at Northside, especially given represents a one-year decline of 2.0% and its leisure-pool orientation and kid- four-year decline of 13.3%. The most friendly features. Free admissions were popular pool is Northside, which served most typically given at Memorial (29.9%) 33,260 people in 2002. The lowest and McMillen (21.7%) Pools. attended pool in 2002 was Memorial, with only 5,020 patrons using the facility.

• Learn-To-Swim Enrollment: Overall, the number of participants in the learn-to- swim program have experienced declined by 11.2% over the past year and 7.6% over the past five years. Despite the overall decline, the total number of program participants at Northside actually increased 13.6% from 1998 to 2002. Program enrollments at Swinney Pool have dropped by 53.1% over the • Means of Entry: In analyzing the five-year period, and this decline was admission means of patrons to the four largely responsible for the overall drop in city pools in 2002, half (50.5%) of all participation during 2002. entries were from youth daily admissions. Adult daily admissions were the second largest source, accounting for 21.6% of those in attendance. Night swim admissions (8.8%) and entrances by season pass holders (7.1%) rounded up the largest paying segments. Admissions from group sales, private rentals, and volleyball walk-ons were insignificant, accounting collectively for just 3.6% of all entries. Free admission, either to individuals or groups, accounted for „ Lifetime Sports Academy Swimming 4,745 visitors or 8.4% of all admissions. Enrollment: Since 1998, participation in When reviewing admissions by pool, the various learn-to-swim and youth consistently accounted for half of competitive swimming programs offered all visitors regardless of the site. through the Lifetime Sports Academy Northside and Swinney Pools had the have remained fairly consistent, with largest percentage (25.9-26.8%) of between 413 and 452 enrollees.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-47 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 scuba, water safety, and private rentals. Use but an individual may only be a guest up to of the YMCA pools and participation in YMCA three times per year. See following table for programs is limited to members. Members YMCA membership rates. are allowed to bring guests, who must pay a daily admission fee ($5 students, $8 adults), YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne Membership Rates

Swimming Participation Rates U.S. Estimated Estimated Estimated Aggregate Participation Fort Wayne Allen County Total Swimming Rate Participants Participants Participants Days Total by Population 37.3% 69,520 42,728 112,249 3,356,238 (U.S. Average) Total by Population 43..0% 80,144 49,258 129,402 3,869,121 (IN Average) Total by Median 44.7% 83,313 51,205 134,518 4,022,087 HH Income Age 6-11 72.4% 13,528 8,712 22,240 664,971 Age 12-17 59.2% 10,368 7,460 17,827 533,042 Competition Age 18-24 41.8% 9,257 3,841 13,098 391,619 Other providers of pools and aquatic programs within the Fort Wayne Age 25-34 42.0% 13,232 6,464 19,695 588,895 community include the YMCA, YWCA, Fort Age 35-44 34.6% 10,645 7,699 18,344 548,482 Wayne Community Schools, and other local schools. To some degree, the city pools Age 45-54 24.4% 6,159 4,831 10,990 328,594 also compete with private neighborhood Age 55-64 21.6% 3,243 2,392 5,634 168,467 pools. Excluding the schools, the other Age 65+ 12.9% 3,292 1,576 4,868 145,540 providers are membership-based organizations. Total by Age —- 69,722 42,974 112,696 3,369,610 Segment The largest competitor for aquatic programs is the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne, which Male 36.5% 32,735 20,773 53,508 1,599,866 has the year-round advantage of operating Female 38.0% 36,745 21,903 58,648 1,753,588 four indoor pool facilities throughout the community. Programs offered by the YMCA Total by Gender —- 69,480 42,676 112,156 3,353,475 include learn-to-swim, teen and adult Range —- 69,480 - 42,676 - 112,156 - 3,353,475 - lessons, private lessons, water fitness, 83,313 51,205 134,518 4,022,087 Average —- 74,436 45,768 120,204 3,594,106

A6-48 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Membership Type Monthly Annual swimming program offered by the city. Great Lakes region, the Department should Rate Rate Based on the national average of 29.9 days reasonably expect to recapture 60% to of swimming per swimmer, the estimated 70% of the operating expenses. Student (up to age 23) $18.00 $216 aggregate total number of days Fort Wayne Adult $34.50 $414 and Allen County residents swim or participate in aquatic programs during a Senior (age 60 and above) $29.50 $354 year is nearly 3.6 million days. Family $48.00 $576 Participants in the swimming programs Single Parent Family $38.00 $456 offered by the Department fall between the ages of 3 and 15. During 2002, there were Senior Family $38.50 $456 1,586 participants in the swimming pro- Market Potential and Share grams. National participation rates indicate that there are approximately 23,876 Using Fort Wayne and Allen County frequent swimmers in Fort Wayne between populations based on the 2000 U.S. Census the ages of 6 and 17. While statistics are Dividing the operating deficit by total and national participation statistics as not available for an exact age-to-age attendance (general admissions, programs, reported in the 2002 Superstudy of Sports comparison, this suggests that the aquatic and rentals), it is possible to determine the Participation, the following estimates were programs offered through the city pools in average subsidy of operating the pools per made regarding market potential in the 2002 reached around 7% of the potential visitor. Between 1998 and 2002, the immediate service area. Sports audience of youth swimmers within the city average subsidy per visitor was $3.19. participation ranges factor in national limits. The low participation rate in the Comparing the subsidy by pool, not participation rates based on total population, Department’s swimming programs suggests surprisingly the highest attended pools had median household income, age that competitors are the primary source for the lowest subsidy levels. Northside Pool segmentation, and gender, as well as state learn-to-swim programs within the commu- comes closest to breaking even, with an participation rates (participation statistics nity. average subsidy per visitor of $0.45. are not collected for children below the age Memorial Pool has consistently had the of 6). Revenue and Expense Analysis highest level of subsidy, although the $10.61 average is down 43.2% from 1998. National and state participation trends Collectively, the pool operations are a suggest that approximately 74,436 Fort heavily subsidized service of the Wayne residents ages 6 and above swim at Department. During fiscal year 2002, the least once per year. Within Allen County four pools experienced an operating loss of (excluding Fort Wayne), there are $218,631. While this represents a four-year approximately 45,768 additional swimmers. increase of 5.0%, the deficit was reduced In total, it is estimated that there are by $40,389 from the previous year. Over 120,204 swimmers in Fort Wayne and Allen the past five years, the four pools on County. Assuming participation rates in average have recaptured 40.4% of their Fort Wayne follow national trends, this is the operating costs (recapture rate = total audience of potential swimmers within the revenue/total expenditures), falling short of immediate service area who would attend the established goal of 50%. Based on one of the four city pools or participate in a similar pool operations throughout the

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-49 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 sales at the concession stand. Concessions electricity, natural gas, and water/sewer), revenue received by the Department has which represent the second largest decreased by 21.5% between 2000 and expense category, have increased most 2002. There was a minor decline of 0.4% or dramatically over the past five years. Utility $58 in earned revenue from 2001 to 2002. expenses in 2002 were $62,381—a 62.6% increase from 1998. Water and sewer Based on the contract arrangements, gross expenses alone increased by 130.9% sales (excluding sales tax) at Northside during this timeframe, primarily to Pool in 2002 totaled $12,049 for an significant jumps at McMillen and Memorial average pre-tax expenditure per visitor Pools. (daily admissions, free admissions, season pass entries, and group sales) of $0.38. The largest source of revenue for the pools McMillen Pool had the highest average pre- is through daily admissions, which tax expenditures at $0.90 per visitor generated $104,404 during 2002. Youth, followed by Swinney Pool at $0.44. The adult, night swim, and group admissions gross revenue and per visitor expenditures together accounted for 65.5% of all are extremely low and warrant further revenue earned last season. The next inspection by the Department. Even with a largest revenue source was the learn-to- limited food and beverage offering, pools swim program, which generated $29,200 in should expect expenditures of no less than 2002. Concessions revenue last season $1.50 per visitor—approximately the was only $1,949, or just 1.2% of total equivalent of one large soda per visitor. income. Operations Assessment Pricing Strategies The Department has established a financial goal of recapturing 50% of total expenditures at the four pools through earned income. Currently, pool operations have consistently fallen short of this goal, most recently achieving a 42.2% recapture rate in 2002. Of the individual pools, only Northside has exceeded this goal with an As would be expected, personnel salaries average recapture rate of 84.7% over the A contract was awarded in 2000 to Anthony and benefits comprise the majority of all past five years. Five-year averages at the Wayne Vending Company, Inc. for the expenses at the pool. During 2002, other pools are: Swinney (31.1%), operation and management of concession personnel costs totaled $197,865, or carts at McMillen, Northside, and Swinney 52.3% of the total expenses. Since 1998, Pools. The vendor pays the Board of Park personnel expenses have actually Commissioners 10% of gross, after-tax decreased by 6.9%. Utilities (telephone,

A6-50 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 McMillen (13.9%), and Memorial (4.1%). 2003 Pool Fees With no changes in the current pricing McMillen Memorial Northside Swinney practices, the recapture rate will continue to hover in the mid-to-low 40% range. Daily Admissions* Given the amenities of the existing pools, Youth (Ages 2-17) $1.50 $1.50 $2.75 $2.25 the Department should reasonably expect Adult (Ages 18+) $2.00 $1.50 $3.75 $3.00 a recapture rate of 60% to 70%, based on best practices for pool operations within Evening Admissions the Great Lakes region. Youth (Ages 2-17) N/A N/A $2.25 $1.50 Adult (Ages 18+) N/A N/A $3.25 $2.25 Season Passes Youth $25 $25 $65 $30 Adult $35 $25 $90 $50 Family - Up to 3 members $50 $40 $165 $70 - 4 members $50 $40 $190 $90 - 5 members $50 $40 $215 $110 - Add’l for each member over 5 $15 ea. $15 ea. $25 ea. $15 ea. The Department currently uses different Pool Rentals pricing strategies for each of the four city pools based on the onsite amenities and 100 or less people $110 $35 $150 $90 ability of residents within the surrounding 101 – 250 people $150 $50 $185 $125 neighborhoods to pay. Other pricing strategies include prime/non-prime rates Add’l for each 100 people over 250 N/A N/A $30 N/A (afternoon and evening rates), group * Group Discount: $0.50 for groups of 25 or more with minimum one-week notice. discounts (for 25 or more people), age (youth and adult rates), family discounts (season pass), and volume (season Visits Needed to Realize Volume Discount from Season Pass passes). Youth Adult Family** Daily and evening admission prices were McMillen 17 18 10 raised for 2003 by $0.25 across the board. Prior to the 2003 adjustment, pool fees Memorial 17 17 9 were last increased in 2001 by 20% to Northside 24 24 18 25%. Given the recreational value received from a visit to the pools, prices should be Swinney 14 17 10 further increased by $1.00 to $2.00 across ** Based on three-member family with one adult and two children per visit the board. The Department may want to

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-51 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 consider phasing in this price increase over rentals should be priced minimally to until classes ended at Fort Wayne Public a two- to three-year period to minimize recover the complete delivery costs. Schools and will close when school public criticism. resumes. Northside Pool observes a Facility Scheduling weekend only schedule. This wise practice Given the high level of subsidy for the helps minimize operating costs during a Northside Pool is open from Memorial Day pools, the Department should consider period when the majority of users (and through Labor Day each year. The other implementing a resident/non-resident fee lifeguards) are unable to use the pools due pools are generally operated from June to structure in addition to existing strategies. to school. For ease of administering this two-tiered mid-August while Fort Wayne Public pricing system, the consultant suggests Schools are closed for summer vacation. Swimming lessons, Lifetime Sports creating a resident identification card that is These schedules are consistent with Academy swimming, and/or other aquatic issued upon proof of residency and renewed practices throughout the Midwest. programs are offered during the morning annually. The “discounted” resident rate Memorial and Swinney Pools did not open and early evening hours at Northside, would only be given upon presentation of this ID. A nominal fee could be charged to 2003 Pool Schedules cover the costs of producing this card. Public Swims Evening Swims Programs Hours/Week The current practices of pricing the pools McMillen Daily Tue/Thur Mon/Fri 56 based on amenities offered, relative 1:30-6:00 p.m. 6:30-8:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. demand, and ability to pay are logical Hrs/Week: 31.5 Hrs/Week: 3 Hrs/Week: 22.5 strategies that should be continued. Even as such, there appears to be some inequity Memorial Daily Adult Swims Mon-Fri 56 in pricing related to the season passes. The 1:30-6:00 p.m. 6:00-7:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m.- number of visits required to achieve a real (Mon-Fri) 12:30 p.m. discount based on volume varies between Adult Swims pools and categories. Ideally, season passes 12:30-1:30 p.m. should be priced to provide a volume (Sat/Sun) discount in no less than 20 to 25 visits based Hrs/Week: 33.5 Hrs/Week: 5 Hrs/Week: 17.5 on the current fee structure. Northside Daily Mon-Fri Tue-Fri 62.5 The current price of $25 to $30 for learn-to- 12:30-5:00 p.m. 7:00-9:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. swim programs is low for this type of Hrs/Week: 31.5 Hrs/Week: 10 5:15-7:00 p.m. program. It is reasonable to charge $30 to Hrs/Week: 21 $40 for this type of program. A fair Swinney Daily Mon-Fri Tue-Fri 59.5 assessment of facility rentals could not be 12:30-5:00 p.m. 7:00-9:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. completed based on the financial data Hrs/Week: 31.5 Hrs/Week: 10 5:15-6:45 p.m. available from the Department. The total Hrs/Week: 18 expense of providing swim lessons or opening a facility for rentals, including Hours/Week 128 28 79 235 personnel expenses and related materials, * Evening swim at Swinney Pool only offered June 30 – July 25 should be closely tracked to understand the true cost of delivery. All programs and

A6-52 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Swinney, and McMillen Pools. Public swims to-swim program to Monday through sponsor $0.25-admission one night at are offered at all four pools from lunch- Thursday instead of Tuesday through McMillen Pool. Once the insurance time through early evening. Night swims Friday. company discontinued this sponsorship, are offered at Northside, McMillen, and the event was canceled. Swinney (July only) Pools. Weekend swim times are offered at all pools. One hour of There is some potential to secure adult swim time is offered at Memorial Pool Partnerships sponsorships, especially at Northside Pool. It seven days a week. may be possible to obtain corporate There are currently few partnerships in sponsors for various amenities (i.e., water Assuming a potential operating hours of place at any of the four city pools beyond feature, giant umbrella, etc.), especially if 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., Monday through free use of McMillen Pool for the funneled through the Park Foundation. This Saturday, and 12:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Department’s Lifetime Sports Academy. type of sponsorship is typically most on Sunday, there are 87 hours per week Partnerships also exist with the Salvation successful when using proceeds to that each pool can possibly be scheduled Army and Jennings Center to provide free purchase new amenities for the public. In for public swims, programs, and rentals. swimming lessons at Memorial Pool. return for sponsoring an item, tasteful Excluding rentals, McMillen and Memorial The Boys and Girls Club, or similar youth- signage can be placed on or near the Pools are operating at 64% capacity, focused organizations, may serve as feature to recognize the contribution. The Swinney at 68%, and Northside at 72%. potential partners for joint programming or cost of signage should be factored into the Collectively, excluding rentals, the four pool rentals, especially if these sponsorship amount. pools are operating at 68% capacity. organizations do not have their own Of the existing partnerships, no Including rentals, ideally the pools should aquatic facilities. Swimming activities could operating between 82% to 85% capacity relationship is documented in writing. In be incorporated into summer camps the future, all partnerships should be each week except when school is in offered by these organizations either as session. documented, along with associated costs special, one-time events (pool rental) or as and benefits to each partner. All Generally speaking, the current scheduling ongoing elements of their programs (joint partnerships entered into should contribute practices at the pools are sound and need program). Using the pools for Department to the cost recovery expectations not be altered. Based on general camps is also a viable option. established by the Department. attendance trends experienced by the As a host of the Lifetime Sports Academy’s Marketing and Promotions Department and witnessed in other aquatic programs, it would be reasonable communities, extending public hours would for the Park Foundation to secure funding The primary source of promotion for the likely result in minimal attendance to cover operating expenses at McMillen pools is through the Department’s seasonal increases and would have diminishing Pool related to this program. Upon program brochure, Fun Times. This returns. reviewing the financial statements, it brochure is mailed quarterly to random More efforts should be made to promote appears that no income is transferred to households within the city. Other private pool rentals during hours the the pool for this service. advertising sources include individual program brochures available at park sites facilities are not being used. The current Limited sponsorships exist beyond a operating schedule provides some prime and a spring aquatic program brochure $1,000 annual sponsorship of the City directly distributed in the schools. rental times on weekends after 5:00 p.m. Swim and Diving Meet. Lincoln Life Additional rentals could likely be secured formerly contributed $5,000 annually to on Fridays by changing the evening learn-

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-53 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 All of the current promotional outlets are better understand any shifting concerns Performance measures are a valuable tool appropriate and should continue to be within the public. The secret shopper for management and the Board of Park used. Direct mailings to past participants program currently in place at the pools Commissioners to measure or track the should be used to encourage learn-to-swim should be continued. An enhanced and success of programs and services offered enrollments. Direct mailings to youth more visually appealing website should be at the city pools. Current measurements organizations, churches, and area developed to make it easy for the public to used by the Department to track customer businesses should be implemented to learn about and register for recreation satisfaction (post-program surveys), promote after-hour facility rentals and/or programs at their convenience. participation levels (enrollment and aquatic programs. As funding permits, attendance figures), and revenues versus other advertising sources should also be Customer Service expenses (financial reports). In addition to considered. Targeted radio and television the existing instruments, it is Currently, there is a comprehensive aquatic commercials can be effective for promoting recommended that the following manual in place at the pools. The manual special events or sparking demand during performance measures be implemented: effectively outlines how to properly address non-peak times. Tag lines on radio customers, procedures for handling commercials from the Department’s soda • Cost per Experience: Using existing data, customer comments or complaints, and provider may be available as a source of the measurement calculates how much it generally illustrate the type of experience free advertising. costs the Department to provide a customers should have when visiting the specific program or service for the Partnerships with local radio or television pools. average participant. All costs, including stations could also be developed around direct and indirect, should be included. Customer service training is provided to all special events for the community. Stations This information is valuable for effective employees on an annual basis. Customer could sponsor special events by providing pricing. This ratio should be calculated for service training should be also provided in free, pre-event advertising and day-of-the- each program and service at least once conjunction with ongoing lifeguard safety event live coverage. Themed events could per year. training to reinforce the importance of be centered around upcoming holidays, excellent customer service. Customer • Cost Recovery: Upon conclusion of a popular culture (ex. Harry Potter, reality TV service training should also be provided for program or at set times for ongoing shows, etc.), or ongoing family events (ex. all new hires, even if hired mid-season. services, the total revenue from a Family Day every Wednesday at a program or service should be divided by discounted rate). Since employees sometimes have a its associated expenses. This ratio or tendency of overlooking the importance of percentage indicates the profit or loss To assess customer satisfaction, post- issues brought forward by immediate margin for delivery of the program of participation surveys are conducted for supervisors, it is helpful to use outside help service. The cost recovery should then be learn-to-swim programs offered at the for the periodic training sessions. This can compared to an established subsidy or pools. Results from these surveys show be accomplished using staff from other profit goal. that overall, there is a high degree of divisions (like marketing), working with customer satisfaction for the swim lesson • Customer Retention: Track the local colleges, or hiring outside facilitators. program. Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation percentage of returning participants from A variety of training programs are also should continue to use the instruments for previous sessions of the program. This available through the National Recreation customer feedback. With the recent decline information provides clues to customer and Park Association and other resources. in participation, the Department should satisfaction, because happy customers consider holding periodic focus groups to Performance Measures usually return. Obviously, the higher the

A6-54 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 retention rate the better, since it is usually • Average Food Expenditures: Divide the Weaknesses easier (and cheaper) to keep a returning total gross concession sales by customer versus attracting a new one. attendance during public swim hours to The following weaknesses, or negative issues within the control of management to • Programs Offered versus Held: Record the determine the average amount each visitor spends on concessions. varying degrees, negatively impact the number of programs actually offered success of the swimming pools: against the number of programs planned and advertised to the public. Frequent SWOT Analysis • Excluding Northside Pool, other facilities cancellation of programs could indicate are primarily traditional pools with limited that the pool is not adequately meeting Strengths features that appeal to families. the needs of the community. The following strengths, or positive issues • Northside Pool is frequently operated near • Program Capacity: Track the number of within the control of management, directly capacity during afternoon public swim program participants versus the impact the success of the swimming pools: times. maximum spaces available for a program • Attendance at Northside, Swinney, and or service. Programs at low capacity • All four pools were renovated in 1996. McMillen Pools has generally been on the should be reviewed to determine if they • The operating deficit for aquatic decline over the past five years. need to be changed or eliminated. operations was reduced by approximately Programs at maximum capacity may need • City pools control a very small percentage $40,000 between 2001 and 2002. to be expanded due to demand. of the swim lesson market. • Northside Pool has family aquatic center • Facility Capacity: Track the actual number • No pools are located in expansion areas features such as a leisure pool with zero- of hours a pool is scheduled for activity of the community. depth entrance, interactive water versus the total number of hours the features, slides, sand play areas, large • No significant features have been added facility is able to be operated. shade umbrellas, and grassy areas for to the pools since the 1996 renovations. • Market Potential: Using data available sunbathing. • The location of Memorial, McMillen, and from resources like the American Sports • Pricing and visitation at Northside Pool Swinney Pools in lower income Data Superstudy of Sports Participation allowed for the nearly 87% recapture of neighborhoods limits the ability of nearby or National Sporting Goods Association operating expenses in 2002. The average residents to pay for services. Sports Participation Survey, determine subsidy per visitor is only $0.45, the • There is a public perception that the the potential number of participants lowest subsidy level of any pool. Memorial and McMillen Pool based on national or regional averages. neighborhoods are unsafe. See Market Assessment as an example. • Northside Pool has a consistent learn-to- swim program. • Annual operating deficits at the pools is • Market Share: Comparing the number of $200,000 to $250,000. Collectively, the participants versus the market potential, • Northside and Swinney Pools have strong family participation as represented by pools are only recapturing on average determine the percentage of the potential 40% of operating expenses. market that is utilizing the service or approximately one-quarter of visitors program. To effectively measure this, it is being adults. • The average subsidy per pool visitor important to track at least the ages of • Attendance at Memorial Pool has system-wide is $3.19. In 2002, the participants to compare to the national generally increased over the past five average subsidy per visitor was $10.61 at data. Age segments, if used, need to years. Memorial, $7.04 at McMillen, and $5.66 correspond to the resources used. at Swinney.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-55 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 • No permanent concession facilities exist at • Swimming remains the most popular sport Over the past five years, the pools have any pool location. No vending machines activity for Americans. realized operating deficits between are located at any pool location. $200,000 and $250,000, resulting in a cost • The net income from concessions Threats recovery rate of 40.4%. Despite the limited represents only 1.2% of total revenue. amenities at McMillen, Memorial, and The average pre-tax expenditure per The following threats, or potentially negative Swinney Pools, the pool operations should visitor ranges between $0.32 and $0.90. issues outside the control of management, expect to recover 60% to 70% of their Even with a limited concession menu, impact the potential success of the operating expenses. expenditures should be at least $1.50. swimming pools and should be considered in any future decision-making: System-wide, the average subsidy per • Pools are currently being operated at visitor over this timeframe is $3.19. As 64% to 72% capacity, but should strive • The economy remains sluggish, resulting would be expected, the subsidy levels are for 82% to 85% capacity. in shrinking discretionary dollars available significantly higher at the lower-attended • Facility rentals represent only 3.6% of for pool visits. pools. In 2002, the average subsidy per total revenue, and more rentals should • Utility rates continue their dramatic visitor was $10.61 at Memorial Pool, $7.04 be pursued. upward trend, thus increasing operating at McMillen, and $5.66 at Swinney. By comparison, Northside Pool had an average • Excessive foul language of patrons at expenses. subsidy of $0.45 per visitor in 2002. Memorial Pool scares away some families. • There is low learn-to-swim participation Conclusions and Unless significant amenity upgrades are at Swinney Pool. Recommendations made to the existing pools, the subsidy • A lack of indoor facilities limits the levels will likely rise in the future as Department’s ability to provide year- The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation attendance continues to fall. The round programming. Department operates four outdoor continued operation of Memorial and swimming pools within the city. While the McMillen Pools is not logical from a purely • The city controls a relatively small portion facilities are well maintained and operated, financial perspective, although it is of the learn-to-swim market. As a result, all but the Northside Pool lack many of the recognized that both serve neighborhoods swim lessons are primarily sought by modern leisure pool features that attract in need of positive recreation alternatives. residents through providers like the families in large numbers. With no schools and YMCA. significant amenities added since the 1996 Given the demand at Northside Pool, the renovation, the pools have generally Department should consider expanding this Opportunities witnessed declining attendance and learn- facility to include a lazy river. This amenity to-swim participation. would increase both the appeal and The following opportunities, or potentially capacity level of the pool, and would positive issues outside the control of Given its amenities, attendance was warrant an increased admission price for management, impact the potential success highest at Northside Pool with 37,339 the experience received. of the swimming pools and should be visitors in 2002. Swinney Pool, which is considered in any future decision-making: popular with teenagers, had the next With existing pools limited to older greatest attendance at 21,164. Attendance neighborhoods in the city, the Department • Nearly one in four Hoosiers swim at least was 8,230 at McMillen Pool and 5,020 at should explore the feasibility of building one once per year. Swimming participation in Memorial Pool. or two indoor or outdoor family aquatic Indiana slightly exceeds national trends. centers closer to the growth areas of the

A6-56 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 community. These facilities could be concession area. Birthday party packages facility rentals. The Department should designed to recapture most, if not all, are extremely popular and can contribute up actively pursue camp business—both operating expenses. An indoor facility to 5% of the total revenue based on internally and externally during low-use would allow for year-round programming experiences in similar communities. morning times. With limited programming, and could be used to enhance existing learn- Memorial Pool has the capacity to generate to-swim programming. The strategic Despite recent increases, current admission rental revenue or admission fees from area placement of one or more new facilities prices at Northside Pool are under-priced for camps before public swim times. could also allow for the closure of a non- the value received. Youth admission prices producing facility. should be in the range of $3.50, with adult The Lifetime Sports Academy swim program rates $1.00 above the youth fees. Other pool is a valuable program that should be The Department should closely review its rates ideally should be raised $0.50 to continued at McMillen Pool. All costs related current arrangement for concession $1.00, although this may not be possible at to this free aquatic program should be services at the pools. Average food and Memorial and McMillen Pools given the closely tracked. Working with the Park beverage expenditures per visitor at economic realities of these neighborhoods. Foundation, corporate and individual Northside and Swinney Pools, given their The Department should consider sponsors should continue to be solicited to attendance, should minimally be $1.50. implementing a resident/non-resident fee underwrite the full operating cost to the pool More efforts to promote concessions, such structure at all pools. for providing this program. as hourly “advertisements” over the public address system or promotional signage The season pass structure should be To address safety concerns, especially at placed strategically throughout the facility, reviewed to ensure greater equity in the Memorial Pool, the Department could should be considered. Minimally, vending effective discounts received. Passes should implement safety patrols using off-duty machines should be installed. Consumption be priced so that savings are realized after police or a security service to initially crack of beverages and snacks from vending a minimum of 20 to 25 visits. As an down on safety and language issues. The machines can be limited to designated alternative to the season pass, the increased personnel will result in higher areas within the facility. Department could offer a punch card that operating costs. If patrols are successful, provides 10 visits for the price of nine daily however, this effort may result in increased More efforts should be undertaken to visits. This would ensure that visitors pay attendance over time as word spreads secure after-hour pool rentals. Currently, an equitable share of the pool’s operating among the community about these efforts. rentals only provide less than $6,000, or cost for each visit. With continued reinforcement of rules by 3.6% of all pool revenue. The Department pool staff and park management, it may be should target scout troops, 4-H clubs, There is some opportunity to expand possible to reduce or eliminate security church youth groups, and other youth partnerships with the pool operations, patrols over time, depending on severity of organizations for pool rentals via direct especially at Northside. Sponsorships could the situation at the respective sites. mailing efforts and community networking. be secured for the various pool features, such as the slides or umbrellas. Media The Department should continue its In addition to existing after-hour birthday partners could be developed to help customer service training at the pool, parties, the Department should create promote and sponsor special events at the ensuring that each new or returning birthday party packages during public swim pool, such as a weekly Family Night Swims. seasonal employee. Current performance hours. The package should provide a set measure should also continue to be used. number of entries, reserved, shaded location Partnerships should also be explored with for one to one and one-half hours within the local youth organizations and area churches facility, and meals or snacks from the to expand the learn-to-swim program and

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A6-57 Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 A6-58 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 6: Essential Services Business Plans August 2004 Appendix 7: Program Facility Subsidy Levels (2002)

The following table lists subsidy rates for programs and facilities are itemized from In the future, the Department should closely major program areas and facilities as highest subsidy level to greatest profit track all direct and indirect expenses by core calculated using revenue and expense from margin (as indicated by negative percent- program. The Board should establish the Department’s 2002 Programs and age), this is merely for illustrative purposes agreed upon subsidy levels for each core Facilities Financial Statements and Atten- and should not be construed as a value program consistent with the values of the dance report. This list does not include all judgment. Subsidy levels for swimming community. With complete financial programs and services provided by the pools and golf courses are reported both records, it will be possible to measure the Department. The table may exclude grant collectively and by location. performance of the Department in meeting proceeds or other earned income not established revenue goals. reported in the financial statements. While

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A7-1 Appendix 7: Program Facility Subsidy Levels (2002) August 2004 Program/Facility Subsidy Levels (2002)

Revenue Expenses Subsidy Level*

Special Events/Freimann Square $300.00 $52,734.90 99.4% Jennings Center $1,200.41 $141,586.93 99.2% Outdoor Recreation $371.70 $2,765.06 86.6% Diehm Museum $1,402.25 $8,343.67 83.2% Lindenwood Park/Salomon Farm/Outdoor Ed. $20,841.56 $111,175.95 81.3% Foellinger Theatre $28,620.62 $90,096.47 68.2% Community Center $75,810.68 $235,001.99 67.7% Swimming Pools $159,335.85 $377,966.53 57.8% - Memorial $4,423.19 $57,689.13 92.3% - McMillen $16,864.33 $117,209.11 85.6% - Swinney $20,194.71 $67,007.18 69.9% - Northside $117,853.62 $136,061.11 13.4% Botanical Conservatory $309,027.12 $685,978.27 55.0% Adult/Youth Athletics $102,418.45 $165,861.62 38.3% Ice Arena $832,986.31 $1,070,125.37 22.2% Adult/Youth Classes $223,290.23 $282,121.08 20.9% Pavilions $98,299.34 $120,496.02 18.4% Ball Diamonds $41,014.51 $49,018.81 16.3% Children’s Zoo/Veldt $1,230,597.38 $1,463,771.08 15.9% Golf Courses $671,349.41 $745,898.11 10.0% - McMillen $144,624.76 $214,590.21 32.6% - Foster $278,553.83 $286,259.96 2.7% - Shoaff $248,170.82 $245,047.94 -1.3% Travel $266,323.15 $256,229.55 -3.9% Franke Day Camp $138,422.06 $126,371.67 -9.5% Johnny Appleseed Campground $72,100.02 $57,292.27 -25.8% * Subsidy Level excluding grants or other earned income not reported in Financial Statements; negative percentage represents profit margin Source: 2002 Programs and Facilities Financial Statements and Attendance

A7-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 7: Program Facility Subsidy Levels (2002) August 2004 Appendix 8: Public Open House

Summary submitted by citizens of the City of Fort entire City of Fort Wayne with a greenway Wayne and are not necessarily the recom- system. There were a number of comments The Park Board issued a draft of the Com- mendations of the comprehensive parks and supporting more trails, including a Rails to prehensive Parks and Recreation Master recreation master planning team or city Trails system within the city. The Northeast Plan on June 25, 2004, for public comment. officials. These comments were used to help Planning District needs more greenways to On July 21 and July 22, 2004, the Parks and guide the planning team in understanding help make for a safe, more pedestrian- Recreation Department conducted a two-day how the plan can best address the key park friendly environment in that portion of the public open house at the Community Center and recreation facilities and program issues city. River blueways (canoeing, kayaking, in downtown Fort Wayne. Department in the city. etc.) should also be investigated to add personnel and consultants were on hand another component to the greenway system. from 8:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. to discuss Community Center Day Camp the plan, take comments, and answer The plan must make it clear that the Com- questions. Copies of the plan were available munity Center needs to be expanded. The The Franke Day Camp has a strong heritage along with summaries of the strategies. expansion will create new space for pro- that needs to be maintained. Summer Comment forms allowed citizens to record grams, and other indoor/outdoor recre- camps could be subsidized by the Depart- comments at the open house or submit ational activities. The expansion should also ment for low-income families. them later. include space for senior activities. The Dog Parks The summary below organizes the citizen YWCA was suggested as a facility to be purchased and developed into a new comments based on the type of comment The dog park concept needs to be expanded Community Center. made by the citizens who participated in the throughout the city. Kreager Park was public open house. The comments range Connectivity identified as a prime location for a dog park. from specific suggestions, questions, and There is a specific need for a dog park in comments to a citizen’s long-range vision for It is very important to connect neighbor- the Northside. the City of Fort Wayne. Comments were hoods, parks, community facilities, and the

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A8-1 Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 Funding For social purposes, it was suggested that served within the park system is perceived the Parks Department serve food before or as poor quality by some. Partnerships with non-profit organizations, after activities/programs at the Community neighborhood associations, and the school Center. Safety systems should be emphasized. This will help with funding as well as maintenance. Park Amenities Some citizens fear that more trails within Greenways are an additional transportation and around their neighborhoods connected system within the city, and the Street Parks should incorporate water features and to parks could increase crime. There was Department could help maintain the flower beds where possible to provide some concern about harassment in a park, greenways. The Department should consider soothing places for people to relax. Lime- and interest in increased police patrols in partnering with the schools. stone drinking fountains should be preserved the parks. and maintained. There is a need for addi- Future Parks tional basketball courts and playgrounds, Seniors especially in the Southeast Planning District. The programs at the Community Center Some citizens thought that park land should Recycling containers should be considered in should be maintained for senior citizens; be preserved/reserved in soon-to-be most parks. developed areas outside of city limits. however more space is needed for such Others opposed purchasing land in suburbia. Parking activities. The “Everyday Exercise” class needs a larger room. The pool table room Golf Courses Parking is needed at the Botanical Conserva- could be partitioned off to make room for tory. Foster Park’s south entrance parking lot the “Everyday Exercise” class. Change in Foster Golf Course was praised. There were needs to be repaved. The Community the programs is needed for senior citizens complaints that the Foster Golf Pass could Center needs more parking. Overflow who want to keep fit. not be used at Shoaff Park and fees are too parking should be investigated when special high. It was suggested that there be a events are held within parks. Police or the Specific Park Comments senior golf pass that includes golf carts. park police need to help direct traffic to off- Comments on specific parks included Senior citizens need golf carts while playing site parking and provide safety for pedestri- requests for amenities such as basketball golf for safety/health reasons. A program ans having to cross busy streets. should be established to give inexpensive courts, increased safety measures, parking, golf lessons to people of all ages. Golf Recreational Programs/Leagues/Social and trails. course prices should be more competitive. Events Tourism Low Income Areas Programs should be more focused on The city needs to take advantage of the neighborhoods. This will help keep kids and riverfront property to increase tourism. Ideas Parks and swimming pools within low- families occupied and involved in physical ranged from a detailed plan to create a income areas can have a positive benefit on fitness activity. There is a need for more recreation lake out of Swinney Park to the neighborhood and should be preserved Community Center rooms for special pro- capturing cultural tourism using the Old Fort and enhanced. Summer camps could be grams, as some classes are cancelled due and informational gateways to attract subsidized for low-income families. to scheduling conflicts. Leagues for all ages travelers to the parks and other points of should be formed for shuffleboard, bingo, Lunch Program interest. monthly book reviews, etc. The formation of An inexpensive daily lunch program or these groups will strengthen the Community monthly pancake breakfast was suggested. Center and the entire park system. The food

A8-2 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 General/Broad Comments 2. Need to expand space for programs at 5. Designated cross-county ski trails in Community Center and improve trails for Foster Park. Wider greenway (divided) The plan shows that the park lands within hiking and walking. (Seniors-1) marked for wheels and walking. the city must be preserved for the current and future citizens of Fort Wayne. The 3. Purchase YWCA and develop for Com- 6. We need to be a rail-to-trail greenway. Minnesota and Oregon parks systems are munity Center, exercise room, adult (Parking-2) pool, children’s pool, gym, all with good examples of park systems that might 7. Look forward to an increase in foot and instructions for activities. This system work within the city. One of the top priorities bike paths. (General/Broad-9) for the park system should be establishing observed in Minnesota and Oregon. programs for the neighborhoods to keep (General/Broad-8) 8. I am a resident of northeast Fort Wayne. My concern is lack of bicycle families active. The image of the city needs 4. Mirrors along the north wall of the all- trails in the northeast sections of the to be improved. One way to improve the purpose room. It would enhance the city. Riders and runners are using heavy image is to build on the Indian heritage atmosphere for the Tuesday night traffic roads to pursue their sports. We theme. Another way to improve the image is dances. It would be useful for the Alley are not safe! We also lack a public park to increase safety measures within the park Kat dance group practices every Thurs- to enjoy. How about the corner of system. No plan should go forward without day. proper funding in place. The plan is ambi- Laymeyer and Stillhorn for a public tious, and it must be to ensure an excellent 5. Love the Community Center. Love park? Monday and Wednesday table tennis. parks system for many years. 9. Connect Kreager Park to the neighbor- Would like to see free coffee in morn- hood. (Specific Park Comments-9) ings, it would be popular with everyone. 10. 1) Connecting parks through expanded Connectivity Citizen Comments greenway, green areas. 2) Water trails 1. Physical Connectivity—great idea to as water permits. (General/Broad-2) The comments listed below are unedited, connect parks via bike and foot paths. transcribed directly from the comment 11. Agree that use of rivers and trails to sheets submitted at or following the open 2. Walkway needed around Franke Park/ connect parks should be looked at. house on July 21 and July 22, 2004, at the Zoo along Sherman Boulevard—no (General/Broad-6) Fort Wayne Community Center. Some of the sidewalk and berm is overgrown with 12. Improve rivergreenway! (General/Broad- comment sheets covered more than one weeds—dangerous for all those who 15) subject. Italicized notes in parentheses refer walk, jog, and bike along Sherman to the topic under which the complete Boulevard at that part, even though 13. 1) Rivergreenway is great, but needs comment is recorded. speed limit is 25 mph. (Specific Park made longer and connected to other Comments-11) areas including Aboite, new river Community Center greenways and international airport, 3. View greenways as not only recreational maybe run alongside old and new 1. Should make clear that the recommen- facilities but also as a transportation railroad tracks! 2) With Fort Wayne dation is to expand the Community system. (Funding-2) Center concept. Present comments tend being the second- or third-fattest city in to leave a negative opinion about the 4. I think it is very important to upgrade the USA, we need more trails and the present center. and create new trails. new media writing articles about imploring the health issue! (General/ Broad-16)

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A8-3 Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 Day Camp 5. Have you thought about selling “beer 6. Foster Park Golf Course is way too permits” for groups renting park pavil- expensive! (General/Broad-15) 1. More summer camps subsidized by ions? (General/Broad-6) Parks for low-income parents. (Low Low Income Areas Income Areas-1) Future Parks 1. Keep the pools open in poor areas, City 2. Do not change Franke Day Camp—Pow- 1. Adopt a plan to reserve space/acres for take a “loss” but better for the children. wows, etc. This is our heritage. park land for the future in the soon-to- More summer camps subsidized by be developed areas out side of city Parks for low-income parents. (Day Dog Parks limits. If you look at a map of the NE Camp-1) 1. Have a Northside dog park—no one in Quadrant—there is no space for parks— 2. Parks that aren’t used much, to sell Northside (almost) using the one by it’s all subdivisions. If land had been parts of or allow to become wilderness Foster Park (too far). reserved years ago, we would have areas, except in low-income areas space for parks today. 2. Expand dog park concept to other areas where they can be a positive benefit. of the city, possibly Kreager Park (east 2. Do not purchase expensive land in Lunch Program side), where there is already plenty of suburbia. They should have planned existing space. ahead. (General/Broad-6) 1. Would be nice to have a daily lunch program cheap. (General/Broad-12) Funding Golf Courses 2. Provide inexpensive lunches (soup/ 1. Emphasize partnerships with non-profit 1. I am very pleased with Fort Wayne salad/half sandwiches) for socializing local groups as FW Foundation; friends parks, especially the golf course. I’ve before and after activities. Provide a of the parks, etc. as a source of revenue been a member at Foster many years pancake breakfast monthly at minimal and publicity and support. and very much appreciate the work that charges. (Recreational Programs-9) is done there. E. F. Day 672-3949 2. View greenways as not only recreational Park Amenities facilities but also as a transportation 2. Complaint: Could not use Foster Golf system. Then use street department Pass at Shoaff Park. Cart fees go to pro, 1. Need green space for quiet times. resources to maintain greenways. not a good idea. Need a senior golf Water features (ponds), trees, flowers a (Connectivity-2) pass. He has to have a cart. We charge place to relax. each person $10 for cart use not a good 3. Use school and park maintenance 2. Identify and preserve remaining lime- idea. 78-year-old resident of FWA who personnel together to reduce costs. stone drinking fountains. Sadly, we have loves golf. Also, collaboration on use of school land been losing these beautiful structures at for parks. Higher utilization not much 3. Inexpensive golf lessons for all age about 1 to 2 per year. They are replaced use of school open space in the summer. groups, i.e. north side of city. (Recre- by wooden “post type” drinking foun- Sign with maintenance number on all ational Programs-10) tains which are prone to vandalism, and pavilions and restrooms. (General/ have been backed into and broken by 4. Raising green fees would be prohibitive. Broad-6) vehicles. The limestone fountains are (Specific Park Comments-9) almost indestructible. Also revive the 4. Work with neighborhood association. To 5. Keep golf course prices more competi- maintenance position of “Mason” so that keep parks clean and in good repair. tive. (General/Broad-2) the parks numerous limestone buildings (General/Broad-6) and other stone structures are not allowed to deteriorate further.

A8-4 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 3. Outside basketball courts—beyond 4. Memorial Park. Opening up two acres occupied and involved in a physical Hesse Anthony and Castle Road. Need down by swim house with parking area fitness activity. (General/Broad-6) basketball facilities. Southeast side of on Washington. Opening up and parking 7. Need more room. (Classes cancelled or city needs basketball court near Harding lot on south side of park down by postponed due to lack of space when Road. Playgrounds are needed as well. basketball court. (Specific Park Com- other classes are booked). New floor in ments-5) 4. Recycling containers for cans in parks activity room unsatisfactory for dancing (similar to the type in state parks) could 5. Be aware of 7/24 concerns of neighbor- and exercise, too sticky. Can’t use dance help in recycling efforts. (General/ hoods—those who are by the park all of wax. Very little food served, no money. Broad-4) the time. Try to encourage them to When food is served, poor, cheap accept overflow parking when there are quality. Parking special events and visitors at the park. 8. Something needs to be done about the 1. Linda Ducksberry – Senior — Botanical Otherwise there will be too much dance floor before all the dancers give Gardens – Ticket on car – car parking parking area in the park. Ask city police up and quit coming. The floor is also too cleaned out / 60 to parking lots with or park police to direct traffic to street sticky for the exercise class and falling is coin meters – and allow with handicap parking and provide safety for those an ever present danger. spaces. Parking is needed at Botanical people as they cross a busy street (by Gardens. She has called several times. the park) from the street parking. 9. Item I – Strengthening Community People have given her the run around. Center. Have weekly BINGO games for Recreational Programs/Leagues/Social Her telephone number is 482-2483. adults. Form shuffleboard leagues for Events each area of city for various age groups. 2. Larry & Sue Brey 447-3540. We need to 1. I came here for table tennis. The room Form monthly book reviews for various be a rail-to-trail greenway. Can we get is ideal for table tennis and people are age groups (recommendations from money from state and federal. Repaving nice to play with. Hope the program Library). Provide dance lessons for high Foster South entrance parking lot— continues. school students (including etiquette and upgrade path. More trails, more areas table manners). Provide TEA DANCES to park to get on the tree. Tillman 2. Programs are great. Exercise program (separate and together) for adults and Road—compost drive the parking needs great, great leader (Boc). Ping pong is high school students. Provide inexpen- paving. Advertising, new brochure, great would pay a fee to play, card sive lunches (soup/salad/half sand- community involvement, yes raise taxes. playing is fun. wiches) for socializing before and after (Connectivity-6) 3. I like the expanded interest in ping pong activities. Provide a pancake breakfast 3. In general Community Center needs at the center. (General/Broad-6) monthly (at minimal charges). Provide more parking for the high days. This is regular weekly/monthly sing-a-long. 4. More ping pong days please. Glad to pay evident by people needing to pay to park Provide exercise programs be-weekly at to get to play more. Great exercise at other places. It was said that a car minimum charge. Provide weekly programs too. Bro is great. Love the was even towed from the Community classes, movie, and travelogues. (Lunch computers too. Center parking lot in which the senior Program-2) citizen had to pay a fee of $100.00 to 5. Enjoy playing ping pong Mondays and 10. Item II – Strengthening Fort Wayne get his car returned. Out-of-towners Wednesdays. Parks. Stimulate craft groups for all have trouble finding outstanding events. 6. Priorities should be programs for students utilizing schools and neighbor- neighborhoods. Keep kids and families hood association in each area. Utilize

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A8-5 Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 neighborhood parks for all neighborhood neighborhood. Ron Fletcher was con- as last fall. I know Park Board money association activities. Have volunteer tacted. Wants connections to other must go to other parks also, but instrumental music in the parks on neighborhoods, not to Franke Park. Casselwood Park would enjoy a new Sunday afternoons. Encourage memori- Concern about having people walking basketball court. als to Fort Wayne Parks Department behind the apartments; perception of 2. Guard rail needed along bike path over (i.e. memorial for area gardens). higher crime with more trails. St. Mary’s River at Swinney Park. Inexpensive golf lessons for all age 2. Security issue: What to do if constantly (General/Broad-8) groups (i.e. north side of City). Each harassed in a park. What should the neighborhood should prioritize their 3. McMillan Ice Arena needs to be utilized victim do? (General/Broad-6) parks “needs” i.e. whether beautifying more hours. Ice sits empty many hours or child care needs. (General/Broad-3) 3. Increase patrolling parks for safety. a day. We need morning, afternoon and evening times for skating, not just 11. Be nice to have extra tables—willing to Seniors public. Many skaters drive to Indiana pay fee for playing. 1. Maintain programs at Community Center several times a week. Fees secondary, 12. I enjoy playing ping-pong every for elderly. Need to expand space for most figure skating parents would pay Wednesday. I have been playing since programs at Community Center and fees for more ice. Resident/non-resident last November. There is a great group of improve trails for hiking and walking. fees. people. It is competitive but a lot of fun (Community Center-2) 4. Franke Park—would like a place to walk because we don’t care if we win or lose. 2. The “everyday exercise” class for in the park versus on the roads. Need a Please keep this activity going. Thank seniors needs a bigger exercise room. sidewalk from new parking lot to the you very much. The machines are in a large hallway. zoo and toys in Franke Park. 13. Need wildcat baseball to return to Perhaps a better space could be found, 5. Memorial Park. Opening up two acres Franke Park (as it was in the past) to for example, the pool table room could down by swim house with parking area provide opportunities to neighborhood be partitioned as the three tables are on Washington. Opening up and parking children. (General/Broad-4) not used as often as the machines. The lot on south side of park down by lobby could be used as there is wasted 14. Donation to table tennis is ridiculous. basketball court. (Parking-5) space there. Please consider a change We (participants) donated two tables, 6 for seniors wanting to keep fit. 6. Wonderful Park: Kreager! Keep up the paddles, balls, and nets. We generated good work in making space for walking a crowd for this center! (General/Broad- Specific Park Comments and cogitating. 15) 1. This is for Casselwood Park. I received 7. Ducks are ruining the ambiance of 15. Table tennis is going real good Monday a typewritten letter about 10 years ago Lakeside Park. Maybe a dog or two and Wednesday mornings at the Com- saying what kind of asphalt mix would around during the day with employees munity Center, with at least 20 people be used to construct a new basketball might persuade the ducks to seek a less showing up on Wednesday. The problem court at Casselwood Park. The old court human-inhabited area. is more tables, nets, etc. are needed! was built in the 1960s. Sure, the pole (General/Broad-16) was rusty; and of course young people 8. Entrances to parks need to be en- would hang on the rim. I mentioned this hanced: Foster, McMillen, and Foellinger Safety to sixth district councilman Glenn Hines Theatre. Raising green fees would be 1. Crime in and around the park at Vesey about three to four years ago. As well prohibitive. People don’t go to Jannecke Park sensitive about crime in the because of lack of parking nearby.

A8-6 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 Connect Kreager Park to the neighbor- Repair and painting or replacement of 11. Does Swinney Park have any recre- hood. Lake Forest Village may be wooden benches/picnic tables (corners ational areas besides the swimming interested in putting a trail into Kreager of benches missing probably chewed off pool? Is any activity needed there? Years Park. (General/Broad-4; Connectivity-9) by squirrels, etc). A few more trees to ago there was an amusement park replace several which have come down complete with roller coasters, ferris 9. Just jotting down some thoughts regard- in past few years. Ornamental matching wheel, etc. in Swinney Park; that’s a no- ing our little neighborhood park/Klug lamp posts on north and west sides of no as an attraction like that is not a Park. My house faces Klug Park (west park (they exist on east and south money maker and soon wears out. end of house); I’m at corner of Char- sides). Also would love to see some (General/Broad-14) lotte and Hubertus. I do thoroughly lampposts on Charlotte from Hubertus to enjoy my vantage point of being able to 12. There were 2 or 3 concrete docking Carew Streets (1 block). But absolutely enjoy the park, the trees, the children piers where Headwaters Park now is, no big old telephone type poles with playing, etc. but thought perhaps more and for a short time, sight seeing boat lights. No lights would be better than attention could be given our little park. trips were a feature. Our dirty waters any of those PLEASE. Some flower beds, Several years back, our then neighbor- do not now entice water trails. The City or whatever would beautify the park, hood association (Frances Slocum) needs to get going now on their plans give it some color, etc. Thank you for president, unbeknownst and without any and work to clean up our three rivers; your consideration. Also, definitely input or okay from other officers of the we have sinfully abused a rare prize and forget about wanting to charge the association was asked if some funds where the Park Department can help, great citizens of our great city (with its (allocated for upkeep/beautification of they should. (General/Broad-14) great mayor) for services (other than Klug) could be given to Lakeside Park, present ones) in our park department. 13. Lewis Street, at corner of Lewis and the transfer of which funds he did (as Hugh Street, corner could have some said, without okay from other associa- 10. 1. Walkway needed around Franke Park/ flowers at each corner. I think it would tion officers). Of course that’s water Zoo along Sherman Blvd. – no sidewalk bring out the park. It little now, but by over the dam, but many of us in the and berm is overgrown w/weeds – spring it will look nice, of next spring at park’s vicinity have really resented this. dangerous for all those who walk, jog, Hanner Street park. Lewis and Hugh at We’re wondering why, with the obvious and bike along Sherman Blvd. at that the corners. expenditure of tens of thousands of part, even though speed limit is 25 mph. dollars already spent on Lakeside the 2. South of Franke Park/Toel Theatre – 14. I have read the parts of the proposed city’s crown jewel, monies from other where the old drive in theatre used to master plan related to the ice arenas parks were solicited for Lakeside, be – can it be made into a football field? and would like to offer some comments. obviously causing Klug Park to have Former football field in Franke Park was The first is that we have a great facility. I forfeited some improvements and/or eliminated a few years ago with zoo had not skated for many years until I beautification projects we would other- parking expansion. The football field returned to Fort Wayne a few years ago wise have had. I would very much like could be used by C.Y.O., P.A.L., etc. where I have been able to resume to have an official from the Parks Parking in Toel Theatre lot is sufficient. skating on a frequent and regular basis. Department to make a thorough study of Currently, football goals are put in The second is that I agree with the Klug to see what can be done to make Lawton Park in fall. Parking is inad- report’s conclusion that that not enough our little park a more beautiful and equate near the field. (General/Broad-4; time is available for public skating. enjoyable place. It’s a lovely, quiet little Connectivity-2) neighborhood! Some suggestions:

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A8-7 Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 I believe that there are basically two may enable more to attend. I doubt that be a boardwalk along Main Street or types of skaters - serious skaters and very many will skate for the entire three further. These shops could go from social skaters. There are fewer serious hours and I doubt that ice quality will downtown all the way out W. Main skaters but they use the rinks far more degrade significantly. Private lessons Street where there is property available. frequently than the more abundant social can still be conducted as they are now The north side of W. Main Street from skaters. I consider myself a serious without causing problems. the W. Main Street Bridge is mostly old skater but I only skate during the day housing and rental units. I’m not sure sessions on Monday and Wednesday. Like all the programs, the availability of how many acres this would encompass Evening and weekend sessions are such sessions should be well publicized but it would be a pretty good size lake crowded (good for revenues but not for and hopefully would attract a regular where speed boats could be run, skiing, skating), the ice gets chopped up quickly following. In any event it should not be stock it for fishing and swimming if the and is not always resurfaced and rink too difficult to implement on a trial basis. river could be cleaned up. We use to regulations are poorly enforced. I also think that such a schedule would have a beach at the river years ago. We help summer turnout. I have to skate could probably even host sanctioned The day sessions are more sparsely several times a week to keeps things speed boat races like we use to have in attended (great for skating but not for “oiled” and with the schedule down to the river out by IUPU back in the early revenue) although my perception is that once per week I tend to take the sum- 1950s. It would be accessible from attendance has increased over the mer off. Jefferson Street, Main Street or the years. However this increase is not a Edgerton Street area to launch boats Tourism problem, since those who are coming and for parking. There could be a casino are mindful of others and the traffic is 1. My idea for Fort Wayne is a very large on the river. This is in an area that is not not heavy enough to degrade the quality plan, but I think it would be a great heavily populated with houses so there of the ice. I think there is an opportunity tourist area to bring people to Fort should not be a problem with noise. to increase the public use of the rinks Wayne, as well as local people taking With this plan we could be using the during these hours, by extending the advantage of it, rather than leaving the rivers as an asset, as we should be, frequency and length of these sessions. city to go to other areas for recreation. I rather than a liability. The second part My thoughts are: call it Swinney Lake. The first part of my of my plan involves widening and plan involves flooding Swinney Park into making deeper (if needed) the St. 1) Offer a “midday” public session at a recreation lake. Not just Swinney Mary’s river as far as the Old Fort so the least three days per week, say MWF. Park, but the neighborhoods surrounding riverboats, speed boats, fishing boats, 2) Let the session run longer than the it on the north side of the Saint Mary’s etc. could travel back and forth between usual two hours, say from 10:30 AM to River to W. Main Street (leave W. Main the lake and the Fort. Some being lunch 1:30 PM, but preferably at about the Street) from the W. Main Street Bridge or dinner cruises. The Old Fort would same time each day. west to Edgerton Street. (Also leave have to be restored and staffed but it Swinney Pool as part of the recreation would be fun to ride a boat along the The timing and longer session would area). This whole neighborhood is very area and see the Indians and people of enable people who work during the day old and mostly low-income, run-down that period along the banks of the river to skate during their lunch hour, as some housing and rentals. By doing this, it doing what they did in those days. try to do now. would make Main Street riverfront Fighting, working, etc. They could have property, and open to restaurants and short scripted plays on the riverbanks. Congestion will not match that of shops locating there. There could even People could get off at the Fort (or evening sessions while the longer hours

A8-8 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 board at the Fort and go to the lake and Toledo. Begin by working with New parks) could help in recycling efforts. 4) back) and tour the Fort before boarding Haven to improve signage/”welcome Need wildcat baseball to return to the boat and going back to the lake. I centers” so people do not bypass our Franke Park (as it was in the past) to also think the houses on the north side parks and cultural attractions via I-469/ provide opportunities to neighborhood of the Fort should be purchased and the Colerain B??? children. 5). Is City able to buy old property used for a parking lot. Except YWCA (Wells Street) pool for year- General/Broad Comments and maybe the brick house and it could be a round swimming opportunities? Thank Questions restaurant/gift shop, etc. I don’t think you for all you do to make our parks so the rivers have been kept up as they 1. Keep all pools and parks open. beautiful and family friendly. Karen should have been over the years so now Lohmuller. (Park Ammenities-4; Recre- 2. Places for Emphasis – 1) Connecting it will be a major undertaking to get ational Programs-13; Specific Park parks thru expanded greenway, (green them up to par. This plan involves a Comments-10) areas). 2) Water trails (as water rather short area of the rivers to start permits). 3) Retain Indian themes (for a 5. I’d like to see the FWPR develop the with, but it could continue to grow from state named after Indians how can we Northside of St. Mary’s River downtown. there. I think this would bring revenue eliminate their influence?). 4) Keep golf This could include moving the Old Fort into the city to expand the river activities course prices more competitive. 5) Do Wayne out to a location commercial even further. This is only about 6-8 not privatize services; prices always enterprise that would enhance the blocks from downtown. Within easy seem to go up. (Connectivity-10; Golf image of Ft. Wayne. Perhaps 4th St. walking distance or shuttle service back Course-5) could be made into a pedestrian walk- and forth. I grew up on the banks of the way. Expand the river greenway system. St. Mary’s River just across the Me- 3. Keep up the good work. I like the expanded interest in ping pong chanic Street Bridge from Swinney Park 4. Suggestions: 1) Walkway needed at the center. (Recreational Programs-3) and have fond memories of fishing, around Franke Park/Zoo along Sherman boating, and just sitting on the banks 6. 1) Priorities should be programs for Blvd. – no sidewalk and berm is over- watching the river. Triers Park was still neighborhoods. Keep kids and families grown w/weeds – dangerous for all in operation and I though that this was occupied and involved in a physical those who walk, jog, and bike along just about the best place in the world to fitness activity. 2) Parks should be Sherman Blvd. at that part, even though grow up. I know this is an expensive cornerstone in keeping inner-city areas speed limit is 25 mph. 2) South of project and something that will take desirable and economically thriving. 3) Franke Park/Toel Theatre – where the several years to complete but I believe it Do not purchase expensive land in old drive in theatre used to be – can it would serve a large group of people suburbia. They should have planned be made into a football field? Former both in and out of Fort Wayne. We need ahead. 4) What does ethnic diversity football field in Franke Park was elimi- to make the rivers a good part of Ft. have to do with park planning? 5) Agree nated a few years ago with zoo parking Wayne life. Thank you for your time and that use of rivers and trails to connect expansion. The football field could be consideration. parks should be looked at. 6) Security used by C.Y.O., P.A.L., etc. Parking in issue: What to do if constantly harassed 2. Expand vision/include others to create a Toel Theatre lot is sufficient. (Currently, in a park. What should the victim do? 7) viable magnet for cultural tourism by football goals are put in Lawton Park in Is there really a need for more “tourna- implementing a modified/updated fall. Parking is inadequate near the ment quality fields?” 8) Work with version of the 1931 Anthony Wayne field). 3) Recycling containers for cans neighborhood association. To keep parks Parkway connecting Fort Wayne and in parks (similar to the type in state clean and in good repair. 9) Do we really

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A8-9 Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 need more green spaces? 10) Why not possible situation (that he has created) and must keep all areas possible and buy YWCA campus to satisfy indoor at McMillen and Shoaf Park Golf protect them. requirements? 11) Have you thought Courses. Problems like the unauthorized cutting about selling “beer permits” for groups 11. Too money conscious. Need people of many trees for a parking lot for the renting park pavilions? (Connectivity-11; involved. Safety. Lack of park northeast. zoo must never be repeated. And the Funding-4&5; Future Parks-2; Recre- Responsible parks and rec. for involve- selling of 80 acres of forest that was ational Programs-6; Safety-2) ment parking downtown. sold to develop Southtown Mall must 7. Are school parks a part of the overall never happen; that was years ago and 12. 1) Keep our facilitator in place and park plan? Such as the Indian Village perhaps thinking was not clear. Good stretch and flex. We need more things School area. How popular is the small judgment must always be used when to work with. 2) Nice to have more park in the Waynedale area? It is used land is donated for park purposes. space here. 3) Would be nice to have a but often forgotten. Is the Aboite Park daily lunch program cheap. (Lunch Does Swinney Park have any recre- plan part of this plan? How does the Program-1) ational areas besides the swimming county fit in with this plan? They have pool? Is any activity needed there? Years two parks that are popular and should 13. Plan does a very good job of addressing ago there was an amusement park be working on more—Leo Grabill area the many/and diverse challenges and complete with roller coasters, ferris for one. Needed is the Park issues related to the development and wheel, etc. in Swinney Park; that’s a no- Department’s help in water quality. maintenance of Fort Wayne’s parks. The no as an attraction like that is not a Water users need to do their part. And plan is extremely ambitious, and will money maker and soon wears out. keep our trees; they are environmen- meet many challenges and obstacles as tally important. it goes forward. But ambitious it must There were two or three concrete be, and better to “go for it all” than to docking piers where Headwaters Park 8. Guard rail needed along bike path over undershoot. Very pleased to see a now is, and for a short time, sight St. Mary’s River at Swinney Park. strong element of connectivity through seeing boat trips were a feature. Our Purchase YWCA and develop for Com- pathways, greenways, etc. Agree with dirty waters do not now entice water munity Center, exercise room, adult plan that no new development should go trails. The city needs to get going now pool, children’s pool, gym, all with forward without funding in place. on their plans and work to clean up our instructions for activities. This system Maintenance/upkeep should also be three rivers; we have sinfully abused a observed in Minnesota and Oregon. assured pre-construction. rare prize and where the Park Depart- (Community Center-3; Specific Park ment can help, they should. Comments-2) 14. The plan is good as it encompasses about everything and shows that these Glaring areas void of parks, etc. is east 9. Look forward to an increase in foot and lands must be kept forever; they are of downtown toward New Haven. Most bike paths. Am strongly opposed to needed for people today and tomorrow; of that area is industrial, yet several combining the county and city parks. they are not intended to be developed neighborhoods exist there and could use (Connectivity-7) for business or residence. recreational areas. Industries and 10. Rick Hemsoth is super for the city parks. businesses there should also be encour- A city/county park development would Please support him in every way pos- aged to support these needed recre- be ideal as the city keeps growing out sible (financial, political, and personal) ational areas. The Dupont Road area into the county. We cannot make land to let him continue to do the excellent north of the city has thriving stores and job managing and making the best shopping activities; those businesses

A8-10 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 and community associations there the following comments in regard to dollars to maintain and further develop should be encouraged to support these what I have assimilated from the plan our parks. needed recreational areas. thus far. At a time when we are trying to encour- HOORAY! The plan emphasizes the river Conserving Historical Parks age businesses to stay or move into the greenway; it ties everything together. While the plan recommends conserving city center I think the creation of a 15. Improve river greenway! Foster Park older parks, park building, and facilities downtown benefit district might prove to Golf Course is way too expensive! the consultants make no mention discourage those efforts. Donation to table tennis is ridiculous. whatsoever of our historically significant Creating a conservancy for our historical We (participants) donated two tables, 6 George Kessler Park and Boulevard parks would help to generate funding for paddles, balls, and nets. We generated System. restoring and maintaining our older a crowd for this center! (Connectivity- Recommendations are made to follow parks. 12; Golf Course-6; Recreational Pro- the plans created in the Cultural Land- grams-14) scape Reports for three of the parks in I have concerns about aggressively 16. 1) River greenway is great, but needs that system but there are no recommen- outsourcing business operations. I made longer and connected to other dations for additional Cultural Landscape would hate to see long time, faithful park areas including Aboite, new river Reports for other historically significant employees lose jobs as a result of greenways and international airport, parks. Restoring and rehabilitating the outsourcing. Reorganization and maybe run alongside old and new park and boulevard system designed by outsourcing should be accomplished over railroad tracks! 2) With Fort Wayne George Kessler deserves a greater focus time as employees retire or leave for being the second- or third-fattest city in in the comprehensive plan. (Why is other reasons. George Kessler’s design work not the USA, we need more trails and the I also think there is a benefit to have mentioned or included in the history of new media writing articles about gardening crews assigned to specific the parks on the Park’s website?) imploring the health issue! 3) Table parks like Foster Park. Bruce and Lynn tennis is going real good Monday and work hard and take great pride in Wednesday mornings at the Community Balancing Community Needs Protecting natural resources and cultural keeping the gardens and grounds looking Center, with at least 20 people showing beautiful. up on Wednesday. The problem is more heritage properties should not be perceived as competing with the recre- tables, nets etc. are needed! (Connec- Their care and commitment cannot and ational needs of the community. Each tivity-13; Recreational Programs-15) should not be easily replaced. contributes in different, yet significant 17. I was rather overwhelmed at first by the ways to the quality of our lives. The Park Board recently voted to in- length and scope of this document. It crease skating fees at McMillan to help Funding took me quite a while to understand how cover the cost deficit. The consultants The plan rightly points out that we must to work my way through the documented also recommended some creative ways explore new sources of revenue. In their input, the assessments of parks, pro- to increase the usage of the facility assessment of programs and services grams and services, etc., and the including the addition of sessions for the consultants provide a good analysis themes and strategies. There is a lot of public skating. My husband would love to and comparison of costs and fees. information buried in this work and I skate more often at McMillan and but is appreciate the time and effort it must limited by the number of sessions have taken to put it all together. I offer The creation of a Park District is a good idea. I am willing to pay a few more tax scheduled for public skating.

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan A8-11 Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004 Aquatic/Family Sport Center Thank You Other comments not related to plan: Should the YWCA facility be considered/ I offer a special thank you to the consult- evaluated for use as a family sport ants, to Dianne Hoover and the park Playground equipment center? Perhaps the parks department staff, and to the park board for all their I was in Chicago recently and the tan could partner with the YWCA in some hard work in creating a framework for and hunter green playground equipment way. our community to work with and build in Grant Park looks wonderful. The new on. You have helped all of us to think brightly colored playground equipment Governance about our parks and park services and being installed in our parks may be Rather than appointing short-term how they relate to the quality of our appropriate for a school ground but in a special community committees to lives. And you have given us an opportu- park I think wood tones and hunter address issues as they arise I think it nity to participate in the process of green would be more aesthetically would be wiser to form a more perma- creating a plan for the future. We still appropriate. Safety Concerns Are there nent group composed of representatives have a long way to go but if we all work plans to replace the fence around the from the neighborhood quadrants, city together we can make great things playground at Foster Park? planning, historic preservation, the happen. greenway, the parks department as well During times of heavy rains the water as a professional landscape designer. flowing in the culvert is very deep. It would not take much for a toddler to wander down that hill and slip into deep water. This is not a good situation and I truly fear for the safety of the children who play there after heavy rains.

A8-12 Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department • Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix 8: Public Open House August 2004