CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING & CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
FINAL REPORT September 2017 City of Alexandria Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities Park Planning, Design & Capital Development September 2017 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Table of Contents
Table of Contents i
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY I
Background I Process I Recommendation III
FINAL REPORT 1
Introduction 1 Project Process 3 Community Meetings & Activities 4 Stakeholder Meetings 5 Survey 1 (online) Summary 6 Survey 2 (online) Summary 8 Conceptual Diagrams 9 Water Park with Major Structural Changes 10 Aquatic Center (Indoor) and 1 Multi-Sport Field 11 Water Park with Improvements 12 Multi-Sport Field Park 13 Open Space / Natural Park Area 14 Olympic Pool (Outdoor) and 1 Multi-Sport Field 15 To Lease or Not to Lease 16 Lease Options 16 City Operated Park Options 17 NOVA Parks Membership 18 Financial Operations Summary 19 Conclusions 20 Considerations for Determining Highest and Best Use 20 Highest and Best Use of Cameron Run Park 23 Potential Path Forward 24 From Highest and Best to the future Cameron Run Park 24 Lease Phasing 26
APPENDIX A: MEETINGS 29
Stakeholder Meeting 1: Eisenhower Partnership 29 Community Meeting 1 38 Stakeholder Meeting 2: Alexandria Beautification Commission 45 Stakeholder Meeting 3: Alexandria Tree Stewards 50 2x2 Conference Call with Park and Recreation Commission 55 Stakeholder Meeting 4: Federation of Civic Associations 58 Walk & Talk - Walking Tour around Cameron Run Park Area 59 Stakeholder Meeting 5: Youth Sports Advisory Committee 60 Easter Egg Hunt at Cameron Run Regional Park 61 Community Meeting 2 62 City of Alexandria Earth Day Celebration 66
APPENDIX B: WRITTEN FEEDBACK 67
i CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX C: SURVEY 1 77
Survey 1 77
APPENDIX D: SURVEY 2 135
Survey 2 135
APPENDIX E: Conceptual Plans 157
WATER PARK WITH MAJOR STRUCTURAL CHANGES 157 AQUATIC CENTER (INDOOR) AND 1 MULTI-SPORT FIELD 158 WATER PARK WITH IMPROVEMENTS 159 MULTI-SPORT FIELDS 160 OPEN SPACE - NATURAL AREA PARK 161 OLYMPIC POOL (OUTDOOR) AND 1 MULTI-SPORT FIELD 162 LEASE OPTIONS VS. CITY MAINTAINED OPTIONS COMPARISON 163
APPENDIX F: FINANCIAL ANALYSIS 165
Cameron Run Regional Park Financial Condition 165
APPENDIX G: COST ESTIMATES 177
APPENDIX H: NOVA Parks Concept Plan 185
APPENDIX I: Eisenhower Partnership Plan 195
APPENDIX J: RELATED PLANS AND STUDIES 201
ii CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Background
In 1981, the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (now referred to as NOVA Parks) entered into a 40 year lease agreement with the City of Alexandria for a parcel of land on Eisenhower Avenue referred to by the City as Cameron Run Park for ten dollars. Conditions of the lease included development of a “wave action swimming pool and associated support facilities, landscaping and lake improvements.” The lease is set to expire in 2021, and NOVA Parks has requested a new or extended lease of the property to continue operations of their Regional Park on the site which include a wave pool, spray area, water slides, children’s play areas, mini golf course, batting cage, picnic pavilions and CONCEPTS ARE FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FINAL PLANS related amenities.
EXISTING PAVILION RESOURCE NOVA Parks is made PROTECTION EXISTING EXISTING AREA (RPA) PARKING up of six (6) local cities AREA WARDS BATTING 10.3 ACRES and county members. WOODS CAGE NATURAL Membership fees are AREA currently $4.46 per resident. The City of Alexandria ANIMAL TOWNES paid a membership fee WELFARE LAKE AT of $664,058 in 2016. As LEAGUE OF COOK CAMERON ALEXANDRIA PARKE population increases
EISENHOWER AVENUE citywide, so will the membership fee paid to EXISTING LAKE COOK CAMERON RUN CAMERON RUN MINI-GOLF IMPROVEMENTS NOVA Parks. PROPERTY LINE COURSE ARE OCCURING EXISTING 25.8 ACRES UNDER EXISTING GREAT WAVES SITE AREA SEPARATE PARKING AREA PARK At a public hearing in June MINUS RPA = CONTRACT 15.5 ACRES 495 2016 to discuss the lease 100'50' 0 100' extension with NOVA Parks, Alexandria City Council heard from many residents and stakeholder groups, some of whom offered Cameron Run Park Existing EXISTING CONDITIONS Conditions alternative uses for the park, and some who supported the current use. City Council requested that a public engagement and planning process be performed to determine the highest and best use of the Note: “Wards Woods” is a park space for the residents of the City of Alexandria now and into the future. (Links to City Council community name for the docket items are located in Appendix J: Related Plans and Studies.) The Department of Recreation, area. It is not an official Parks and Cultural Activites (RPCA) requested proposals for "assistance in facilitating a community- City recognized name. driven public planning process to develop a feasible conceptual plan (Plan) for the Cameron Run Resource Protection Area Regional Park". (RPA) is taken from the City of Alexandria GIS RPA layer. Process
Hired consultant, Michael Baker International, performed the Cameron Run Park public engagement and planning process from February 2017 to May 2017. Engagement activities designed to obtain significant input into the determination of future potential use included stakeholder group meetings, open community meetings and workshops, representation at public events where the process was presented to the public, a City hosted website where all materials were shared with residents and stakeholders, and two interactive digital surveys.
The two surveys and associated community meetings were invaluable tools for understanding the desires of Alexandria residents. The initial survey and meetings focused on education and developing an overall understanding of community issues and concerns associated with the existing use of the parcel. The second survey and a series of community meetings included alternatives that reflected Alexandria residents’ issues and suggestions. The alternatives were presented in diagram form so that I CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
residents could visualize how the various uses or changes suggested for the parcel would work on the site. Residents were then asked to rate the diagrammatic options and park elements based on their understanding of need and relative cost.
Forty-two (42) percent of the respondents of the second survey selected options that retain the existing water park in some form, while fifty-eight (58) percent of respondents chose options presented that eliminate the existing uses. The six (6) conceptual diagrams were ranked as follows based on the input received: Stakeholder Meeting, • 27% (Existing) Water Park with Major Structural Changes February 21, 2017 • 25% New Aquatic Center with Multi-Sport Field • 15% (Existing) Water Park with Improvements • 12% Open Space/Natural Area Park • 12% Two Multi-Sport Fields • 9% (Outdoor) Olympic Pool with one Multi-Sport Field.
Alexandria residents also communicated their priorities and ranking of park elements through the surveys. The synthesis of all the public engagement activities gives a clear vision of the community’s ideals for the highest and best use of Cameron Run Park. They include:
• A park that serves the needs of Alexandria residents • A space that provides year round activities through creative uses of the existing infrastructure including the parking area such as festivals, temporary ice skating, sports “Bubble” structures, and community programs • A park that provides natural paths with environmental education signage that are also suitable for recreational/fitness biking, walking and running • A park that provides family entertainment for a reasonable cost, and some amenities for no cost • A park that is well maintained • A park that contains an aquatic facility which could include the existing facilities or new indoor facilities • A park that provides these amenities without undue burden on the City’s resources, and/or generates revenue in accordance with RPCA’s Cost Recovery Policy
Parks in the Eisenhower corridor including Cameron Run and Hensley will need to accommodate not only the current needs of Alexandria residents but also the future needs of new residents. Two small area plans for the Eisenhower corridor forecast a profound increase in population and development. The Eisenhower West Small Area Plan includes an additional 9.3 million square feet of new development by 2040. The Eisenhower East Small Area Plan includes an additional 6.5 million square feet of development. These plans as envisioned will add approximately 12,000 more people, more uses and more businesses to the corridor who will need recreational activities and land uses. After the projected 2045 buildout of the Eisenhower West Plan, an additional 10,000 residents are expected. These future residents and users will be able to walk, jog or bike to Cameron Run Park in addition to using vehicular modes of transportation – a significant change in overall character of the corridor.
With the future physical attributes of the park articulated, the City will need to decide:
1. How to move forward with transforming the park over time into a space that responds to the input from the community and future development, and
2. Whether to lease the parcel or provide City-run park operations at Cameron Run Park to achieve community’s goals. II EXECUTIVE SUMMARY III , and the ability to modify outcomes based on changing needs. modify outcomes , and the ability to Recommendation Summary: Does not exceed 10 years from date of execution and includes conditions addressing conditions addressing and includes of execution date from 10 years Does not exceed needs. community standards and maintenance park operations to ensure City Staff by Include periodic reviews met. are the lease area Reduces
In summary, the recommendation is to negotiate a new lease agreement that: new lease agreement a to negotiate is the recommendation In summary, 1. 2. 3. Area Plans, Small West and East of the Eisenhower In addition, based on the implementation community needs. to meet lease options continued appropriate determine The articulation of highest and best use is not a solution unto itself. It is a goal which will need a It is unto itself. use is not a solution and best of highest The articulation which concept and multi-layered is an evolving The phased lease approach be achieved. to process of the with the implementation in combination needs and resources and future on current relies a flexibility requires best use and to the highest getting Plans. Ultimately, and West East Eisenhower time over transition for allows that future Run Park’s Cameron to path the clearest provides phased lease approach The recommended and reviews of the park. These development the into evaluation and review periodic integrating by of transition the to the end of each phase will direct prior performed by City Staff recommendations of Alexandria. residents the serves best to one that condition its current the park from Recommendation that 10 years lease not exceeding is a short-term forward path recommended the this study, Through as possible while utilizing as much of residents of Alexandria’s of the concerns as many addresses phase of a as the initial lease is viewed short-term as possible. The initial infrastructure the existing facilities and the park operations of review regular incorporate phases Future multiple phase plan. and future current each phase documenting after conducted will be City staff by Reviews the City. by for reviews the based on recommendations specific will then make and needs. City Staff conditions development. the phases of the Park’s to only include the current reduction of the lease parcel would include a lease The initial short-term and the North Cook, area. Lake and parking course pavilion, mini-golf cages, park, batting water the lease, from would be eliminated Woods” as “Ward’s residents by known portion of the site West page. in Exhibit 1 on the following is represented area This reduced the City. by and be maintained Institute’s ETC consultant hired from of the needs list the top at were that trails / nature The walking The the City. by in these areas be implemented 2014 and could of October Survey Parks Regional year-round focus on a maintenance, vegetation and structure to improvements articulate lease would subsequent The improvements. capital with limited programs, with City integration activities, and of the park during each phase and the growing based on performance proceed phases would Corridor. demands of open space in the Eisenhower CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Exhibit 1
Spectrum of Options IV CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
FINAL REPORT
Introduction
In 1981, the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (now NOVA Parks) entered into a 40 year lease agreement with the City of Alexandria for a parcel of land on Eisenhower Avenue referred to by the City as Cameron Run Park. The lease included a requirement that NOVA Parks develop the vacant parcel into a regional water park. The lease was amended in 1991 and 2002, both times resulting in the reduction in acreage of the lease area from an initial 53 acres to the current 25.8 acres.
EXISTING RESOURCE PAVILION PROTECTION EXISTING AREA (RPA) PARKING EXISTING 10.3 ACRES AREA BATTING WARDS WOODS CAGE NATURAL AREA
ANIMAL TOWNES AT WELFARE CAMERON LAKE LEAGUE OF PARKE COOK ALEXANDRIA
EISENHOWER AVENUE
EXISTING LAKE COOK CAMERON RUN CAMERON RUN MINI-GOLF COURSE IMPROVEMENTS PROPERTY LINE 25.8 ARE OCCURING ACRES EXISTING PARKING EXISTING GREAT UNDER SITE AREA MINUS AREA WAVES PARK SEPARATE RPA = 15.5 ACRES CONTRACT
495
50'100'0 100'
Cameron Run Park Existing Conditions “Cameron Run Regional Park”, the facility run by NOVA Parks on the land leased from the City, contains several amenitiesEXISTING for visitors CONDITIONS to enjoy. The largest and most attended amenity at Cameron Note: “Wards Woods” is a Run Regional Park is the Great Waves Water Park, which contains the region’s only large wave pool, community name for the water slides, a splash park, on-site food services, a shop, and children’s play area which is open from area. It is not an official Memorial Day to Labor Day each year. In addition, the park contains a batting cage, picnic pavilion, City recognized name. picnic tables, and a mini-golf course which operate from mid-March to the end of October each year. RPA - Resource Protection Area is taken from the City The 2014 Regional Parks Survey of Alexandria Residents by ETC Institute showed that 55% of the 915 of Alexandria GIS RPA layer. completed surveys indicated that respondents attended Cameron Run Regional Park within the last 2 years. The chart from the report shown on the next page illustrates which park elements were used.
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The same survey indicated that the top park items that the respondents would use most often in regional parks were walking and biking trails (72%), natural areas and wildlife habitats (31%), outdoor swimming pools (18%), and picnic shelters and meeting places (16%) - see chart above.
The Cameron Run Park site is zoned Public Open Space, (POS) and there are no current plans to modify this City zoning designation. Co-located on the site are two significant ecosystem service generators. The first is Lake Cook, a storm water pond currently under restoration, which serves to hold storm water from 300 acres of the City’s adjacent neighborhoods. In 1992, the City mapped a 100 foot Resource Protection Area (RPA) buffer around the pond to protect its water quality as well as that of the Chesapeake Bay. The RPA was mapped to be in compliance with Commonwealth mandates. Existing uses are permitted in the RPA, but new uses are restricted to passive recreation, and “water dependent uses”. The current City GIS mapped RPA around Lake Cook measures approximately 10.3 acres. Lake Cook is currently being improved as a part of a separate project. Phased plans include increasing capacity of the lake, dredging, creation of a forebay, creation of a pathway system and pedestrian bridge over the lake, a new weir, perimeter plantings and furnishings.
The second ecosystem service generator is “Ward’s Woods” a forested area at the northwest corner of the site. Ward’s Woods is home to many native herbaceous and woody plant species as well as two special tree species found in limited quantities in the region: the Bartram’s Oak adjacent to the picnic area, and the Beadle’s Oak located at the intersection of the main parking lot entry aisle, and the service path that runs north of the Great Waves facility. These ecosystem service areas are not only connected on the Cameron Run Park site, but also connect to the greater Holmes Run and Cameron Run trail systems.
NOVA Parks requested an extension of their current lease at Cameron Run Park in the fall of 2014. The request was made to the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) who informed the Park & Recreation Commission of the proposed extension. On January 15, 2015, the Commission approved the Cameron Run Recreational Area Coordinated Park and Open Space Plan. This plan took into account the current and future needs of City residents as well as a needs assessment conducted by RPCA and public comment. The Commission did not recommend the extension and asked for further site study.
2 FINAL REPORT 3 factors. The project was divided into 3 divided into was The project factors. Run of the Cameron development Tasks: implementation Planning Process, Park of and development of the process, designs and recommendations. conceptual of the future uses for Only park related which is in line with its current the site of Public Open Space (POS), and zoning included in were constraints environmental City Council. by the discussion as directed with the development began The project plan public engagement of a multi-faceted Park by and approved reviewed which was Commission and City Council. & Recreation events of public engagement A calendar online and posted created was and surveys with general along website the City’s at of variety A about the project. information small two held, from were types meeting stakeholder to larger conversations person community and full meetings group at multiple held were Events meetings. of locations variety in a times of day, See the appendix the City. throughout The City discussed a lease extension for the Cameron Run Regional Run Regional the Cameron for lease extension The City discussed a Public Hearing on in 2016 and held a City Council again Park (replacement) a new input on receive June 18, 2016 to Saturday, a period of twenty for Park Run Regional the Cameron lease for and the City lease between in 2036. The current ending (20) years in 2021. expires Parks the NOVA a public develop to staff and directed action City Council deferred to at the park, and uses alternative consider to planning process, for request A consideration. Council for back to process bring that RPCA requesting the Alexandria through created was proposals public planning community-driven a in facilitating "assistance the plan (Plan) for conceptual a feasible develop to process Park". Run Regional Cameron Project Process the City in determining to assist was selected Urban Design Studio International’s Michael Baker uses and best highest The City will determine site. Run Park Cameron uses for and best the highest environmental and include use needs, economic, that input and evaluations based on community “walk-and- held a park consultants the notes. In addition, and meeting presentations for section and Egg Hunt, Easter Park Run at the Cameron attendees to the information provided on site, talk” Walk and Talk at Cameron and Talk Walk April 1, 2017 Run Park, Illustrative Plan of Lake Cook Plan of Lake Illustrative - currently improvements via under construction contract. separate CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
participated in the City’s Earth Day celebration in order to engage the widest variety of Alexandrians possible.
The public engagement process also included two separate on-line surveys. The first survey’s goal was to educate the community about the project and understand residents' concerns. The second survey built upon our community feedback during the first phase and illustrated how that feedback would be translated into physical form so that the community could visualize what a future Cameron Run Park would look like, and what the relative costs would be. In the first 70 days of the public engagement Stakeholder Meeting, February 21, 2017 process, 476 responses were obtained for survey 1 and when combined with public and stakeholder meetings amounted to over 600 connections with the community.
The Park & Recreation Commission and City Council reviewed the first survey and indicated that it was highly important to specifically represent the opinions of City of Alexandria residents. Survey 2 – Conceptual Design – provided a way for respondents to include their residential zip code, which allowed the consultants to provide specific information to Park & Recreation Commission and City Council. The total responses from survey 2 was 353, and the percentage of Alexandria residents was 93.4%. Summaries of the survey responses in the Survey 2 Appendix provide data specific to the respondents who indicated that they were from the City of Alexandria. The following section lists the community interactions.
Community Meetings & Activities
Community meetings are defined as large format public meetings where individuals and stakeholder groups come together to share the ideas that are generated from the smaller scale stakeholder meetings.
• City Council Final Report & Recommendation - September 2017 • Park & Recreation Commission Public Hearing - June 15, 2017 at 7 p.m. • City of Alexandria Earth Day Celebration - April 29, 2017 at 10 a.m. Lenny Harris Memorial Fields • Community Meeting 2 - April 27, 2017 at 7 p.m. 2900 Business Center Dr. • City Council Oral Report - April 25, 2017 at 7 p.m. City Council Chambers • Park & Recreation Commission Update - April 20, 2017 at 7 p.m. • Easter Egg Hunt at Cameron Station Park - April 13, 2017 at 11 a.m. Cameron Run Park • WALK & TALK - Walking Tour around Cameron Run Park - April 1, 2017 at 9 a.m. • Community Meeting 1 - March 2, 2017 at 7 p.m. Beatley Central Library
4 FINAL REPORT 5 Jennifer Atkins, Chair, Park & Recreation Commission - December 9, 2016 Offices of Michael Commission - December 9, & Recreation Park Chair, Atkins, Jennifer International Baker Baker - December 8, 2016 Offices of Michael Parks NOVA Director, Gilbert, Executive Paul International Gina Baum and Judy Coleman - Alexandria Park & Recreation Commission 2x2 - March 29 - March Commission 2x2 & Recreation Park Gina Baum and Judy Coleman - Alexandria 3:30 p.m. Commission 2x2 - March & Recreation Park - Alexandria and Jesse O’Connell Atkins Jennifer 28 4:45 p.m. at 7 p.m. Offices of 27, 2017 - March Stewards Tree 3: Alexandria Meeting Stakeholder Urban Design Studio International Michael Baker at 11:30 a.m. Lee Center 8, 2017 - March Soccer Association Alexandria at 7:30 p.m. 2017 March 9, Commission - Beautification 2: Alexandria Meeting Stakeholder Arts Center Durant at 7 p.m Offices of February 21, 2017 - Partnership 1: Eisenhower Meeting Stakeholder Ave. 3601 Eisenhower Urban Design Studio, International Michael Baker 16, Plan) - February West Planning & Zoning, (Eisenhower Mohan, City of Alexandria Radhika 2017 City Hall Stakeholder Meeting 5: Youth Sports Advisory Committee - April 10, 2017 at 7 p.m. Mt. 2017 - April 10, Youth Sports Advisory Committee 5: Meeting Stakeholder Center Recreation Vernon Chet at 7:30 p.m. March 29, 2017 - of Civic Associations Federation 4: Meeting Stakeholder Room Conference Avery & Sabra
• • • • • • • • • • • Summaries of meeting discussions can be found in Appendix A - Meetings. can be discussions Summaries of meeting Stakeholder Meetings Stakeholder pre- to the needs of discrete tailored and small in scale generally were meetings Stakeholder organizations. established Easter Egg Hunt at Cameron Run Regional Park, April 13, 2017 Park, at Cameron Run Regional Hunt Egg Easter CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Survey 1 (online) Summary
See Appendix C - Survey 1 for all responses, charts and graphs. A summary of responses is presented below along with sample charts and diagrams. Residency information was not requested for Survey 1 but was requested for Survey 2. Survey 1 data correlated with Stakeholder and Community Meeting input gathered from Alexandria residents.
476 survey respondents 90.3% of respondents have attended park
72.4% of respondents attended last year Existing use of the site was reported primarily for:
• Waterpark / Swimming • Mini Golf, Batting Cages • Batting Cages • Fishing
Improvements were recommended in the following areas:
• Parking • Maintenance • Batting Cages
Additional resources were requested in the following areas:
• Open Space • Swimming/Swim Programs • Walking Trails Walk and Talk at Cameron Run Regional Park, April 1, 2017 Other considerations:
• The unique draw of Waterpark • Re-visiting the NOVA Parks Lease
6 FINAL REPORT 7 ACTIVE Adding swim areas Adding swim slides water More Food use round Year Cleanliness and safety Parking Nothing Everything
• • • • • • • • Representative Responses: Representative PASSIVE Rank your preference for use types in the Park. (Passive: Hiking, walking, walking, Hiking, (Passive: for in the Park. use types preference Rank your fields, playgrounds, sports, Organized Active: etc.; birdwarching, fishing, etc.) What could be improved? What could be CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Survey 2 (online) Summary
The second online survey was designed 1. What is your home zip code? to provide the community with ways to interact with the suggestions that they had 22206 provided in the early stages of the public engagement. Survey takers were asked to 22302 evaluate park elements in 3 distinct ways – by prioritizing park elements; by purchasing 22305 the park elements that they felt were most valuable, and by selecting an overall plan 22314 diagram that most closely reflected each community member’s vision of Cameron 22301 Run Park’s highest and best use of the future. The first question of the survey 22304 requested home zip codes as a way to gauge Alexandria resident input specifically. 22312 Resident input resulted in 323 responses (93.4%), with 30 responses identified 22311 as non-residents. Full documentation of 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0% 35.0% 40.0% 45.0% 50.0% responses is shown in Appendix D - Survey
2.
Diagrams eliminating ia rams retai i existing water park existing water park 42% Walking Trail Network 5 % Walking Trail Network 15% Improve Vegetative 13% Natural Areas Maintenance Indoor Aquatic Center Improve Trash Collection 12% Improve Facilities 12% Existing Water Park Maintenance Improve Existing Water 10% Sports Fields Park Maintenance New Picnic Pavillion 10% New Picnic Pavilion New Sports Fields % Mini-Golf Course Indoor Aquatic Center 5% Recreation Center Open Lawn Areas with 5% Open Lawn Areas Trees with Trees Outdoor Olympic Pool 4% Batting Cages Recreation Center 4% Outdoor Olympic Pool Parking Deck with Sport 2% Field on top
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Water Park with Park Water Major Structural 27% Changes with Center Aquatic Multi-sport Field 25% with Park Water 15% Improvements
• • • Top 3 selections: Top es 5 % o selections e imi ated existing par ater sport ie d sport ti tructura ha titi ith a or aWater r ith ympic oo ith o e oo ympic ith u titi c titi ic ic PP T T T Two Multi-sport Fields Two Multi-sport Multi-sport Field Olympic P P Aquatic Center with Center Aquatic tic tic C C AA P P rt ie ds P A A P P spo ith mpro eme ts r ith cc ti A A cc S S Open Space/ Water aWater C C C C Survey 2 - Question 10 results: Survey Conceptual Diagrams Conceptual 1 yielded information survey results from with combined meetings public and stakeholder Input from Michael engagement. additional public used for be later which would diagrams conceptual create to the represent to plans conceptual six distinct created Urban Design Studio International's Baker The efforts. within the public engagement for most called community the that spectrum of solutions the be assembled given of uses could a variety how illustrate to serve pages on the following diagrams not “final designs” are The diagrams of the site. constraints and the of elements size physical relative the community. by put forth ideas the various compare used to be to intended and are existing zone, but that Cook as a no-development around Lake buffer the RPA recognize All options and not added to. be retained, may uses that grandfathered are in this area features constructed Eisenhower to down extending – the northern border of the site areas the natural for advocacy Strong as area the entire consider to team lead the consultant of the site sides and west on the east Avenue is shown permeable surfacing of mulch or other system A pathway in all diagrams. use area a passive Shelter. to the north and south of the Animal both to the Holmes Run trail Cook Lake connecting for each required demolition configurations, park distinct illustrate pages on the following Diagrams signs five dollar to from one costs relative of illustration A graphic costs. and construction scenario, and the online survey. for pubilc meetings options expensive middle and most the least, indicated rt ie d o u Structural Changes Structural I P P P P P S S spo P P ti P I I P P c e ter u c ith ti pe pace atura rea ar ua C c 42% o selections retai ed existing par ater CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Water Park with Major Structural Changes
Many respondents expressed that the water park was an asset to hold on to and improve. One of the most common suggestions by the community was to create a year round use on site for the residents of Alexandria. In this concept, a 40,000 square feet recreation center was shown to accommodate this need which is about the size of the Charles Houston Recreation Center minus the outdoor pool area. A two story parking structure with sport field on top is shown to mitigate parking issues at high-use times, and further extend the seasons of use of the park. The Eisenhower West Plan indicates a significant influx of residents nearby, so a playground was added in the space created by the elimination of at– Survey 2 Response grade parking, and a garden adjacent to the Lake Cook parking area. The demolition associated with this plan includes the current at-grade parking, and a portion of the Great Waves entry sequence and party space, which could be incorporated into the recreation center.
Cameron Run Park Planning Study Alexandria VA Water Park with Major Changes L-03
Diagram presented on April 27, 2017 at public meeting and Opinion Of Probable Cost online through Survey 2 starting on April 28. Description Total Demolition $ 355,427
Estimated Operating Costs: Structures $ 33,112,677 Recreation $ 694,973 • Water Park OC 1.47mil/yr. • Water Park income 2.04mil/yr. SUBTOTAL $ 34,163,078
• Mini Golf/Batting Cage/Pavilion OC 0.47mil/yr. Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL $ 34,163,078 • Mini Golf/Batting Cage/Pavilion income 0.15mil/yr. 15% Contingency $ 5,124,462 • Additional park maintenance .046mil/yr. PROJECT TOTAL COST $ 39,287,540 10 FINAL REPORT 11 957,240 985,727 3,438,962 1,646,419 22,926,415 22,926,415 19,337,029 26,365,377 Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ SUBTOTAL Contingency PROJECT TOTAL COST Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL Cost Up Marked Project Description Cameron Run Park Planning Study CameronRun Planning Park Alexandria VA Alexandria Center,Aquatic MultiSport L-01 Opinion Of Probable Cost 15% Structures Fields Recreation Demolition Aquatic Center (Indoor) and 1 Multi-SportAquatic Center Field year the to serve center an indoor aquatic the need for expressed of respondents number A large park water this the To accomplish community. the Alexandria of generations of multiple needs round is Center remain. The Aquatic pavilion and cage batting while the mini-golf, as removed, shown was space pool. Enough remaining an Olympic size enough for which is large feet 60,000 square at shown pavilion. A majority multi-sport field and an additional one for available was Avenue along Eisenhower remain in place. would parking at-grade of the existing
Mini Golf/Batting Cage/Pavilion income 0.15 mil/yr. income Cage/Pavilion Mini Golf/Batting .035 mil/yr. Additional park maintenance Aquatic Center Cost (based on Chinquapin) 1.03 mil/yr. (based on Chinquapin) 1.03 Cost Center Aquatic 0.83 mil/yr. Income: Center Aquatic OC 0.47 mil/yr. Cage/Pavilion Mini Golf/Batting
• • • • • Survey 2 Response Estimated Operating Costs: Operating Estimated online through Survey 2 starting on April 28. online through Survey 2 starting Diagram presented on April 27, 2017 at public meeting and on April 27, 2017 at public meeting Diagram presented CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Water Park with Improvements
The Water Park with Improvements concept retains the existing Great Waves Park, mini golf, batting cages, pavilion and parking, and introduces upgrades for all items. Improvements in the areas of maintenance, structures, operations, and food would all be required. Swim lessons coordinated with City programs would be integrated into existing schedules. Parking issues would be addressed with shuttle service to nearby parking areas. This concept would not require any demolition, unless it was related to a specific structure upgrade that would be defined through discussions with the Department Survey 2 Response of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities.
Cameron Run Park Planning Study Alexandria VA Water Park with Improvements L-06 Diagram presented on April 27, 2017 at public meeting and Opinion Of Probable Cost online through Survey 2 starting on April 28. Description Total Structures $ 701,639 Estimated Operating Costs: Recreation $ 809,204 • Water Park OC 1.47mil/yr. SUBTOTAL $ 1,510,843 • Water Park income 2.04 mil/yr. • Mini Golf/Batting Cage/Pavilion OC 0.47 mil/yr. Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL $ 1,510,843 • Mini Golf/Batting Cage/Pavilion income 0.15 mil/yr. 15% Contingency $ 226,627
• Additional park maintenance .018 mil/yr. PROJECT TOTAL COST $ 1,737,470
12 FINAL REPORT 13 983,742 985,727 6,558,278 6,558,278 1,020,408 1,259,305 3,292,838 7,542,020 Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ SUBTOTAL Contingency PROJECT TOTAL COST Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL Cost Up Marked Project Description Cameron Run Park Planning Study CameronRun Planning Park Alexandria VA Alexandria Multi-Sport Field Park L-04 Opinion Of Probable Cost 15% Demolition Structures Fields Recreation Multi-Sport Field Park round use, and of year concerns of to both the responds concept Park The Multi-Sport Field constraints, to space Due community. by the expressed were field sport amenities that maximizing was pavilion site. An additional on the accommodated could be fields synthetic multi-sport only two to location existing in its at-grade left was Parking picnicking or use during tournaments. added for to fit order in would be demolished park water existing the fields. The of full usage for space provide pavilion. new fields and the two Maintenance of open space 0.48 mil/yr. Maintenance
• Survey 2 Response online through Survey 2 starting on April 28. online through Survey 2 starting Costs: Operating Estimated Diagram presented on April 27, 2017 at public meeting and on April 27, 2017 at public meeting Diagram presented CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Open Space / Natural Park Area
The Open Space / Natural Park Area concept responds to needs expressed by the community indicating a desire for more unprogrammed space that also highlights the native and adapted species of the Alexandria region. The park contains native and adapted species meadows, open lawns, groves of trees, shrubs and perennials with signage to identify them. Additional signage could explain various ecosystem services along the expanded path system. Parking will remain at-grade, but be scaled down significantly to reflect use patterns, and acknowledging that many users of an open space / natural park will come to the site via bicycle, walking or running. A small pavilion and restrooms will be provided, along with a Survey 2 Response picnic area. All existing structures on site would be demolished to achieve this option.
Cameron Run Park Planning Study Alexandria VA Open Space-Natural Area Park L-05 Diagram presented on April 27, 2017 at public meeting and Opinion Of Probable Cost online through Survey 2 starting on April 28. Description Total Demolition $ 1,296,095 Estimated Operating Costs: Structures $ 1,171,142
• Maintenance of open space 0.23 mil/yr. Recreation $ 1,101,969
SUBTOTAL $ 3,569,206
Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL $ 3,569,206 15% Contingency $ 535,381
PROJECT TOTAL COST $ 4,104,586
14 FINAL REPORT 15 957,240 985,727 6,684,544 6,684,544 1,002,682 3,095,158 1,646,419 7,687,226 Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ SUBTOTAL Contingency PROJECT TOTAL COST Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL Cost Up Marked Project Description Cameron Run Park Planning Study CameronRun Planning Park Alexandria VA Alexandria PoolOlympic MultiSport L-02 Opinion Of Probable Cost 15% Demolition Structures Fields Recreation Olympic Pool (Outdoor) and 1 Multi-Sport Pool Olympic Field for the provides concept Pool Olympic the outdoor concept, Center Aquatic the indoor Similar to park, water the also eliminates This option cost. initial a lower but at residents, needs of Alexandria and for administration structure pavilion. A small picnic and cages batting the mini-golf, but keeps of court. Most and one multi-sport to another picnic pavilion in addition is included changing rooms well. would be used in this option as parking at-grade the existing Mini Golf/Batting Cage/Pavilion OC 0.47 mil/yr. Cage/Pavilion Mini Golf/Batting 0.15 mil/yr. income Cage/Pavilion Mini Golf/Batting .049 mil/yr. Balance of park maintenance Olympic Pool maintenance .25 mil/yr. maintenance Olympic Pool
• • • • Survey 2 Response online through Survey 2 starting on April 28. online through Survey 2 starting Costs: Operating Estimated Diagram presented on April 27, 2017 at public meeting and on April 27, 2017 at public meeting Diagram presented CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
To Lease or Not to Lease
There are multiple routes to move from the current lease to any of the community’s visions of the future Cameron Run Park. The options fall into two main categories – the lease solutions or the City operated solutions. Both categories have several variants that will be explored in the spectrum of solutions below:
Lease Options
The 2 main Lease options include:
• Option 1 - Lease the site the current lessee - NOVA Parks • Option 2 - Request Proposals for other entities to bid upon the site lease
A variant to either option 1 or 2 could be to reduce the size of the leased property to exclude the Ward’s Woods area to the northwest and the Lake Cook area including Resource Protection Area all the way to the north east corner of the current site. This would increase maintenance costs for the City but provide complete control over both areas which are significant ecosystem resources.
Both lease options would include lease conditions that address concerns communicated by the community through the public engagement process. Conditions could address:
• Improving maintenance of physical structures • Improving maintenance of vegetation • Improving food choices at park • Creating trails and signage for environmental and cultural history • Requiring 5 year plans and City approval of plans • Improving parking during peak usage (shuttle bus and off-site parking agreements) • Incorporation of year round uses such as temporary ice rinks • Increased lease fees to the City • Percentage of park entry fees provided to City • Programmed use of the parking lot during off-season
A City operated Cameron Run Park would be subject to the same Cost Recovery Policy developed by the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities as the other parks in the City “to allow for maximum resident participation in City Programs and to ensure that no one has a barrier to participation” as stated in the January 1, 2013 draft Resource Allocation Philosophy. See link for full text of Policy: https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/CostRecoveryPolicy.pdf
16 FINAL REPORT 17 No one may submit a proposal No one may relationship to damage Potential Parks with NOVA unknown/unfamiliar Potential lease partner pool of potential Unknown lessees / operators Takes time to negotiate time Takes a not submit may Parks NOVA proposal Takes time to negotiate time Takes to not agree may Parks NOVA conditions
• • • • • • • • Lease Option 2: RFP to Bid Lease - Cons 2: RFP Lease Option Lease Option 1: Current Lessee - Cons Lessee - 1: Current Lease Option Facility Improvements Facility to City funds back Potential on take fresh Potential Management in quality improvement Potential for opportunities Employment City residents receive City to Opportunity for to offsite contributions improvements Facility improvement Facility to City cost no Potentially for opportunities Employment City residents Option A - City runs or oversees other's management of water park with infrastructure left left park with infrastructure water of other's management oversees or A - City runs Option on site sports fields creates park and existing B - City demolishes Option park passive creates park and existing C – City demolishes Option center aquatic/sports creates park and existing D - City demolishes Option
• • • • • • • • • • • • • Lease Option 2: RFP to Bid Lease - Pros 2: RFP Lease Option Lease Option 1: Current Lessee - Pros Lessee - 1: Current Lease Option City Operated Park Options City Operated Park Options: Park 4 main City operated are There but also financial control, complete would have the City options, In all these City operated could Options Park addition, City Operated In the options. and maintain develop to responsibility in the lease options. listed the conditions address of removal the demolition, since cost would incur the demolition the park requiring to change Any lease between the current that of the lessee. Note is not required buildings or infrastructure current buildings and of current removal to in reference the following indicates Parks the City and NOVA of expiration "At Surrender: and Article VIII Building Improvement the site: from infrastructure cause, the to whatever due or earlier termination thereof extension of this Lease, or any the term existing, so then the improvements remove to but not the obligation, the right, Authority shall have of the Original commencement at the as condition as good least in at the Property long as it leaves in the vested absolutely and become shall pass to not removed or improvements property Lease. Any to the such title transfer to appropriate and all instruments any execute to Authority agrees The City. City.” Pros and Cons: Lease Options and Cons: Pros CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Pros and Cons: City Operated Park Options
Pros Cons
• Ability to meet the recreational • Potential damage to relationship needs of Alexandria residents with NOVA Parks • Direct control over maintenance and • Expensive, requiring funds that operations are not currently provided for in • No “middle-man” the City’s Capital Improvement • Potential Income for the City Plan - costs ranging from 1.7 • Sports field option could provide million to 26.3 million venue for tournaments - bringing • Maintenance Costs patrons to related businesses • For water park – the City does • Aquatic center addresses not have experience running community’s year-round use and overseeing others management of multi-generational concerns such a facility • Potential employment for City • For water park - City does not residents know what facilities would be left • Stronger expertise in natural in place resource management of site • Potential Long term Return on any • Provides opportunities suggested in CIP Investment the Open Space and Urban Forestry Master Plans
NOVA Parks Membership
NOVA Parks, the current lessee of the Cameron Run Park site, is a regional park authority which started in 1959 with a mission to plan, acquire, develop and operate a system or regional parks for all Northern Virginians to enjoy. The NOVA Parks Authority operates approximately 12,000 acres of woodlands, streams, parks, trails, nature reserves, countryside and historic sites in Northern Virginia, including 5 water parks. It currently manages two entities within the City of Alexandria – Cameron Run Regional Park and Carlyle House. Cameron Run Park is currently leased by NOVA Parks at a rate of $10 for 40 years. Carlyle House is owned by NOVA Parks. The City of Alexandria is one of six member jurisdictions who belong to NOVA Parks. The City of Alexandria pays the same membership rate per resident as the other 5 jurisdictions, providing about 8% of the operational costs of NOVA Parks or 2.8% of their overall yearly budget. The current yearly membership rate is $2.57 for capital contribution and $1.89 for operating expenses for a total of $4.46 per resident.
The 2016 membership contribution from the City of Alexandria to NOVA Parks was approximately $660,000 which is combined with contributions from the other jurisdictions to operate all of NOVA Parks facilities throughout northern Virginia. The chart on the following page illustrates in five year increments the yearly contribution by the City of Alexandria to NOVA Parks as the City’s population increases.
As a juristictional member, the residents of Alexandria receive a benefit in the form of reduced fees to NOVA Parks entities all over northern Virginia. The benefit ranges from 25 cents to one dollar off an individual entry fee to Cameron Run Regional Park. Additional benefits vary by park and by purchased item.
18 FINAL REPORT 19
2040 (191,405) $853,666.30
2030 deficit of $319,812. Combining these deficit net yielded a positive programs two of $252,675. Also, Parks NOVA to income part of is Catering Run Regional Cameron services and event catering Parks a NOVA and beverage food provides that program catering and social corporate for options special as support for as well events including Parks NOVA throughout events income The 2016 net Waves. Great at is about Run catering Cameron from Run Cameron $68,027. In 2016 the three income net had an annual total programs of $320,702. Run Cameron for The primary cost is labor expense. programs Park Regional labor equals 35 Waves, Great For utilities, by followed of costs, percent resale merchandise and depreciation, each of expenses). (about 18 percent mini- cages, batting Run Cameron For and other park picnic shelters, golf, the Parks, NOVA by operated assets amounting is also labor, primary cost (176,259) $786,115.14
2020 (162,681) $725,557.26
FORECAST OF ALEXANDRIA'S YEARLY MEMBERSHIP FEE TO NOVA PARKS NOVA FEE TO MEMBERSHIP YEARLY OF ALEXANDRIA'S FORECAST 2010 (143,874) $641,676.00 $900,000 $850,000 $800,000 $750,000 $700,000 $650,000 $600,000 $550,000 $500,000
Financial Operations Summary based upon are Park Water Waves including Great Park Run Regional of Cameron Financial details the Northern Virginia for (CAFR) prepared Annual Financial Report the FY 2015-16 Comprehensive are each program for tables cost and revenue Detailed Parks). Authority (NOVA Park Regional in Appendix F Financial Analysis. provided Cameron of $572,487. in the amount cash flow positive a generated Park Water Waves In 2016, Great an operating incurred and picnic shelters mini-golf, cages, which includes batting Park Run Regional Population figures for the figures Population from are taken chart at right Washington Metropolitan Council of Governments and Household Population 2040 round 8.4 to forecasts CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
to 66 percent of costs, following by depreciation of 26 percent. According to the NOVA Parks CAFR, Great Waves has 1 full-time staff plus 20.4 full-time equivalents comprising part time employees. The remaining two Cameron Run programs (batting cages-mini-golf-picnic shelter, and catering) have 3 full- time staff plus 4.85 full-time equivalents comprising part time employees.
The audited operating revenues and costs for NOVA Parks result in an annual deficit of $260,000. When summarizing the net income of each NOVA Parks operated program in the City of Alexandria (including the three Cameron Run programs and Carlyle House), the overall total net income is about $63,000 per year.
Conclusions 10. Click one or two of the six diagrams below that most closely represent your desire for the Cameron Run Park of the future. Considerations for Determining Highest and Best Use Cameron Run Park is many Water Park with Major Structural Aquatic Center with Multi-sport things to the Alexandria Changes Field 27% 25% Community. It is a natural area worthy of preservation, an active play space with
a memorable water park; Water Park with Improvements Two Multi-sport Fields a place to walk and jog; 15% 12% a place to play mini-golf, practice batting, and picnic. Olympic Pool with one Multi-sport Field It is a major storm water Open Space/Natural 9% Area Park management facility, fishing 12% hole, and wildlife observation
point. The site is one of a Aquatic Center with Multi-sport Field Two Multi-sport Fields Olympic Pool with one Multi-sport Field limited number of parcels in Open Space/Natural Area Park Water Park with Improvements Water Park with Major Structural Changes
Alexandria that is zoned for Public Open Space (POS), and Survey 2 results - Question 10 May 30, 2017 as such has an inherently high value to a community.
Population
Based on household and population estimates, produced by the Department of Planning & Zoning as part of the MWCOG Round 9.0 Cooperative Forecast, there will be substantial population growth in the vicinity of Cameron Run Regional Park, particularly in the areas around Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station and the Eisenhower West and Landmark/Van Dorn Small Area Plans. From 2010 to 2015, it is estimated that the area’s population grew approximately 6%. Given that there is substantial density approved through Small Area Plans, it is anticipated that the population will continue to increase as new development comes online. The chart in Figure 1 on the following page summarizes the anticipated household and population growth for the area highlighted in yellow in Figure 2. Additionally, after the anticipated build-out of Eisenhower West, an increase of approximately 10,000 more residents can be expected in that area alone.
The City's open space goal is set at 7.3 acres per 1,000 residents. An increase in population of 22,000 people in the Eisenhower Corridor by 2045 will then require a corresponding 160 acres of open space. 20 FINAL REPORT 21 2040 41,512 2040 2035 39,506 2030 38,140 2025 36,600 2020 33,189 Population Estimates Population Estimates for Eisenhower Corridor - 2015 2015 30,511 Figure 2: The area shaded in yellow indicates the TAZ that were summarized in the population chart. The purple boundaries are existing Small existing in the population chart. The purple boundaries are were summarized that the TAZ indicates Figure 2: The area shaded in yellow Area Plans Figure 1: Estimates for households and population by year in the following TAZ's 1548,1553,1551,1549,1547,1608,1546,1610,1552,1609,1591,15 following by year in the for households and population Figure 1: Estimates 93,and 1592. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
With open space as a finite resource, it will be come more and more important to dedicate available sites to serve Alexandria residents needs. Cameron Run Park's location in the Eisenhower Corridor makes it a key component of the local park network for adjacent residents, and is essential to meeting the City's open space goal.
Alexandria has rapidly expanded in the past 40 years – transitioning from a City with an excess of open space to one that struggles to provide adequate land for the community’s numerous recreational needs. Alexandria’s parks have developed in kind with the community’s changing needs over time. As popularity of specific park amenities change, so parks transition from one type of facility to another.
The highest and best uses for Cameron Run Park must support the greater Alexandria Park system. The system works by providing various amenities throughout, duplicating facilities where needed, while elsewhere providing unique experiences. We are fortunate to have an active and engaged citizenry who readily participate in planning efforts, providing us valuable data which informs the spectrum of solutions below.
Both Surveys 1 and 2 provided on-line and in-person responses that reflected the information that was provided to us during in-person meetings, but from a higher number respondents. Survey 2 was most telling, specifically when respondents were asked to rate which park type they would most like to see as Cameron Run’s future.
58% of respondents selected park diagrams that eliminated the existing water park.
• Aquatic Center with Multi-Sport Field 25% Diagrams above presented on • Two Multi-Sport Fields 12% April 27, 2017 at public meeting • Open Space/ Natural Area Park 12% and online through Survey 2 • Olympic Pool with one Multi-Sport Field 9% starting on April 28.
Aquatic Center with Multi-sport field Water Park with Major Structural Changes
Multi-Sport Fields Water Park with Improvements
22 FINAL REPORT 23 A park that is well maintained is well A park that new facilities or existing could include the facility which an aquatic contains A park that indoor facilities and/or resources, on the City’s these amenities without undue burden provides A park that Policy Recovery Cost RPCA’s with in accordance revenue generates A park that serves the needs of Alexandria residents the needs of Alexandria serves A park that existing uses of the creative activities through round year provides A space that temporary ice skating, temporary such as festivals, including the parking area infrastructure community programs and structures, sports fields, sports “Bubble” for also suitable are that signage with environmental paths natural provides A park that biking, walking and running recreational/fitness for no and some amenities cost, a reasonable for entertainment family provides A park that cost Incorporation of year round uses year of Incorporation structures of physical maintenance Improving of vegetation maintenance Improving park choices at food Improving history and cultural environmental for and signage trails Creating parking agreements) (shuttle bus and off-site parking during peak usage Improving to the City financial benefit Increased Water Park with Structural Changes 27% Changes with Structural Park Water 15% with Improvements Park Water
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 42% of respondents retained the existing water park in some form. park in some water the existing retained 42% of respondents Resident and stakeholder feedback as a part of the public engagement process for Cameron Run Cameron for process as a part of the public engagement feedback and stakeholder Resident use of and Best The Highest clear. Run Park Uses of Cameron and Best made the Highest have Park is: Run Park Cameron Highest and Best Use of Cameron Run Park Highest and Best Use of Cameron Aquatics is the common element in the top 3 chosen diagrams which reinforces Alexandria residents' residents' Alexandria reinforces which diagrams top 3 chosen in the common element is the Aquatics based facilities. water need for is the community that or upgrades of improvements list a core was there that indicated The surveys in the future: looking for CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
From Highest and Best to the future Cameron Run Park
The identification of the Highest and Best Use is the first step in the evolution of Cameron Run Park. The next step is to determine how to get from the current condition to where the residents of Alexandria would like the park to be. Any of the top rated park types could be pursued through either a lease option or a City operated option. Ultimately, the City will need to decide which method is best based on budgeting and capital project priorities.
The water park lease option provides the most amenities with the least capital outlay from the City – putting the fiscal responsibility, maintenance and development of the park in the hands of a third party, whether it be the existing lessee or another entity. The core improvements listed above can be further articulated and listed as conditions in the lease in addition to any capital improvements just as the development of the water park was included in the original lease in 1981, when the parcel was vacant. The City will need to decide whether the conditions crafted for a lease option would be required or negotiated.
The City-operated option would represent a significant capital expenditure, but potentially create a profit making center which could fund other recreational opportunities throughout Alexandria. Many local communities such as Fairfax and Prince William counties operate and maintain their own water parks for their citizens – providing low or no cost recreation. When entry fees are charged for these publicly owned and operated water parks, they are comparable to the prices charged by the current lessee of Cameron Run Park.
Potential Path Forward
The City of Alexandria is constantly evolving and changing to meet the needs of both its existing and future residents. Cameron Run Park will need to reflect this dynamic nature of our community by addressing the current needs and concerns of Alexandria’s residents while being flexible enough to anticipate and react to future requirements. In light of these issues, this study does not recommend an outright 40 year lease. Rather, a phased lease is suggested to allow for more frequent review of City needs and investment in the site so as not to limit future possibilities. In order to accomplish this, this study suggests the following adjustments and phases to provide public open space at Cameron Run Park that reflects the highest and best use as articulated by the residents of Alexandria through the public engagement process.
Illustrative Plan of Lake Cook improvements - currently Redefining the physical boundary of the lease under construction via separate contract. The boundary of the lease area has been modified several times during the life of the current lease as community needs have changed. The total land area was reduced in 1991 and then again in 2002, resulting in the current lease area of 25.8 acres. The current lessee is utilizing a portion of the site to run the Cameron Run Regional Park facilities including Great Waves, the mini golf course, the batting cage, the pavilion and the parking area.
24 FINAL REPORT 25 The northwest corner of the site south to Eisenhower Avenue is unofficially known as “Ward’s “Ward’s as is unofficially known Avenue Eisenhower south to of the site corner The northwest The area to the area. unique are that regional species of plants and native It contains Woods”. woods, a to the In addition network. path for the Holmes Run and Eisenhower connections provides the woods that ensure would of these zones City oversight picnic tables. contains area lawn mowed citizens' Alexandria of reflective manner sensitive in an environmentally be maintained would area funds. maintenance additional and will also require desires park, water to the responsibility focus the lessee’s would the lease from areas these two Eliminating new lease for the lessee. The revenue generate pavilion, which and cage batting course, mini-golf above. in the diagram and is shown 14.59 acres contain would area Though Lake Cook is identified as a recreational amenity, its primary function is to serve the 300 tois its primary function amenity, recreational as a Cook is identified Though Lake upgrading The City is currently facility. water as a storm the north to watershed of Alexandria’s acres while also system, of the functions water the storm improve to land the pond and the surrounding The City has contract. as a part of a separate of the area walkability and the aesthetics improving for the responsibilities Currently, facilities. water types of storm these maintain to a responsibility this eliminate To City. and the Parks) lessee (NOVA the between overlapping are Cook area Lake the current to of the lake the northeast to Cook and the area Lake that it is suggested discrepancy, the lease will mean from this area Eliminating lease area. the future from be eliminated lease border the City additional funds from This will require its maintenance. for responsible the City will be that costs. maintenance for New Uses for Parking Area Uses forNew Parking year about the need for their concerns voiced repeatedly community and the Alexandria Stakeholders the uses throughout of temporary staging for space available The single largest use of the site. round during off-peak of the parking area advantage take The City should parking area. is the existing year generate could potentially that and programs events to provide ways explore to year times of the Park. Run at Cameron costs maintenance offset the City to for income Modified lease boundary CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Lease Phasing
In addition to modifying the lease boundary, a phased approach should be considered for the future evolution of the Cameron Run Park site. The following phases are recommended:
Initial Phase: Lease amendment not exceeding 10 years of Cameron Run Park within new boundary
Include the following conditions:
• Emphasize year round opportunities within lease area • Include maintenance improvements • Limit capital improvements • City oversight • Integrate with city programs • Re-evaluate city needs before proceeding to another lease cycle
Phase 1 Concept Plan
26 FINAL REPORT 27 Do the City’s needs continue to be served by Water Park / Aquatic Facility? If so, then Facility? If Park / Aquatic Water by to be served needs continue Do the City’s with lessee. relationship continue Park Run re-assess use of Cameron then dramatically, If City needs change Continue to integrate with City programs to integrate Continue lease another to proceeding city needs before Re-evaluate Evaluate resident needs and potential collaboration with a 3rd party on an aquatic center or center aquatic 3rd party on an with a collaboration needs and potential resident Evaluate amenity other large improvements maintenance Continue oversight City Continue
• • • • • • • Phase 3: beyond 20 years beyond Phase 3: and in population increase a profound forecast corridor the Eisenhower plans for small area Two of feet square Plan includes an additional 9.3 million Small Area West The Eisenhower development. 6.5 million Plan includes an additional Small Area East Eisenhower 2040. The by development new uses and more people, more will add more These plans as envisioned of development. feet square activities and land uses. The primary concern of who will need recreational the corridor businesses to shifts in the based on these fundamental the needs of the community determine phase 3 will be to will be: consider to elements Key site. Run Park the Cameron bookend neighborhoods that Phase 2: 10-20 year lease of Cameron Run Park within new boundary within new Run Park lease of Cameron 10-20 year Phase 2: conditions: Include the following Spectrum of Options Page left blank intentionally.
28 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX A: MEETINGS
Below is a summary of comments received at meetings during the public engagement process
Stakeholder Meeting 1: Eisenhower Partnership
February 21, 2017
MAIN INPUT THEMES:
• Northeast corner of site is a mess, weedy, dumping ground, unmaintained • How can some of the considerable profit from Cameron Run Regional Park be used to benefit Alexandria? • Parking problems at Cameron Run Regional Park in summer - people park in townhouse community. • Park maintenance - vegetation and structures - need improvement
Meeting Presentation Link: https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/ CameronParkStakeholder21Februry2017.pdf
ATTENDEE COMMENTS:
1. Former ‘Townes at Cameron Parke’ Homeowners’ Association President, Daniel Anixt, noted that he is wary of the planning process. He thinks having the recommendations by summer is rushed. He said he “hopes that true alternative uses will be considered.”
• Sara DeGroot from City of Alexandria (Office of Environmental Quality), in reference to the Resource Protection Area (RPA) discussion, described the accuracy of the City’s GIS layer, and how it is an approximation – an offset from their stream layer. RPA was field verified at request of City for the waterpark’s parking lot, which is done by a licensed professional.
• Cameron Run Regional Park gets $8/admission per person, and makes $600,000/yr profit. Community wonders where the profit is going. Carlyle House, the historic property in Alexandria also run by NOVA Parks, is in debt.
2. Bus lines have been cut in the area or run infrequently. Most users drive to park, only 1/3 are Alexandria residents. Streetlights out on Eisenhower. Speeding 60mph on Eisenhower.
3. The mulch pile’s (recycling center on Eisenhower Avenue) lease was extended for another ten years.
• Mr. Anixt brought up triangle area in northeast corner of Lake Cook. He indicated it is full of weeds, a dumping ground for trash. Has been a fire from ashes before. Drug dealers, jersey barriers.
4. One resident said that “Lake Cook doesn’t make sense in conjunction with the water park.”
5. One resident stated his opinion that the pond (Lake Cook) is terrible.
• Has three overflows to Hunting Creek and one to Oronoco Bay
6. General consensus is that NOVA Parks makes a lot of money on Cameron Run with little return to Alexandria. 29 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
7. Several people felt that the park is not taken care of for as much money it makes.
• Need to be realistic about the City’s ability to make investments or improvements to the park; the City has financial constraints.
• City is constrained by budget. Mitigation of its combined sewer is a significant budget item requiring immediate resources.
• Ms. DeGroot provided brief overview of City’s combined sewer system and City’s long-term fix by staggering improvements.
• Mr. Anixt indicated that he was nervous – presentation is talking about investments from City/ NOVA parks that can’t be made, budget pressure on City.
8. Need place for kids. Not much else in the city for kids.
9. It would be beneficial to have a NOVA Parks representative. The presentation is missing financial facts from them. (Consultant indicated that NOVA Parks would be at the first public meeting on March 2nd.)
10. Future on-line survey – make sure they include text comment boxes.
11. City is paying for Lake Cook retrofit – in part with grants from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
12. Resident said that after a rainstorm, Cameron Run is anything but beautiful.
13. Ms. DeGroot described the proposed improvements to Lake Cook from a stormwater perspective
• Are Lake Cook improvements not handled by NOVA Parks?
• Ms. Degroot: Stormwater improvements are handled by the City.
• Is the Lake Cook improvements plan funded?
• Ms. Degroot: bids open 2/22/2017. Expected to start construction April 2017 and finish April 2018
• Is there a maintenance plan for Lake Cook?
• Ms. DeGroot: City of Alexandria will dredge/maintain
14. City can’t use storm-water grant money to improve the derelict corner because it doesn’t involve storm-water.
15. As part of the Lake Cook improvement plan, Sara DeGroot stated that they are working on a maintenance MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) for the proposed forebay.
16. Several residents voiced concerns over mosquito problems.
30 Appendix A: Meetings 31 for more information about the Lake Cook construction activities. construction Cook about the Lake information more for
Will have a privately owned but publicly accessible park space owned a privately Will have space of retail feet 9,000 square units 500 multifamily SAP in King Street located Technically lights along Eisenhower traffic retime the and light traffic a new install to paying are They Avenue. Ms. DeGroot: She will check with DPI about the staging area will check with DPI about the staging She Ms. DeGroot: contact? a name/email/phone Is there at Tafesse.Gyes@ Implementation of Project the Department at Gyes Tayesse Contact alexandriava.gov Ms. DeGroot, from the city said that she can get some mosquitos captured to determine determine to captured some mosquitos get she can the city said that from Ms. DeGroot, water either on large reproduce that species one of two predominantly are they whether from. coming are they where will know we way, That bodies or small pools.
• • • • • of the Wilson Run during construction 495 and Cameron between removed were trees Many was finished. construction after not replanted reportedly were 2008. They around Bridge • • • said that one resident plan, West and the Eisenhower Plan East about the Eisenhower In talking neighborhood” and that in the wrong “lives he like both plans made him feel from being excluded Run Park. is an issue with Cameron there part that of guilt on the city’s an admission it’s is being built development new the where of Rushmark Properties representative a Neil Kumar, development. the new about some data gave Avenue Eisenhower 2901 at • for area a staging parking lot as the northeast the city using over concerns voiced One resident the for parking as the primary April. The lot is used overflow to begin in late slated construction area. parking in the residential start park. Then people water
20. 18. 19. 17. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
ATTENDEE QUESTIONS:
1. What is allowable in an RPA?
• Answer: see https://www.alexandriava.gov/tes/oeq/info/default.aspx?id=3824
• What about pervious surfaces? All proposed changes in an RPA are subject to review by the City. Surface type does not guarantee approval.
◦◦ What is considered pervious or impervious? Pervious allows water to flow through a surface. Impervious material prevents water from penetrating the material.
◦◦ Can existing structures be removed from the RPA?
◦◦ Answer: All land disturbing activities proposed in the RPA must first be approved by the City. The property owner will need to submit a Water Quality Impact Assessment explaining the impacts of the activity and what actions will be taken to reduce these impacts.
2. Is NOVA Parks a non-profit?
• Answer: Yes. “NOVA Parks, (is) a regional nonprofit organization…” (https://www.novaparks. com/about/blog/regional-nonprofit-opens-funds-to-support-regional-parks)
◦◦ What do they pay in taxes?
◦◦ Answer: At Cameron Run Regional Park, sales taxes are charged on admission by the City and State. Those taxes are passed back to each governmental entity. NOVA Parks is a local “Authority” and as such does not pay taxes itself.
◦◦ Does NOVA Parks’ revenue benefit the City of Alexandria financially?
◦◦ Answer: There is no financial contribution from NOVA Parks to the City.
◦◦ Where is NOVA’s money being spent?
◦◦ Answer: See below charts (https://www.novaparks.com/about/press-releases- financials) :
32 Appendix A: Meetings 33 NOVA Parks runs the historic property, Carlyle House in addition to Cameron to Cameron Carlyle House in addition property, historic runs the Parks NOVA If Alexandria does not remain a part of NOVA Parks, would the $670,000 that currently currently the $670,000 that would Parks, a part of NOVA does not remain If Alexandria budget? the city’s be added to Parks NOVA to goes ◦ ◦ This question was asked in reference to residents of The Townes at Cameron Parke. Townes Townes Parke. at Cameron Townes of The residents to reference in was asked This question this information. obtain to its residents survey need to would Parke Cameron at Answer: unless the continue would Parks in NOVA Membership in Alexandria. Park Run Regional changed. to both properties relationship
Confirm users of park and where they are from (160,000 from Washington Post)? Washington (160,000 from from are they of park and where users Confirm • Park Water Waves if Great Parks part of NOVA remaining Alexandria be a chance of there Would does not continue? •
3. 4. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
◦◦ Answer: Membership in NOVA Parks is related to both properties in the City.
◦◦ If membership in NOVA Parks is eliminated, what is the cost to the city?
◦◦ Answer: All costs to maintain and improve both Cameron Run Park and Carlyle House.
5. What do other jurisdictions pay to be part of NOVA Parks?
• Answer: Each jurisdiction pays the same rate per resident: $1.89 operating appropriation plus $2.57 capital appropriation for a total of $4.46 per resident according to the adopted 2017 NOVA Parks Budget. https://www.novaparks.com/sites/default/files/pdf/FY%2017%20 NOVA%20Parks%20Adopted%20Budget%20for%20Website.pdf
6. Is entrance fee to the park a tax element for the City or all of NOVA Parks?
• Answer: No.
7. Is NOVA Parks violating the lease by not keeping up with the site or in any other way?
• Answer: The lease states: “The Authority . . . shall maintain the Property, the improvements and the park in a quality and state of repair comparable to similarly developed regional parks in Northern Virginia.” Source: Lease between City of Alexandria and NOVA Parks (then the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority), June 30, 1981.
8. If NOVA Parks goes away, what’s the city’s required contribution for Cameron Run Park?
• Answer: Refer to question 5
9. What is the time-frame on the Hensley Park improvements?
• Will it be unlocked when the improvements are complete?
◦◦ Answer: City plans to start the improvements in fall of 2018 and anticipates that it will take 2 to 2 ½ years to build.
10. What are the city’s responsibilities as the landlord of Cameron Run Park?
• Answer: To protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Alexandria. To enforce violations of city codes related to the property or actions occurring on the property.
11. “In terms of general lack of responsibility for the park, who is to be held accountable, City of Alexandria or NOVA Parks?”
• Answer: See answer to question 7.
12. Is the Animal Welfare League a stakeholder that should be invited to public involvement meetings?
• Answer: Yes
34 Appendix A: Meetings 35 60,000 rounds a year 60,000 rounds Any vouchers are controlled by NOVA Parks. NOVA by controlled are vouchers Any Run Regional Cameron Parks 31. NOVA October 11 to March Open 7.5 months Answer: ◦ What is the current usage? usage? is the current What ◦ center rec Nannie Lee is closest Answer: Answer: Answer: year, Cage each Batting at the are held of batting 60,000 rounds that states sheet fact Park 140 area, the play to 2,500 entries rentals, 36 shelter of mini-golf, along with 15,000 rounds park. the water and +100,000 admissions to party events, birthday
Provide for multi-use, multi-age: daytime programming; need a draw for all age groups age for all draw need a programming; daytime multi-age: multi-use, for Provide Valley Need a dog park in the Eisenhower Build up, not out. currently Lots of dead trees in uses with less: pockets/nooks/variety Do more use path Run and mixed Cameron Fit linear park in between Bocce court. along Eisenhower elements wayfinding Mile markers, Run Park. Cameron to Should be applied Hensley. at helps management On-site • the north to tracks the between area natural Access to (2x) Racquetball? center. a rec/aquatic for site Possible • a community/aquatic connection with or putting it inside in mini golf the idea of keeping Like center Need to create open green space that is not exclusive to being on a team or part of a club or on a team being to is not exclusive space that open green create Need to group. – no dogs.” families for lawn nicer “A Splash pad? (2x) cages the batting Keep Who controls vouchers for Cameron Run Park? Run Park? Cameron for vouchers Who controls • people use them? how many used and cages the batting are frequently How •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 13. 14. Comments Breakout Group CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Dog park behind Animal Shelter as a way to increase its visibility.
• Potomac Yard is a good example of multi-use in a linear space.
• Tree planting to block views along 495 and along Eisenhower Avenue.
• Geese are a problem
• Safety and security need to be addressed
• Call Animal Shelter as a stakeholder to be included in future meetings
• Include Hensley Park in the process?
• Smart building - rooftop recreational use?
• Swimming lessons
• More natural areas
• Walking trails
• Improvements need be made to the northeast corner
• No soccer fields
• Indoor usable space
• Bikeshare
Group Input Exercise 1: What are some drawbacks to Cameron Run Park?
• Seasonal
• Maintenance
• Pollution/trash
• Bad for adults - no adult programming
• Costs are high
• Taxpayers need more return on investment
• Races disrupt traffic on Eisenhower Avenue
• Blighted northeast corner
• Overflow parking problems
• Access is too car-centric 36 Appendix A: Meetings 37 Current zoning - “Protection” from upcoming density upcoming from - “Protection” zoning Current Batting cages Batting Mini-golf kids Space for parking lot interactions lunch stop, Avenue: the Eisenhower Brings people into open space to Contributes Cook - fishing Lake opportunity offer vouchers Park Doesn’t contribute to workers to Doesn’t contribute at Cameron Townes (of The residents benefits that something have rather would Wavepool- Parke) Lack of oversight of investment Value is a unique draw Pool Dog swim day is not maintained is not day Dog swim draw regional Park’s Parks NOVA City pays of time on the lease Length
• • • • • • • • • • • • Park? Run to Cameron some benefits are 2: What Input Exercise Group • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Community Meeting 1
March 2, 2017
MAIN INPUT THEMES:
• Need more year-round use for park • Need to connect Hensley Park with Cameron Run Park safely • Concern about vegetation maintenance in Park and around Lake Cook • Organized sports teams need more spaces within Alexandria for team sports • Current water park is unique, special, and very well attended - an asset that can be improved • Need a park space for passive uses
Meeting Presentation Link: https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/ CameronParkPlanningMeeting2March2017.pdf
Attendee Comments:
1. A resident of The Townes at Cameron Parke asked if Lake Cook is man-made in reference to the Resource Protection Area (RPA) surrounding the lake and the restrictions the RPA sets for future development. He was questioning if the RPA was legitimate since it’s on a man-made water body.
• Jesse Maines (Division Chief of Environmental Services, Stormwater Management for City of Alexandria) explained that Lake Cook was built at the convergence of Cameron Run and Strawberry Run in the 1970’s so it was assigned a Resource Protection Area similar to a natural stream.
2. The same resident asked Mr. Maines if dredging Lake Cook would be part of the improvements plan.
• Mr. Maines answered that the lake would be dredged and the soil would be used elsewhere in the city (he is not sure of location) to the best ecological benefit.
3. Cameron Run Park is only used three months out of the year. We need to look at alternatives for year-round use.
4. Hensley is disconnected and we should look for ways to better connect Cameron Run and Hensley Parks
5. Connection between Cameron Run and Claremont Natural Area should be investigated.
6. Paul Gilbert, NOVA Parks representative: “NOVA Parks manages the site. It’s to the city’s benefit to have NOVA Parks do maintenance. The city built Lake Cook for storm water management.”
• A resident of The Townes at Cameron Parke responded “So why is [NOVA Parks] not maintaining the northeast corner? Why is that not included?”
• “Care of the park is not great. Has anyone located the original lease [between City of Alexandria and NOVA Parks]?” The person speaking did not see it on the city website.
38 Appendix A: Meetings 39 Mr. Browand: It would require a special DSUP. a special require It would Browand: Mr. Attendee: “Is the [previously proposed Master Blaster] waterslide going to be to be going waterslide Blaster] Master proposed “Is the [previously Attendee: forward?” moving pursued on options is only one of many Blaster the Master that saying Gilbert responded Mr. forward. going the table ◦ ◦ ◦ John Fennell (Michael Baker, Intl.): “The park gets such great use in the summer. Off-site Off-site “The use in the summer. Intl.): such great park gets (Michael Baker, John Fennell during peak times.” parking with shuttle serviceconsidered should be the time [it at controls water had some storm Park] Run Maines: “Some. [Cameron Mr. before.” required built]. It wasn’t was How about a parking structure in the northeast corner for more space in the park? space more for corner in the northeast about a parking structure How ◦ ◦ ◦ City of Alexandria representative said that he would locate it and upload it to the project to the project it and upload it would locate he said that representative City of Alexandria site. and listening and we’re the table is on “everything that saying by responded Gilbert Mr. through.” fell proposal a plan. Our previous have don’t we notes… taking ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ Yes, though its isolated location can add extra challenges. extra can add location though its isolated Yes, when not in use. are locked cages and batting mini golf Waves, Great ◦ now? sediment parking trap Does the existing ◦ Mr. Maines: No, everything in the Lake Cook Improvement Plan is an approved activity in the Plan is an approved Improvement Cook in the Lake everything Maines: No, Mr. RPA. like some things within the RPA develop still can but we “No, Parks): Gilbert (NOVA Mr. etc. areas, picnic table pervious surfaces, ◦ to area West Eisenhower shuttle service from and provide parking now reduce you can’t Why Run Park? Cameron ◦ would if the park authority Mr. Gilbert, representative, Parks NOVA asked Another attendee plans. alternative any be open to ◦
• • • other City of Alexandria same as for Park Run Regional Cameron issues for public safety Are Parks? • the RPA? into expand corner] Could parking [in the northeast • • Jack Browand (Division Chief of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities) interposed to clarify, to clarify, interposed Activities) & Cultural Parks of Recreation, (Division Chief Jack Browand use is the best or not the current whether explore is to today here we’re reason the that saying the space. use for and highest Cook improvements? Lake the [proposed] affect Could the RPA •
10. 9. 7. 8. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
11. Townes at Cameron Parke resident: “Ethanol tankers sit right along the park and homes. It’s a major concern for us.”
• We’ve seen break-ins in the area and a small fire – we’re concerned about public safety.
12. Is anyone taking upcoming traffic from Eisenhower East and Eisenhower West plans into consideration? Will there be an expansion of Eisenhower Ave?
• Dana Wedeles (City of Alexandria- Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities) explained how new streets in the Eisenhower West plans will be parallel to Eisenhower Ave and new connections to be made to the north will help alleviate traffic on Eisenhower Ave. There are no plans to expand Eisenhower Avenue’s width.
◦◦ Who are the traffic planners?
◦◦ RK&K see: https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/planning/info/ EisenhowerWest/EWTSSAPReportFINAL11092015redux.pdf
• Concern for maintenance of natural area and planted areas around Lake Cook. Would like to see increased use of native species around Lake Cook.
◦◦ Mr. Maines: “We have worked with the Park Department. We have value in Lake Cook – we are using all native plants and an aquatic bench around the perimeter of the lake to improve the habitat.”
◦◦ Is the [proposed] track along Lake Cook impervious or dirt?
◦◦ Mr. Maines: “The track will be pervious asphalt.”
13. Representative from the Alexandria Soccer Association – “Our programs are growing and we are running out of space for our programs.”
• Existing space is underutilized.
• Finances are getting tighter.
14. The water park is a pretty unique and interesting use for the space. As one of the richest and most affluent communities, it would be a shame to replace it with something more generic.
15. I’ve been to Great Waves and have been astonished by how many families and kids were there. It’s an uncommon amenity.
• To be within walking distance of a water park is good.
• I’d hate to see it go away to be replaced with more of the same [kind of parks].
• The land is worth more today than it was 40 years ago. Alexandria open space is becoming increasingly valuable as the city becomes more developed. More and more kids are encouraged to join organized sports.
◦◦ If the space was converted to synthetic sports fields, we could use it year-round. 40 Appendix A: Meetings 41 If we keep the park, we need a better deal so that City of Alexandria gets gets City of Alexandria deal so that need a better the park, we keep If we our own improve to Waves Great at generated the revenue from money more parks. [Alexandria] ◦ 2016 – 60% of city residents visit Cameron Run on a regular basis Run on a regular visit Cameron 2016 – 60% of city residents We need a better deal – keep the facility the way it is and use the profits to make the to make it is and use the profits way facility the keep the deal – need a better We park better. ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ the park stay from derived [some] revenue have a deal to using the park and make keep Let’s parks our own improve can so we in Alexandria and an out-of- rate an in-jurisdiction charges Parks “NOVA Parks): Gilbert (NOVA Mr. upon entry.” rate jurisdiction “Alexandria Activities): & Cultural Parks Recreation, (City of Alexandria- Browand Mr. to belonging comes of the other six jurisdictions when it as much resident just are residents Parks.” NOVA to Great Waves is viewed as an amenity. is viewed Waves Great family draw Similar use, still studies: Two Mr. Gilbert (NOVA Parks): “Zoning is 15’ height by right, 30’ with special permission. The right, by is 15’ height “Zoning Parks): Gilbert (NOVA Mr. design is not off the The current laws. zoning all the to adhered Blaster the Master plans for but it is part of the discussion.” table ◦
Could we use the money that goes to NOVA Parks for something else? something for Parks NOVA to goes that use the money Could we • fee?” the entry offset does that Parks NOVA the city pays that the fees “Of • • • use. see a different to like Would • Park? the Water to Who goes • Thinking parochially, just in the City of Alexandria, we don’t have a lot of space. Nothing like a lot of space. Nothing like have don’t we in the City of Alexandria, just Thinking parochially, is as affordable. Waves] [Great was park that water to the about adding an attraction ago had a discussion a year Parks NOVA these improvements? to make planning still Parks Is NOVA tall. quite • park using the water to looking forward were “We Side [of Alexandria]: the West to parents New we are but away go to hear it might disappointed comes] and are [when the time with our baby well.” ideas as new open to Townes at Cameron Parke Resident: “Increased traffic on Eisenhower is negatively impacting our is negatively on Eisenhower traffic “Increased Resident: Parke Cameron at Townes home values.”
22. 23. 20. 21. 17. 18. 19. 16. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
24. Strawberry Hill Resident: I’ve been to [Great Waves] Water Park many times and I’m looking toward using this unique amenity that’s so close.
25. Cameron Station Resident: I’d like to see something like trails that are free to enter. Something more for adults.
26. Is the money we pay to NOVA Parks independent of Cameron Run Park?
• Anyone can go to a NOVA Parks facility, but the entrance fee would be different from a resident of one of the six jurisdictions.
27. Resident of Cameron Station (Married, no children): “I’ve never been to the park but I came [to the meeting] because I was warned that there could be new development. I’m glad to hear that new buildings are off the table. I’d like to see trails for hiking and bikes. I’m tired of paying taxes for kids’ parks when the roads are terrible and falling apart.”
28. Del Ray resident: has teenagers, used to go to the water park but not anymore. Still thinks it is a terrific amenity. Would like to see more trails and more use around the edges that seem to be neglected or not maintained.
29. 20 year resident of Alexandria: I’ve used mini-golf and batting cages for little league. I see a lot of empty spaces on the property. Any alternate use to get more use out of the space would be helpful.
30. Confused about [sports] fields and why people can’t just play a pickup game. Instead, they have to reserve it for a later time.
• We need more of them in the city
◦◦ “People use the fields to the point where they are degraded and other can’t use it.”
◦◦ Ms. Wedeles (City of Alexandria- Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities): “Hensley Park has drainage issues but it will be renovated in the next two years with new drainage solutions.”
◦◦ “We don’t have lights on our fields, so between October and March, the fields go unused. We live in one of the wealthiest places in the country; we could afford to put lights on our fields but we apparently don’t want them.”
31. Resident of Cameron Station: If the Water Park is not here in 4 to 5 years, is there any priority for what the city would want the park to look like?
• City of Alexandria representative: “No, you’re part of the process now. That’s why you’re all here.”
32. Mr. Gilbert (NOVA Parks), “If Cameron Run Regional Park isn’t here, then prices go up for Alexandria residents at all NOVA Parks facilities.”
33. How do we want Cameron Run Park used?
34. Resident: “We (City of Alexandria) should get a better deal [monetarily, from NOVA Parks’ management of Cameron Run Park]. 42 Appendix A: Meetings 43 Maintenance at parking area and along the stream to the north to along the stream and parking area at Maintenance of park needs maintenance in front Sidewalk the park for Signage – main lot Parking Bike paths Bike Cook Lake Fishing at park Use water Slides Cages Batting Mini-golf Area Natural Playground collection Trash Fish and use restrooms stop Cyclists there? go don’t you Why wayfinding Poor kids For Waves of Great Sanitation Upkeep Cleanliness in parking lot Safety Last 5 years: 15 5 years: Last Walk Swim cages Batting Jog Mini-golf Playground Picnic the café at Eat This year: 15 This year: 8 year: Last
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • What does not work (today)? does not work What Group Input Exercises: Group Run Park? Cameron visited have people many How (today)? works What What do you do at Cameron Run Park? Cameron do at do you What CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Northeast corner lot • Invasive species planting in the park What do you want more of at Cameron Run (tomorrow)?
• Year-round active use • Ice skating rink / Sled run • Winter use • Native plants & wildlife • Pine trees • Bathrooms • Natural trails for bikes • Indoor recreation • Indoor pool • Shade trees • Shade structures • Lazy river • Futsal course • Small spaces/meditation field • Bicycle pump track • Skate Park • Dog training area • Bikeshare station@ Cameron Park and Hensley Field • Crosswalk to connect to eastbound bus stop • Improved east bound bus stop • Wayfinding directing non-motorized patrons • Improved Bike parking • Bike path through Hensley connecting to Claremont Avenue to Eisenhower Avenue • Reduce speed on Eisenhower from 35 to 25 mph. • Vehicle Parking Garage in leu of surface parking lot • Repave sidewalk in front of park.
44 Appendix A: Meetings 45 https://www.novaparks.com/about/ [Cameron Run Regional Park] gives families and the many tourists to Alexandria and National and National Alexandria to tourists and the many families gives Park] Run Regional [Cameron Harbor an option. ) blog/regional-nonprofit-opens-funds-to-support-regional-parks will be changing area but that West… designing Eisenhower aren’t “We Browand: Mr. enormously.” pool with a small a swimming basically but it’s “The Church, Browand: one is in Falls closest Mr. Park.” Water Waves Great park… nothing like spray Mr. Browand: “Yes, that’s correct.” that’s “Yes, Browand: Mr. ( organization…” nonprofit [is] a regional Parks, “NOVA Yes. them.” improve need city permission to them, but you maintain can “You Browand: Mr. Kids love the existing park, parents feel that it needs better maintenance. it needs better feel that parents park, existing the Kids love maintenance. to the park should be allocated at generated money More and a higher lease of maintenance level better would encourage for the park bids Competing payment. residents : “Alexandria Activities) & Cultural Parks of Recreation, (Division Chief Jack Browand facilities. Parks NOVA discount] to use [at benefits receive
• Mr. Browand: “Hensley soccer field will be synthetic [upon completion of the Hensley Park of the Hensley completion [upon synthetic soccer field will be “Hensley Browand: Mr. Plan].” Improvements or going? staying Is the UPS store • this in the area? like facility Parks another NOVA Is there • Since the city owns the [Cameron Run Park property], does that mean there is no tax [on the is no tax mean there does that property], Run Park the [Cameron Since the city owns property]? • a non-profit? Parks Is NOVA • them better? and make [the built amenities] within the RPA maintain Can you • • • • Parks? NOVA out of belonging to get does City of Alexandria What •
5. 6. 7. 2. 3. 4. Attendee Comments: Attendee 1. Stakeholder Meeting 2: Alexandria Beautification Meeting 2: Stakeholder Commission 9, 2017 March MAIN INPUT THEMES: CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
8. Are there any competing bids for running and maintaining the park? See question 2 below.
• It never felt well-maintained or well-run. I take my children and grandchildren there, but I ask myself [when I’m there], “Do I really want to be in an environment that isn’t well managed?”
9. I would like to keep something like Great Waves Water Park close although maintenance is an issue that I’d like to see resolved.
10. If [Great Waves Water Park] remains, there should be major improvements. I drive past it all the time and I just think it looks sleazy... I’ve never been there and would never recommend it to anyone.
• John Fennell (Michael Baker, Intl): NOVA Parks was going to put $1 M into improvements for the water park.
11. Are the Lake Cook improvements coming from NOVA Parks or from The City of Alexandria?
• City of Alexandria, more specifically, from Stormwater Management.
• What is the budget?
◦◦ Mr. Browand: “That should all be public information. We’ll locate that and send it to Oscar.”
12. Is The City of Alexandria getting the bang for its buck [regarding the lease to NOVA Parks]?
13. I’d like to see competing bids for maintaining the park so that Alexandria gets better maintenance and a higher lease payment.
14. What are lease information for other NOVA Parks properties? (see question 4 below)
• Mr. Browand: “Other jurisdictions treat leasing differently.”
15. We should renegotiate the lease so that the money generated [at Cameron Run Park] stays [at the park].
• Times have changed. Open space is a lot more valuable now [than it was when the original lease was signed].
16. If the lease falls through, what happens to the site features that are there now?
• Mr. Fennell: “There isn’t anything on the lease that says [the features] have to go.
17. What is the mission of NOVA Parks?
• Mr. Browand reads the section on NOVA Parks activities from the NOVA Parks website:
◦◦ Acquire, preserve and protect regionally significant areas of exceptional natural, environmental, historic, cultural, recreational or aesthetic value;
46 Appendix A: Meetings 47 The length would roughly come to 144.8 feet = 0.027424242 miles or 48.3 yards. 144.8 feet to come roughly would The length Maintain the integrity and quality of park and recreation facilities through continued continued facilities through of park and recreation and quality the integrity Maintain and maintenance; operation development, careful financial for long-term provide to so as management sound fiscal continued for Strive and solvency. stability Provide a diverse system of regional park lands and recreational facilities that meets the meets facilities that park lands and recreational of regional system a diverse Provide for time opportunities and enhances leisure population and growing needs of a dynamic Northern Virginians; park and regionally significant of in the planning and coordination leadership Provide projects; recreation the amenities and opportunities with of recreational Balance the development sensitive environmentally and other cultural scenic, historic, of natural, preservation resources; ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ Answer: ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦
• Are wave pools still popular? pools still wave Are Cook be? Lake around long will the path How I think the money made here should be put back into [maintaining] the property. [maintaining] be put back into should made here I think the money contracts. lease new any plan should be put into Sound maintenance
Attendee Questions: Attendee 20. 1. 18. 19. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
2. Are there any competing bids for running and maintaining the park?
• Answer: Not that I could find.
3. What would it cost City of Alexandria to maintain and run the water park if they took it over?
• Answer: It costed NOVA Parks $353,038 and $1,065,516 to run Cameron Run Regional Park and Great Waves Water Park, respectively in 2015 according to their 2017 adopted budget on page C-98, C-72. The total is $1,418,554 in expenditures for all site programing.
4. What are lease information for other NOVA Parks properties?
• Jack: “Other jurisdictions treat leasing differently.”
5. What are the revenues coming in from the put-put, batting cages, and the water park?
• Answer: The revenue from the put-put and batting cages are $142,215 total, according to the NOVA Parks (chart above) adopted 2017 budget.
• Answer: The water park generates a total revenue of $1,782,770 according to the NOVA Parks (chart above) adopted 2017 budget.
48 Appendix A: Meetings 49 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Stakeholder Meeting 3: Alexandria Tree Stewards
March 27, 2017
MAIN INPUT THEMES:
• Preserve as many trees as possible. • Preserve native plant communities rather than developing it for active use like many other parks already are. • Idea for future of site - convert the whole park into a natural resource preservation area. • More responsibility for NOVA Parks in maintaining the natural resources and natural areas on the property. • Better maintenance overall. • Make Lake Cook a more prominent part of Cameron Run Park.
Attendee Comments:
1. Brian Clay (Michael Baker, Intl) begins talking about the NOVA Parks’ DSUP for the parking lot and new waterslide
• Bonnie Petry: “You call [the parking lot upgrades] ‘improvements’ on your plan. Let me tell you that they are not. They have currently fairly wide areas for tree planting, and they’re empty. They plan to reduce these areas (she explains here that trees need at least a ten-foot- wide root zone for healthy growth) so they can maximize parking space. This leaves no room for trees! This is not an improvement.”
◦◦ Dave Levy: “[The parking lot] does overflow in the summer and the animal shelter puts up ‘No Parking’ signs so that people don’t park there.”
◦◦ Ms. Petry: “But [NOVA Parks’] DSUP wasn’t approved, right Dana?”
◦◦ Dana Wedeles (City of Alexandria- Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities): “No, they were approved.”
◦◦ Mr. Levy: “But what was the city’s position on it?”
◦◦ Ms. Wedeles: “They approved the DSUP with a comment reminding NOVA Parks that their lease was coming due soon.”
2. Mr. Clay presents information about the RPA zone
• “Is Lake Cook monitored for pollutants by the city?”
◦◦ Ms. Wedeles: “Yes, Stormwater Management monitors that.”
• “How about the existing structures within the RPA now? Do they have to be removed or can they stay?”
◦◦ Ms. Wedeles: “They are grandfathered. If the uses remain the same, the structures can stay. If the uses change, they may not be able to remain.” 50 Appendix A: Meetings 51 “There are many mature, great, native trees that are there now. Why would you cut would Why now. there are that trees native great, mature, “There many are to going not survive? Who’s might that sticks them with little and replace them down them?” water ◦ Ms. Wedeles: “None of our materials will be recycled.” “None of our materials Ms. Wedeles: Ms. Wedeles: “That’s why we’re implementing a synthetic turf field at Hensley Park.” at Hensley turf field synthetic a implementing we’re “That’s why Ms. Wedeles: polluting ways, crumb rubber ending up in our water have we’ll Now great! “Oh, Ms. Petry: more!” them even ◦ is Parks and NOVA all things stormwater “The maintains Ms. Wedeles: of Alexandria City else.” everything responsible Eric Wilmot (Michael Baker, Intl): “I spoke with Sara DeGroot about this earlier today about this earlier today DeGroot with Sara “I spoke Intl): Eric Wilmot (Michael Baker, and shrubs if not all of the trees most, up. She said that come this would I thought because be done. needs to that grading of the extensive because be removed would along the lake species.” with all native will be replaced They be saved. would specimen tree Every Ms. Wedeles: “There is an advisory by the state as to how much caught fish is advisable to fish is advisable much caught how as to “There is an advisory the state Ms. Wedeles: by within the city.” the location based upon eat ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ Ms. Wedeles: “We’ll be starting initial construction soon.” construction initial be starting “We’ll Ms. Wedeles: over Cameron salivating were and at the other meeting was Soccer Organization “Alexandria over-used are all so fields field. Their new place for thinking this is a perfect were Run. They unusable.” rendered being one of them, are Park some of them, Hensley that ◦ ◦ “The Lake Cook Improvements are driven by stormwater and the plan is designed to improve improve and the plan is designed to stormwater by driven are “The Cook Improvements Lake the Chesapeake to of it, all the way downslope waters Cook, and therefore in Lake the water Bay.” but Parks, NOVA leased to Cook is on the property Lake the site? for the maintenance “What’s work?” that does it? How maintain do they ◦ Ms. Petry: “The plan really inaccurately shows trees on the site, especially at the northeast the northeast especially at the site, on trees shows “TheMs. Petry: inaccurately plan really northeast, in the far of it is scrubby Most and plants. of trees is actually full area That corner. natives.” also are but there invasives, Some are there. a lot of trees are but there during construction?” the site at be removed to going plants “Are ◦ “The daily catch limit, according to the sign posted there, is four. So you could take four fish four take could you So is four. there, the sign posted to “The limit, according daily catch you.” up to is probably them, or should eat can or not you home. Whether ◦
Brian reaches the Hensley Park Improvements Plan slide. Improvements Park the Hensley Brian reaches • • • • Mr. Clay reaches the Lake Cook Improvements Plan slide. Improvements Cook the Lake reaches Clay Mr. • • “How safe is it to eat fish caught from Lake Cook?” Lake from caught fish eat is it to safe “How •
5. 4. 3. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
◦◦ Ms. Petry: “Oh, as long as it’s not recycled, then that’s okay. So now we have little non- recycled crumb rubber spilling into our water.”
6. William Rogalski: Based on the Lake Cook Improvements, what are the open variables for the park? What are you looking into?
• Mr. Clay: “Nothing is off the table. We have a few options for the future of the park. One of them is to do nothing, the park stays as-is. Then we move toward putting conditions on a new lease with NOVA Parks. Or maybe we decide to bid the lease out, maybe the city could find a new lessee. Finally, the city could take control and maintain it themselves, maybe demolish the park and build an athletic field or a passive park, or a combination of both. These are all options right now.”
7. Eileen Grant: “I love soccer, my kids played soccer when they were younger. But I feel that we have something really special here at Cameron Run Park. There’s an actual historic plant community that goes back to before Alexandria was here. I would hate to see that be removed to build more of the same [kind of parks that are all over the place].”
• Ms. Petry: “The woodland is a virgin, untouched remnant of probably what most of Alexandria used to look like. We need to preserve it”
• Elizabeth Wright: “I’ve been trying to get the community to call this piece of land ‘Ward’s Woods’ for a while now. Call it Ward’s Woods – give it a name. If you give it a name, you give it a sense of place and that will help give it a chance of becoming protected.”
• Ms. Petry: “Citizens have addressed the city [about conserving ‘Ward’s Woods] and it terrifies me that [the city] have done nothing to protect this valuable piece of land!”
8. Ms. Petry: “Let’s have a little quiz. Brian, can you tell me what species are important and where they are on that map?”
• Mr. Clay: “No, I don’t think I can. Please, tell me.”
◦◦ Ms. Petry: *gets up in front of the room* “Here, we have the Bartram’s Oak, which is a Red Oak and Willow Oak hybrid. Here is the Beadle’s Oak, which is a White Oak and Swamp White Oak hybrid. Not to mention all the diversity we have in this woodland: Bladdernut, Woodland Sunflower, Dutchman’s Breetches, and the real Redbud – not the kind you see planted all over the city in boxes. We have something really great and special here! You know, we’ve talked to the city about this and I find it astounding that you don’t have that information from them… it terrifies me that Michael Baker doesn’t know any of this and that they don’t address or acknowledge the plants.”
9. “The city could lease the park to a private entity, which could worry me [based upon the entity because they wouldn’t be held accountable to protect the natural resources].”
10. Mr. Rogalski: “It would be a relief to see you scale back and lean toward giving the naturalistic [passive] park a try.”
11. Ms. Grant: “70% of the license plates in the summer in the parking lot are from Maryland. At least those people aren’t from Alexandria. We need a park that’s going to have year-round benefit for Alexandrians.” 52 Appendix A: Meetings 53 about how to to no clue about how have They if I could. out tomorrow, Parks kick NOVA “I would site.” the maintain ◦ “NOVA Parks refused to help make the ecology better.” the ecology help make to refused Parks “NOVA ◦ ◦ Ms. Wedeles: “I don’t really see how that would be relevant to what we’re doing at Cameron Cameron doing at we’re what to be relevant would that see how “I don’t really Ms. Wedeles: Run.” “How about providing swim instruction to low-income families?” to low-income instruction swim about providing “How on their property? in a row trees Ash Ash Borer-infested Emerald the about removing “How in the trees Hickory Bitternut mature cut down can but they cut those down, to refused They picnic area.” ◦ “Children need to be in nature more – people have been saying this for some time now. This is now. some time this for been saying – people have more be in nature need to “Children in the city!” area one natural could be Bonnie: “This what come and see could other jurisdictions be a park where could and passive, naturalistic, been designed as it’s and how Park Central She references done.” space, naturalistic field and also include one soccer could have Park Run multi-use. “Cameron be great!” could and that
Ms. Petry: Referencing the 2014 Cameron Run Park Plan, “The plan says that the people wanted Plan, “The the people wanted that Run Park Cameron the 2014 plan says Referencing Ms. Petry: use in the park.” passive hiking trails, trails, walking operate they can see how we so properties Parks of other NOVA an analysis get Levy: “Can we Mr. maintained?” they’re and how other facilities • to the get to an opportunity There’s water. to the a connection have we town, is a river “Alexandria be powerful.” could that here; do that can it, we to should connect Cook], we [Lake water “People have been trying to get NOVA Parks to give back to Alexandria.” back to give to Parks NOVA get been trying to have “People • • • •
13. 14. 15. 12. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Attendee Questions:
1. How do you weigh all your data to make a decision?
• Answer: We’re going to synthesize the data we get back from the survey that’s online now.
2. What are you going to use as criteria to make a decision? Is that something provided by the city?
• Answer: We are only going to make suggestions to the city. They’re the ones that are going to decide what happens at the park. We’ll look at the results from the survey and make our suggestions based on the wishes of Alexandrians.
Group Input Exercise 1: Why don’t you go to Cameron Run Park?
• Poor trash management
• Screaming kids
• Safety
• Chlorine smell
• Nothing to attract us - not naturalistic
Group Input Exercise 2: Why would you go to Cameron Run Park?
• Place to have a children’s garden
• Softer uses
• Naturalistic
• Fishing
• Educational signs in woodland
• Signage at hybrid oaks
• Education on maintenance
• Year-round restrooms
• Playground tucked into naturalistic areas
• Interpretive center
• Fishing classes
• Daily check on roots during [Lake Cook Improvements] construction
54 Appendix A: Meetings 55 : City of Alexandria- Park and Recreation Comission, Planning District III Comission, Planning District and Recreation Park : City of Alexandria- Mr. Fennell: “I definitely agree. This is going to be more challenging as we move forward. forward. we move challenging as to be more going This is agree. “I definitely Fennell: Mr. gotten we’ve feedback proceed based on to how on suggestions be presenting We’ll the public and stakeholders.” from (could not attend the phone call): City of Alexandria- Park and Recreation Comission, Comission, Recreation Park and call): City of Alexandria- the phone not attend (could ◦ “I think it helped a lot, that the public process for the Waterfront Small Area Plan saved Plan saved Small Area the Waterfront for the public process “I think it helped a lot, that presentation.” at the end of the feedback, particularly for special times (Public Open Space). It is no P.O.S. it is zoned of the site, the rest “Like Ms. Wedeles: be it could is. However, property Run Park of the Cameron than the rest protected more the city.” by enforceable and restricted be more the woodland that recommended Ms. Coleman: “It needs to be more structured… [the meeting] became boundless discussion. became [the meeting] structured… be more Ms. Coleman: “It needs to through the whole getting recommend I was delivered. of information not a ton like I felt their name state people to have like for discussion. I’d you open it up before presentation worry about the information really their position. I voice they before represent and who they being skewed.” ◦
Ms. Coleman: “There’s too much back and forth conversation [between Baker and attendees]. attendees]. and Baker [between conversation much back and forth too Ms. Coleman: “There’s don’t so they down a comment write can they so that everyone to sheets Hand out comment over.” is the presentation after make to like they’d a point forget any has not allowed historically, This city, better. and restriction Ms. Coleman: “Explain the RPA in and RPA.” development • permanent?” area recreation Ms. Coleman: “Is the passive • Mr. Fennell: “I’d like to hear any concerns you might have about the public exchanging ideas at ideas at about the public exchanging have might you concerns any hear to like “I’d Fennell: Mr. meetings.” our recent •
2. 3. 4. 1. 2x2 Conference Call with Park and Recreation Commission: Commission: and Recreation Call with Park 2x2 Conference 29, 2017 March Attendees: Judy Coleman Gina Baum I Planning District Activities Cultural & Parks Recreation, : City of Alexandria- Dana Wedeles International : Michael Baker, John Fennell International Eric Wilmot: Michael Baker, Comments: Attendee CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
5. Ms. Coleman: *referencing the Lake Cook Improvements Plan* I find stormwater detention disgusting.
• Mr. Fennell: “The new plans are going to help make it cleaner than it is now. It’s going to be much more beautiful and more functional.”
• Ms. Wedeles: “The plan introduces a forebay that will collect the trash you see in and around the lake and help to filter out sediment that is washed down Strawberry Run. That will help Lake Cook to be cleaner.”
6. Ms. Coleman: “Earlier survey data is misleading... Any new data has got to be represented accurately.”
• Ms. Coleman: “I would not let Paul Gilbert [of NOVA Parks] represent the NOVA Parks data. I don’t think they should be speaking until the end of the presentation when you open up the floor to everyone. I understand you were letting him answer some questions during the presentation, but you should know the data as well as [NOVA Parks] do.”
◦◦ Mr. Fennell: “Yes, I agree. It’s good that they were there to hear first-hand from the people what they thing about the park. But they’re not showing that they care what the people think. They’re merely showing that they have a financial stake in the property.”
◦◦ Ms. Coleman: “Paul is more in listening mode right now and the board [of NOVA Parks] is not.”
7. Ms. Coleman: “Why did the survey not ask where people live? I could take the survey while on vacation and that would record my location there.”
• John: “We have a way of looking at the IP address on the survey to see where people took it, but it would be clearer to just ask where the people live.”
8. Mr. Fennell: “I think we actually got a good representation from Alexandrians. We hung flyers around the city at popular spots – grocery stores, recreation centers, condominium and apartment complexes, so we could get a good representation from all kinds of people. After we hung the flyers, we saw a 50-person bump in the survey results. We combined tech-centric methods with old-school methods to gather the data on the survey.”
9. Ms. Coleman: *In reference to option 3 in the spectrum* “As far as monetary kickbacks from NOVA Parks to The Park and Rec. Commission, the money the Park and Rec. Commission makes goes into the city’s general fund. They don’t necessarily see that money for their own use. So I think that’s inappropriate to have an option to have monetary kickbacks to The Park and Rec. Commission.”
• Mr. Fennelll: “Okay, this is a very draft document and the public would never see it without if first going to the city and being finalized with their approval. Everything would go through first Jack and Dana and then through the City Board.”
10. Ms. Coleman: “It’s good to have all these options [the spectrum], but anything above $60 million isn’t feasible.”
• Mr. Fennell: “That’s actually a good thing. We can draw a line there and only present the feasible options that cost under $60 million to the city.” 56 Appendix A: Meetings 57 Needs clarity for question 7. question Needs clarity for Check boxes for question 1. Which part have you visited? Water Park? Mini-golf? Lake Cook? Lake Park? Mini-golf? Water you visited? part have 1. Which question for Check boxes specific. be more to Try general? property in The Cages? Batting Park site Run to the Cameron or general in the city toward directed 4 and 5, is that questions For in specific?
Things to address in Survey 1: in Survey address Things to 3. 1. 2. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Stakeholder Meeting 4: Federation of Civic Associations
March 29, 2017
MAIN INPUT THEMES:
• Some committee members were confused about the events that lead to the current planning process. The presentation clarified the project history and timeline and clarified the goals of the process.
Attendee Comments:
1. John Fennell (Michael Baker, International) introduces project to group, and gives an abbreviated Powerpoint presentation.
2. Jack Browand (Division Chief of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities) reviewed the project timeline
3. Question asked about the survey: “Is there any way of knowing how many [people] are City of Alexandria members?
• Mr. Fennell: We will ask for survey takers’ zip codes in version 2.
4. Bonnie Petry speaking about project timeline, she stated that in summer of 2014, NOVA parks approached City of Alexandria to sign lease early? Public hearing in November 2014. PRC became very involved.
• Mr. Browand informs Ms. Petry that the process was triggered in 2016 through the City Manager’s office (June 2016), result of action is why we’re here.
5. Mr. Fennell reviews 2014 DSUP for Cameron Run parking lot and waterpark. Bonnie adds that the term improvements is “subjective”, and adds that the plan reduces grassy open areas, to build small tree islands, much less room for trees.
• Mr. Fennell confirms that the DSUP [elements] was not built.
6. Mr. Fennell speaks about plant species found in Ward’s Woods, and Bonnie adds that the Beadle’s Oak is the only known species in City of Alexandria. Other notable trees present in Cameron Run Park are the Bartram Oak and swamp chestnut oaks.
7. A meeting attendee asked about the Lake Cook improvements, “will there be an increase [to the] footprint of the water?” Bonnie indicated there is no room to improve the footprint. Another attendee spoke about the importance of increasing our stormwater [management], but can’t do so at the cost of open space.
8. Question was asked from an attendee: “if the City of Alexandria owns the land of Cameron Run Park, if improvements removed, who pays for them?”
58 Appendix A: Meetings 59 Mr. Fennell responded that the City would pay. the City would that responded Fennell Mr. Mr. Fennell responded that yes, it is a possibility yes, that responded Fennell Mr. ◦ ◦ ◦ Follow-up question: “is there a plan on the table to remove them?”remove to table on the a plan “is there question: Follow-up ◦ ◦ Concern about protecting and preserving the woodlot being called “Ward’s Woods.” called “Ward’s woodlot being the and preserving Concern about protecting woodlot. the eastern through trails walking like Would of corner especially in the northeast maintenance, Concern about quality of park and facility the lot. Ms. Petry mentioned that it was her understanding that there was PRC hearing in 2014, hearing in was PRC there that was her understanding it that mentioned Ms. Petry [the take would pulled out, they Parks if NOVA thought Parks Gilbert of NOVA and Mr. them. with equipment] Mr. Fennell said that there is nothing in the lease saying the items have to be there. to have the items the lease saying is nothing in there said that Fennell Mr. ◦ who comes down, the land, and the equipment take to “If the city decides Another question: pays?
• • • Ms. Petry began to talk about the northeast corner of Cameron Run Park, trash dumping, trash Run Park, Cameron of corner about the northeast talk to began Ms. Petry waste. yard grasses, seedlings from time slot in the its allocated concluded have to determined was item Run docket The Cameron agenda. Mr. Browand spoke about the NOVA Park improvements (DSUP 2014) are on hold until the lease on hold until (DSUP 2014) are improvements Park about the NOVA spoke Browand Mr. out. is worked • time wanted but also facility, their to upgrade wanted Parks NOVA how spoke Another attendee recreation. in regional role plays this facility the city, from Separate on investment. a return get to [parks] Authority – a few Park The business model for money. does make popular, Such fun; it’s the City away, facility took don’t (Carlyle House). If they those that for which pays money, make 80% of their available; gardens botanical golf, run a similar park. The park authority makes would quality. the water protect the park authority to look to We riparian areas. are 13,000 acres • •
Walk & Talk - Walking Tour around Cameron Run Park Area around Cameron Run Park Tour Walking - Talk & Walk 9 a.m. April 1, 2017 at 11. 12. 9. 10. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Stakeholder Meeting 5: Youth Sports Advisory Committee
April 4, 2017
MAIN INPUT THEMES:
• More money could be spent on upgrading existing sports fields if the city weren’t spending it on the NOVA Parks allocation. • An indoor sports facility would generate year-round use and support the growing sports programs without the risk of over-use.
Meeting Presentation Link: https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/ CameronParkPlanningMeeting4April2017.pdf
Attendee Comments:
1. “Has the RPA line been revised since the meeting at the library?”
• Brian Clay (Michael Baker, Intl): “The line has been verified by the City of Alexandria’s GIS layer. That’s about as precise as it gets.”
◦◦ “Are you confident that the new line is completely accurate?”
◦◦ Mr. Clay: “Yes, that’s what we’re going with. But we’ll take another look at it when we begin our designs.”
2. “Can you talk about the Lake Cook stormwater improvements?”
• Mr. Clay explains the improvements like the forebay and the aquatic bench and their benefits to stormwater filtration, the health of Cameron Run and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay.”
3. “What have you been hearing [suggestions from the public and stakeholders]? What is on the table?”
• Mr. Clay: We’ve been seeing a mix, with each group having a predictable set of requests for the park. Some have a preference for passive use, some a mix, and some lean toward active.”
4. Is put-put golf considered active use?
• Mr. Clay: “I think it falls somewhere in the middle.”
5. “What’s the wisdom in bringing a water park to the Eisenhower Valley in the first place?”
• Mr. Clay: “The city wanted to bring a regional attraction, like a water park, to the area in the 1970’s when the Eisenhower corridor was relatively undeveloped. It was mainly industrial. There was nothing like [Great Waves] in the area. They wanted a draw.”
60 Appendix A: Meetings 61 Most people have not been to Cameron Run Cameron not been to people have Most - need more programing Toddler the park to food bring own to like Would Mr. Clay: “Yes, we’ve heard that from others. It’s on our radar and we’re considering it on the considering and we’re radar on our It’s others. from that heard we’ve “Yes, Clay: Mr. panel of options.” the demolition what look into estimators cost our own have to going “We’re Clay: Mr. of their any take can’t Parks NOVA says nothing in the lease that there’s will be. Also, cost do that.” could with them; they equipment Mr. Clay: “Yes, we’ll be looking at those.” be looking at we’ll “Yes, Clay: Mr. to them could upgrade We degrading. they’re being used so much that fields are “Our could We worryover-use. about to won’t have we way, – that we had the money if synthetic for our city.” best at what’s back and look step a take we If better fund our parks Mr. Clay: “Yes, that’s one of the prevailing things we’ve been hearing.” things we’ve one of the prevailing that’s “Yes, Clay: Mr. year- would boost That turf fields inside. [synthetic] have that indoor facilities seen “I’ve for our clubs.” use and be beneficial round
• • • • it’s at it [thinkingscoffed Some people estimate. cost did a demolition Parks NOVA ago, “Years [and their Parks the NOVA removing siding against into swayed were and some out of proportion] looking your firm Is features. the removing for cost of the $4-5 million because there] occupation figures?” those at • • The City of get didn’t Parks our sports fields if NOVA upgrade to money get could “We money.” jurisdiction allocation] [yearly Alexandria’s • about indoor facilities?” other groups from outreach been any “Has there “What about year-round uses?” year-round about “What • • of] sports assessment [past revisiting with the City of Alexandria’s coincide to going study “Is your fields survey?”
Easter Egg Hunt at Cameron Run Regional Park Easter Egg April 13, 2017 MAIN INPUT THEMES: 10. 8. 9. 6. 7. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Community Meeting 2
April 27, 2017
MAIN INPUT THEMES:
• Need more aquatic centers in Alexandria since Chinquapin is not being expanded - swimming is one of the few totally inclusive activities that can be enjoyed by all generations • Indoor fields were suggested by some • Other attendees felt that there are enough sports field venues in the city • Aquatic Center Plan option received the most community support, followed by keeping the water park with limited changes, then keeping the water park with major changes. • For the exercise that involved purchasing park elements, the lower cost elements received significantly more “purchases” (between 5 and 17) - such as walking paths, improved maintenance, improved vegetation maintenance, picnic pavilions, etc. Large ticket items such as parking deck and a rec center received minimal votes. Aquatic center - the most expensive option, received 5 votes.
Attendee Comments:
1. Speaking with Ms. Griglione about design options.
• She brought up the point of programming of the pavilion to the east of proposed sports fields…what if a band wants to play while soccer game is going on?
• If it rains during soccer game, players will want to seek shelter in pavilion, but what if there is a birthday party going on there?
2. Spoke to a meeting attendee about 25m vs 50m pool size. Attendee says that 25m is a more dynamic use of space than the 50m.
3. Attendee suggested indoor fields as an option for rec center.
4. Attendees mentioned Christiansburg (VA) aquatic center as example to look up.
5. Resident did not see the need for more fields in Cameron Run Park.
6. The following plans were presented by stakeholders and community members at the meeting:
62 Appendix A: Meetings 63 Hand sketch by community community by Hand sketch member Daniel Beason - at of the Townes resident and member of Cameron Parke Partnership Eisenhower CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Spring / Summer / Fall Concept Plan provided by Alexandria Soccer Association at Public Meeting number 2 April 27, 2017
64 Appendix A: Meetings 65 Winter Concept Plan provided by by Plan provided Concept Winter Association at Soccer Alexandria 2 April 27, number Public Meeting 2017 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
City of Alexandria Earth Day Celebration
April 29, 2017
Attendee Comments:
• Current park is fun • Current park is too “pricey” • Water park with major structural changes was the most chosen plan, followed by a Open Space / Natural Area park • Natural areas and Water Park (current use) tied for top priority ranking • Walking paths and recreation center were second most prioritized elements • Add wind turbines and solar panels • Make the park alternative transportation friendly (bus, bike storage, etc.)
66 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX B: WRITTEN FEEDBACK
February 20, 2017
Subject: Future of Cameron Run Regional Park, Cameron Run Briefing and Public Input Meeting 3601 Eisenhower Avenue, February 21, 2017.
Dear Alexandria Mayor and City Council,
I am an Alexandria resident and have been living in the Townes of Cameron Parke community off Eisenhower Avenue for nearly 14 years. I am writing in regard to the potential development of Cameron Run Regional Park which could eliminate the existing Water Park, numerous trees, and the wildlife habitat of Lake Cook.
Although the Townes of Cameron Parke Home Owner’s Association (HOA) also sent a letter encouraging options for development, not all residents are in agreement and I wanted to express my opinion separately.
Over the last decade and a half, I have seen numerous new buildings emerge in Alexandria. While I can certainly understand their value, we have very limited green space and options for outdoor family get- togethers. Cameron Run Regional Park has been a perfectly good neighbor all these years and has kept the streets relatively traffic-free and family oriented. Building a Rec Center or more restaurants would overwhelm the limited parking and we don’t need yet another ball field or dog park.
The existing site with its picnic tables near a small patch of woods, miniature golf, batting cages, urban fishing in Lake Cooke, and the Great Waves Water Park offer many options to the greater DC area, all within easy access by mass transit, or just off the beltway. The park attracted 160,000 people last year (according to the Washington Post). As I understand, roughly 30% are Alexandria residents which means 48,000 Alexandria citizens also enjoyed it.
Most of the users of the park are not the neighbors who are requesting its elimination. This is a larger decision and eliminating the park could impact thousands of families, including inner city kids, who enjoy the facilities every summer.
I do agree with the HOA that the lease price is an issue (apparently it is only a dollar a year) and that more information needs to be available about how the park’s revenue benefits Alexandria. I also agree that more effort to reduce trash would be valuable, though the park does seem to maintain its property reasonably well. We should consider opportunities to further improve the park and ensure that revenue helps to reinvest in the area and in upkeep (though maintenance does not mean mowing over wildlife habitat and planting lawns with accompanying fertilizer and pesticide).
As you probably know, more than half a century ago, the Northern Virginia Planning District Commission along with a group of citizens from several local communities came together to protect Northern Virginia's heritage of woods, lakes and streams from the threat of suburban sprawl. These citizens, working with their local governments--Fairfax County, Arlington County and the City of Falls Church-- organized under the Virginia Park Authorities Act in 1959 as the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA). They came together to plan, acquire develop and operate a system of regional parks
67 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
for all orthern irginians to en oy. hile most of the opponents of the park state that it does not benefit Alexandria residents is there not value in attracting outsiders to the city
It’s natural that most home owners care most about increasing their own property values. However, Cameron un egional Park is a uni ue attraction and destruction of the area to more development is not necessarily in anyone’s best interest.
Thank you for your consideration.
incerely
unita atyapal Colville rive Alexandria A
68 Appendix B: Written Feedback 69 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
From: Bonnie Petry To: Fennell, John C Cc: Dana Wedeles; [email protected] Subject: Fwd: Email to Council Member Chapman and other recommendations Date: Thursday, March 30, 2017 3:17:10 PM Attachments: PUBLICCOMMENTSONCAMERONREGIONALPARKLEASEJanuary152015.pdf ATT00001.htm
Good afternoon, John,
Thank you so much for your presentation to the Federation of Civic Associations last night on the Cameron Run study. When I left city hall yesterday evening, my neighbor Elizabeth and I ran into Councilman John Taylor Chapman and we chatted about the study and the future of that open space.
- As such, please see my email below to Councilman John Taylor Chapman. I have copied Ms. Wedeles. I am requesting that you include that email in the record.
- In addition, I am requesting that the current study include the city resident feedback that was sent to RPCA staff in the winter 2014-2015 timeframe. This input is incredibly relevant to the current process. It can be found at the following link:
https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/PUBLICCOMMENTSONCAMERONREGIONALPARKLEASEJanuary152015.pdf
- I am also requesting that the survey data that RPCA Park Planning collected in the summer of 2014 regarding resident usage and resident future desired usage be included in the current study. This survey data was referenced in RPCA's outstanding 2014 "Cameron Run Area Coordinated Park and Open Space Plan."
https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/CameronRunParkPlan15Jan2014.pdf
I make this request because (a) both the input and the survey data are relevant to the current study and (b) as a resident I can say that it is frustrating to do surveys and submit input only to have it be set aside.
Thanks in advance,
Bonnie Petry President of the Wakefield Tarleton Civic Association
Sent from my iPad
Begin forwarded message:
From: "Bonnie Petry"
Good morning Councilman Chapman,
It was kind of you to take the time to chat with Elizabeth and I yesterday evening outside city hall.
As we discussed, the city's past public engagement activities are quite relevant to this current evaluation of what would be the "highest and best use(s)" for the Cameron Run Regional Park parcel.
As such, I am sending both a link to and .pdf document version of the public comments residents sent to the city in the winter of 2014- 2015 on the Cameron Run Regional Park issue: https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/PUBLICCOMMENTSONCAMERONREGIONALPARKLEASEJanuary152015.pdf
Please note that a number of concerns were raised about NOVA Parks' stewardship of the site, to include a neglect of and harm to the natural areas outside the fenced in/paid admission portions of the park.
Amazingly, despite both citizens' expressed dismay at NOVA Parks' lack of proper stewardship of the site and NOVA Parks' strong desire to keep its "cash cow," the poor trash management, dumping of invasive yard waste on the stream banks, use of the northeast corner of the parcel as a dump, etc... has persisted through the summers of 2015 and 2016 and into this year.
Thus the only conclusion I can draw is that NOVA Parks has no intention whatsoever of viewing/ managing this parcel as anything other than a cash cow for their organization while they brag about their stewardship of riparian buffers (but only in other jurisdictions!).
70 Appendix B: Written Feedback 71 close date to give more th | Urban Planning and Design/Landscape Anderson Torger Anderson ; E Wright E www.mbakerintl.com ; | Sunita Satyapal Sunita C John Fennell, park Cameron on up following Sunita- from Re: PM 8:20:42 2017 04, April Tuesday, image001.png To: Date: Attachments: From: Subject: Hello Ms. Wright and Ms. Satyapal walk and talk on Saturday – your questions and Thank you both for coming to the comments were insightful. The survey end date was extended from the original March 24 Dear John, public feedback throughout the process. and for your efforts in soliciting Thank you for the response and hear more about the property. It was valuable to walk the park on Saturday specimen tree near the picnic tables, I would be interested in BTW, since you mentioned the unique appropriate way (as was suggested) to help ensure it is seeing how it could be highlighted in the protected. before waiting for the survey to reopen? I assume that such initiatives are possible Thanks. Sunita From: "Fennell, John C"
From: E Wright [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Saturday, April 01, 2017 9:46 PM To: Fennell, John C
Once more w/ a correct spelling!
------Forwarded message ------From: E Wright
John,
Thanks for having an onsite event at the park that allowed interested citizens to see what the discussion's been about. The weather was perfect.
A question about the survey. I was under the impression the survey would be open through Saturday. Did I misunderstand?
I saw the survey was still active/open on Friday, 3.31.17 while the city's website states the survey would close on 3.24.17.
At what date/time did the survey close?
Elizabeth Wright
On Sat, Apr 1, 2017 at 11:15 AM, Sunita Satyapal
Hi Elizabeth,
It was wonderful talking with you and thanks for telling me about the survey being extended.
I just tried to fill it out but it says they're not taking responses at this time. Do you know who said it was extended/who to contact?
https://survey.alexandriava.gov/s3/Cameron-Run-Park
Cheers, Sunita
72 Appendix B: Written Feedback 73 > . th ] . Fennell, John C John Fennell, ; mailto:[email protected] [email protected] . Program Guide Program Dana Wedeles Dana Browand Jack FW: Cameron Run Park Planning Park Run Cameron FW: PM 4:25:56 2017 03, July Monday, . Twitter. eNews All of the public discussion thus far has centered on a recreation center the same All of the public discussion thus far has centered on a recreation center park Addition of more frequent bus service would be great, it would also allow NOVA Parks MUST be held to measurable and enforceable standards, they have NOVA Parks MUST be held to measurable revenue the park brings in, it is clearly not re- I also question what happens to the to meet Charles Houston Recreation Center is a great example of a facility designed . Facebook Transportation along Eisenhower Avenue is tough, currently the buses run rarely, Transportation along Eisenhower Avenue is tough, currently the buses run I think the compromise plan written by the Eisenhower Partnership is fantastic— I think the compromise plan written and There is a clear need for fiscal prudence given the current budget realities now and The Eisenhower Valley is the focus of much development/redevelopment Currently there are no indoor/year-round recreation facilities in the Eisenhower online Monday, July 03, 2017 4:25 PM Monday, July 03, 2017 Friday, June 30, 2017 3:18 PM Friday, June 30, 2017 From: To: Subject: Date: From: Alexandra Petze [ Good Afternoon Dana, the community during this process. park feedback and engaging with Thank you for collecting 15 June, so wanted to share my thoughts. I was unable to attend the meeting on Dana W. Wedeles, AICP W. Wedeles, Dana Planner Principal of Alexandria City Activities Cultural and Parks Recreation, of Department Projects + Capital Design Planning, Park of Division Street Jefferson 1108 22314 VA Alexandria, (office) 703.746.5491 us Visit up for Sign Like us on See below and for distribution to the PRC when we send the info packet later this month. See below and for distribution to the PRC From: Dana Wedeles Sent: To: 'Alexandra Petze'
o NOVA Parks MUST be held to measurable and enforceable standards, they have not been good stewards of the property, focusing on profit instead of maintenance, safety or being a good neighbor. The state of trees and other plants in the park is shameful and makes me question whether they are a “park authority” or an “activity provider.” With “park” in their name, maintenance of trees and plants should be a primary job.
o I also question what happens to the revenue the park brings in, it is clearly not re- invested locally. Their “Green/Blue Plan” panders to the city, requires little investment and includes no metrics on which they can be measured. Acceptance of it would be a sin, it is truly the least they can do. It also denigrates the investment the city makes annually via membership fees saying “no capital investment is required by the city,” what do they call the money we provide them now? And, how are they spending it? We need clear and detailed financial reports from them.
· There is a clear need for fiscal prudence given the current budget realities and upcoming major capital expenses in the city
· The Eisenhower Valley is the focus of much development/redevelopment now and for the foreseeable future, we need to have a clear and concise written plan detailing how the city will be meeting increasing residential needs for recreation, education, transportation and CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNINGamenities of daily AND living CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT · Currently there are no indoor/year-round recreation facilities in the Eisenhower Valley, and there is a growing need for such facilities in the Valley particularly, and the city as a whole
o Charles Houston Recreation Center is a great example of a facility designed to meet neighborhood needs and is the type of facility that would be a true value here
o All of the public discussion thus far has centered on a recreation center the same size as Chinquapin, this is unnecessary
· Transportation along Eisenhower Avenue is tough, currently the buses run rarely, the bike path ends suddenly at Hoffman Town Center ejecting you into heavy traffic, there is a lack of connectedness
o Addition of more frequent bus service would be great, it would also allow park users to access it via public transit removing cars from the road
Addition of Capital Bike Share stations would improve bike access and encourage o residents and visitors to engage in a healthy behavior
o Crosswalks need to be properly maintained. The crosswalk from Lake Cook across to the bike path has not been maintained in over a decade, is poorly signed and cars do not slow down there. It is also at a point on Eisenhower where traffic in both directions tends to “hit the gas.”
o Additional crosswalks need to be added between the 2 bus stops that serve the park. Currently you see families with young children dodging speeding cars to cross the street. A demand light crosswalk (like at the PTO building) would be ideal.
o Currently there are 2 speed limits on Eisenhower, 25 mph from the Telegraph Road bridge east and 35 mph from the Telegraph Road Bridge west. With the increasing residential density to the west, issues with speeding, beltway bailout traffic and lack of consistent public transit during the day it may be wise to impose a consistent speed limit of 25mph. Strict enforcement of it would also be necessary to change habits.
· Recreation center activities
o Tennis courts—please, please, please can we get some tennis courts? The closest are in Old Town and always booked. I should not have to drive 20 minutes to get to some.
o Roof top—use the roof of the building to add basketball, tennis or other courts, allow a kids play space or other activities
o Sides of the building—add a climbing wall
o Basically we need to think creatively and learn from other urban environments on how to bring value to the envelope of the building beyond enclosing the space inside
o A real, multi-generation playground (ages 2 -12). Currently there is one at the park, but it is behind the gate and requires payment of admission. It is also closed 9 months of the year. There are no other public playgrounds in the Eisenhower Valley (and I use public loosely with the current playground due to the admission requirement). 74 · Communal Garden
o The Northwest corner of the Lake Cook property is not being addressed in the current renovation project
§ It is a wasteland that attracts crime, dumping and unwelcome wildlife
§ There is a lack of communal garden space in the city, with waitlists over a year long Appendix B: Written Feedback 75 the day it may be wise to impose a may be wise to impose the day it 25mph. Strict speed limit of consistent The Northwest corner of the Lake Cook property is not being addressed in the of the Lake Cook property is not The Northwest corner Tennis The closest courts? tennis we get some can please, please courts—please, courts, other or tennis basketball, to add building the of roof the top—use Roof wall a climbing building—add the of Sides on urban environments other learn from and creatively to think we need Basically is one at the park, Currently there (ages 2 -12). playground A real, multi-generation Crosswalks need to be properly maintained. The crosswalk from Lake Cook across Crosswalks need to be properly maintained. 2 bus stops that serve the need to be added between the Additional crosswalks 2 speed limits on Eisenhower, 25Currently there are mph from the Telegraph Road Addition of Capital Bike Share stations would improve bike access and encourage Addition of Capital Bike Share stations It is short sighted and a missed opportunity to not combine the operation of It is short sighted and a missed opportunity to not combine the operation renting There are opportunities for combined benefit such as park operations (e.g. so to This would also represent a savings opportunity for the city—a 2 for 1 deal Communal Garden Recreation center activities Recreation There is a lack of communal garden space in the city, with waitlists over a year long garden space in the city, with There is a lack of communal It is a wasteland that attracts crime, dumping and unwelcome wildlife attracts crime, dumping and unwelcome It is a wasteland that Hensley Park Plots Electricity Water Compost center Additionally, the gardeners would bring value to the site through their efforts in Additionally, the gardeners would bring Adding a garden would require a small upfront investment in infrastructure Adding a garden would require a small soon repay the infrastructure investment However, rents from the tenants would during § o project current renovation § bridge east and 35 mph from the Telegraph Road Bridge west. With the increasing residential mph from the Telegraph Road Bridge bridge east and 35 traffic and lack of consistent public issues with speeding, beltway bailout density to the west, transit change habits. be necessary to of it would also enforcement · o get to some. to 20 minutes have to drive not I should booked. and always Old Town are in o activities other or space play kids a allow o o inside the space enclosing beyond building of the envelope to the to bring value how o of the is also closed 9 months of admission. It requires payment the gate and but it is behind public loosely Valley (and I use in the Eisenhower playgrounds are no other public year. There due to the admission requirement). with the current playground · residents and visitors to engage in a healthy behavior residents and visitors to engage in a o in over a decade, is poorly signed and cars do not to the bike path has not been maintained slow down there. It at a point on Eisenhower where traffic in both directions tends to is also “hit the gas.” o park. Currently cars to cross the with young children dodging speeding you see families would be ideal. light crosswalk (like at the PTO building) street. A demand o [email protected] their plots, be a great neighbor for Towns of Cameron Parke next door, and improve the soil their plots, be a great neighbor for Towns via the improved condition of the area quality and Chesapeake Bay Watershed · o Hensley Park with Cameron Run. o access via of spaces, scheduling of activities), improving parking for both, improving crosswalks, increased park utilization, and improved oversight by city staff o speak re: staffing park management and conversational Many Thanks for accepting my feedback and for conducting such an open process, Alexandra Bradley 3856 Dominion Mill Drive Alexandria, VA 22304 and would pay for utilities and upkeep in the future and would pay for utilities and upkeep § § · · · · § Page left blank intentionally.
76 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX C: SURVEY 1
Survey 1
Completion Rate: 100% | Response Counts: 476
1. Have you visited Cameron Run Park?
2. If yes, how recently?
77 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
3. How Often?
4. What do you do at Cameron Run Park?
Responses: 441 • (3) Water Park • (2) The water park • (2) Go to Waterpark • (2) Use the waterpark • (12) Water park • (2) Great Waves • (2) Walk • (7) Swim • (2) Mini golf • (2) Wave pool • (6) Waterpark • (2) Nothing • (2) golf • (4) N/A • (2) Putt putt, wave • (2) swim • (3) Batting Cages pool, picnic
78 Appendix C: Survey 1 79 Everything and that I and that Everything younger my bring can the share to family same memories I had as a kid! from Everything in picnicking, mini-golf, the early summer and the fun enjoying to fall slides in on the water the summer Wave Everything! slides, pool, mini-golf, all pools and of course the dippin’ dots!! walked Exercised; birds; dogs; watched photography. Fun! Family with day Family to go friends. Swim, , putt- the playground putt the “how off, First recently” question #2) is poorly (Question it - I visited written weekend last just 18th). March (Sat. are residents Nearby so in need of open that round space year there actually go we outside the summer season when the cash portions collecting Enjoy the water park. water the Enjoy golf. miniature Play the pool, Enjoyed and mini- cages batting Please don’t take golf. us. from this away the water Enjoyed family activies with members park water the Enjoyed playground with my with my playground 6. Often age daughter, I bring her friends as the at eat We well. as well. stands food
• • • • • • • • • • • Enjoy the pools! Enjoy the slides and Enjoy pool with my wave and friends family park the water Enjoy children. with my the water Enjoy and park, mini golf Bring my son to the son to Bring my kiddie pool and wave and Relax pool as well. summer enjoy park or Either water golf putt-putt for swim End of year the dogs Waves Great Enjoy children. with my amenities Enjoy - children with my in the specifically but also from summer, fall and to time in time (batting spring months golf). mini cages, swimming,Enjoy mini golf waterslides, etc. Park, the Water Enjoy especially the wave pool. the Waterpark Enjoy the awesome Enjoy park and batting water cages. Bicycle trails, batting batting trails, Bicycle at pool, fishing cage, cook lake Biking thru it or kids thru to taking playgrounds hiking, Birdwatching, walking, nature observation water party, Birthday pool slides, wave use both Bring kids to pools, the slides, the set, jungle gym/play and do mini-golf, play cages batting
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Batting cages cages Batting golf mini cages, Batting mini cages, Batting park water golf, mini- cages, Batting at doggy and day golf, park the water water cages, Batting park and minature golf. water cages, Batting park and mini gold Use the cages. Batting teach parking lot to ride bike. to how Attend a social cookout cookout social a Attend of an organization for which I am a member, mini cages, Batting golf Mini- Cage, Batting park, dog water Golf, day and Putt Cages Batting Putt Golf Mini Cages, Batting Golf All the activities with the offer they park pass. complete like we As a family pool the way to going the slides. and enjoy there My kids also go with their summer the years Over camps. used the have we well. as cage batting (2) Walked around around (2) Walked Cook Lake park and Water picnic picnic lunch at times several tables the throughout summer All of the existing excellent, are facilities especially the waterpark
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are open! So now, to • Great waves water with my family as a answer question #4, I park. Waking paths. kid. walk my dog there, jog • Great waves waterpark • I go to Great Waves, there, and go look at • Great waves! mini golf and have the birds and wildlife • Great waves, mostly. watched the batting at the lake. In September we came cages. • Fish at Lake Cook. Visit back for mini golf • I have not been to the water park • Had wonderful Cameron Run Park. • Fish, golf picnics with friends • I have not been. • Fishing and watched people • I have taken kids to the • Fishing for boys scouts enjoying the park. water park once and as well as events at • Have never been mini golf once the waterpark/batting • Have not been here • I haven’t visited cages/mini golf yet but plan to go this the park, but I am • Fishing, water park summer. interested in taking my • Fun place to have • Hit at batting cages; family to the splash grandchildren swim play mini-golf park and miniature and picnic • I bring my grandchild golf course • Go in the wave pool to the water park as • I like to identify and usually buy the well as the mini golf... wildflowers and pizza and soft serve ice most importantly...it is explore the remaining cream. a large piece of peace forested areas, mostly • Go to Great Waves from the craziness of near the parking area. Water Park traffic/city noise! I don’t really use the • Go to the Water Park • I come with a group active areas much. • Go to the swimming of 100 kids from • I live next door in pool. Anacostia to the Townes of Cameron • Go to the waterpark waterpark. This is their Parke. I walk every day • Go to the wave pool, annual “birthday” through the parking use the picnic tables, celebration for the lot. Weekly, I pick up hike there and walk kids, and for most of trash. around them, one of their • I lived in the City of • Got in the Waze pool, most anticipated trips Alexandria many years went in the kiddie of the year! ago Cameron Park was pool, went down the • I did all the water a popular park for my slides, ate some pizza. slides. I went to the children. • Great Waves Paradise Play with my • I love swimming and • Great Waves sister. the slides take my Waterpark • I flew a kite on one of niece there when she • Great Waves water the athletic fields. visits park! We go several • I go swimming with my • I love taking my nieces weekends a month! family to Cameron Run Park. • Great Waves water • I go swimming with They live local to the park. It had been a my young son and my park and it is a great family tradition since wife. summer fun spot for I was a child, now I • I go there to play the kids (teens now). bring my own kids (30 mini golf and use the Mini golf is always a years of tradition) batting cage. I went to hit with them when • Great waves park, the “wave pool” often I can get them out mini golf, walking, during the Summer of the wave pool. It picnicking is fantastic to have a 80 Appendix C: Survey 1 81 Jogging on Running cages or batting path I’m planning on going planning on going I’m Cook, fishing in Lake niece my and taking park the water to and and playground, visiting the batting cage used the batting I’ve Been meaning cages. out bike ride my to there In the summer the pool and Wave golf. miniature It depends on the taken have but I day and the nephews my of a close daughters the water friend to and mini golf. parks love absolutely They the grounds. ok It’s of treat our first It’s the to going summer, pool, slides, wave playground fantastic for and funnel cakes lunch. My kids like each year, it more they’re that now do enough to tall everything. I work and I swim and I swim I work in the pool and the waterslides a nonprofit at I work Kids Horton’s called we year and every bring about 100 low- kids and their income to members family celebrate the park to summer. and i visit there I work fun as well for there use the to like I would summer this pool wave during lunch breaks.
• • • • • • • • • • • I walk. I walk. by employed I was Run, I also Cameron of been a patron have the park since I was born. I walk daily through daily through I walk the park and along Ave. Eisenhower the dog by my I walk and behind the lake park. on the there I walk Cook along Lake path breaks. lunch on my the watch to I like and ducks, geese, doing their other birds thing on and around the “lake.” I use all the services Cameron at available Run Park. run the trail I used to and there starts that behind the back goes Animal Shelter. I usually run the park at I walk the natural enjoy to the around features as it is one of the lake, in Alexandria areas few this. My children like in at the lake fished many for camps nature I think of the years. Cameron of history once it was how Valley, and farmland quiet stream, a beautiful and I wish there that areas more were had been preserved something where be could that close to are We experienced. of the also big fans are park. We water like pleased something us. is so close to that
• • • • • • • • • I played mini golf I played mini-golf I played on the bike I ride my that multi use path the park to runs next and on the south side of Eisenhower. kids there. my I take it. Very love They place safe convenient be outside. to of a group I took the from children I where organization son own and my work in the splash play to park. I love the wave pool. the wave I love The consession/food delicious serves stand an reasonable at food price. The employees job their perform fairly as lifeguards to and professionally park all. It is a safe is convenient that surrounding to jurisdictions. The senior treats parks respect with citizens PLEASE and honor. RUN KEEP CAMERON BEEN A OPEN. I HAVE OF CAMERON PATRON 25 OVER RUN FOR YEARS. place for thousands of place for (and adults) children the warmth enjoy to of summer and get with their together many friends for the visits to enjoyable the like park. I really great get they that fact and it gets exercise their from them away devices electronic several for least (at hours).
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• Look at and assist with waterpark and use out relax. Seems like it’s plants. library rewards passes. mostly for kids • Look at the trees and • My children’s love go to • Parking for access to other rare flora in the the park and pools the trail. area west of the batting • My family absolutely • Picnic, walk cages. Walk around loves the waterpark • Play and enjoy water Lake Cook. and would be park. • Make use of the devastated if it were to • Play in the water park awesome waterpark, close. and in Paradise play. minigolf, and batting • My family enjoys the • Play in water, mini cages. water park facility. It’s golf, battling cages... • Minature Golf one of the best family Sunbathe • Mini Golf and spots and the kids love • Play mini golf and use waterpark it. It’s nice having this the pool • Mini Golf, batting so close to home. The • Play! cages, walks. boys also really enjoy • Played in the tidal • Mini golf Ride bikes the batting cages. wave pool, played in past it so would like • My family goes to the the multiple kiddie more reasons to stop. water park. We love it! pools and slid down the • Mini golf and swim. • My family spends time water slides. • Mini golf and water at the water park. • Played mini golf park • My family usually goes • Played mini golf, batting • Mini golf, to the water park. cages and attended the • Mini golf, batting cage • My grandchildren and waterpark and fish with my family their friends love the • Playground, jogging and grandchildren. water park. It is also • Pool minigolf • Mini golf, picnic, bird a wonderful place to • Pool, batting cage watching have picnics during and • Pool, waterslides • Mini golf, playground after sporting activities. • Pools and mini golf • Mini golfing, swimming It’s a great place for • Putt Putt Golf, Batting • Mini-golf large group picnics, Cages and the Wave • Mini-golf, batting cages. as well...very well Pool! • Mini-golf, fish at Lake appointed. • Putt-Putt Cook • My kids and I go to the • Putt-putt golf • Mini-golf/Batting Cage watermark and swim • Ride bike, visit Animal • Miniature golf and have lunch daily. shelter. • Miniature golf. We love it! • Ride bikes • Mostly swim but I also • My kids love the • Run by when out use the mini golf. waterpark, slides, running • Mostly visit Great and mini golf, we love • Run through and Waves water park and spending quality family around it use the playground time there. • Run through it - I live in area. Would like to • My two toddler swim the neighborhood next play mini golf and use and play in the sand door. Also, take my son the batting cages now • No mini golfing. that my children are old • No. • Run through while enough. I would also • Nothing, it provides no excercising like to try fishing there. value for me. • Run, bike, take toddler • My children and I meet • Nothing. It’s too to the playground. up with friends at the expensive to go in and Stroller strides in
82 Appendix C: Survey 1 83 Visit the waterpark Visit the waterpark and mini golf and park Visit water the outdoors enjoy park the water Visited family. with my the and enjoy Walk round space year and jog Walk and picnic Walk Used to take daughters daughters take Used to the pool and slides. to park Walk Used water park grounds through Usually the pool or it depends on mini golf the mood and time of year. or around Usually walk Cook and the Lake by Waterpark and path bike Utilize cages batting cage the batting Utilize park. as and the water as the mini golf well area. Waves Visit Great & Picnic with family friends we waves, Visit great pass holders. were park Visit the water Use the water park. Use the water park. Use the water pool, Use the wave and the food enjoy park other water adventures cages Used batting Park. Used the Water Pool Used the Wave Slides. and the Water food. Purchased for Used the paths running and walking Only have as a family. the water been to my park one time with the end of the dog at summer.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Use Waterpark facility. Use aquatic around Use the trail Cook, played Lake and used the mini-golf, cages. batting park Use the water park Use the water during the summer Take my five kids. The five my Take and I relax kids swim and watch in grandkids my Take the summer .... I also lay to myself there go in the sun ..... great visit ... close place to home - nothing in to it .... like the area the kids to my Take waterpark the kids splashing Take Park The Water activities The water park Bike The water park. The water a walk. Took play to daughter Took in water and their guests Took Waterpark to children pool the wave Tried once and mini golf each with the kids. Cook 5-6 Lake Fish at year. times a Swimming and play Swimming golf Swimming, golf Swimming, picnicking, the socialize mini golf, with all the children other kids, etc. kids swimming, Take family spend time with 3 children, my Take at 5-11 toswim ages it is their Waves- Great waterpark. favorite Mini golf Play
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Swim, waterslides, etc. etc. waterslides, Swim, golf Swim,play Swim. Swim mini golf Swim with Swim grandchildren cages, batting Swim, mini golf events mini-golf, Swim, putt-putt, Swim, Walking cages, batting use the slides, Swim, picnic. slides, water Swim, equipment, play and golf miniature cages. batting Swim Swim cage and batting Swim and mini golf Swim and play Swim golf and play Swim Waves Great at Swim Waves Great at Swim waterpark. park water the at Swim in the wave Swim the pool, snack at stand, concession and dress shower Spend a full day Spend a full day and relaxing swimming with family Spend time and in the pool wave family Spend time with swimming. Spend time with the park kids in the water spring/fall. Picnics & parties. birthday Run,walk MY SPEND TIME WITH FAMILY SWIM park See water pool the wave Sit at the on get and sun tan, slides (occasionally) in the wave and get pool
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• Walk and relax. • Walk, Mini Golf and • Water park. • Walk around the lake, waterpark activities • Water park. Kids go to water park with • Walk, explore climbing area. Mini daughter also dog day • Walk, fish, feed the golf. at water park. birds, hit softballs • Water slides, wave • Walk around the lake, • Walk, run, exercise park, miniature golf look at what wildlife is animals, farmer’s with kids. there. market, etc. • Waterpark and kids • Walk around the pond • Walk, walk dog. playground as well as or on the trail that • Walk, went to the the mini-golf. goes by the park wave pool park when I • Waterpark mostly. • Walk around with my was young Sometimes batting dog. • Walked cage and mini-golf. • Walk by Lake Cook, • Walking in the natural • Waterpark usage identify trees. Less areas of the park, • Waterpark with 4 kids recently, brought observing plants, • Waterpark, Batting family to the water trees, birds, insects, Cage, Mini Golf, Picnic, park. etc. Fish at Lake Cook. • Walk dog around Lake • Walking or visiting the • Waterpark, batting Cook. Play mini golf. water park cages. Participated in a few • Walks and use the mini • Waterpark, mini golf running races that golf • Waterpark, walk start/finish on the • Water Park and around the lake property. Miniature Golf. • Waterslides and wave • Walk dog or run • Water Park, Bating pool • Walk dog. Cages, Mini-golf • Wave Park, mini golf, • Walk or run • Water Park, Mini Golf attend summer events. • Walk the dog • Water activities • Wave Pool, water park, • Walk the dog; run on • Water activities, miniature golf, all of it! my own. walking, picnic • Wave Pool. • Walk the trails by Lake • Water park Hike with • Wave park and Cook, mini-golf, batting my dog behind the sometimes mini golf cages, enjoy outdoor center Bring out of • Wave park, batting activities. town family & friends cages, putt-putt • Walk the trails, fish, to walk around • Wave park, mini golf explore. Get annoyed • Water park • Wave pookl and mini by the waterpark • Water park Miniature golf • Walk the trails. golf • Wave pool, batting Birdwatching. • Water park and batting cages, mini-golf • Walk through it to the cages • Wave pool, mini golf trails on Holmes Run. • Water park and wave • Wave pool, miniature Mini golf, wave pool, pool Awesome in the golf batting cages. summer Senior swim • Wave pool, slides and • Walk through the pass mini golf grounds. • Water park • Wave pool, slides, • Walk through with conveniently located in kids pool, sand, play dog, kids: use water Alexandria. structure. slides • Water park, batting • Wave pool, water • Walk trails, enjoy Lake cages slides, splash park, Cook. • Water park, mini golf mini golf, playground • Water park. 84 Appendix C: Survey 1 85 run walk with kids run walk run/jog/walk bike sunbathe ride bike swim water at play swim, park with the play swim, kids Went to the water the water to Went check it out. park to the Also attended Egg Hunt. Easter park water to Went cages batting golf mini cages batting cages, batting golf miniature watching enjoy in the wave everyone pool. the city of is crazy alexandria think of even to this place. destroying 100,000 people over year. every there go waves great to go swim mini-bottles, walks nature ago, years once several golf miniature picnic, slides, wave pool. pool, put put, Lake cages Cook, batting We went to the to went We the over waterpark played Have summer. are and there mini golf a family have to going in picnic there reunion August. sledding on Went the hill during the big in January snowfall 2016 and used picnic summer. once last area the Water to Went Park the water to Went park and fished
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • We went to the water the water to went We park once or twice a when the children year small and have were not been back. It was fine, but nothing that expensive More great. worth. than it was We visited Great Great visited We Park. Water Waves mini golf visited We park and the water times a two one to a six year over year no longer period. We it is visit because and poorly managed and our maintained the child is outgrowing occasionally space. We along the lake walk there walk but would if better often more maintained. the around walk We the fish. feed lake, mini golfed We’ve in our bikes and road the parking lot. Our has been daughter park on the water to basis. My a weekly has had her daughter at party there birthday the playground. hit ball at the batting the batting hit ball at occasionally. cages park! a great What Waves, use Great We and the the mini-golf, zone. play use the waterpark We slides. pool and - wave use the waterpark We we Play, and Paradise mini-golf played have times in the several a went We year. last times in 2016 -- few for isn’t an option that #3. question
• • • • • • • We have primarily have We the waterpark to gone there. Waves Great love We waterpark and tan to love We pool. the wave love Since our pool near our house is closed in the pool play We with the family, on the play we play we playground, have and even minigolf We go to miniature miniature to go We Waves. and Great golf and birthdays For recreation general the Wave to go We complex. Pool the wave to go We pool and sometimes Now golf. mini play about the I know that start fishing,we may too. doing that We enjoy the water the water enjoy We for park and mini golf outings and family gatherings. birthday picnic in open We the space around parking lot. the water enjoy We park and playgrounds. times several go We parties and for a year looking are when we There an activity. for an option wasn’t that. for above Wave pool. Batting pool. Batting Wave Playground cages. the to new are We to went so we area but it mini golf play actually closed was went. we the day planning on are We park the frequenting this summer! often
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• swim, playground, picnic • swim, ride slides, the WAVE POOL! • swimming, batting cages and mini golf • take my daughter and her friends during the summer to the wave pool and slides • the water park and batting cage but less oftern • took lunch with friend to have a peaceful place away from the office. • use the waterpark. • use water park facilities, mini golf and batting cages. Also pavilion with summer camp group. • used wave pool, mini golf • visit the water park • walk • walk and exercise • walk, playground for kids • walked around Cook Lake • water park • water park mini golf • water park miniature golf • water park and mini golf • water park and slides • water park, batting cages • water park, batting cages, mini golf • waterpark: wave pool and slides • wave park and fishing at lake cook • wave pool and water slides
86 Appendix C: Survey 1 87 Just moved to the to moved Just area. in a large No interest public pool. No time. Not appealing in its Not interested activities I was deterred from from deterred I was a single because going adults is pass for day expensive. relatively It also seems more towards geared than rather children adults. the aware I wasn’t park existed. state, present In it’s a it doesn’t represent specific quality it has and above is over that recreation nearer spots. It doesn’t seem as much of a park as it is area. a waterslide be a more It seems to park family-oriented for with no reason it as I explore me to in am not interested park, batting a water mini-golf. or cages,
• • • • • • • • • • I run by there all the there I run by time and had no idea a park was there where I know there. and the animal shelter but park are, water is a park in the there same place? I have meant to but to meant I have My son has haven’t. been there. to no desire I have water rent use a low even do we park. Why in park a water have Alexandria? here lived I haven’t take long enough to of the park. advantage the to moved I just but I think this area absolutely place looks charming. It is one why the reasons for the house bought we in Wakefield. nearby a there’s I love so nearby waterpark off the and just area. Park Tarleton in Montgomery I live on and work County so Avenue, Eisenhower not convenient. it’s
• • • • • • I have just moved to to moved just I have Alexandria. I do not live in the area I do not live or work I do not live Run Cameron nearby the moment. at Park company my However, to an is relocating Cameron office nearby soon, fairly Run Park likely so I will most end up visiting it in the near future. about it I hadn’t heard and it’s recently, until park season not water yet Dirty, too chaotic, not too Dirty, only 1 thing really safe, do to children Do not have in I am not interested the activities there. it I didn’t know existed. work I do not currently near the park and I live away 20-25 minutes the park. from Cost and mix of Cost activities (other closer) options no activities Currently family my to interest of
• • • • • • • • • • • 5. If you do not go, why not? why do not go, 5. If you CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Not interested in • to far, dont know about visiting the water park, it and seems like it’s just • waterpark is not my parking space. thing • Not nearby. Unsure exactly how you enter the park. • Nothing for me to do there - I don’t have kids. • There are other parks I visit in Alexandria that are closer to where I live. • Too old for water slides and mini golf • Waiting for both kids to be old enough to enjoy. • Wasn’t aware of it. • Water park and mini golf look kind of creepy and I have no kids • We live next door and don’t go--it’s crowded, the cost is high, and with a toddler the environment is not safe for my child. Additionally, the facility is not well maintained and I have general safety concerns. • it’s just hard and expensive for what it is. it is chaotic and I don’t think it’s entirely safe. • it’s too crazy, not well maintained, and i feel like it’s expensive for what you get. i also resent being required to buy their food--it’s not what we eat and overly expensive • other NOVA closer • several reasons--it can be exceptionally crowded, it’s not safe, it’s dirty and poorly maintained.
88 Appendix C: Survey 1 89 Everything. Great place Great Everything. families for place Great Everything. family. my take to Fishing, bike the outside looks From nice. Everything - this is one Everything places! of our favorite I’ve Everything experienced used I’ve Everything is fine Everything very ran Everything me smoothly to seemed to Everything well. be working seems to Everything order be in working water Everything related works. Everything happy The kids are to want and always whenever there go someone will take them. It’s Everything! awesome. day great Everything, with spend the day to A fun local family. Employs attraction. area of the many youth.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Diversity of activities Diversity kids for E accessible, good Easily location. at the variety Enjoy park the water Everthing is awesome. Everthing Almost everything Almost Ample parking cage Batting minigolf cages, Batting cages, Batting swimming golf cages; Batting not crowded when it’s of the water Best Lots of options parks! super fun. all ages, for trails Bike area Children’s Clean and lifeguards observant. very are Close by Reasonable Close by. price. Convenient work to Convenient location. family- Convenient, economical, oriented, fun Could use a pool for adults other than the pool wave
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • All the different All the different activities and slides do are All the things to great! All of it seen. I’ve All of it that many aren’t There pools near me and be able nice to it’s one without to go to being a member first. and it’s is free Parking convenient. All of the activities Best provided. summertime outdoor in Northern VA. facility (4) Waterpark (3) Nothing (3) The pool (2) Good (2) Location park (2) The water (2) Trails park (2) Water (2) nothing the water love We park kids place for A great go. to and families (6) Everything (6) Everything (6) Location (6) Everything (4) Pool park (4) Water
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 6a. What are your impressions about Cameron Run Park: What works? What Run Park: about Cameron impressions your are 6a. What CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Fun, family oriented, and wildlife, having a • It seems as though helpful staff place to walk it has effective • Given the breadth • Having jobs for the recreational activities of activities already youth • It seems to be enjoyed offered at the facility • I enjoy it generally by a large number of it currently offers local • I like how the park is area families. residents, especially operated • It seems to have many those without the • I like the mini golf great activites for income to travel to a • I like the natural parts people with children larger amusement park • I like the variety of and gives alternatives a place to go. things to do. to what is available in • Good parking, good • I love Cameron Run the area. employees, good Park! • It’s accessible. seating and umbrellas. • I love Cameron as I • It’s close to where I live When younger used have for the past 25 and had space the slides. At 70 I don’t years • It’s great to have a want to climb the stairs • I love it pool like that in our to the slides. • I love the water community! • Good physical location. facilities • It’s great. • Great Waves • I love the water park • Its potential as a • Great Waves Water • I think it works really recreational space Park well now. • Jogging area • Great facility for fun • I think it’s fine. • Kids absolutely love the • Great facility utilized • I’m glad there is a space wave pool and water by many members where families can go areas for young ones with and without our for some parts of the • Lake sns scenerary community year but I can’t imagine • Life guards are diligent • Great facility! Love the people go more than and the rest waterpark once a year. • Lifeguard staff are • Great for the entire • I’m not sure. very attentive. Also family something there • It all pretty much works appreciate the new for everyone to do. • It all works - nice place park features each year. • Great location • It has potential. • Like that many people • Great place for kids in • It has some fun use the place, with the summer. features for the water park, mini golf • Great place for youth children and play area groups • It is a big plot of land • Like the parking. • Great pool. that is nice to see. • Live a place for kids • Great pools, very nice • It is a fun family park. to be outside and playground for kids • It is a great park for fun unplugged! • Great water park for the whole family. • Local family fun that • Great waterpark • It is an recreational provides entertainemnt • Has features available facility for the kids. Paradise for all age groups • It is awesome play is nice when the • Have been enjoying • It is close by and we weather is not so nice. Cameron Run Park now have grandkids. • Location is close to my since 1985! • It is great. office, it is fairly quiet • Having a little bit of • It provides an • Location, pools, slides open space in our part inexpensive, accessible • Looks festive for events of the west end, having outdoor waterpark • Looks like fun for kids the lake with the birds option for the region. 90 Appendix C: Survey 1 91 The layout of the of the The layout park is nice. water good. is The location by area The nature Cook Lake The park attractions. The Lake the and Pool The Wave great. Slides are Water The arches and cages The batting mini golf park water The current are areas The different great; The facilities fun The family environment The fun decorations the park look make younger for a exciting audience staff. The helpful around The hiking trail Cook, although it Lake be a loop needs to The kiddy pools and from away area play pool the wave and natural The lake as good are areas not give is. I would up an inch of that kind of any space to development. Something for for Something everyone for Space, options of levels different swimmers. clean, is great, Staff for great safe, with family gathering and friends. Summer destination. accessible. Water Bike fun about the Super happy path re-paved newly the lake. around
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Seating a employ Seem to the for lot of teens summer and a place go. to families for Seems fine of the total Size complex Slides and pools assuming as revenue assuming as revenue is good that goes and access Parking and tickets Parking get to easy were much without too the to get if you wait when right waterpark on a it opens, even weekend Paths it like seem to People of parking,Plenty activities diverse and slides Pool complex Pool and wavepool, Pools, great slides are dog Preservation, mini golf, walks, cages batting and things Price point do to Price, location for activities Provides people. young for options Provides activities. outdoor Only full on a handful Only full on a handful hot summer of really Lots of liability days. park. with water the Open only for summer. Open space. great it’s Overall, an activity have to walking within center of home distance are facilities Park and well excellent maintained
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Obviously Great Waves Waves Great Obviously is popular so I’m Nice pools Nice space a have Nice to water community park. None of it Not much that Not much except it is park land Nothing else like Nice this in the city. park, water have to golf mini cages, batting in the city available My kids love the wave the wave My kids love pool and the other pool N/A environment. Natural area Nature Nice amenity Nice facilities Nice park an host Nice place to event. Mini golf Mini golf is nice Mini golf cages batting Mini-golf, everything, Most with past happy experiences. Everything. Mostly My kids and I love and all the waterpark We features. of it’s up from grown have the the splash park to It is a waterslides. the area to asset great Lots of great, different different Lots of great, do fun things to Waves Great Love it Love the facilities Love park the water Love the waterpark Love pool the wave Love slides and water
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• The park is nicely to only one type of • We enjoy the mini golf located, well activity. because it’s affordable. maintained, meets the • Trail works but needs to • We love everything needs of all ages, and be completed as soon there well maintained. as possible • We love it! • The parking lot • Undeveloped • Well organized and • The place is very nice • Unsure about variety of activities • The pool is fantastic management of the available. • The pool, play areas are waterpark, but NOVA • Well-run, safe, clean, great. Parks management of good facilities. • The selection of things the unfenced areas of • What I like is the open to do is great land is extremely poor. space and the native • The size of the water • Variety of non- plant communities, park traditional activities which are enjoyable • The space has a lot of • Very well run water both inherently and potential park, fun for kids historically. • The trails, green space, • View from the street. • What currently works play area, water, mini • WATERPARK is the staff and how golf. • Water Park dedicated they are • The water activities , • Water Park is great and how their goal the food, • Water features is to help the public • The water activities are • Water park is and provide a great age appropriate awesome!! experience • The water park • Water park is fine • a place for the • The water park is a • Water park is great community to come great amenity for • Water park, batting together Northern Virginia. cages, play areas • awesome place, unique • The water park is great • Water slides are fun for water park and gives kids and one or two times per • centrally located families that don’t have year • close to home access to private pools • Waterpark and minigolf • everyhting a place to hang out in • Waterpark, batting • everything I’ve done the summer cages and mini golf are there works • The water park is nice great • everything I’ve used • The water park is really • Waterpark, batting • excellent park, well run, great. cages, mini golf, picnic great staff • The water park itself, shelters • farily well maintained inside the fence • Waterpark, lifeguards, • fun for the whole • The water parks access family • The waterpark, mini • Waterslide • golf golf, the playground • Wave Pool • golf facilities, • The waterpark, my kids • Wave Pool, Mini Golf • good parking, picnic love it! • Wave pool areas • The wave pool • Wave pool • good place to go for a • The wooded and semi- • Wave pool, batting swim. natural areas. cages • great for families • There is something for • Wave pool, slides • great price for fun every age. • Wave pool, slides, kids events • There’s a summer pool, play structure, • great water park, activity for everyone bounce pass, mini golf different than anything here. It’s not limited • Wave pool, slides. else in the area 92 Appendix C: Survey 1 93 there is a lotof space is a lotof there and play bring food to run well they of water variety features are attractions water are Lifeguards great! nice. features water park water park, mini golf, water cyclists/ parking for runners waterpark is great. waterpark well trained are staff is important and safety pool, smaller kid wave cages pools, batting whole area staffing in pool and staffing park areas the location the open space and areas natural the park the playground the pools center the rec of the the size waterpark! attractions the water park is great the water pool and the wave “beach” is surrounding during respite a great urban the summer for without dwellers a pool. access to
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • pool small kid pools pool wave price, staff, needs some park at needs some park at the location nice option kids nice park overall, it like nice pool area nice trees park no other water this in the area like open space open space/greenery/ cages/minigolf batting parking is easy location great the local love and mini golf waves the pool! love park & the water love lake place lovely mimi golf golf miniture everything most it’s a nice place to take take to a nice place it’s the kids safe it’s kids had fun cook lake that facility large range a wide offers for all of activities are Staff groups. age friendly and well trained very are lifeguards seems observant, be an adequate to number of employees great waterpark - waterpark great the slides and loved wavepool anything not sure i’m works really a lot of people it draws on hot busy it looks but summer weekends not much else.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
6b. What does not work?
and remains flooded • (8) n/a • Everything for days after rain, • (6) nothing • Everything that isn’t • (5) N/A • Birthday parties - one fenced, including the • (5) Nothing parent gets in with parking lot. Natural • (3) Parking each kid - works out areas are poorly • (2) Food to be cheaper than my tended. • (2) The water park ticket and kid’s. Not • Everything works well • (2) crowded fair pricing. • Eye soar, poor use of • (2) everything • Can be crowded space • (2) parking • Can’t think of anything • Food could be better • (2) too crowded • Can’t think of anything • Food shack • Needs to be updated • Can’t think of anything. • High admission prices, • Advertisement so more • Certain water fountains appears childish people know it’s there? don’t work almost all • Horrible astroturf. • Altering the site. Leave summer • Hours. They should it be. • Cleanliness, especially open 2 hours longer. • Appearance of locker rooms • How crowded it can • Appears to be old • Could be made larger! become • BATTING CAGE • Could use some • How dirty the water is • Baby pool is empty. updates • I don’t have kids. Don’t • Bathrooms can be • Crowds use the extra features cleaner at times • Customer service, to entertain kids. • Bathrooms need to be cleanliness in • I have experienced no updated bathrooms problems. • Batting cages often • Did not have a negative • I have never have equipment impression experienced any broken breakdowns • Dirty bathrooms, but it or not working enimity. • Batting machines dont can be very busy there. • I have no complaints work, bats in terrible • Dirty. Not well at all. condition, helmets are landscaped. • I have not had any old and dirty, mini golf • Dirty. Not well experience with things course is old and in landscaped. Muddy. not working. terrible condition, mini • Don’t see a lot of • I have nothing negative golf floods with the people using batting to offer. smallest amount of rain cages or playing mini • I think it’s fine golf 94 Appendix C: Survey 1 95 Parking lot Parking days on Busy Parking days, on busy Parking seen the lot I have in the capacity reach summer. seems to Parking be an issue frequently Not open all year Not sure maintained, Not well use of not a good entire the space for the only park on year, has that Eisnhower open space and is underutilized do on-site Nothing to isn’t the water that cages. park or batting Cook is in a Lake have and I’d corner going concerns safety when the park there itself is shut down. Nothing.. All is great Outdated Parking in the summer. Parking do in the Not much to winter. on is limited Parking weekends. is problematic Parking Not enough help at Not enough help at snack bars at the times Not enough shaded is room locker areas, small Not enough year space event round round year Not getting use of it passes for Not having so individual features pay to don’t have you full price Not much Not much there
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Needs updating Needs updating No complaints No visible playground None Not a lot of open space bring Not being able to in. food Not enough bat options Loud patrons of Maintenance grounds golf Minature cages batting Mini-golf, recreational More brought have facilities parking problems. not mind I would as it the park keeping like not is, but I would It is see it expanded. to it partly because good big. is not too space More N/a pool Need a regular too play Need more structures!! Need recycling Needs some locker renovation Needs some updates and facilities to equipment Lack of staf Lake is unused Land/Park the majority of the year space but mostly Large inaccessible wave at Lifeguards pool. seasonal use Limited short to Limited season Location a bit run down Looks and dirty
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It’s very crowded in crowded very It’s pool the wave Lack of Trails It’s dirty with trash dirty with trash It’s and overgrown park Water weeds. Parking needs paint. is horriblly laid out Trail (and not aplenty). leads cook lake by nowhere. It is poorly maintained, It is poorly maintained, and only open during the summer. It is run down crowded. It is too seems outdated It just It needs some updating a bit run down. It’s current It’s and management and the maintenance to neighbors that face inconvenienced it are we of that and on top and charged taxed are using it. for It all works It does not provide for opportunities activities in inclimate weather. It doesn’t service needs of Recreation the City get to It is difficult are unless you to running/biking it to else. somewhere from down, run It is dirty, and the crowded, over is awful food I’m not a fan of the a fan not I’m play the sand by structure the water sure I’m old, with get park must it being so small. work It all seems to fine
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Parking, overcrowded, • The Waterpark gets • The wait for tubes in not a very impressive pretty filthy and the the wave pool, the long water park. maintenance has lines on the slides • Place looks run down been spotty. It is also • The water park and unmaintained. expensive so not the and other marginal • Pond, minature golf most accesible place development. • Pool is awful • The Waterpark looks • The water park is an • Pool was crowded abandoned off season eyesore and does not • Poorly kept grounds, and is quite an eye provide enough benefit trash, overuse sore. to alexandria city • Poorly maintained and • The concessions residents managed, eyesore, • The cost. • The water park is an targets younger age • The crowds and limited out of date eyesore and group, not open year usage creates a lot of trash round • The drainage in grass • The water park is costly • Poorly maintained area near water park • The water park is nice outside the pool area. (outside water park but low rent. • Price fence). Gets very • The water park looks • Processing pass holders swampy. run down • Public transportation • The fact that it is only • The water park/Water options. open in the summer Slide • Quality of staff is hit or the water park. • There are normally miss • The food court not enough seats or • Recreational facilities. locations enough shade • Restrictions on which • The idea of the park • This is minor: the turf vendors are allowed by getting shut down around the wave pool the city for events • The lack of updates gets hot! • Restrooms are a bit made my NOVA • Too many people outdated. Parks and the lack of • Trails are not well • Shaded seating. investments made into maintained • Should allow food to improving the park • Trails around lake be brought in; would • The land sits unused incomplete be more affordable and for nine months of the • Under utilization of family friendly; also year. space. Unoccupied better for people with • The lines into great for half a year. Water food allergies waves were long and its park is only open for 4 • Since the park is near a bit crowded months out of the year. the highway, there can • The park seems to be • Value for $ spent. be noise pollution. cutoff from each other. Factilities are run down. • Small size and variety I did not understand all • Very poorly maintained, of features. that is available to my and only open part of • Sometimes crowded on family and I there. the year. hot weekends • The parking • Visual aesthetics • Sometimes it can be • The pond is dirty and • Waits for slides can be very Crowded seems to have a bit of a long • Sometimes too goose problem • Water Park and Mini crowded • The pool golf • Staff at the food • The price is 2x the • Water park & mini golf facilities need more other nova waterparks • Water park does not training on customer appear to be clean and service. managed well 96 Appendix C: Survey 1 97 wish there were more more were wish there the make to property park bigger water
• too many people many too and upgrade the modernize minigolf park water park water maintenance run down. equipment equipment run down. cages batting at half the doesn’t work time. not open hours advertised. indifferent sometimes staff check-in tests swim congregate drivers taxi of asphalt, the amount cement the mix of the natural parts with the water park is disjointed of the park the state quality and the falling over of maintenance years several the last audience the target and it’s limited is too 90 days only open for a year pool the wave Great having to threat Closed Waves crowded too sometimes lines too long for main main long for lines too snack stand old and cheap looks for no playground children of rides not a ton not sure think of nothing I can park is water the often crowded too parking - not enough be a parking can problem control parking, traffic he summer int
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • limited benefits for benefits limited only on area, the large selelct weekends lines it’s only seasonal it’s lack of parking after enforcement on display, - cars hours loud playing cars lot Parking music, etc. for used as a dump site items. trash oversized on strict too guards life down the kids letting back ups slide causing access limited efficiency within the efficiency snack bar the service at food is lousy waterpark service, general food of the park is not state good that id it open in the winter? species invasive in the park planted Would like more more like Would parking everything almost with City bickering - Department Parks Parks see NOVA they not a as a competitor partner OUT of bicyclists many too control, weeds stands- concession long and too lines are also times are wait excessive Water park is old Water needs and it’s improvements. Waterpark weed Waterpark, ground patch/dumping Cook Lake to next be Wish it could popular! bigger--it’s
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
6c. What can be improved?
add better food/ • (7) Parking • Can’t think of anything beverage • (5) n/a • Certainty of existence • (5) parking • Add more parking in the future. • (4) Nothing • Add more slides • Change the focus or • (4) everything • Add more swim areas theme • (3) N/A • Additional parking • Change the golf • (3) Parking • Advertising • Clean up behind park • (3) more rides • Again, I have nothing • Cleaner bathrooms & • (2) Food to offer. changing areas • (2) Maintenance • All • Cleaner, better • (2) More open space • All-abilities-accessible landscaping • (2) Nothing playground • Cleanliness and safety • (2) batting cages • An additional pool for • Cost • Bathroom shower adult swimming • Cost for City residents, facilities need updating • Appealing to other water slides, update and to be kept clean. demographics mini golf, walk ability Make any repairs to • Attention to native - need pedestrian facilities in a timely natural environment. bridge over the tracks manner. • Bath houses to connect to Cameron • . • Bathhouses Station • A little run down, could • Bathrooms and security • Could be better kept use a facelift • Batting Cages and Putt • Could use a few more • A regular non wave Putt chairs and tables near pool. • Batting cages are in the wave pool. • Access to lake for disprepair • Could use a little fishing • Batting cages often updating. • Accessibility broken • Could use more tubes • Add a new feature • Better fishing access for the pool if not a periodically (space • Better lighting, update safety issue. permitting) to keep it attractions and grounds • Crappy picnic facilities; different. • Better preservation of dangerous benches • Add an indoor play native plants. • Develop it so there area for off season or • Better time is an outdoor/indoor inclement weather management by component so it can be • Add event space; add lifeguards of slide traffic utilized year round. performance space, • Bigger water slides. 98 Appendix C: Survey 1 99 MORE WATERPARK of areas Maintenance outside of fence, parking lot allow Maintenance, bring water to guests snacks and small food the into children for park Keep the lake shore shore the lake Keep clear of weeds Land use/activities and Landscaping - not groundskeeping in the waterpark just but in the area it. There surrounding is a lot near Lake a is literally Cook that dumping ground. poop, more Less goose walking, for trails space, less green more paving release NVrPA Let Waves or buy Great location Lifeguards. the lease from Longer City Loosen up those restrictions It works great, but great, It works use an could certainly update. be nice to It would pool tennis a have and hiking courts so the pool is trails more accessible to people. It is too what for expensive it would Also, get. you a nice have be nice to area. outside play fine It’s Cameron Keep Run open is my for recommendation improvement.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It needs to be It needs to updated. have It needs to an indoor sports with things complex and volleyball like courts. basketball I’d rather the City rather I’d the water replace park with an aquatic (regulation complex pool, e.g.) in the same and improve footprint spaces the natural it. around of parking Integration and lot with nature of the connection areas recreation be a year It could park that round to all amenities offers and families residents year. I do not like all the I do not like tubes in the water when it is really in crash they crowded you. to as it it is perfect I feel seems to is. Everyone their visit. fully enjoy I wish the waterpark had cleaner restrooms hope that I would that areas any native have currently not would plants or be “improved” in any disturbed for was unless it way, of invasive removal vines. I personally and swimming enjoy lap a larg love would -- but pool somewhere the epense of not at and open areas natural space.
• • • • • • • • • Hire more high school more Hire my are kids. They students. former Get rid of the water rid of the water Get a park and provide be can that facility round used year restaurant good a Have the and rehab changing bathroom area around a year Have park recreation concert, live Have food more Have choices Expand waterpark wear showing Facilities and tear updates Facilities Selection Food and the prices Food choicws Food in the waterpark Food but improved, Foods be better could Ambiance General maintenance General and upkeep Everything Everything! Everything...highlight the open space, make the space for it useful could be It year. entire but is currently a jewel maintained. not well Expand the natural the remove area, park, miniature water and the batting golf, cage. Different height trees trees height Different park front. and shrubs room any have Do you expand? to Don’t close it pedestrian Entrance, over connections tracks
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Make it a year round areas. It gets crowded two major parks in the aquatics and recreation there on weekends in area. facilty the afternoon, its good • New pitching machines, • Make it a year-round that they have a police new bats, new helmets, facility. car in the parking new ground for mini • Make it bigger lot to keep from golf, might as well get • Make it include other overcrowding some new clubs for the sports that will allow us • More shade in the mini golf as well to use all year pool areas, locker area • No complaints • Make more paths and and bath rooms need • None running trails update. Batting cages • Not a thing • Make year round need update. • Not sure recreation center • More shade, bigger • Not sure because I • Making it a facility for lockers maybe don’t use it much. year round use • More slide • Not sure, parking? • Making the area more • More space would • Nothing that I know of. welcoming to adults as be good - could use • Offer a swim test well as children a frothing course / • Offer coupons • Management, frisbee golf • Open b4 Memorial day Maintenance, Use of • More training for staff and stay open longer space. in food areas, updating into Sept weekends • Maybe add another and cleaning bathroom • Organize it differently large feature areas • Overall awareness and • Maybe some more • More trees. park connectivity picnic areas • More tubes for the • Overall cleanliness • More activities wave pool. Or even • Overall update (paint, • More bike/play / park boogie boards. etc) space • More water attractions • Overall use of the • More concessions would be awesome! whole land and the options • More water park areas adjacent lake cook • More features or rides or more slides • Parking Lot • More features! • More water slides • Parking access on • More food options at • More water slides and weekends the water park. pools and attractions at • Parking can be tight • More green space the Waterpark maybe a new layout • More hours open • More waterpark would help. so people have the amenities. • Parking can be tough option of coming in the • More year round • Parking during busy morning activities times. • More innertubes • Multi use areas • Parking gets too full • More parking during • Needs a Playground • Parking lot peak hours • New paint, new • Parking lot needs • More parking for features. More improvement weekends advertising, alot of • Parking lot surface, • More picnic areas, communities outside of maintenance walking paths. Alexandria don’t know (especially in • More promotion you exist and how the unused, or of activities and more convenient and unprofitable, areas of attractions cost effective you are the property • More shade coverings compared to the other • Parking, but even that in waterpark seating isn’t so bad. 100 Appendix C: Survey 1 101 Use of space. Make it a Use of space. Make space conducive more can city residents that round. year enjoy to Visual presence if it is secluded road.. have than I would concerns safety The whole park is very The whole park is very dated. be a few could There slides or a lazy more river. be new could There or renovated features parts of the park every once in a while, such slide water as a new feature. and lake Trails lake, around Trails outside picnic tables waterpark it is Transportation, to. get to difficult needs Eisenhower Duke to connect to street. removal Trash of astehtics Up keep bathrooms Upgrade course. golf and repair slides. Add more as in the past Upkeep is important The pool of the water The size park or attractions it. surrounding area. The surrounding be can The water cleaner park and The water should be mini golf replaced park can The water be enhanced. More parking park, mini The water Cook Lake golf,
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The park in general The park in general does not look well maintained The park is a bit on sore of an eye Ave. Eisenhower machines The pitching be upgraded need to The bike path path The bike the park connecting Holmes run should to for be improved. add lighting example out and straighten sharp curves under tracks. the railroad lot is ugly and Parking of sits unused most the year, The concessions stand The concessions enough is not large the supplement to of people, the intake in dire are bathrooms need of remodeling and updates The food the seating The food, area gate The front The general - dead appearance in parking lot, trees etc. trash, Signage for where where for Signage season pass holders the water enter can park. Snacks and put it down Tear city in something actually want residents use to cages The Batting build The City needs to a viable recreation the for facility community better The Parking, course mini-golf
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Shorter waits, more more waits, Shorter slides Remove NOVA Parks Parks NOVA Remove If it this site. from as a continue is to city have waterpark, it with manage staff the entire the respect deserves. tract for waterpark Remove playground round year center and rec and food Restrooms options. be can Restrooms cleaner Provide more parking. more Provide slides, Quality of water some of which have not been updated since the 90’s. lane behind Re-pave connect park to water trail. on both ends to Recycling multi into Redevelop Union like something in DC mkt Pool a few Possibly near by. restaurants Price and Price of golf cages batting the natural Protect and in northeast areas corners, northwest possibly excluding the lease. these from facilities more Provide round with year application Parking. Needs more. Parking. a renovation Perhaps of the parking lot/ end of the cage batting incorporate park to activities (disc new etc). soccer, golf,
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Waterpark can be • green turf gets very hot • the trails are a bit removed and a park in the sun, more shade messy with trails and plantings structures • too crowded put in its place • have the park be • trails • We should a new more of a park in the • updates bathrooms recreation center with traditional sense • upgrade equipment a gym and water play • hiking path around • water park - updates area. Like the Lee perimeter needed recreation center. • in balancing active and • wave pool bathrooms • Would be nice if the “passive” activities, • year round access venue could offer natural areas should a larger variety of not be further activities compromised • Year -round • infrastructure recreational facility. • its great • Year round use • landscaping. • Yes • lap pool would be nice • a way that the children • larger parking lot and can take swim tests facility rennovations • access • limit number of patrons • adding another pool • lines are long for the • all of it slides and it takes a • almost everything long time to have a • always could add more turn slides • maintenance • any way to have more • minature golf environmentally • mini golf course could friendly parking lot and be updated landscaping? • more deck chairs • bathroom cleanliness • more parking • better food • more umbrellas • better organization • more under 3 year old within the snack bar activities • clean up with new • need more parking paint • needs updating • cleanliness behind the • new attraction or just waterpark & around more green space for lake cook picnics dogs etc • consideration of the • picnic area use of Alexandria public • picnic areas funds, which should be • put in a lazy river benefitting its citizens • rude workers • food area cleaned a • security little more often • side walk, access to • food offerings and wait bike path times on food. • speed lmits, weed • food services, more control water facilities - a “lazy • the bathrooms, the river” would be nice putt putt golf course if it can be fit into the • the food offerings site. aren’t all that 102 Appendix C: Survey 1 103 I am concerned that that I am concerned the City of Alexandria this remove might park. as is. I hope it remains it. Please don’t change alot of folks I know their first it was that to way job. Great Great Waves needs Waves Great work some renovation spruce it up a bit, to call... not my but that’s live Have open concert,movie house Hours d I am concern planning and that projects development focus on often and other recreational on needs, but rarely the “green preserving that infrastructure” actually a town makes to people. attractive is already Alexandria built up. We very “built don’t need more Improvements areas”. should and changes that be made in areas been already have paved and flattened over
• • • • • • • Crowds at waterpark at Crowds use of limited Current space is underutilized. it existed Didn’t know Direction Don’t shut it down Gardens maintenance General poor. is very Batting cage is falling is cage Batting apart for uses Better Land Alexandria should City residents for fee a reduced pay we that given entrance up give as residents of using the the right also lose land and we the low due to income lease cost City spends money things on lesser impt of necessities. instead lake Clean around Closing the Waterpark loss be a real would as the DC area, to other aren’t there accessible, inexpensive in waterparks outdoor the area. Concerns of water excess runoff from impervious surfaces
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • (2) safety, access via access (2) safety, proper public transit, maintenance Add soccer fields food Allow covered there Are gathering and/or areas areas? BETTER FOOD and helmets Bats should and putters 2-3 every be replace of the The state years. mention not to bats machines the pitching been bad and have are It is like years. bad for the no one maintains park. Business has to poorly with how suffer the park is maintained. use the to I refuse pool and water wave of how slides because poorly maintained of the park is the rest of getting out of fear or sick, injured really dying. possibly even (8) None (6) n/a (4) N/A (4) No (4) none (2) None.
• • • • • • • • • • • • 6d. Other concerns? CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
intorduce youth to the • It does not serve the • Locker rooms/ workforce. needs to the growing bathrooms need to be • I like everything eisenhower valley updated • I like the various levels community. • Maintain it better. of pools for younger • It doesn’t need to • Make bike parking kids. cost a fortune to build more friendly • I only go once at the something useful for • Make sure parking is end of the year for the the residence (not sufficient dogs Maryland people), • More cleanup around • I think nova parks is We need green space the pond. Some doing a great job of and facility close for sketchy characters have operating the park! It Residence. We own been seen hanging out. meets the needs of Townhome at Townes • More seating both Alexandria city at Cameron Park • My concern is losing and nearby Fairfax Co. • It is not clean. great waves because it Nice to meet the needs • It should be expanded - is a great bargain when of so many. • It should stay. There is you buy the bounce • I wish the space was nothing else like this pass. It is actually used better. The huge inside the Beltway and cheaper for a yearly parking lot is wasted many opportunities like pass than it is for a space 9 months a year. this are way outside the summer pass for the • I would hate to lose the Beltway. city pools, which are wave pool! • It’s a little too closely really small. • I’d like a year round set to Eisenhower. • My only concern is that facility. Would be nice to see the park will be taken • I’d love consideration of if it can be set back a over by Alexandria and adding a running track. little more from the turned into something • I’m not sure i am road. that will not be great qualified to answer • It’s looking a little run for the thousands of • Invasive plants are not down. Some repairs children and adults that removed and paint would help frequent the facility. • Is the park safe with • It’s subsidized in a Thta would be a dark the poor maintenance way that made it too day as far as I am being spent on the park expensive for my concerned. • Is there really a need middle class kids to use • N/a for a waterpark? It but a lot of low income • Need more shade seems like such a waste kids families use it for • Need some year of open space when day care. Which is around things the city is growing so good but not fair • None at this time rapidly around this • Keep this wonderful • None really tract with very little park open, please. • None, love the place! other open space • Keeping and • Nooe nearby. The unique encouraging as much • Nope natural features of the tree cover as possible • Not really site must be preserved • Keeping it open! • Nothing for future generations. I • Lack of Alexandria • Nothing don’t think a waterpark residents using facility • Once transportation is is the highest or best • Litter fixed, I bet it develops use of this property. It • Litter, disposal of grass quickly. Please don’t should be a woodland clippings, let the dull amusement for tranquil recreation. • Locker rooms are small park stay longer. 104 Appendix C: Survey 1 105 To crowded. To on the focused Too park wave much City land Too and such limited for seasonal uses plus The space is not kept The space is not kept is always up, there everywhere, trash it does nothing for values property park is a The water of this area waste huge year, a - used 3 months been it’s and when I’ve nearly all MD license plates. should be no There parking. Have on-site Victory people park at a an take Center shuttle. lots of were There but the lifeguards need might wavepool on crowded more shade More days. coverings This is one of the first things people see into when coming be Alexandria...could along the a feature the bike Run...with path. That we end up with we That another soccer field leave Just there. things alone. no The city gets revenue? plans, The city’s which do not take persons the average account. into interests The park needs better lighting. The pools and usually are bathrooms dirty pretty
• • • • • • • • • • • • • That one of the That related only water in attractions will go Alexandria away Speed of traffic on Speed of traffic Eisenhower the city Support from The of Alexandria. park has been around since the 1980s, wave becoming pools are less and less and it’s that a bit of nostalgia be missed if would even not supported is not though there enough support from as it is. Parks NOVA hybrid Bartram Oak Bartram hybrid be in the picnic area the that protected, city’s (and the rare Beadle only) hybrid the fence to Oak next park of the water The be protected. oak is a Bartram Oak/Northern Willow and Oak hybrid Red the Beadle Oak is a Oak/Swamp White Oak hybrid. Chestnut the Also protect area Woods Ward’s the animal between and the batting shelter the stream cages, Also, Banks. and Lake the know did you Run Park Cameron the contains parcel only Swamp city’s Oaks?? Chestnut them Please protect the sure Make too. T&ES that contractors Lake renovate to gets Cook only uses native plants.
• • • Run down no are Security - there in the parking lot lights lake by open Security, parking unmonitored lot, lack of use for months See above up write See my does not what for other my Also, work. the is that concern rare/uncommon Please don’t lose regional this great opportunity. recreation Cameron Please keep Run open maintenance Property prices for Reduce use of multiple day park the city that Rumors moving is considering on. This is one of the fun places in most Alexandria! Outdoor recreation recreation Outdoor space in the City is the Don’t let limited. land be turned into office or commercial space. residential is laid out Parking oddly often Parking into overflows streets, surrounding traffic and creates doing People things in inappropriate pool. wave Only gets used 8 out of Only gets a year 12 months with Only park facility the pool in a wave are My children area. excellent becoming of because swimmers the park.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
gigantic blacktop • don’t close it • safety, better access parking :-( • don’t understand why via public transit, more • Too much of the all this land is being activities than 1 valuable land is a used for a seasonal • safety/security of cars parking lot. water park & people in parking lot • Too slow of service • don’t want the & behind pool during (food) waterpark to close crowded times • Traffic and crime • eisenhower ave is a • since the water park concerns? very busy road in only open in the • Traffic, parking and • gives kids a place to go summer it congestion concerns and have a summer job it causes to residence • lighting at night of Townes of Cameron • more exciting features Park next door. added to the waterpark • Variety of activities • open hours advertised • Very important to leave • parking some of our area for • parking can be difficult passive enjoyment • parking, access via • Water park too public transit, speeding crowded on Eisenhower Avenue • Water quality of lake by the part makes it Cook. dangerous to cross the • We need something street from/to the bus that ages can use, stop, etc including toddlers. • parking, intended use • While I would be willing is too narrow--we to see the city extend need more variety for the lease on the water recreation park, I would suggest • please keep it. those making better use of kids have been working the land outside the there every summer. i summer. It’s a lot of love that they have a land to sit idle for 9 place to work. i have months of the year. watched alot of them • Would be a great grow up as a season loss to city families pass holder particularly those • pool safety,water with children as the quality city does not have • preservation of the adequate water irreplaceable native facilities nor does plant communities , a the city have batting small but significant cages or miniature feature golf facilities. The • pricing private swimming clubs • pricing is a little high in the area are cost for regular visits, its prohibitive to many in more for a special thing the city. Cameron Run with the kids. If it were is far more affordable. a little more affordable • Would like to see better we would come more. food options 106 Appendix C: Survey 1 107 Another slide would Another slide would be great. and all of the Any be would examples the area. for good or free Anything for kids affordable during the summer be great! would Archery A regular pool would pool would A regular river be nice and lazy be great!!! would be would team A swim with a proper great, lap pool be lot would A toddler awesome! River Add a Lazy swim Adding more would be options great. lessons Adult swim and events Affordable open space area. recreational All year an indoor like facilities open pool, trails, areas common An indoor/outdoor sports for facility be much would teams than beneficial more unsanitary an unsafe, park. water
• • • • • • • • • • • • • 50 meter pool, indoor 50 meter round year for facilities indoor recreation, etc. fields (Olympic A 50- yard be pool would size) nice. would program Swim A and some family great as well. events night be would A concert cool river A lazy great at river A lazy , a big park waves be would river A lazy amazing! be would center A rec ideal, but the city’s not allow may budget least, the very At that. lease needs a better with be negotiated to park. But the water prefer would that over space, walking green landscaping, dog trails, run. activities would be fun. fun. be would activities - But please don’t add an to concrete more looks already that area jungle. a concrete like
• • • • • • • • “passive” activities “passive” - In the spring and/or be nice it would fall outdoor for there go screenings. movie use help to This would the space during the Perhaps off season. trucks food local have the movie for around not - I’m showings. if its already sure in place but maybe some nature/fishing (2) Open space (2) Swim programs (2) Swim (2) open space a lazy love would We pool but anything river be fun. would related fortunate very feel We within a live we that this to short distance park and are water see to excited always when the is new what season starts. new was The playground to see! exciting very (6) Open space programs (6) swim programs (4) Swim (4) Swimming (3) n/a
• • • • • • • • • • • • 7. In the future, what activities do you do and/or need more of? (example: swim programs, open programs, swim (example: of? need more you do and/or activities do what 7. In the future, etc.) space, special events, CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• BA • Community gatherings/ little need to drive over • Baby/toddler activities special events to there. • Ball fields, trees, park increase attendance. • Go carts would be fun. benches, naturalistic • Concerts • Good as is landscaping with native • Continue at Great • Habitat, educational plants, maybe a rec Waves. programming center or small splash • Continue serving the • Happy with how it is park... Get rid of NOVA diverse community. now Parks Management, • Continued use of wave • I believe open space stop paying them pool should be the primary $650,000 plus a year • Definitely need the purpose of the Park. to use our land and swimming/water play Many studies have not respect our natural options. Walking/biking shown the importance resources and need for trails. of open spaces for open space. Come up • Dog parks, swim people’s mental and with a good plan that programs, open physical heath. Also, protects the natural space and play areas, children learn better resources on site, plant skatepark? when they have trees and use the open • Earlier and later opportunities to be space to actually start swimming hours. outside, and preserving doing something to • Entertainment like the park as open space work towards our city’s costumed, face painted will provide benefits for tree canopy goals, entertainers walking all ages. make it a nice place thru entertaining kids, • I cannot think of any to walk around, jog.. families. Maybe having new activities. maybe put in some contests and prizes... • I do not use as many playing fields, but not • Environmental of the scheduled crumb rubber fields programs at the lake, activities. I feel the where the little bits of special events attractions present crumb rubber will wash • Events are fun and have good off the fields into Lake • Family nights are fun. hours. The seasonal Cook and down into More of those please! events are excellent the Potomac and the • Fishing, swimming such as the winter bay to be ingested by • From what I have seen lights. wildlife (we don’t want of the park, it could • I feel that I can find our children ingesting benefit from more anything I want to do in that stuff either!) open space. the area as it is now. Use naturalistic • Given Alexandria’s lack • I go to the wave pool, landscaping, and have of splash parks and slides, love the splash a kick-butt playground aquatic facilities for pad for the kids. If for the children - a younger children, I love manageable, a few playground well worth Cameron Run’s facilities more lounge chairs expending the calories for my boys (both would be great. to walk or bike to!!!! younger than 5). • I like everything. I have Remember, as natural • Given its location, I no complaints as Central Park in NY think it is properly • I like having an open City looks, it is man used and I expect to park that’s within made - we want continue to use it in its walking distance, isn’t • Barbells current configuration. too big, isn’t too fancy. • Batting cages, mini golf, If the waterpark goes Birding and reading water park away, there would be 108 Appendix C: Survey 1 109 I would love to see to love I would a lazy like something be which would river older adults nice for myself. like the that urge I would explicitly plan more The cycling. consider as serves corridor cycling an important I would love to see a to love I would full service recreation would there--it center the needs truly serve of the Eisenhower and West Valley End with a variety of activities and access. I round year field that understand a premium space is at should look at and we to use ways innovative the building structure more meet better to needs, e.g. a turf field on courts and tennis a climbing the roof, on the outside, wall parking underneath, etc. is, with clean-up of behind the grounds park. water have to love I would a public pool for and swim open swim adults. lessons for along work, I bike After from Eisenhower my to get to Rosslyn a long ride house. It’s to like and I would to up fill see a spot to bottles. Maybe water to pump a station even or bike tires up bike A Capital tools. repair docking BikeShare would be ideal station too.
• • • • I would like to see to like I would as it the park remain I would like a year- like I would facility aquatic round rooms, with exercise Chinquapin, like play and outdoor all for equipment Potomac like ages, like I would Park. Yards in the trails wooded space, and restricted the with a connection as at Hensley facilities well. see to like I would continue Waves Great operate. to see to like I would can that a facility of support a variety programs recreation Perhaps year-round. slide indoors a water as well. see to like I would that trails paved more people to allow would without getting travel in the on the roads be could If there city. connected that a trail this park with the other neighborhoods be great. would that Update what is what Update there. currently near this area I walk via the Holmes Run/ This network. Tarleton throughway is a busy if great be and it would a nice clean was there way all the connection I Eisenhower. down natural like would be preserved/ to areas improved. all the enjoy I would and wave swimming riding I can.
• • • • • • • I think this is a great I think this is a great place. family little I think the current I think the current is programming park, the at adequate in no similar facility Alexandria. I think this is a great the city, for facility variety a offers that we While of options. don’t do the putt putt as much as golfing that like I still like, I’d it as offers Alexandria event. fun an optional I think it’s fine the way way fine the I think it’s is it is. The waterpark The important. very not easy are suburbs the from to get to a City so it’s Alexandria have. to asset great the great I think it’s I it is. This year way of the plan on taking park passes and water visiting this location It’s often. more awesome! I need more places to places to I need more among around walk I also need a trees. than a buffer larger simple curb between and path walking my the swiftly-moving on Eisenhower traffic Avenue. and swimming would would and swimming main interests be my there. the water having I like park here. as it is. it just I like it is, we way it the I like fit much more couldn’t always fun. We’re I’d One day exhausted. we putt putt if to like the stamina. have
• • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
route that connects the • I’m happy with • It should be just for mt Vernon trail to the everything Cameron walking, enjoying WOD trail. run has to offer nature. • I’d like a Rec Center • I’m still young and • It would be great if with year round active (play sports, the space could be programs and an take kids to water a mixed use one for indoor pool. Walking parks, cycle everyday) the community with trails in areas where but I believe we also open, green space building is prohibited, critically need to leave for children and adult circuit training, and some of our parkland to play as well as ample parking. Keep undeveloped. activities that could the batting cages. • If more slides or lazy occur throughout the Outdoor basketball river were added there year and not just the hoops would be nice. would need to be more summer. • I’d like a nice big lawn area to sit as well. • It would be nice for to throw around a • If transportation is fixed this park to be used all frisbee or a pickup to make roads connect year long. It would be game of ultimate better to Eisenhower, nice to have activities frisbee. It seems that date night ideas would that everyone can all the sports fields be great such as mini participate in. It would need to be reserved in golf, bowling, movie be nice to have a advance. I’d also like theater, restaurants, reason to go there. to see walking paths etc. We need a Chick- Right now, we have no and more naturalistic fil-a. If transportation reason. plantings so that many isn’t fixed, maybe good • It would be nice if there different age groups hiking trails. was a home run derby can use the space • In the future I would at the batting cages and together. like to see more dog a raffle for lowest score • I’d like to see a swim parks, similar to the on the mini golf (daily test offered to all ages, one in Shirlington. It prizes such as a free and if you pass you can would also be great to trip to the park and its cross the red line in the see some indoor soccer attractions) wave pool and use all spaces. • It would be nice if slides. • Indoor Olympic size there was a muli- • I’d love to see an all- pool and sports plex. sport facility on the abilities-accessible • Indoor ice skating rink? campus. Something playground, or at Another rec center for with alternative sports least a modernized Eisenhower Valley? like rock climbing etc... playground with Change the land use something different to separate but close-by and make cut through pull people to the park areas for toddlers/ to Duke St with an all- • It would be nice to have preschoolers and older mode. bridge including the go-karts come back kids. I’d also love a cars. to Cameron Run. As a community center • Indoor pool for year child, our family loved with exercise classes! round swim programs to go to the track. The We’d love to see part and open space for free only other track is in of the playground with play. Manassas, VA. Having (seasonally operating) • Indoor swim area Bike special events at the water features that are park for young children park would be a nice open and free to the change as well. Family public. 110 Appendix C: Survey 1 111 More picnic areas picnic areas More the park since around bring our cannot we inside. food own pool features! More use ppl would More if those Park Cameron so werent restrictions More nature trails for for trails nature More hiking/walking, a year- (pool? facility round spaces? ref kids play center?) of everything More offering! they’re the wave Waterslides, see to love pool - I’d A too! features more river? lazy open and natural More space is needed. The has some unique area and resources, natural the loss of open given in areas and natural it is important the city, more soem provide to space. Eco-City green is becoming Alexandria a joke. open space, More the City of events promotes Alexandria place in the take that park. More Swim programs programs Swim More and Special events be nice! would areas and nicer More groups large for Well gather. to exercise maintained trails. baseball/softball More for the growing fields sport. selection food More toddlers for and more habitat natural More Low wildlife. for hiking for impact trails
• • • • • • • • • • • • Maybe morning swim morning swim Maybe lesson. kind of nice some where have to touch kids can younger may They the bottom. safer. feel kart go Mini golf, racing Less dog parks and Less dog parks soccer fields. empty (like playgrounds More area) play paradise events and community egg hunts. Easter like center a rec Look into with an indoor pool be used could that round year the waterpark! Love expand. Perhaps MORE SLIDES evening more Maybe to families for events work on after come nights. Friday Keep the waterpark. Keep swim soccer Lacrosse, and a swim programs , special events team park and water center recreation Large class gym with world adults and other for - children things for course? a golf Maybe pad” “splash Larger the kids at younger for park, improved water cage, batting swim Learn to adults for programs What and children about a fitness/ with course workout equipment? different I like paths. Walking the idea of field space if it is needed. Would more use by more get people.
• • • • • • • • • • • • Just more activities more Just be used more can that year a than 3 months Waves Great Keep as is add features Keep Waterpark to it as is...its nice Keep park a local have to I don’t want to. go to Arlington to go to or Ft. Belvoir, County, son to my take MD to fun during something the summer! Make some additions such as instruction Gymnastics cheerleading for in the City of programs specifically Alexandria centers the recreation Williams. and TC help this will TC At support the to program gymnastics as the cheer as well Currently program. is a gymnastics there without TC at team practice a place to within the City of limits. Alexandria of This is an area be an need! It can that indoor facility year operate can this bringing in round revenue. additional to be inclusive To build an indoor others games and for field to expand it practices for include field usage multiple sports. events, movie nights, nights, movie events, etc. be nice to It would area a covered reserve parties gatherings/ for (online) Jogging Trails, Wayfinding
• • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
tight. Our Rotary Club balance of the active during winter. Could had a 5k there and water-park use, which include indoor Pools next year are probably is good, with a stronger but not water park not going to do it. We conservation and which is only open 3 were not happy that passive use component months and frequently we couldn’t bring in year-round. Fishing. causes trash in my our own vendors from More trees/shade. neighborhood and Alexandria. It was very Would also be nice illegal parking next was difficult if outside of water door -Townes of • More public picnic park hours (including Cameron Park areas with grill off-season), pool could • Open space is accessibility. more be used for swimming important, and we like water areas. lessons. swimming. • More seating, maybe • Needs a Playground • Open space with wide special events during • No complaints paths along the water the day like something • No suggestions, it’s ways connecting to for all the age groups. already terrific. other path systems. • More slides • None Including safe access • More swim programs • None under the railroads and open space would • Not much to do at • Open space would be be cool Cameron Run outside good, for community • More swim programs of summer. Perhaps yoga or movies in the would be fun. some indoor facilities. summertime • More swim programs. • Not sure • Open space, Baseball • More toddler space at • Open Space and place field. the water park. Just for families to enjoy • Open space, take the mini gold area year around activity. maintaining the trails, and make a splash area Indoor facility, maybe improve the pool- dirty, with covered seating. similar to a YMCA? poorly supervised • More water park • Open Space. • Open space, picnic features would be • Open Space/Social areas, walking/ awesome! Events running/biking trails, • More water rides • Open event space community gardens, • More year round • Open space - I am playgrounds, public activities, more open concerned about pool, tennis courts, space. A small splash potential loss of open/ farmers market park for summer would green/forested areas • Open space, rec center be nice as well as a near the AWLA end of • Open space, shorter playground. the park. lines, more slides. • Movie in the park, • Open space - yoga • Open space, special evening activities such • Open space and special events, outdoor music, as music or live band. events dog park like The Summer camp program • Open space ball fields Shirlington dog park. • Music shows or playground • Open space, swimming entertainment • Open space for grilling. • Open space, trails • My college students • Open space for habitat • Open space, like the complete pass. if possible walking track, better • Natural areas to visit • Open space for sports bathrooms. Parking nature. and playgrounds can be a challenge. • Nature trails, better but also rec building • Open space. access to Lake Cook, for indoor activities 112 Appendix C: Survey 1 113 Natural Natural
Probably hit more hit more Probably softballs. young for Programs 4-7). (ages children swimming Discounted be nice because would only access can they pools small wadding or splash pads safely don’t last and they tire they long because quickly. of Protection area, the natural rare particularly the the Swamp like trees Oak and Chestnut Oak. Cameron Beadle’s Park Run Regional is the only known in the City of station these for Alexandria species. Furthermore, Run Regional Cameron also contains Park known the last of surviving remnant Southern Piedmont Plain / Inner Coastal Floodplain Terrace under the stewardship under the stewardship of the City’s Lands Management program. the woods Preserve and wilder spaces for generations, future especially the rare ecosystem bottomland Few flora. and native of these types of remain bottomlands but in Virginia not just and their nationwide and flora resident threatened. are fauna a terrific This presents scientific educational, as an natural- as well for resource heritage Alexandria.
• • • • Preserve the Preserve plant native rare bottomland at community Run Park Cameron Preserve the Preserve plant native rare bottomland at community Run Park Cameron under the stewardship Natural of the City’s Lands Management Wild program. space. Small but remnants significant bottomland of native currently communities within existing Regional Cameron active deserve Park As the City protection. considers Alexandria of use of the the future park, it is imperative protect we that the unique natural quite are that features irreplaceable. literally of The importance these preserving is something remnants to is hard that species loss overstate; is forever. people - not just the people - not just correct’ ‘politically things. pressures Population continue to going are must We increase. to open more have space. The health both physical benefits, of open and mental, now space are green We well-documented. manufacture cannot must of it, we more still we what optimize have.
• • • Pool would be GREAT! be GREAT! would Pool should be Money spend on things the MOST benefiting Perfect as is. Perfect space, Picnic/pavilion playground, youth movies outdoor owners. pet Places for conservation Walking Running and parks. biking trails. the water to go Plan to & park, mini golf cages batting for Playgrounds children Open spaces, natural Open spaces, natural made playground and logs, of rocks natural trails, walking of environment and pants course like something trees, Canal Place in DC that in fountains offers the summer and ice in the winter. skating activities/ Other water slides Open space. Dog friendly. Open space. Nature aimed at programs kids. Open space/ space. Don’t green it. overdevelop Open space. Areas to to Open space. Areas are - fields that walk open, and not locked sports use only. up for park a water Keeping or pool of some sort be ok would there the now but right to, up takes waterpark a lot of public land be open could that the for greenspace community. entire
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Forest in northern come - magicians, • Special events/ Virginia. This must be puppet shows, music festivals...Maybe a protected. shows (for adults too). movie in the parking • Recreation center • Special events lot with a food truck • Recreation center • Special events providing supper for a offering exercise • Special events , Farmer cost. I’d love to see a classes, etc. market, open movie drink or food festival • Running paths. theater, throughout the park. • Same activities: pool, • Special events for Maybe holiday themed slides, playground, season pass holders. events...a haunted walk mini-golf and batting • Special events for the through the waterpark cages. Our kids and community and swim or BBQ themed events their friends love the programs for the youth for Fourth of July week. facility, and it’s SO • Special events to draw • Splash pad? close. more people there. Is • Swim , tennis .. more • Set aside some time a great safe place for recreational sports for smaller kids to be in teens and should be • Swim Programs, the wave pool with the used more. Have food Spring, Fall and Winter floaties. Events for kids available outside pool Activities. with autism and other for those using putt- • Swim and open special needs. Have putt or batting cages. space, bike-hiking later hours on Friday Kids love to hang out trails, example native and sat for kids 17 and and get a snack! gardens, no game fields up, play music over the • Special events! Maybe • Swim classes Add a intercom system food and drink festival lazy river around the • Soccer fields (sponsored by Port City pool • Something that is not or Portner) • Swim facility would solely dedicated to • Special events, be used by all ages.... kids/families--there fireworks, open space, throughout the year. are a lot of singles or swim programs Park could be used by childless couples in the • Special events, such as kids...with swings and West End concerts would be nice. climbing structures • Special Events Nature programs. Open area could be a • Special Events! • Special events, swim space to let kids run • Special Events, picnic programs. Dog park would help tables scattered out • Special events. It would bring attention to the throughout the park, be nice to partner with shelter...and highlight softball games. the city programs and what a dog friendly city • Special Events, I really offer something more. Alexandria is Exercise feel our area does not Maybe even education track...would add to the have enough fun family are how dangerous bike path... Care..trees events and when they water can be if people are dead...trash is not do happen, they are don’t know how to picked up poorly executed. The swim since there • Swim places, outdoor is plenty of parking at are so many saves play areas that are fun Cameron Run, what made at the park, it and challenging. about Food truck visits, is an indication that • Swim program 4th of July events, what within the city this has • Swim program about a real Carnival. not been made of a • Swim programs and Something simple like significant importance. events having a kids show 114 Appendix C: Survey 1 115 Think it needs to be Think it needs to something/anything be used 365 can that a year days programs, Toddler running trails, Trails The property is limited is limited The property by size use in potential NOVA and location. job does a good Parks of running the water park. But the entire should be better site from maintained resource a natural perspective. park is The regional as is. If the perfect away, park goes water loss this will be a huge the region. to pool was The wave in my instrumental cancer from recovery Being year. last surgery wave as it is the ONLY area pool in the NOVA it is irreplaceable. facilities that have have that facilities other things -- open space, sports fields, isn’t There etc. this another park like It a distance. quite for be a disservicewould of the people to remove to Alexandria this park. The park is great. The park needs a long- lease term fine are The programs visit year a once a for the however now, park and its facilities be maintained need to go me to for in order in the future there
• • • • • • • • • The park is already set set The park is already special events up for It’s opinion. in my a enough for not large it Keep driving range. park! as a water as The park is great other are it is. There Swimming, outdoor Swimming, outdoor eating/picnic areas, exercising space The entire redesigned needs to use. multi season for park should The water a by be replaced facility recreational with an indoor aquatic and indoor center soccer field. The trail cook lake around should be finished and playground a large wide for suitable should of ages range (Think be installed. Run park in Rocky Arlington). The park does a good out new job rolling features basketball courts, courts, basketball bocce horseshoes, programs. Swim Special events. team Swim cage, batting Swim, picnic, mini golf, volleyball golf, miniature Swim, slides, batting water fishing. It cages, also be nice would if the city had a velodrome. and lessons Swimming neighborhood festivals An be great. would or indoor rock outdoor be would climbing wall great.
• • • • • • • • • • Swim programs would would programs Swim a be nice. Maybe or daycamp. nature would programs Swim be wonderful programs, Swim events community open programs, Swim and space, camps kids, sports classes for kids for programs, Swim lessons, water swim play park events, courts, tennis groups, Swim programs would would programs Swim with my be helpful small children would programs Swim be nice. I am not sure all the people in the swim. pool can wave an incident was There I am pretty where people were two sure in the pool sex having kids were while my them. to next right Swim programs would would programs Swim to like I’d be excellent. for see special events smaller children would programs Swim occasional be good; events. family would programs Swim I think we be great! of open plenty have Ben Brenman space at Park. Swim programs and programs Swim special events the for programs Swim kids. should programs Swim be all the time and for special events end of school kids at of or beginning year school
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• Trails that integrate • We get the nova • Would love to see a with the larger city waterparks pass and go hiking trail along the system. to a waterpark every river. Canoe, Kayak, SUP • Trails. Fitness areas. weekend. rentals Nature. Fishing. Serene • We just enjoy what’s • Year round aquatic and lakes. Not mini golf and there - activities reacreation facilty with water parks. • We need a place for cafe. • Updated facilities, children’s birthday • Year round indoor • Updated slides! parties (including space that can • Upgrade and toddlers), swimming accommodate seated modernize the park. program, arts program, events as well as Add more water slides, language classes, and stand up (with prep attractions, wave health center. kitchen access; outdoor pools, lazy rivers. Host • We need more large covered space with children’s events and swimming pools in electricity access special events for a fee. Alexandria, sure. More and grills; modest More seating, chairs important is the need performance space; and umbrellas. Expand to preserve open space, food & beverage the park. Maybe and to protect and vendors. include roller skating. enhance the natural • Year round programs, • Upgrade of buildings beauty and diverse i.e. Indoor recreational and attractions. ecological habitats that facility, or repurposing Replacement of parking still exist here. We the water park to an lot with perhaps a need more open space outdoor ice skating rink garage used during and natural areas, not in the winter. non peak times as a $ less. • Year round rec center generator for parking • We need more multi- with adult and children for folks working use spaces; can the physical fitness classes/ nearbye pool be a skating rink in programs. • Walking and picnics winter? is there enough • Year round, full service • Water activities room for a hiking trail rec center that can • Water park. that could be used for a better serve Alexandria • Water parks. Inside cross-country 5K? Can • Year-round rec facility, free play ground (for we have an awesome open field space winter). outdoor urban • You’re great! • Water slides. Live music playground that both • a full service rec center would be nice children and adults can would be great. there • Waterpark and fishing use? Those would all is a distinct lack of access. be great recreation services in • Waterpark related • Would like to see a disc the Eisenhower Valley activities golf course in the area. specifically and the city • Waterslides, the • Would love for it to be as a whole. the Charles wave pool etc. Again turned into a recreation Houston rec center is it doesn’t need to be center with field space, great--a wide variety of replaced. open space, aquatic activities and services. • Wave pool senior pass center, etc. The wave I think it would be great or senior swim days park is not a good use to better integrate Group free days so not of space, especially the park into the over run with large given it is dormant in surrounding area: Lake groups of children non-summer months. Cook, the Holmes Run and Cameron Run bike/ 116 Appendix C: Survey 1 117 swim, open spaces, swim, slides special events, lakefront trails, walking amenities open space and picnic availability park water waterpark open/ landscaped well with areas wooded trails facility round year adult and young adult events mature special events at the at special events be park would water cool 5k runs, special events, creek events, bicycle cleanup, paintball competitions open space swim classes swim special programs swim indoor polay events options programs, swim indoor events, toddler area rec
• • • • • • • • • • • • • open space, special events outside picnic facilities area of fenced swim places to eat,sun space to quiet special running track, events special events more batting cages cages batting more and other activities features/space more open space & more be would umbrellas parking nice ... repair for lot... incentives swim kids who learn to while visiting park. options swim more dog music concerts, park need the waterpark be and/or stay to expanded nothing else open space and special activities sports open space for and picnics not open space, events kids for just open space, picnic space i like to Frisbee golf. golf. Frisbee to i like lot. nice if the a i swim open to pool stayed the end of september indoor swimming if be great it would scuba offer could they certification diver classes in the summer river lazy occasionally music live be nice would park the water love open mini-golf, space, possible hiking / basketball, fishing, playground, sprayground
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • green space green hiking/running trails and dog parks as my kids get a little kids get as my will we I foresee older, use the pool and golf and more. more bounce pass members food on a discount get the park. and drink at programs swim chairs, fun in a safe family like we environment- as it is, the waterpark see to like but would added. features new a year-round a year-round facility recreation one that all ages; for swim lessons offers classes. and exercise all of the above lap an indoor pool for be great. would swim the Do not decrease open space. green music live Occasionally be awesome! would a full service center, recreation is nothing in the there Valley, Eisenhower a public playground nothing in the (again Valley), Eisenhower access via improved out the sort transit, parking issues walking paths, Hensley Hensley paths, walking Park. a full service center recreation Houston Charles like or Chinquapin. the Valley Eisenhower End and West for desperate are facilities recreation use is and the current the need, not meeting close not even
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8. In the future, what activities do you need less of?
• (12) N/A and be active, using • Children’s fancy • (11) n/a any activity to do so, playgrounds and splash • (9) None I am happy. I don’t parks. • (5) wave pool think I need less of any • Commercial activities • (3) N/a activity. that are of no benefit • (3) NA • Art events in Alexandria to the residents living • (3) none with a million of hte nearby and take an • (2) Can’t think of same type of vendor, additional financial anything no fun food options burden. Not using the • (2) Can’t think of or real activities for parking late as a place anything families. where folks just hang • “active” activities • As a resident of out and train drivers in • ? Alexandria who lives the off-season. Parking • A fun outdoor water just five minutes away madness! park - appropriate for sincerely hope this area • Do not know never families and affordable does not turn into a been to the park. - is needed in the retail/apartment space • Dog days region. and can come how • Dog parks. • A lot of the apartment remain a community • Everything will stay the complexes, especially space same. the lower-income • Athletic field access • Fishing sector, have swimming • Athletic fields. • Gets very, very crowded pools for families to • BATTING CAGES at times because use, so I’m not totally • Baseball of outside groups ; convinced that a water • Baseball enlarge wave pool ??? park is the best use for • Batting cage • Green open space... the land. • Batting cages Fairfax county has • Active areas. • Batting cages, enough • Activities just for • Can do without the • Hiking/walking and teenagers or adults. mini golf running. We need something • Can’t think of any • I can’t think of that welcomes all ages. • Can’t think of any at anything. • Anytime there are this point. • I do not need a parks being used by • Can’t think of anything. waterpark. Miniature people to get outside golf might be fine. 118 Appendix C: Survey 1 119 My family needs less My family activity since kids rec up. But grown are needs still community center. sports & leisure I think the N/A, are activities adequate. Parks NOVA stream management, Less wave pool. I Less wave not miss the Would either. mini golf less scheduled Maybe I am not programs? use if others sure them but I didn’t. I do not Then again, over. family have often cater Those probably so ones more young to than adults. cages? Me? Batting if I used it maybe Well suck I wouldn’t more so bad. Mini golf Mini golf. Mini golf. Mini-golf does not My family use mini golf. does not My family facilities use the food all, but I understand at there. are they why Less water park that park that Less water children. to only caters Majority of patrons from even arent City. Alexandria park. Less water park/ mini Less water golf which pool, Less wave is only open during the if I don’t care summer. with affiliated stay we unless Parks, NOVA to it is advantageous do so. to Alexandria
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Less asphalt, more Less asphalt, more permeable parking. and woods More soccer fewer wetlands, fields and baseball diamonds. around, Less sitting pools. wading fewer I will always take more take I will always of not a big fan I’m and picnic tables baseball cages. like We not sure. I’m features using various of public parks. of Impervious surface parking lot during the long off-season. Junk food Run Cameron Keep as it exactly operating is now. Kid activities can Less activities that only be done during a like the summer, park, mini-golf, water cages. batting Less amusement less concrete, parks, less buildings. golf, batting cage and cage batting golf, fishing in the lake. I need less of driving Eisenhower down a for and straining glance of Cameron Run behind a chain I need less link fence. of people not even there that recognizing to be nature is still and protected enjoyed in Alexandria. fields I think Hensley should be quickly and refurbished and no fields turfed, put on the Cameron site. Run Park
• • • • • • • • • • • • • I have no input on this I have since I am satisfied have. we with what used the I haven’t or picnic cage batting but I wouldn’t pavilion, them take to want those who from away do. there. what’s I like I don’t need the but lots playground do. I’m of other folks with the mini okay I don’t have idea I don’t have I don’t know I don’t see a need of any reduce to current the park’s offerings. I don’t use the batting at all, stuff type cage but suppose some do. a child I do not have but that age, of that as my change might child grows. I do t know any of any I do t know their activities so no comment I do not see how I do not see how as is the waterpark the Alexandria serves The community. in which it sits area more is becoming and densely populated Placing residential. the like something in Run Park Cameron Valley the Eisenhower ago 20 or 30 years made sense. It pulls the area, around from in Alexandria. not just makes It no longer sense in a densely where area populated a space is at green premium.
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banks being used • Organized sports • The pool. as dumps, trash programs • The same old water overflowing in the • Outdoor water park slides. I’m sure that parking lot, the land needs to go. It is not after two or three times near the parking lot attractive and I do at the water park the being used as an ugly not believe it serves slides get boring. dump. the residence (tax • The site is strictly • No comment. payers) of the City of limited by its size and • No disturbing the Alexandria. location. Its noisy, a natural areas. • Parades pool is a good match • No more ball parks. • Parents who don’t for the site. Ball field • No more limited watch their children. would also work, but use facilities like the • Passive parks not many will fit with waterpark which is • Perfect as is. the parking needed. seasonal and provides • Perhaps an area for • The water park as it little benefit to the volleyball games current stands. community • Playgrounds • The water park is out • No more outdoor water • Seasonal activities that of date and not useful park are closed 8 months of 75% of the time. Most • No more soccer fields. the year. users are from outside We have more than • Seasonal recreation. the city. Alexandria enough and they go We need to utilize the should recapitalize this unused for most of the space to be accessible land. A rec center could year. and usable all year charge a nominal fee to • No suggestions. It’s a round. offset costs. nice place. • Soccer and baseball • The water park that is • None fields that are reserved leased out for almost • None, we love it all. for only those uses no money. • None. • Soccer fields • The wave pool is • None. Everything is • Soccer fields, baseball/ dangerous, get rid of perfect. I have an older softball diamonds it. Rip out the whole child that loves the • Soccer fields. Kid water park. Also fix slides and the wave activities over $10. drainage issues in the pool. And a younger • Sports fields and other mini golf space if there child that needs more high-intensity use is enough room to keep of the kiddie pools. facilities. it • None. Prefer no • Summer camp groups • There is so much reduction in activities. in the pool. building along • Not sure • Swimming eisenhower...but the • Not sure how to answer • Swimming and water natural amenities that, I like everything parks. and open structures • Not sure. • The City should lease aren’t keeping up. The • Nothing this long term. NOVA city’s lack of balance is • Nothing other than Parks does a great job. apparent. We are not move away from the • The city even the golden downtown expensive wave pool considering shutting but need a voice • Nothing. the park down and some focused • Open Space • The city threatening to attention. This is an • Organized sport areas. take back Great Waves opportunity for the city • Organized sports from NVRPA. to improve in a positive • The full waterpark way. 120 Appendix C: Survey 1 121 soccer and baseball/ softball fields I think special events, in people who live should have Alexandria priority in parking and to the park. in getting are fine the activities however are, as they the park is so poorly it that maintained not worth is really visiting. pool--the the wave limited is too usage the and doesn’t meet of needs of citizens Alexandria do not need more we ball programs, swim fields or organized activity spaces don’t need more we soccer alexandria fields, IMO. into something we we something into don’t need! playing organized fields such as soccer, - baseball, etc. plenty are There in of these already could that Alexandria and be improved with supplemented to sports lighting hours available extend park water outdoor parking sand
• • • • • • • • • • no complaints not sure nothing nothing open space, special have We etc. events, in the city other sites this way designated no sense and it makes Run turn Cameron to baseball field baseball fields soccer fields batting cages batting think of anything can’t well - organized in the enough except department. food it up set need to Really the move can so you an expert Hire crowds. ideas. you give to parking lots hot gross all the been to i have parks. pools and many and all great are they things different offer admission increased fees less fields. Those baseball diamonds, empty soccer fields are of the time. most mini-golf na space. Couldn’t the space. Couldn’t the city balance freeing recreation up more space and maintaining closing one parking by lane on Eisenhower on summer Ave serve to weekends as parking? Traffic typically are volumes on the weekend light Ave. on Eisenhower Whistles are ball fields that 80% of the time empty
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • While the large parking parking large the While lot is needed on some summer weekends, it ties up a lot of Water slides seemed slides seemed Water underutilized sports Water mini sand Waterpark golf structures Waterpark park Wave park Wave pool Wave pool. Wave don’t use the We cages. batting Water park that park that Water the city money costs a lot of and attracts outside people from Parking Alexandria. during the summer difficult. be can park, batting Water cages. golf. park. Mini Water park. Would Water an rec it was rather with an aquatic center facility. Water Park, putt-putt putt-putt Park, Water golf park Water park & mini golf Water park activities. Water park and mini Water golf park as it Water is currently park so Water be to 90’s...needs with the redeveloped times Things like soccer Things like fields and night We need lighting. by dog park lighting and some grass, of poisonous instead mention mulch. Not to picnic table. a new
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9. What future uses do you envision in the Park? (Example: sports, swim opportunities, social programs, etc.)
• (6) n/a basket ball this would • An indoor soccer/ • (3) Swim opportunities at least cover close to lacrosse fields would • (3) Water park all year round activities be of great benefit to • (3) swim opportunities • A place like Chinquapin the area and could be • (2) N/a - with a variety of year used year round. All the • (2) Soccer round recreational Alexandria based sports • (2) Social programs activities. teams have to travel • (2) Swim • A public access pool or to Chantilly, Rockville • (2) Swim water park is a great or Dulles for a decent • (2) Swimming use, but it has to be indoor facility. It could • A big playground with cost effective for all. be used in winter and some water springer • A small nature park summer. over the summer with educational • Any of these sound • A big, nice play programs unique to the good. structure like the one area. • Better walking and at Lee Rec Center • A sports field would be running trails that are that’s located outside nice for maybe some lit and maintained. of Great Waves could soccer football Less trash. Better use be a cool addition. • A year-round rec of space for year round Maybe something center. use. Indoor rec space. retro we don’t see • Access to nature. No outdoor water park much anymore, like a • After hours programs • Bigger better swimpark tetherball court? That for adults. • Canoes! Kayaks! Stand would be fun! • Again something for Up Paddle boards! • A mix of spaces - the community, a rec Hiking trail by the river. perhaps renovate center with a pool Fishing. waterpark, expand • Alexandria needs a • Central citywide facility jogging trails around space like the kids with 50 meter pool park, and improve choose sportsplex • Club sports would be parking lot aesthetics in Woodbridge. great and signage Everything in one place • Community center, • A multiplex activity and the space is there indoor swim center to include on Eisenhower opportunities, sports, a water park, • All examples above. walking and rec. soccer,lacrosse and 122 Appendix C: Survey 1 123 I envision a community a community I envision park that oriented includes swimming sports lessons/events, and competitions, gatherings. community and hope I envision Run Cameron that Water as a continues park. And Wave I can see sport I can and swimming opportunities in the future. people I don’t feel about the know or existence park’s I think capabilities. some people probably up not kept think it’s haven’t if they even it. been to close I don’t live take enough to of any advantage programs. I don’t see a better the space, it’s use for when packed always I go. How deep is the Lake? is the Lake? deep How Could it be used for paddle boats? see teams, I DO NOT! noisy lights, bright parking lots crowded traffic, more creating that etc teenagers the park less make youngster. my for safe alone! it Please leave fishing, Birdwatching, would groups walking be great! trips, see scout I can and court orienteering Perhaps frisbee golf. some healthier snack - though I do options their hot dogs LOVE choices! and ice cream
• • • • • • • • • Hopefully some Hopefully an Just Frisbee golf. able are idea, if you the try and expand to walking just park, even across trails, or bike into tracks the railroad the piece of land that unused. looks Expand the waterpark Expand the waterpark is what and improve offered. currently Expanded, maybe swimming year-round venues. Expansion of waterpark hours. Extended mid- until Maybe September? Fun nights, Family out, etc. night parent’s friendly events Family Festivals Festivals? the remain it to For same and include and Sports (gymnastics cheer) it is. the way Happy Educational nature nature Educational hiking, programming, running trails nature Enjoying A Everything! that center recreation the whole family is for includes sports, that a program, swimming birthday do can a place parties, arts program... passive uses (so fields passive & batting & courts but also simply cages, walk places to pleasant or sit or picnic & do it off -- make not fence year all it welcoming it just now long. Right uninviting. looks
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • Continued waterpark waterpark Continued recreation. and water winter to Convert possibly ice sports like sledding, snow skating, tubing, etc. are offerings Current amazing Dog park, picnic areas, resource natural classes world Dream scenarios: (1) create for center an aquatics the city - an indoor with pool competition be could amenities - meets swim used for as lessons - as well the complement to park water outdoor with all it surround and trails; walking great the playground make & usable all year the water convert fun pop up park into uses in the off season (pop up ice rink? pop art & craft up holiday (2) build a market?) there high school new along with a pool and to center a nature of the advantage take environment natural one field least and at with the (3) In keeping of the changing nature like it more make area, an urban oasis park - & with mix of active Community space, usage round year Concerts Concerts, fundraisers, the such with Continue don’t We waterpark. other use/attend activities/events.
• • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• I envision it will city should have some enough fields for kids continue to be used as profit. There must to participate in City a waterpark and heavy be more than three Rec sports. Baseball recreation area months of full access. fields seem to be at a • I envision the park • I think additions to shortage, in addition to remaining as it is, with the great waves pool soccer and lacrosse. great waves, mini-golf, area with more swim • I would enjoy more batting cages, and options would be social activities and Paradise Play. perfect programs for all ages • I feel that Cameron • I think it would be including adults with or Run Park and Great nice if a sand area was without children. Waves provide plenty added for smaller kids • I would like it if they of fun, exercise and to enjoy as well. added a go kart relaxation for all that • I think that the park raceway. Something attend. I think there are area is a great asset to that can be done in all enough programmed the area. seasons. There is only events throughout the • I think the area needs a a few months where area for those that park that is essentially a the park is open. The want that structured large, open green space batting cages could be events. Cameron Run with well maintained open all year along with is for fun as I see it and walking/running trails, the mini golf (at least doesn’t need to provide a dogpark, perhaps on weekends) competitive programs some sports fields, • I would like new that are accessible and maybe even water pitching machines, new elsewhere. fountains (like the bats and helmets, new • I hope not a thing Yard park in DC). I just golf clubs, new sodding • I hope to continue don’t want the place for the mini golf course coming every summer completely turned and all maintenance with our kidsto enjoy into soccer fields and needs to be regularly the waterpark blocked off from public announced to the • I like it just as it is - a use to “preserve” the public. I will not use place the community fields. the water park because can come to swim - • I think the present uses the rest of the park is including camps, mini should be maintained so poorly maintained golf and the batting without major changes. that I don’t trust no cages. • I think we can get too the be made sick, • I like the park the way involved in specialty or possibly severely it is. activities. Perhaps injured. I would like it • I like the swimming, offering zoomba or if an area was added batting cages and mini- yoga in an outdoor with fountains and pre- golf that is currently area! filled water balloons offered. • I wish Great Waves and maybe even • I like ve it how it is had more swimming colorful water guns that • I think a ten year areas. Lazy river. could be purchased or lease would be Would be nice if there rented. Water cannons appropriate while the was more accessibility built into the park city determines a new for residents to do would be cool. course of action. Or other activities, though • I would like the water simply let NOVA Parks I am not sure there park to stay. I like that it run the site. They have is enough land. The has an infant area, and the expertise. But the city does not provide slides in shallow water. 124 Appendix C: Survey 1 125 It would be great to to be great It would space into turn that baseball, softball and for fields recreational sports. youth Indoor swimming, exercise trails, walking all be classes, would be nice if the nice. It’d to connect park could Hensley. pool going Is the wave would Why away? rid get Alexandria of one of the best and only destination area? the in attractions a balance have It could passive between activities (such as hiking, walking, etc.) active and more activities (such as sports, organized etc.). playgrounds enough It offers an for enjoyment week plus of entire in a degree fun I have Parks and Recreation once there. Make sure sure Make once there. nothing bad happens remarkable the two to rare or the locally trees woodlands, in the flora and this includes once Cook Lake around ivy English the invasive the from is removed the junk trees, existing the from is removed marked ironically area “no dumping” and on the north the area of is cleared shore Once plants. invasive the junk and invasives the locally gone, are see fit might flora rare out. spread to
• • • • • If you keep the keep If you pools, open them lessons for swim to youth underserved and adults. If you the pools, bulldoze keeping consider golf the miniature the but restoring was that woodland If the current park is If the current a steady welcoming of people, flow nothing should be it should changed, in use the remain it is now. same way Clearly people the current appreciate situation. adult have If they look I may programs this Before them. into hadn’t I really survey of it. You thought should do more guys Maybe promotion! social media attention help, especially in may the summer. is forecasting for is forecasting West. Eisenhower see more to like I’d social and community Not just activities here. swimming. sure. not I’m happy perfectly I’m with the current opportunities and uses, so long as is area the natural protected. does If Alexandria the lease not extend will Parks, NOVA to the Carlyle House go This historic away? house is an important and in Alexandria asset the region.
• • • • • • • I’d like a better a better like I’d walking continuous to connecting trail the Holmes Run/ and Network Tarleton And it is Hensley. to is a need clear there community a large for facility recreation in this space, not to the existing exceed The water footprint. park does not serve the professional the city population I would love a lap pool. love I would see to love I would the at themed days Military waterpark. day... teachers day, more offer Maybe etc. promotions...free birthday. on your day do more to love I’d the pond picnics at more were if there and areas clean eating benches. I would like to see to like I would park water more but they features, the expand need to parking. I would like to see to like I would Run remain Cameron with a waterpark, the addition of new features see it to like I would as it is. remain see to like I would facilities, aquatic more in round, open year the Given the City. lot (and if public large access transportation be improved), could special more host (concerts, events etc). races,
• • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• It would be nice to have • Larger or additional year round that just more swim activities pool - maybe a summer) activities to include aqua classes swimming pool only... • More year round for adults and seniors. added area on grass activities, more Family oriented aqua for lawn games or open space. A small classes as well. exercise.. splashpark for summer • It would be nice to • Larger wave pool. More would be nice as well incorporate swim water slides. as a playground. opportunities, altough • Lazy River floating, an • Mostly swim and sport. to do so would require area for water guns, • Multi use recreational a lap lane pool since • Lazy river facility with pool and there is not one • Less common indoor/ indoor soccer field, avalible. outdoor activities perhaps a gym facility • Just keep up with the (Archery, trapeze, too. Trails, playground, existing park so ppl can paintball, air rifle) and picnic areas continue to enjoy it Differentiate this space outside. This combo • Just nature. from all the other parks would create year long • Keep as is. in the area. This space use and attract locals • Keep it as a waterpark has great potential for to this very central accessible to the city’s sports that can not location. kids. be accommodated in • Multipurpose • Keep it as a waterpark! most urban areas, that • NA This area needs to have could set Alexandria • NO sports. We’ve recreational activities apart from surrounding got that huge new for the kids and families jurisdictions. park behind the Land to use. This is more • Maybe a lazy river raft Rover dealer by the than a pool. We enjoy float train tracks, plus the wave pool, but • Maybe a pool and all Ben Brenman. I’d have also had family year athletic facility. really prefer keeping reunions at the pavilion No soccer league fields Cameron like it is now. and have spent time - that’s replacing one NOTE - Q#9 is laid out at the mini golf. My devil for another. Also really badly. I’d give a family will spend the trails and common 10 to Passive Uses, but day there and not have areas on your scale 10 means to spend too much • Maybe social programs. active so I left it at one money. • Mix of pool, park and for mostly passive uses. • Keep it the way it is. play structures, dog • Nature jogging and bike Wave pool! park and nature paths. tails. Better developed • Keep the Wave Pool! • More Slides lake. • Keep the hiking/ • More of the same. • Nature preserve walking trails. But • More special events • Nature programs add something like an races, concerts. focused on the indoor rec center that • More swimming and lake would be fun, could include things sports opportunities such as fishing like batting cages, • More swimming and birdwatching, swimming pool, fully opportunities (not laps, discussions about equipped gym etc. but things like a splash native plants. I’m not • Keep the waterpark! park), opportunities for sure there’s room, but • Keep what you have kids of various ages, sports fields would be a • Kickball leagues? year round (or more new addition.
126 Appendix C: Survey 1 127 Social activities for kids Social activities Social and swim (evenings Social events & weekends) Social gatherings Social programs and Social programs nature. See above... See above... accessible playground, center, community features. water free answers See previous 6 See question as is.... Seems great out Senior days Since I will probably use only be able to the park during lunch a nice having hours, eat to area outdoor me. I to is important think the park should active also be used for activities such as sports and swimming indoor Soccer, swimming, dog park maybe a water park which a water little sense in makes our dense city. Same as current. some of rehab Perhaps machines the pitching which and the bats, old. getting are way, the By above. See question regarding - the active #9 below DO uses absolutely hurt to have NOT the hiking, walking, fishing, birdwatching be uses can - BOTH on accommodated Look at this parcel! parks the gorgeous and Falls in Arlington Church!!!!!
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Recreation park , Recreation sports and different for kids. Big activities playground. climbing. Rock Running and biking Community trails. Literally center? other than anything Place to take children children take Place to church from for suitable Playground of ages. wide ranges Run Park Rocky Like Playgrounds, areas, play structured better kids activities, use of the ample space uses! Pool city for Programs residents Public pool, farmers biking/hiking market, like picnic areas trails, Ft. Ward Publicly accessible and more transit prices. competitive center Rec with center Recreation and social exercise and classes. programs people a chance to people a chance to can place they a have to be or be active to go them Give mediative. Limit choice. and space making the no one by one park space for recreation limited choice. the Open spaces for or low free public at cost events Organized for during the day open participation (perhaps all ages for activities one or two the add to to per day) fun!!
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • Open space is my Open space is my primary consideration. all The space gives Open area park, Open area nature trails, walking center Not sure. I suspect Not sure. use could Alexandria sports fields, more to want but I wouldn’t park. lose the water the Unfortunately, to parking lots have stay. it they Nothing keep it is way is what Nothing over there. already favorite One of my is the Splash parks in the Palisades, Park DC. Washington a great have They and center community garden. community to be great It would see some type of garden community at development Run. Cameron Nature walks, surveys, surveys, walks, Nature monitoring plant be a draw. Needs to should want People 7 miles 5 to drive to to want they because visit Nice park with Nice outdoor work. would no fee the batting Update cages. Not sure Nature walks, hikes, hikes, walks, Nature bird wild meadows, plant native watching, That restoration. outdoor offer would education recreation, quality and water benefits.
• • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• Social programs that • Sports, swim, social as a closer option for benefit everyone in the gatherings us up in this area for City of Alexandria. • Sports, swim, tennis. public swim. • Social programs, • Sports, swimming • Swim programs and arts & craft fairs, facilities, open space, social progrmad such as children’s birthday fields, rec center, a nature center parties, community playgrounds, social • Swim programs, play organization events, programs. groups, adult social performances, with • Sports, swimming. game meet ups, senior indoor year round • Sports. An ability programming like bird rental space and do some hiking and watching groups, horse outdoor covered rental running, while having a shoes, etc. space. field for kids. • Swim teams • Social programs. • Sports/exercise; and • Swim, golf • Social programs. A quiet reflection. • Swim, nature camps for drive in theater in the • Summer camp, swim, children summer would be a concert • Swim, play and climb great use of that huge • Swim (pool) and social • Swim, social, nature parking lot. programs open to the trails, play ground • Some year-round city residents. • Swim, water slides, programming, • Swim and social club batting cages, miniature better connections would be nice golf at Cameron Run. to immediate • Swim competition Velodrome at Potomac surroundings • Swim lessons for Yards and for grins • Special needs programs everyone. and giggles how about • Sports • Swim opportunities brining back go karts • Sports Swimming • Swim opportunities . to Eisenhower Ave and • Sports and swim • Swim opportunities and putting a roller skating opportunities special events (social rink there too. The city • Sports and swimming events would be great!) is pretty much void of • Sports complex, • Swim opportunities anything interesting to outdoor...look and see for older families or do unless one wants what other areas are even times for adult to shop in a bunch of doing to their place. I after hours Meet ups. subpar stores in Old am strongly aposed to For older adults as Town. keeping or improving well. We have a large • Swimming the water slide/water aging population that’s • Swimming and social park. It to me, is not physically fit or could activities useful and a waste of use the time to work • Swimming and sports our tax dollars. at being more active. • Swimming at the • Sports programs. That would be good for waterpark, minigolf • Sports, Swimming, lower income adults as • Swimming year round Ice Skating, and social well. + music in the spring gathering area. • Swim opportunities, summer & fall • Sports, swim, camps large playground. I • Swimming, mini-golf and classes for kids, think the place could and socializing open space use a facelift, but keep • Swimming. • Sports, swim, running the same amenities. • Swimming. Maybe a and other social • Swim opportunity lazy river. programs • Swim pool would be • Teen programs nice for sports. As well 128 Appendix C: Survey 1 129 corporate events, events, corporate open competitions, house Year round, full round, Year service recreation iideally with center, indoor courts, tennis pool, open gym space, community space, playground, to transit, connection share. bike exercise Year-round with swimming; facility and biking walking and facilities trails; all ages for programs As our use all year. to neighborhood density need to we increases, use our open space and efficiently more all year. it useful make & added grilling areas if they even pavilions, be rented. need to a full service again, would center rec ideally it be great. incorporate would and a courts tennis as there playground none in the are Valley Eisenhower current facility for new new for facility current uses. green round Year space center rec round Year fitness with physical for and social activities adults and children. round Year facilities, recreational i.e. Indoor pool, gym, court, basketball etc round Year facility. recreational facility swim area, Play
• • • • • • • • • Wish there were were Wish there year-round more opportunities. it be that prefer Would NVPA back from taken and used as a City park. to want Wouldn’t sacrifice aspects of Track and Updates of improvements park. existing WATERPARK related Waterpark uses I would Waterpark. water see new to like added. attractions pool, bocce Wave shoes, horse green, party cornhole, mini golf pavilion(s), Those things will happen - and never possibly might what happen will be at overpriced a way Our City govt cost. up has had screwed for decades. priorities - schools example For kids need help for in bad situations. school Building a new thing THE LAST was the City should’ve ask the done. Just people who admin Also, the programs. are the top salaries at have high. We too tax an ever-growing still teachers base, yet buy their own to have supplies. I don’t know overpaid you how night. people sleep at be you’ll sure I’m greed choking on your when the piper comes.
• • • • • • • • • • This water park. This water This park is in a prime be and should location outreach/ doing more to social programs to the community get this park more attend regularly. The waterpark and The waterpark uses the other existing should remain fishing here? There’s My husband would know to liked have that. This is not a City which has Park local for responsibility swim sports, organized is This etc. programs spots one of the few where in the region hold a large one can with food social event, a and loud music at cost. reasonable The possibilities are The possibilities are endless, but maybe an indoor recreation the off during center season?! park--I’d The water see it open to love as long as weather permits. And there be a lot of seems to it that land around be used for could other things The Park is great as it is great The Park configured. is currently Slides in new Maybe the future. provided The examples are in this question I in place; already the park to envision on same continue it’s that trajectory been on.
• • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• full service rec center • nice to have something • swimming, lounging, that is integrated with that could be used for picnic, mini-golf the surrounding area a longer portion of the • the natural areas via walking paths, season, like a larger of the park should pocket parks, nature playground. be left alone. If any trails, etc. It would • none “improvements” should also be great to install • none. be made, they should a community garden in • open and flexible include signage on the the north east corner recreational space, valuable plants and of the Lake Cook site, year-round recreation plant communities that which is not included facility, remain in the park. in the upcoming Lake • outdoor swimming pool • walking and biking Cook project. The • over 21 parties, night trails, garden would be a events, still utilize the • want the park to stay lovely addition and is existing pools and golf open another resource that and all the current • waterpark is not widely available facilities parkas to improvements- more in the city. it would offer. ‘ shade, more parking, also contribute to • play grounds, better more rides. greenspace and aid sidewalk and bike path, • waterpark. please in stormwater run off more green space. don’t close the being filtered through Gardens. waterpark the ground. • rec center/aquatic • would like more • full service recreation center gatherings for 50+ folks center with a fitness • recreation, swimming, • year round indoor/ center, classroom wildlife habitat for outdoor pool space, community native plant and animal • year-round recreation spaces, tennis courts, species facility similar to indoor gym (basketball/ • retain the water park the Chinquapin Park volleyball), ideally • social Recreation Center & an indoor pool with • social programs Aquatics Facility swim lessons, capital • social programs bikeshare, improved landscaping (flowers/ public transit access trees) • full service recreation • social programs, center, this area of the holiday themed city is underserved • social programs, • live entertainment swimming/water safety would be good programs • maybe another pool • social programs, theme (without waves and days, special events. deeper than the back • sports and swimming. pool) just for swimming • swim and social and relaxing • swim opportunities • more family events. sports • more swim • swim opportunties opportunities sports • more waterpark • swim, golf attractions • swim, social • nature walks • swim, sports • swimming 130 Appendix C: Survey 1 131 7 (43 votes, 11%) 7 (43 votes, 9%) 8 (38 votes, 7%) 9 (28 votes, 16%) 10 (66 votes, 0 (10 votes, 2%) 0 (10 votes, 3%) 1 (14 votes, 4%) 2 (17 votes, 7%) 3 (28 votes, 8%) 4 (31 votes, 21%) 5 (84 votes, 11%) 6 (43 votes, 10. Rank your preference for use types in the park. (Passive: Hiking walking, fishing, birdwatching, Hiking walking, fishing, birdwatching, use types in the park. (Passive: for preference 10. Rank your etc.) fields, sports, playgrounds, Organized Active: etc.; CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
How did we communicate to the community about the survey?
• City website
• Direct emails to stakeholders
• Flyers in local stores, apartment complexes, and community centers
Cameron Run Park Planning Flyer Distribution Locations
1 28 29
27 21 36 33 22 38
30 2 40
3 7 19 16 4 20 31 24 18 23 6 17 5 35 37 9 15 14 8 41 42 43 12 13 39 Key 10 25 flyer hung 11 26 flyer not hung - email sent 34 flyer awaiting approval flyer prohibited
132 Appendix C: Survey 1 133 Status Status Status Status Status Status Status flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer hung flyer prohibited flyer prohibited flyer flyer prohibited flyer awaiting approval flyer awaiting approval flyer awaiting approval flyer awaiting approval flyer awaiting approval flyer awaiting approval flyer email - not hung sent flyer email - not hung sent flyer email - not hung sent flyer email - not hung sent flyer prohibited, left staff for flyer prohibited, left staff for staff for left prohibited, flyer staff for left prohibited, flyer flyer prohibited, left for staff for left prohibited, flyer flyer prohibited, left staff for flyer prohibited, left staff for flyer prohibited, left staff for Phone Phone Phone Phone Phone Phone Phone (703)-548-0611 (703)-416-3837 (703)-836-0380 (703)-549-6611 (855)-955-2534 (703)-518-4797 (703)-706-3840 (703)-746-5553 (703)-746-5552 (703)-746-5559 (703)-746-5550 (703)-746-4570 (703)-746-5556 (571)-447-7211 (703)-739-9268 (571)-317-1600 (703)-838-8085 (703)-317-0013 (703)-329-2323 (703)-960-2000 (703)-739-0557 (703)-794-2086 (703)-519-7678 451-0287 (571) (703)-461-4747 (703)-706-0891 (7030-751-4827 (703)-370-4856 (703)-461-6198 (703)-461-7082 listed not (703)-824-5205 (571)-312-0029 (703)-578-7850 (703)-578-7840 (703)-370-7200 (703)-879-6123 (703)-751-7733 (703)-461-3636 (703)-751-2660 (703)-751-4100 (703)-567-2151 Address Address Address Address Address Address Address 2950 Eisenhower Avenue 2700 Eisenhower Avenue 2460 Eisenhower Avenue 1700 Street Duke 299 Van Dorn Street Road 5730 Edsall 3131 Street Duke 4641 Street Duke 4600 Street Duke Street 3680 King Street 3526 King 612 Street N St. Asaph 735 Street N St. Asaph Street 500 S Royal 600 Franklin Street 425 E Monroe Avenue Road Glebe 621 E Highway Davis 3101 Jeffeson Street 3210 King 901 Street Wythe 5750 Sanger Avenue Street 1108 Jefferson 105 Union Street 2701 Commonwealth Avenue Ave 5782 Dow 2300 Avenue Mt Vernon Drive Run 305 Hooffs 420 E Monroe Avenue 5708 Merton Court 5708 Merton Street #200935 Dorn N Van 205 Century Place Street 140 Dorn S Van Road 5803 Edsall 300 Yoakum Parkway 101 N Street Ripley West 5000 Eisenhower 2121 Jamieson Avenue Road 2201 Mill Street Carlyle 800 John 501 Holland Lane 431 Street S Columbus 4840 Eisenhower Avenue Name Name Name Name Name Name Name St. Elmo's Coffee Pub St. Coffee Elmo's Fitness OneLife YMCA Springhill Suites by Marriott Courtyard by Marriott Holiday Inn Alexandria Carlyle - Trader Joes Teeter Harris Safeway Balducci's Aldi Giant Target Chinquapin Recreation Park Center & Aquatics Facility Center Recreation Houston Charles Center Nature Ford "Buddie" Jerome Nannie J. Lee Therapeudic - Recreation Center Art Factory Torpedo Center Recreation Vernon Mount Starbucks Carlyle Mill Apartments Carlyle 800 Carlyle Post Carlyle Square Town Old at Heritage atExchange Van Dorn Whole Foods Market Safeway Giant Giant Teeter Harris Aldi The FreshMarket Safeway The Pavilion at Mark Center Mark at Pavilion The Run Willow The Point at Alexandria EOS-21 Apartments Landmark Terrace Apartments Cascade at Landmark Apartments 101 North Ripley Apartments Apartments Eisenhower Reserve at The Towers Carlyle 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 38 39 40 41 42 43 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 34 35 36 37 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Flyer Distribution List Gyms Hotels Recreation centers Coffee Shops Condominium Complexes Grocery Stores Apartment Complexes CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
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134 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX D: SURVEY 2
Survey 2
ResponseQuestion Counts: 1 331 (City of Alexandria Residents)
1. What is your home zip code?
Percentages of Diagram Choices Alexandria Residents Responses
22311 2.8% 9 22312 1.2% 4 22304 45.3% 148 22301 13.8% 45 22314 18.3% 60 22305 8.3% 27 22302 9.8% 32 22206 0.6% 2
Total responses 100.0% 327 1. What is your home zip code?
22206
22302
22305
22314
22301
22304
22312
22311
0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0% 35.0% 40.0% 45.0% 50.0%
135 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Question2. Have you 2 used Cameron Run Regional Park in the past 12 months?
Percentages of Diagram Choices Alexandria Residents Responses
Yes 65.0% 212 No 35.0% 114
Total responses 100.0% 326
2. Have you used Cameron Run Regional Park in the past 12 months?
No 35%
Yes 65%
Yes No
136 Appendix C: Survey 2 137
35 26 95 86 28 95 35 517 117 Responses
6.8% 6.8% 5.0% 5 2 8 3 2 4 1 1 5.4% 26 22.6% 18.4% 16.6% 18.4% 100.0% Residents Alexandria Percentages of of Percentages
paradise
pickup
3 3 Write in Write
-
Total Other responses:Other None Trails Bike mentioned) (dogsWalking not Dogs with Walking Biking Running Girl scout cookie viewing goings there on Mini Golf Mini Batting Cages Fishing at Lake Cook Visiting natural areas Kids play area (known as play) Pavilions and shelter Picnic Other responsesTotal Diagram Choices Slides Pool/Water Wave
Question 3. What have you used? you have 3. What CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
3. What have you used? 3. What have you used? 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0%
Wave Pool/Water Slides
Mini Golf
Batting Cages
Fishing at Lake Cook
Visiting natural areas
Kids play area (known as paradise play)
Picnic shelter and Pavilions
Other -Write in
138 Appendix C: Survey 2 139
75+ 65 to 74 55 to 64 45 to 54
16% 45 38 14 79 96 36 18 57 140 768 119 126 13% 10 to 14 10 to 35 to 44 5 to 9 5 to Responses 5% 15 to 19 15 to 25 to 34
2% 20 to 24 20 to 10% 20 to 24
Under Age 5 7% 25 to 34 25 to 2% 5.9% 4.9% 1.8% 4.7% 2.3% 7.4% 75+ 18.2% 10.3% 12.5% 15.5% 16.4% 100.0% 15 to 19 Percentages of of Percentages 5% 65 to 74 65 to Alexandria Residents 10 to 14
16% are in your household? household? your in are 35 to 44 35 to
6% 5 to 9
55 to 64 55 to 18% 45 to 54 45 to
4. Counting yourself, how many people many how yourself, 4. Counting
4 4
Under Age 5
to 74
Total responsesTotal 10 to 14 15 to 19 20 to 24 25 to 34 35 to 44 45 to 54 55 to 64 65 75+ Diagram Choices Under Age 5 5 to 9
Question 4. Counting yourself, how many people are in your household? in are people many how yourself, 4. Counting CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Question 5 5. Have you previously been involved with this Cameron Run Park planning process?
Percentages of Diagram Choices Alexandria Residents Responses
No 82.0% 269 Yes 18.0% 59
Total responses 100.0% 328 5. Have you previously been involved with this Cameron Run Park planning process?
Yes 18%
No 82%
No Yes
140 Appendix C: Survey 2 141
21 38 38 97 Responses
I attended a public meeting I completed the last survey the and/or staff city with communicated I directly project consultant
21.6% 39.2% 39.2% 100.0% 39% Percentages of of Percentages Alexandria Residents
I attended a public meeting
39% 6. If yes, how so? how yes, If 6. 22%
consultant I completed survey the last I completed city staff and/or the project the project staffcity and/or I directly communicated with communicated I directly 6 6 responses
I directly communicated with city consultant the project staff and/or Total Diagram Choices I publicattended a meeting I completed the last survey
Question 6. If yes, how so? how 6. If yes, CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Question 7 7. The majority of feedback so far has shown that the following items should be included in any version of Cameron Park of the future. Please indicate whether you agree.
Diagram Choices Responses Yes Responses No
Improved path system through natural area 287 25 Improved maintenance of vegetation 271 34 Improved maintenance of existing water park (if retained) 254 50 Improved trash collection for entire site 275 29 Year-round elements 280 32
Total responses 1367 170 7. The majority of feedback so far has shown that the following items should be included in any version of Cameron Park of the future. Please indicate whether you agree.
Year-round elements
Improved trash collection for entire site
Improved maintenance of existing water park (if retained)
Improved maintenance of vegetation
Improved path system through natural area
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 YES NO
142 Appendix C: Survey 2 143
8. Prioritize Park Elements - Below is a list of the most frequently requested park elements that the that park elements requested frequently most of the is a list - Below Elements Park 8. Prioritize are most us which park elements Tell during our initial meetings. for Community asked Alexandria important. 11 is least important 1 is mst below. the list ranking by you to important CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Question 9 9. If you had a budget to spend however you wished on the park, how would you allocate your budget? Assume you had 100 “Park bucks” how would you spend your budget based on the proportional costs of the items below.
Diagram Choices Percentages Responses
$10 - Walking – nature path network 15% 184 $10 - Improve maintenance of facilities at existing park 12% 141 $10 - Improve trash collection – refuse management on site 12% 147 $10 - Improve existing water park facilities 10% 120 $10 - Improve vegetation maintenance 13% 155 $10 - Picnic pavilion 10% 122 $30 - Sports fields (Includes demolition for existing facilities and maintains existing parking) 8% 98 $60 - Open lawn areas with trees – unprogrammed space (includes demolition for existing facilities and maintains some existing parking) 5% 65 $60 - Outdoor Olympic Pool (includes demolition of wave pool) 4% 51 $70 - Recreation Center (no pool - includes demolition of existing facilities) 4% 43 $90 - Parking deck with 2 levels of parking and one sport field on roof 1% 12 $100 - Indoor Aquatic Center (includes demolition of existing facilities and maintains existing parking) 5% 66
Total responses 9. If you had a budget to spend however you wished on the park, how would you allocate100% your budget?1204 Assume you had 100 “Park bucks” how would you spend your budget based on the proportional costs of the items below. Please check the boxes that apply but $90 - Parking deck with 2 levels of $100 - Indoor Aquatic Center parking and one sport field on roof, (includes demolition of existing 1% facilities and maintains existing $70 - Recreation Center (no pool - parking), 5% includes demolition of existing facilities), 4% $10 - Walking – nature path network, 15% $60 - Outdoor Olympic Pool (includes demolition of wave pool), 4% $10 - Improve maintenance of $60 - Open lawn areas with trees facilities at existing park, 12% – unprogrammed space (includes demolition for existing facilities and maintains some existing parking), 5%
$30 - Sports fields (Includes $10 - Improve trash collection demolition for existing – refuse management on site, facilities and maintains 12% existing parking), 8%
$10 - Picnic pavilion, 10% $10 - Improve existing water $10 - Improve vegetation park facilities, 10% maintenance, 13%
144
Appendix C: Survey 2 145
94 45 33 44 56 372 100
Responses
sport -
Olympic Pool with one Multi-sport Field Water Park with Major Structural Changes sport Fields
12%
sport Field 25% Field - 9% 8.9% 25.3% 12.1% 11.8% 15.1% 26.9% Two Multi- 100.0%
Percentages
Olympic Pool with one Multi Aquatic Aquatic Center with Multi
12%
Area Park Open Space/Natural
Two Multi-sport Fields Water Park with Improvements
sport Field - sport Field 27% - Changes the Cameron Run Park of of the future. Park Run the Cameron
15%
of the six diagrams below that most closely represent your desire for for desire your represent closely most that below of the six diagrams
Improvements Water Park with Major Structural MajorPark Structural Water with
Water Park with Improvements ParkWater with sport Fields sport
- 10
Aquatic Center with Multi-sport Field Park Area Space/Natural Open
Olympic withPool one Multi Park Area Open Space/Natural with Park Water Changes Major Structural with Park Water Total responses Diagram Choices Aquatic Center with Multi Multi Two
Question 10. Click one or twoof the six diagrams below that most closely represent your desire for the Cameron the Cameron for desire your closely represent most that below the six diagrams 10. Click one or twoof of the future. Run Park 10. 10. one Click or two CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
11. Is there anything else you would like to share about this planning process?
• Keep as much natural area as possible. Huge sports complex with it’s parking destroys yet another natural area. Big (ugly) art objects only serve to further obliterate natural beauty for man-made junk. Don’t. • Would like a free playground at this park. Near picnic shelters. Improve waterpark facilities/ bathrooms to include family bathroom and changing areas (at least 2!). • I’d like to see an indoor facility that has at least a wavepool and two sand volleyball courts under a retractable roof for year-round operation! • Improved and more diverse food options. • Swimming facilities must be a priority - swimming is a life-saving skill. Alexandria has in my opinion, a sacred responsibility to afford every single city resident the opportunity to learn this life-saving skill. The current aquatic facilities are totally inadequate for the size of our population. The existing facilities are crumbling and kind of gross, to be honest. This life-saving skill happens to also serve as recreation. This is a double return on the city’s investment. Alexandria is a historic port city, water is the very reason for its existence - the river connects each of us to Alexandria’s history and significance. The ability to swim is and must continue to be part of that legacy. • Thanks for making this easy to weigh in. • The multi sport facility is the best use of the space • It’s great to have costs associated with the park planning choices - please continue this as planning and public engagement goes forward! • The ability to use the park all year and to serve more Alexandria residents living in that part of the city is most important to me. • The waterpark is a vital part of our community. The nearest waterpark outside of Alexandria is Pirate’s Cove, which is 35 minutes away, which is too far to drive for a water adventure. And Pirates Cove doesn’t have a wave pool or climbing structure which is hugely popular with the kids. The city has plenty of fields, pools, and recreation centers. We only have one waterpark and it just CANNOT be demolished. • Would be great if indoor recreation center could incorporate some indoor courts for soccer or futsal. Futsal would probably be more practical because the court could then be used for basketball too.
146 Appendix C: Survey 2 147 Keep me posted on all developments. Interested in staying part of the planning process. in staying Interested on all developments. me posted Keep process. iterative I think this has been a good I like this idea -- finally improving a park that the city already had before building another had before city already the a park that this idea -- finally improving I like park. feasible it should top of parking lot is If adding a field on park should be maintained. Water be done. No comment. for this space. up with viable options come job with trying to has done a tremendous Baker be preserved must they our thriving community, to vital are resources outdoor Alexandrias areas rec and free areas gathering opinion, outdoor possible. In my wherever and expanded need them all along with we pools, but frankly wave than pay-for-access important more are mulch pit and the adjacent into be expanded them. Can this project accommodate space to ? street the across field area Parks. Nova on the lease with of time left a quick decision, plenty rush into not to kid my I used it as a kid and now take it in the area. else like park--nothing the water I love remain! must there--it The city has a lack of sports fields for kids that are open and not locked up. open and not locked are for kids that The city has a lack of sports fields new things add a to change want you then. If improve facilities, just the existing Leave center indoor aquatic younger for the slides - the features some different park should consider I think the water because of to visit with multiple kids section is difficult but the wave wonderful kids are concerns. safety of doing instead resources existing job of maintaining do a better the city to like I would the dugouts have to Softball needs Ben Brenman Example, facility. at one major renovations covered. is a necessary nearby a playground with the multi-sport that go I think if the city decides to feature. City residents deserve discounted admission rates discounted deserve City residents first. there I think the schools should build a school other in have we already building facilities space to open green maintaining prefer Strongly by. goes as time maintain to parts of the city and which will be costly such as this initiatives publicize to better needs The city be rational. seems to The process their the City Council will interject is whether concern public input. The real maximize to the process. and override and agenda prejudices very little diamond. Come up square, many are on fields. There see a survey to like I would focus on Alexandria we (multi-use). Do these better share to and a way set data with a good of the square outside of the city? Most include users/leagues activities that or adult youth a private run like and are public, but charge are they maintain leagues that used by are to It is a disadvantage citizens. Alexandria and by volunteers not staff, with full time entities, wherein the sport activities recreational and need want who youth and citizens volunteer a for youth development and normal team building skills, activity, healthy promote is to goal student/citizen. rounded well I can’t believe you’re even THINKING of getting rid of the water park!!! We have nothing else have We park!!! water rid of the of getting THINKING even you’re believe I can’t else Everything go. we whenever packed our kids. It’s popular with hugely it, and it’s like without any usually in the city, exists already etc.) rec centers, (fields, pools, is proposed that shortage. generate park should water to include the continues deal that Any critical. usability is All year city. the for meaningful revenue this spending for No new round. year be used can that center aquatics large need of a The city is in desperate
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• I’d like to see: 1. More potential plans 2. More done with the area on the top right 3. More possibilities for an open air park and rec Center/ aquatic center combo 4. More options that include getting rid of the existing lease format and having the city make money from the waterpark. • Thank you for being open, thorough and listening closely. I would love to see a full service recreation center at the park. • Don’t take away aquatics. There are plenty of natural spaces and trails in the city already. • Please please please - try not to create MORE built environment! We need more natural areas, places that can help us withstand the stress of our congested streets, traffic, busy lives, and increased infill development. We begged for natural space to be retained in the PH project and instead got a Rec Center doubled in size and a turf sport field which is of little use to those who prefer to recreate al fresco. I know there are competing recreational interests in the City, but I beg you to retain and improve our natural areas as a needed antidote to modern urban life, as must as you can. Use the wave pool to generate income! • Need Olympic pool for city. • Would love to see a community garden in the Northwest corner of Lake Cook. Would rather not retain the water park. Is it possible to build a rec center and a traditional outdoor pool instead? • Disconnect re: keeping citizens that have expressed interest in the process advised of what’s next in a timely manner. • I would like a recreation center with an inside pool. It will more beneficial. • I picked the last option above as the best of the options, but I think it is still lacking. I think incorporating a playground is a good idea and needed in the valley - over keeping the batting cages or mini golf. I also do not like the idea of turning that corner of land next to Lake Cook into a “native meadow”. It is a dumping ground today for trash, and unless that space is turned into something more usable, I fear it will continue to be used as a dumping ground. Lastly, I am wary of city’s use of sports fields. Historically, when the city has converted space to sports fields, they lock up the fields and prevent the public from using them or walking on them, presumably to reduce the maintenance of those fields. The, the fields sit empty for much of the day when not in use. The city desperately needs green park space accessible to the community. I theoretically have no objection to sports fields, but would encourage the city to be careful to avoid designing a space for no other purpose than sports fields - keep the space open, and accessible to the community. A place where people can walk their dogs, let their children play, and generally enjoy the outdoors. • Nope • Please add baseball fields. The fields in the city are beyond capacity and we need more so all youth who want to play have field space. • No... • The highest and best use of this land for a new, indoor, year-round facility. Work with NVRPA to make this happen. There is no reason why we can’t go into a partnership with them for a regional, indoor facility that generates the same amount of money as the waterpark. • There needs to be an indoor sport facility in Alexandria besides using already made Rex centers that solely focus on basketball. There needs to be Futsal, field hockey and indoor volleyball courts in Alexandria! The water park is a wasted space!!!!!!!!!!! • I would love it if the rec center had yoga classes or weight room/gym (adult focused exercise options). Otherwise I probably won’t use it. • My main use of the park is running through it. So a natural space is nice for me; however, I am probably not the target user. • While I like the improved version of the water park, it would be great if improvements could still manage to incorporate some city benefits (e.g., swim lessons)
148 Appendix C: Survey 2 149 There are underutilized sports fields almost directly across Eisenhower Avenue from Avenue Eisenhower across directly almost sports fields underutilized are There very than convert them and their use rather improve to ways study today; Run Park Cameron Little League and others. Alexandria for something into Waterpark Waves popular Great have bikers so that area in the Alexandria trails bike other existing to trails Connect bike trails. longer learning of this project, child. Before and had our first the area to moved recently We it. to looking forward really and were the waterpark season passes to get decided to we far- which seem some of these options, by confused it isn’t demolished! I’m I hope that Chinquapin, and improve to money get been trying to have groups years me. For to fetched the down tear be funding to might this implies there it, and yet funding for never there’s the given seems unlikely That center? indoor aquatic new park and build a brand existing small and make funding elsewhere use that the City rather I’d environment. fiscal current use of the space. year-round see more to also love I’d the park as it is now. to improvements Park)? Yards in Truckeroo fall (like in the spring or truck festival a food Maybe It’s great that you’re seeking community input. Thanks! seeking community you’re that great It’s use to its current changes Significant city teens. Alexandria many park employs The water women. young men and for these in a lack of job opportunities and training result would pale in facilities Our sports its neighboring counties. from a page take needs to Alexandria of embarrassment. the point to comparison, when making the field! Think about using Turf attractions With the number of garage. and parking rec center with I chose the option to number of parking spaces need a significant seem to included in this plan, it would by bus service and also connected facility should be The users. potential accommodate co- a playground having I like statement, as a general parking. Also, ample bike provide when juggling helpful kids of tremendously It’s at Brenman. with sports fields, as located play to for little siblings not much space there’s facility but great is a Witter multiple ages. would but element I chose has the playground The option without ending up in the game. would be It elevation. at a different the field is the same purpose because quite not serve options private -- the present at condition than better in cages public batting have to great form. occupied and in good tweens keep to way a great are The cages expensive. are Please continue to work cooperatively with NOVA Parks to retain and improve the existing existing the and improve retain to Parks NOVA with cooperatively work to Please continue be would of activities. It a variety for bring families place to park. This is a wonderful water enjoy. we already what use without destroying year-round to to add way find a to good is remain a space that to sports fields. This park needs I do not think the City needs more of members are they of whether regardless families, and children, all citizens, to available sports clubs. organized of a parking for one. Instead is demand there study shows if a cavity an aquatic open to I’m I at a much cheaper price? to add parking be reconfigured Ave EISENHOWER can’t garage per is only used about 4 months it space. Now use of this much better make the city to want do better. can We year. Would love to see a dedicated dog park for off leash play. The few that exist around the area the area around exist that few The play. off leash dog park for see a dedicated to love Would Run Trail people use the Cameron With as many maintained. and not well close by not are very could be this Ave, additional housing being built on Eisenhower and the dog walking for beneficial. work. up the good Keep this park as and operate maintain, develop, to millions of dollars has invested Parks NOVA The and our neighbors. residents Alexandria of the mutual benefit for facility a regional as rather but as “profits,” not be characterized should popular facility this very from income Sandy which supports House, Carlyle system, Parks NOVA entire of the component an income Alexandria benefit that other facilities and numerous Trail, the W&OD Facility, Run Rowing residents.
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• I could really see getting rid of the wave pool and replacing it with a regular pool. A year round, full service recreation center is most important to me • Is it possible to better utilize the roof of a recreation center by adding tennis courts or basketball courts? It seems foolish to waste the space given our urban setting • Thank you for keeping the public involved in the process. I’d like to hear about the ability of the City to pay for these improvements as well. That will inject realism into this process. • Cost of a double level parking garage w/ playing field on top is probably cost prohibitive. Combining pool and playing field, doesn’t look like enough parking space. Appreciate the use of “Wards Woods.” Intrepretive signage for nature, unique natural tree hybrids, etc. would help in understanding what’s important at this site. • I understand that revenue from the Waterpark supports a number of other facilities run by NOVA Parks, and would urge the community to prioritize the continuation of that relationship and support. • Thousands of kids and families (including inner city kids) who don’t have easy access to outdoor parks use the Water Park and it would be a pity to take away the one major attraction that’s easily accessible by mass transit. Seems unfair that most of them are not involved in the planning and don’t have a voice. In addition, we have such limited green space and trees and any development should preserve the existing trees and wildlife habitat. Too much development would create traffic issues on Eisenhower. • No. • During this planning process, periodic updates would help potential and current customers know what is going on. I like the idea of a year-round, indoor pool that residents can use. Also, I would strongly suggest advertising in print and other media to draw attention to the facility as a whole and stress how it will benefit the entire community. Have “theme days and give-aways”, but don’t raise the admission fee; two separate fees (summer/”other”) would be optimal. Keep it simple and sedate. • 1. The planning process should consider the bike and walking path that runs next to the facility. It provides important a vital connection between Cameron station and the Eisenhower valley. 2. Explore alternatives for the large surface lot. The lot is very underutilized. It is only at capacity on a handful of summer weekends. • Improved connection to public transportation • what is a ‘water park with city benefits?’ also, why would we need a 2-story parking garage for a rec center and not for any of the other options? couldn’t we put parking underneath any building? parking structures and open lots are incredibly wasteful uses of space, being in an urban environment we need to think how to best use space for the most community benefit • There is a nearby sports field, and a nearby commercial gym, but there is no nearby aquatic center that can be used year-round. An outdoor Olympic pool is not as useful as an indoor aquatic center because it can’t be used during the winter. Exercise options are limited during the winter, so an indoor pool is most practical. • Increase the cost of the water parks payment to the city. I like the idea of recreation space for basketball, we have to go to Lee during the winter months. Indoor open play on weekends would be a great option. Thanks for the time taken to make the best use of this space. • The choices all collide with one another. I’d love to see a year round facility. But, we need to get more kids outdoors as well. A water park with indoor/outdoor facilities would meet the year round requirement, expanding the current use cases. The current batting cages haven’t been properly maintained in a long time, some simple maintenance would greatly enhance them. We have the ball fields across the street, but parking and ease of walking between the two is impossible currently. Combining the animal shelter and these two parks together would greatly benefit everyone.
150 Appendix C: Survey 2 151 A large playground for kids and maybe a “splash park” area. Something similar to what is in what similar to Something park” area. a “splash kids and maybe for playground A large use). round and indoor pool (year with Gym center a Rec have to love Would Yard. Potomac I am still a little concerned about traffic patterns in the vicinity of the park and generally and patterns in the vicinity of the park traffic about concerned a little I am still to adjacent kids on the sidewalk with my especially when walking speeds along Eisenhower, the park and lake. Make things more public knowledge public knowledge things more Make is in need of trail The bike Ave. Eisenhower along trail abuts the bike This parcel needs west-end are lacking. The trail on and off the especially transitions improvement and downtown. del-ray like just infrastructure bike access to and a soccer street, across the is softball fields already needed.....there not Sports fields are used..... rarely is st that road and Duke Telegraph field near to End. Somewhere West in the center an aquatic want I more. benefit the city to like I’d well? as option pool, but ass an indoor swim the wave keep to Is it possible round. year swim to 1 (over-)catering You are soccer. Especially NOT sports fields. more need any do NOT We to see besides soccer. like would other sports people are There of the population. segment many play of all else. I the exclusion not to soccer - just so I love HS co-capt, I was the way, By We NEED Lax? Hockey? left? courts tennis any there vball? Are about more sports. How of citizens a LOT have You and children. adults as well End for pool in the West an outdoor up, yet going keep the rates that dollars DO with our tax you in the world what who wonder And, I budget. The City should be ashamed of the new etc. supplies, etc., don’t have teachers govt, and with the happy NOT People are experience. of budgeting 30 yrs with over that say proven you’ve when is INSANE election. 6% increase in the next will see that you I believe it. This is against voting for Silberberg I applaud properly! money manage can’t you already for of money’ will overpay you because ‘waste overpriced be another mismanaged, to going - as always. everything I think it’s a mistake to spend money demolishing the water park. It’s a rare amenity in this amenity in this a rare It’s park. the water demolishing spend money to a mistake I think it’s other amenities support lot to the parking re-arrange park and/or Enhance the water region. park. water to the in addition take a lot of people that is a path There street. the down sports fields right already are There missing really is this area What and sports facilities. areas outdoor playgrounds by goes that facilities. This spot is and to use gym equipment residents for A place center. is a recreation a do not have who currently end area people in west many accessible to and bike walking this close by. like facility There needs to be more city resident benefits, be it reduced entry fee or more cash on the fee or more entry reduced be it benefits, city resident be more needs to There rolls. tax residents over community the local benefits that facility be a year-round The priority should of other states/counties. Park! the Water Ditch round. The year can be used all that center recreation with a pool. A center rec like I would big. crazy pool does not have job! input - great of resident note and take hear to hard work seemed to The consultant in the heck is another department why are, as all of these plans/options as good However the 2014 as a part of this study, has been collected that the city ignoring all this feedback Park and and the Staff Park Planning to RPCA submitted directly and feedback survey, to put a hideous public and looking 2014 and the present Commission between Recreation input input, and that resident recorded carefully consultant Cook? The Lake at right art work to public art seems but the proposed space, be a naturalistic Cook to the Lake for called parks into be introduced to are If elements of nature. dominance mankind’s exalt proudly run well the city’s go through to needs that of the parks, character the (change!) affect that is a joke. consultant this competent paid to Otherwise, the money park planning processes!
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• - I really want to keep the wave pool. - Why, in option 6, did the native meadow become a garden - why not leave it native. - The option with just the sport fields is too much like what’s by the RR tracks now - don’t need two like that. • We need more recreation facilities and less town homes. The city needs to figure out that we have families living here permanently now, and they need to invest in our needs to keep us here. Potomac yard should have a recreation baseball field at the very least,,, • This development may be too late for my two kids in Little League, but I can say from experience that the city could definitely use additional baseball fields. At least one turf diamond in the city would really help the league deal with rain out situations (but I’d like the city to keep most fields grass - kids should play on grass when possible). • It would be great to add sports field like Baseball or soccer • Please minimize impervious surfaces as much as possible, and preserve and add to the natural areas, particularly the wooded areas. • Keep the Wave Pool! • The water park is a vital part of a lot of people’s summer. Some residents can afford to join private clubs to have their kids at, but most cannot, and this water park fills a need for low- and middle-income Alexandrians. Please think about the thousands of people who use this facility more than those who do not! • Please remember the volume of minority children who play andoften fill the water park on summer days. • My answer to question 9 should take into account the image does not fully display on a mobile device. I would like the existing waterpark and sporta fields. I am also interested in the racial make up of respondents to your survey as i am concerned that those who most use the park in its current form may not be represented in your survey. • Keep Lake Cook a natural area. Use native trees, shrubs, grasses. Make accessible but not for bikes. art is ok as long as it helps to educate and/or represent the natural processes of a natural environment. minimal open views from street. Keep the big trees through creative shoreline design. • Parks are important. Should consider cost of upkeep of park on a continuing basis as significant part of plan. Also, have some revenue making portions, but enough free options for everyone to enjoy. • We need another indoor pool but do not want to lose the option of having the water park either. Is there a way that we could have both. There seems to be enough space that we could have both. • Need to add two playgrounds- 2 to 5 years and 5 to 12 years. • It’s difficult to answer this survey without being able to comment on chinquapin. I would rather have a larger pool at Chinquapin and retain Cameron Park as a waterpark. Food is too expensive at Cameron Park and too expansive. Families should be allowed to bring in healthier food and drinks without being ripped off by NoVa parks. • Whatever is done that it will be enjoyable as a free service for the public, not charges • Please do not renew the wave pool contract and include its destruction in whichever plan you choose. A negative, and often criminal, element from PG Co makes up the majority of persons using the facility. • really love that there is a water park nearby that isn’t as expensive as a theme park & is locally owned (not for profit) • The most important factors to me are keeping the area as natural as possible while making it useful to Alexandria’s citizens, especially children. • We use Lake Cook the most at Cameron Run. I see all the options keep Lake Cook. Please continue to stock it with catfish and trout. • I think a pool/aquatic features would be unnecessary. • The aquatic center would be great! 152 Appendix C: Survey 2 153 The park is needed to stay undeveloped and green. So much green space has been so rapidly space has been so rapidly So much green and green. undeveloped stay The park is needed to us look makes just pool or soccer field is not progress, A swimming “progress”. declining for clones of urban sprawls. like N/A often. We use them cages. the batting Please keep indoor Winter, space is needed in the city. sports space and open play year-round More rooms, play to (small) soft limited are currently age of 5 for kids under the activities Charles Houston. at Chinquapin, and open gym once a week can that a facility now it’s so that Lodge Wolf la Great park a about enclosing the water What all That year-round. and should also be available is great Play Paradise be used year-round. of soccer plenty already are for baseball. There fields, turf, more have to need really said, we rain outs. fewer be might turf so there fields. I say droppings goose filled with often are it seems as those open areas water, to with proximity walk to making it unpleasant I wasn’t able to see the 6 options - this is a scam see the 6 options able to I wasn’t Run, and the space that space along Cameron of green amount is a shrinking There habitat provide to areas natural Please help preserve is quickly being developed. remains connect with their natural to to be able residents for city species. It is important native for keep be possible to It could too. along the corridor needs an upgrade Transit environments! ran AT7 lot if the surface some of the massive remove but course waterpark/golf the existing and conveniently. frequently more the city after less than a month indoor pool facility an see plans for to It is incongruent Chinquapin. one at plans for advanced more shelved been yet park, I haven’t the water to go to excited and I’m here moved I just facility in the city. indoor fields and an aquatics need more definitely we and upkeep. maintenance toward park tenant funds from see increased to like I would park off water use during Better City residents. of percentage certain hire to Requirement or shuttle for parking service. consideration season. Better I am opposed to adding more sports fields, as there are appropriate times of day and the times of appropriate are sports fields, as there adding more I am opposed to are not being used fields when existing week It should advance. back when I tried to going kept this. It’s click through to hard really It’s hard. not be that of the as the costs lease, as well Parks’ of Nova the terms know to be helpful It would proposals. (this) screen. to the next me forces system the the diagrams, through to scroll I try time Any faith. good teams in and Recreation with the Parks has worked Parks NOVA that I do not feel and Rec the Parks to directly went that rent rate a market pay to wanted if they However, lessons, swim for could use our citizens facility that build an aquatics would or if they budget, Parks NOVA would I be ok with circimsyances Only in those competitions, and practices, to lease this site. continuing I am not interested in sports fields. in I am not interested My daughter dogs 40 pounds and under. for area a separate a dog park, with like also I would was little classes when she swim for enough city opportunities did not have but we is 16 now, park. Chinquapin an indoor water (?) for Reston to drove and we unorganized), (the Y was the need recognize I also so today), me still (puzzles meets accommodate not built to was which Witter, at H.S. softball plays daughter my ready indoor pool. Lastly, a competition for near the softball field. and parking booth and storage announcer’s stand, a concession lacks at the play Varsity and J.V. have even or league, do travel ever to enough fields don’t have We I imagine the priority going with baseball. When I think of sports fields, alone same time, let softball. soccer and not to to
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
• I like to walk here. What I want is for that experience to be a bit nicer (paths by Lake Cook less ankle-turning and less “looking at the butt end of the facility,” better connection with the Eisenhower Ave sidewalk by the parking lot, maybe a crosswalk to the bike path across Eisenhower by the front entrance if that’s possible). I personally have no use for most of the other items proposed, but that’s just me. I would be a bit disappointed to see the mini-golf go. I was looking forward to trying that out, since it’s just walking with built-in opportunities to laugh and score points. • Rec center should be an option withOUT water park. Turn it into gymnastics facility! No one from Alexandria can get into Arlington or other surrounding counties. • I would have liked more details on the acquatic center. thanks for the survey! • Keep the water park. There is nothing like it in the area. With Top Golf leaving, it will be the only mini golf nearby.
12. How did you12. hearHow about did youthis survey?hear about this survey? 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0%
At a public meeting 4.0%
On a flyer 3.7%
Social Media 24.0%
City e-news 22.4%
Word of mouth 14.9%
From city staff 2.4%
While visting Cameron Run Park 1.1%
Neighborhood Association 15.5%
Local news source 1.3%
City website 0.8%
Other- write in 9.9%
154 Appendix C: Survey 2 155
7 5 1 1 1 6 1 6 1 2 1 1 2 35 Responses
3% 3% 3% 3% 3% 6% 3% 3% 6% 20% 14% 17% 17% 100% Percentages
of alexandria only of alexandria
city
In ResponsesIn - In Responses
-
Total Write Email from City of Alexandria City Email from Email Michael Bakerfrom league sports Email from feed Facebook Family member Newsletter Wilson Justin Little League event next the was when of asking Result group listserv Steward Tree Work Write Alexandria Little League BaseballAlexandria Email
Question 11 Write in – in Write 11 Question
12. How did you hear about this survey? (Write in responses) (Write hear about this survey? did you 12. How Page left blank intentionally. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX F: FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
Cameron Run Regional Park Financial Condition
This section presents the financial condition of Cameron Run Regional Park. Financial details of Cameron Run Regional Park including Great Waves Water Park are based upon the FY 2015-16 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) prepared for the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NOVA). The CAFR prepares annual audited data by program, and identifies the following related programs for Cameron Park: Cameron Run Regional Park, Great Waves Water Park, and Cameron Run Regional Catering. For purposes of illustrating all NOVA operated programs in the City of Alexandria, audited financial information for Carlyle House Historic Park are also discussed. Detailed revenue and cost tables for each program are provided at the end of this section.
In perspective, the revenues from Great Waves Water Park contribute significantly to the total revenues generated by all NOVA water parks. There are five water parks operated by NOVA: Atlantis Water Park, Great Waves Water Park, Ocean Dunes Water Park, Pirate’s Cove Water Park, and Volcano Island Water Park. The following graph shows that the water parks generated about $4.3 million in combined revenue in FY 2015-16. Of this amount, Great Waves generated about $2.0 million, or 47 percent, of the total. In comparison, each of the other water parks generated between $530,000 and $595,000 each.
Source: FY 2016 NOVA Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
Link: https://www.novaparks.com/sites/default/files/pdf/Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority2016.pdf
165 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Within Cameron Run Regional Park, the FY 2015-16 operating revenues and costs for each of the three programs are shown in the following graphs.
166 Appendix F: Financial Analysis 167 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
168 Appendix F: Financial Analysis 169 As depicted in the graphs, Great Waves Water Park generates positive cash flow in the amount of in the amount flow cash positive generates Park Water Waves Great in the graphs, As depicted and mini-golf, cages, which includes batting Park Run Regional Cameron year. about $575,000 per programs two of about $320,000. Combining these deficit operating an annual incurs picnic shelters is part of Regional Catering Run Cameron Also, of about $255,000. to NOVA income net yields positive corporate for options and beverage food provides that services program and event catering a NOVA including at Parks NOVA throughout special events as support for as well events and social catering The three is about $68,000. catering Run Cameron from income net annual Positive Waves. Great of about $323,000. income net an annual total have Run programs Cameron labor Waves, Great For is labor expense. programs Park Run Regional Cameron for The primary cost merchandise (about 18 resale and utilities, depreciation, by followed of costs, equals 35 percent and other park picnic shelters, mini-golf, cages, Run batting Cameron For each of expenses). percent following costs, of to 66 percent amounting is also labor, the primary cost NOVA, by operated assets staff has 1 full-time Waves CAFR, Great to the NOVA According of 26 percent. depreciation by Run two Cameron remaining The comprising part time employees. plus 20.4 full-time equivalents staff plus 4.85 full-time 3 full-time have catering) and shelter, cages-mini-golf-picnic (batting programs part time employees. comprising equivalents of $260,000. result in an annual deficit for Carlyle House costs and revenues operating The audited for Carlyle House. When expenses and revenues the operating shows graph The following (including the in the City of Alexandria program operated NOVA of each income summarizing the net is about $63,000 per income net total and Carlyle House), the overall Run programs Cameron three year. CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Each NOVA member jurisdiction pays an annual contribution that is applied towards general expenses and capital projects. Each jurisdiction pays a share based upon a per capita rate multiplied by that jurisdiction’s population. Each jurisdiction pays the same per capita rate. The City of Alexandria paid to NOVA a total member contribution of about $664,000 in FY 2015-16 based upon this formula. This contribution is divided between operations and capital expenses. The per capita rate for the operating appropriation is $1.89 and the per capita rate for capital is $2.57. The operating appropriation is used for NOVA headquarters expenses and central maintenance, while the capital fund is used for capital projects. Alexandria’s member share is 7.8 percent of the total share from all jurisdictions. The following graphs shows the breakdown of the contribution from Alexandria and its share relative to all member jurisdictions.
170 Appendix F: Financial Analysis 171 Source: FY 2017 NOVA Adopted Budget Adopted FY 2017 NOVA Source: and has Waves Great at investments capital made some recently NOVA to operations, In addition invested NOVA Park, for Cameron plan capital NOVA’s Based upon additional park amenities. plans for 2015 including pool and through Waves Great at infrastructure of capital about $600,000 in a variety NOVA had also ride. water a new for and permitting renovation, snack bar pool building renovation, well as attendance, demand and maximize meet parking lot to and expanded a revised for budgeted ride), but these water Waves Great the new for bond (presumably revenue as an issuance of a large which planned projects, large these two placed on hold. Beyond been have projects capital large two in the projects shown capital no other significant are there for 2017, off the budget been taken have plan. capital 5-year CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
172 Appendix F: Financial Analysis 173 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
174 Appendix F: Financial Analysis 175 This page intentionally left blank.
176 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX G: COST ESTIMATES
The following charts describe the opinion of costs associated in transitioning from the current condition of Cameron Run Park to the concepts developed in response to input by the Alexandria Community. A summary of all concepts is provided on the first page followed by a detailed opinion of probable cost for each of the concepts on the subsequent pages. Cameron Run Park Planning Study Alexandria VA Options - Summary Of Probable Cost
Options Total
L-01 Aquatic Center, Multi-Sport $ 26,365,377
L-02 Olympic Pool Multi-Sport $ 7,687,226
L-03 Water Park with Major Structural Changes $ 39,287,540
L-04 Multi-Sport Field Park $ 7,542,020
L-05 Open-Space Natural Area Park $ 4,104,586
L-06 Water Park with Improvements $ 1,737,470
177 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Cameron Run Park Planning Study Alexandria VA Aquatic Center, MultiSport L-01 Opinion Of Probable Cost Description Element Cost Total Demolition $ 957,240 Demo Concrete $ 196,144 Demo Wave Pool $ 482,287 Demo Wood Structures $ 59,621 Demo Pavilions $ 21,549 Demo Ticket/Staff/Restroom Building $ 50,728 Demo Water Slides $ 26,288 Demo Playground $ 22,277 Demo Parking Lot $ 33,100 Demo Fencing $ 20,442 General Clearing $ 44,805
Structures $ 19,337,029 New Aquatic Center $ 18,026,193 Restroom Facilities $ 194,941 Picnic Pavilion $ 445,965 Resurface Existing Parking Lot $ 462,850 Resurface Northeast Parking Lot $ 74,985 Refurbish Batting Cage (Clean, Paint, & Minor Repairs) $ 48,854 Refurbish Existing Pavillion (Clean, Paint, & Minor Repairs) $ 31,710 Renovate Existing Mini-Golf $ 51,531
Fields $ 1,646,419 Multi-sport field, synthetic $ 1,646,419
Recreation $ 985,727 Open Lawn Space, Tree Plantings $ 211,149 6' Wide Walking Trail, Mulch $ 309,753 Concrete Sidewalks/Flatwork $ 387,672 Street Tree Planting Along Eisenhower Avenue $ 43,973 Northeast Meadow $ 33,180
SUBTOTAL $ 22,926,415
Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL $ 22,926,415 15% Contingency $ 3,438,962
PROJECT TOTAL COST $ 26,365,377
178 Appendix G: Cost Estimates 179 957,240 985,727 6,684,544 6,684,544 7,687,226 3,095,158 1,646,419 Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 59,621 21,549 50,728 26,288 22,277 33,100 20,442 44,805 74,985 48,854 31,710 51,531 43,973 33,180 482,287 194,941 445,965 462,850 211,149 309,753 387,672 196,144 761,419 1,022,903 1,646,419 1,002,682 Element Cost Element $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ PROJECT TOTAL COST SUBTOTAL Contingency Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL Cost Up Marked Project Description Demo Wave Pool Demo Wood Structures Demo Pavilions Demo Ticket/Staff/Restroom Building Demo Water Slides Demo Playground Demo Parking Lot Demo Fencing General Clearing Bathouse Restroom Facilities Picnic Pavilion Resurface Existing Parking Lot Resurface Northeast Parking Lot Refurbish Cage Batting (Clean, Minor & Repairs) Paint, Refurbish (Clean, Minor & Repairs) Paint, Existing Pavillion Renovate Existing Mini-Golf 6' Wide Walking Trail, Mulch Concrete Sidewalks/Flatwork Street Tree Eisenhower Avenue Along Planting Northeast Meadow Open Lawn Space,Open Tree Lawn Plantings Olympic Swimming Pool Demo Concrete Multi-sport field, synthetic Cameron Run Park Planning Study CameronPlanning RunPark Alexandria VA Alexandria PoolOlympic MultiSport L-02 Opinion Of Probable Cost 15% Fields Recreation Structures Demolition CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Cameron Run Park Planning Study Alexandria VA Water Park with Major Changes L-03 Opinion Of Probable Cost Description Element Cost Total Demolition $ 355,427 Demo Concrete $ 39,229 Demo Ticket/Staff/Restroom Building $ 50,728 Demo Parking Lot $ 220,666 General Clearing $ 44,805
Structures $ 33,112,677 New Recreation Center $ 11,184,613 Bathouse $ 1,022,903 Structured Parking with Field $ 19,909,620 Playground $ 593,521 Restroom Facilities $ 194,941 Refurbish Batting Cage (Clean, Paint, & Minor Repairs) $ 48,854 Refurbish Existing Pavillion (Clean, Paint, & Minor Repairs) $ 31,710 Renovate Existing Mini-Golf $ 51,531 Resurface Northeast Parking Lot $ 74,985
Recreation $ 694,973 Open Lawn Space, Tree Plantings $ 211,149 6' Wide Walking Trail, Mulch $ 309,753 Concrete Sidewalks/Flatwork $ 96,918 Street Tree Planting Along Eisenhower Avenue $ 43,973 Northeast Meadow $ 33,180
SUBTOTAL $ 34,163,078
Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL $ 34,163,078 15% Contingency $ 5,124,462
PROJECT TOTAL COST $ 39,287,540
180 Appendix G: Cost Estimates 181 985,727 6,558,278 6,558,278 7,542,020 3,292,838 1,020,408 1,259,305 Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 59,621 21,549 50,728 26,288 22,277 33,100 20,442 63,168 44,805 74,985 48,854 31,710 43,973 33,180 482,287 445,965 462,850 211,149 309,753 387,672 196,144 194,941 983,742 1,646,419 1,646,419 Element Cost Element $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ PROJECT TOTAL COST SUBTOTAL Contingency Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL Cost Up Marked Project Description Demo Wave Pool Demo Wood Structures Demo Pavilions Demo Ticket/Staff/Restroom Building Demo Water Slides Demo Playground Demo Parking Lot Demo Fencing Demo Golf Mini General Clearing Picnic Pavilion Resurface Existing Parking Lot Resurface Northeast Parking Lot Refurbish Cage Batting (Clean, Minor & Repairs) Paint, Refurbish (Clean, Minor & Repairs) Paint, Existing Pavillion 6' Wide Walking Trail, Mulch Concrete Sidewalks/Flatwork Street Tree Eisenhower Avenue Along Planting Northeast Meadow Multi-sport field, synthetic Space,Open Tree Lawn Plantings Restroom Facilities Multi-sport field, synthetic Demo Concrete Cameron Run Park Planning Study CameronPlanning RunPark Multi-Sport Field Park L-04 Opinion Of Probable Cost Alexandria VA Alexandria 15% Fields Recreation Structures Demolition CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Cameron Run Park Planning Study Alexandria VA Open Space-Natural Area Park L-05 Opinion Of Probable Cost Description Element Cost Total Demolition $ 1,296,095 Demo Concrete $ 196,144 Demo Wave Pool $ 482,287 Demo Mini Golf $ 63,168 Demo Batting Cages $ 23,475 Demo Wood Structures $ 59,621 Demo Pavilions $ 86,194 Demo Ticket/Staff/Restroom Building $ 50,728 Demo Water Slides $ 26,288 Demo Playground $ 22,277 Demo Parking Lot $ 220,666 Demo Fencing $ 20,442 General Clearing $ 44,805
Structures $ 1,171,142 Restroom Facilities $ 194,941 Picnic Pavilion $ 445,965 New Parking Lot $ 455,251 Resurface Northeast Parking Lot $ 74,985
Recreation $ 1,101,969 Open Lawn Space, Tree Plantings $ 422,298 6' Wide Walking Trail, Mulch $ 563,750 Concrete Sidewalks/Flatwork $ 38,767 Street Tree Planting Along Eisenhower Avenue $ 43,973 Northeast Meadow $ 33,180
SUBTOTAL $ 3,569,206
Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL $ 3,569,206 15% Contingency $ 535,381
PROJECT TOTAL COST $ 4,104,586
182 Appendix G: Cost Estimates 183 701,639 809,204 1,510,843 1,510,843 1,737,470 Total $ $ $ $ $ 48,854 63,420 51,531 74,985 43,973 33,180 462,850 422,298 309,753 226,627 Element Cost Element $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ PROJECT TOTAL COST SUBTOTAL Contingency Project Marked Up Cost - SUBTOTAL Cost Up Marked Project Description Refurbish (Clean, Minor & Repairs) Paint, Existing Pavillion Renovate Existing Mini-Golf Resurface Existing Parking Lot Resurface Northeast Parking Lot Space,Open Tree Lawn Plantings 6' Wide Walking Trail, Mulch Street Tree Avenue Eisenhower Along Planting Northeast Meadow Refurbish Cage(Clean, Batting Minor & Repairs) Paint, Cameron Run Park Planning Study CameronPlanning RunPark Water Park with L-06 Improvements Opinion Of Probable Cost Alexandria VA Alexandria 15% Recreation Structures This page intentionally left blank.
184 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX H: NOVA Parks Concept Plan
The following chart illustrates the total number of owned vs. leased properties in the NOVA Parks system.
On May 31, 2017, NOVA Parks released a suggested plan for future development of Cameron Run Park as a part of their regional system. The plan was titled “Blue Green Plan” and is enclosed here for reference.
185 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
CAMERON RUN BLUE & GREEN • PLAN •
186 Appendix H: NOVA Parks Concept Plan 187 Dear Mayor, City Council, and Park & Recreation Commission, & Recreation City Council, and Park Mayor, Dear the City lease from long-term seeking a renewed has been Parks NOVA years, several For the as rank would Run Cameron measure, any almost By Park. Regional Run on Cameron who re- City residents the 60% of it is Whether the City. in facility recreational popular most the waterpark, to who go year people a the 100,000 basis, on a regular this park port using the employ- or the mini-golf, on played rounds 15,000 the batting cages, at rounds 60,000 year. each youth 175 of ment potential of study to conduct a public input City staff 2016, City Council directed June In Mi- led by this study and participated in has closely followed Parks this land. NOVA uses of the park of the future has been no consensus on what there While Engineering. chael Baker particularly features, the current value the public meetings people at the of should be, most space al- can be added where improvements other see if to like but would the waterpark, Plan outlined in the Blue and Green has developed Parks mind, NOVA this input in With lows. a it provides importantly, is space. More there uses where This plan expands this document. Re- Run Cameron come, so to decades for the park in investment continued for blueprint years. more many for destination be a popular to can continue gional Park Parks Recreation, the Department of and Michael Baker by developed The six alternatives very are they However, costs. estimated with been released not have Activities and Cultural of June in estimates the City with cost provided Parks NOVA options of a range to similar artifi-two with the park million for $7.6 from in cost ranged alternatives Those similar 2015. These and one multi-sport field. aquatic center the indoor for million to $18.6 fields, turf cial would these facilities what end of the low at are estimates cost developed professionally actually cost. to fund would need the City would be options all alternatives staff The Michael Baker/City be 100% funded with NOVA Plan would Blue and Green The funds. with 100% City capital capital long-term that dedicates the only one Plan is also The Blue and Green capital. Parks the public. to and appealing fresh park the keep to investment effectively would that a plan developing into time and effort of has put a lot Parks NOVA not bur- would This plan maximum public benefit. offer to space available bit of use every continued of years 40 another for provide and it would budget, tight already the City’s den al- have this, we on timely action facilitate To Parks. NOVA by this City asset in investment this in the items the addition of lease, with current the lease based on our developed ready That lease can be accessed at: http://bit.ly/CameronBlueGreen plan. the future. plan for this is a great agree you hope We Gilbert,Paul Director Executive Parks NOVA 2 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Summary The Blue and Green Plan by NOVA Parks is the only plan for Cameron Run that provides for long-term investments in the popular Great Waves Waterpark and enhanced facilities for other City needs, and requires no investment by the City (100% funded by NOVA Parks). Key features of this plan include the following:
• Enhanced community green space between Lake Cook and the Townes at Cameron Parke Community. A pocket park with features that will be determined with assistance from the Home Owners Association.
• A Lazy River feature added to the waterpark in phase I. And, additional waterpark improvements developed in phase II.
• A Dog Park developed between the parking lots for the park and the animal shelter.
• Upgraded Parking Lot expanding the available spaces within the existing footprint will allow the park to serve more users and better manage storm water through improved design.
• Enhanced Nature Interpretation to identify significant trees and natural features.
These new features will dovetail well with the rebuild of Lake Cook being completed by the City. The end result will be a park that continues to provide an exciting waterpark experience for the 60% of City residents who reported using the park regularly. The revised design will expand passive uses of the park and add new user groups.
The 40-year lease would assure decades of redevelopment to keep this site as the premier recreational attraction that it is known to be. Long-term Investments Successful public facilities take on- going, long-term investment. This approach has driven the success of Cameron Run for over 30 years. Near- ly every year there are investments made, over the last 20 years $6 Million has been invested in upgraded facilities.
NOVA Parks started the dialog about a lease extension on Cameron Run in 2012 when significant new invest- ments were being proposed. The Blue and Green Plan would bring long- term investment with $3.5 million in improvements in the next 3 years, and an additional $4 million in redevel- opment after 15 years. This plan will assure that Cameron Run continues to be a state-of-the-art attraction.
Continued on page 6 3
188 Appendix H: NOVA Parks Concept Plan 189 - Upgraded lot Parking Enhanced Nature Interpretation The current parking lot The current two built during was development different phases long ago and is design. an efficient not engineering new Using the parking standards, to can be developed lot accommodate better this the popularity of man- park, and better water. age storm - the enhance From to Cook Lake to ments on trees the some of Run Cameron the site, natural has numerous that present resources ed- to opportunities the public and ucate and identify actively the resources. protect to trees specific From elements ecosystems, resourc the natural of es will be interpreted signage. better through NOVA Parks will develop a plan to rebuild this this rebuild to a plan will develop Parks NOVA - Wheth community park. an attractive into area areas grassy trails, benches, it is a playground, er the reflect will area this features, passive other or the entrance Paving the community. of desires this a useful and making and parking area road this corner of the nature will change area park community of a number and serve the park of needs. Dog Park Lazy River Lazy Community Green Space Community Green Using the area between the between the area Using the City’s and parking lot park’s can a dog park Animal Shelter, - will pro This area be installed. the to resource vide another It will dog owners. many City’s the also be a nice amenity for and provide animal shelter, activity multi-season another the batting cages, along with and play area. mini-golf One of the most popular features of a premium waterpark is a Lazy River. This River. is a Lazy waterpark a premium of features popular the most One of the tubes float along as in inner people channel where has a river-like feature feature This new the curving course. through them moves gently current water the to next feature waterpark popular the most of become one will rapidly pool. wave the area will rebuild development waterpark of a second wave years, In future in waterparks Trends pool. pool and baby the splash pad, smaller that is now an provides the future in this area of the redevelopment time, and change over that area. thing’ in big the ‘next build to opportunity the and years, three the next in development waterpark of phase the first With remain to will be able Waves Run/Great Cameron years, second phase in 15 area. Washington the greater in waterparks the best one of The space between Lake Cook and the Townes Townes the and Cook Lake The space between a has currently community Parke at Cameron is an This area. and small parking drive gravel some- illegal dumping where area unattractive Lake of and rebuild The dredging times occurs. ground, as a staging this area will use Cook this space. degrade which will further HOA, Parke Cameron at Townes the with Working Plan Specifics 6 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
BLUE AND GREEN PLAN CAMERON RUN REGIONAL PARK
LEASED AREA BOUNDARY
SHELTER BATTING CAGES
WAVE POOL WATER PLAY LAKE COOK ENTRANCE AREA AREA SHELTER WATER MINI SLIDES GOLF PLAYGROUND LEASED AREA BOUNDARY
DOG PARK NATURAL PARKING LOT LAZY RIVER REDEVELOPED PARK TRAIL NEIGHBORHOOD (PHASE 1) INTERPRETIVE IMPROVEMENTS PLAY POOL WATER PLAY SYSTEM PARK AREA AREA (PHASE 1) (PHASE 1) AREA (PHASE 1) (PHASE 1) (PHASE 1) (PHASE 2) EXHIBIT 1
4 5
190 Appendix H: NOVA Parks Concept Plan 191 5 EXHIBIT 1 EXHIBIT NEIGHBORHOOD AREA PARK (PHASE 1) LAKE COOK PARK TRAIL PARK SYSTEM (PHASE 1) WATER SLIDES PLAN
WATER PLAY AREA
SHELTER
PLAYGROUND
REDEVELOPED PLAY WATER AREA (PHASE 2) POOL
LEASED AREA BOUNDARY WAVE GREEN MINI GOLF LAZY RIVER LAZY POOL PLAY (PHASE 1) ENTRANCE AREA CAMERON RUN REGIONAL PARK RUN REGIONAL CAMERON AND AND SHELTER PARKING LOT PARKING IMPROVEMENTS (PHASE 1)
LEASED AREA BOUNDARY BATTING CAGES BLUE NATURAL NATURAL INTERPRETIVE AREA (PHASE 1) DOG PARK (PHASE 1) 4 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
Why the Blue & Green Plan, and Why Now?
The City owns the land that Cameron Run Regional Park is located on, and NOVA Parks has devel- oped, reinvested and run this park for 36 years. Today, the park is the most popular recreational attraction in the City. Under the current lease, the last full summer season under NOVA Parks man- agement would be 2020.
City staff has worked with a consultant organization to develop six different options for a future Cameron Run. Five of the six plans would eliminate or significantly reduce the existing waterpark. The one plan that would keep the waterpark as it currently exists would not provide for the new features and the continued investment that the Blue and Green Plan would.
The plans that would eliminate or reduce the waterpark are all based on the City funding a rede- velopment that would cost many millions. With the mandated sewer improvements, Metro costs, a significant backlog of capital needs, the City is not well positioned to take on a large and unneces- sary expense like rebuilding Cameron Run.
The Blue and Green Plan would be fully funded by NOVA Parks. The renewed 40-year lease would allow NOVA Parks the necessary time to pay for the improvements. This frees up City resources to address other vital City needs.
The Blue and Green Plan is a win-win-win. The City wins and gets an enhanced park for no capi- tal investment, NOVA Parks wins because they can continue to operate the park they are proud of building and, most importantly, the public wins by being able to have and use an outstanding park that will continue to get better and better with ongoing investments.
7
192 Appendix H: NOVA Parks Concept Plan 193 $1.89 $2.57 NOVA Parks NOVA m co Find out at $27 $150 novaparks. DISCOVER City of Alexandria Alexandria of City Recreation/Parks Operating Cost Per Person Per Cost Operating Capital Cost Per Person Per Cost Capital Who We Are ... Are We Who NOVA Parks (Northern Virginia Regional Park Au- Park Regional Virginia (Northern Parks NOVA with major organization park is a regional thority) in North- 3 Counties in 3 Cities and parks destination jurisdictions has a local park those of Each Virginia. ern Parks NOVA athletics. on community that focuses agency assets. regional major that are parks unique provides was the Carlyle House when in 1969, Parks joined NOVA Alexandria built was House The Carlyle Parks. NOVA by and restored purchased It is a War. and Indian French the role in a significant in 1752 and played the and during Washington, George by visited frequently that was home is based on. Street” the PBS series “Mercy that the hospital it was War Civil Town in Old attractions historical biggest the is one of Carlyle House the Today, the City. of economy tourism the boosting Alexandria, NOVA facility. as a regional develop to Parks NOVA to leased some land the City In 1981, time for was The formula Park. Regional Run as Cameron today know what we built Parks and park regional built a premium Parks lease, and NOVA a 40-year City provided The investment. im- facility $10 million in continuous over has invested Parks expert NOVA management. provided the region in popular the most is one of waterpark Waves The Great Run. at Cameron provements that amenities and other the batting cages, mini-golf to in addition year, a visitors with 100,000 on a Run using Cameron reported City residents 60% of remarkable A year. uses a of thousands see basis in a City survey. regular Al- for source water The drinking day. every system regional park robust a from benefit City residents buffering parkland forested of acres has 4,000 Parks and NOVA the Occoquan Reservoir, is exandria forest- land provide Parks NOVA of additional acres 4,000 source. this drinking water and protecting City found the by 2014 poll conducted A River. the Potomac open space for and public ed shoreline the City. outside of located facilities Parks use NOVA City residents of numbers large Trail W&OD the use City residents • 31% of Park Bay Regional use Pohick City residents • 21% of Because residents. Alexandria for partnership is great Parks the NOVA with on investment Return Park Regional use Bull Run City residents • 19% of class world the supports dollars tax of small amount very only a self-funded, is largely Parks NOVA capita the same $4.46 per All six jurisdictions contribute offers. Parks NOVA and programs facilities City Rec- vs. Park in NOVA investment year per person, per is a comparison of Below Parks. NOVA to numbers. based on 2015 budget (RPCA), Activities and Cultural Parks reation, to and expensive a premium the Carlyle House, the City gets Parks, in NOVA this small investment For facil- recreational popular the single most Run, Cameron the City. to at no cost site historic operate to access get And residents Parks. NOVA from investments long-term the City sees continued ity in Northern of all for life of the quality enhances that significantly system park regional acre a 12,000+ Virginia. 8 This page intentionally left blank.
194 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX I: Eisenhower Partnership Plan
June 14, 2017
Chairman and Members of the Alexandria Parks and Recreation Commission City of Alexandria
Re: Eisenhower Partnership Comments on Cameron Run Regional Park Plan:
Madam Chair and Members of the Commission:
The Eisenhower Partnership formed a committee to participate in the Cameron Run Regional Park Planning process and review the alternative proposals for the future of Cameron Run Regional Park. We have followed the Plan development and public process closely since the inception of the planning process, and hosted a stakeholder session with the consultant team. After review with our internal Planning Committee and our Board of Directors, we would like to offer our review comments and concerns for the proposed Nova Parks lease extension. We have enclosed a copy of our summary notes for your review and consideration.
The Partnership would like to emphasize that the City of Alexandria and NovaParks should have as their goal to utilize the park year-round; we also feel the City should have some oversight over the management and operation of the park space moving forward. Finally we recommend that the City consider a shorter term lease to allow flexibility in the future use of the park area, as we anticipate major changes in the character of Eisenhower Avenue in the next few years, as well as increased population within the City as a whole and particularly on Eisenhower Avenue.
We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the proposed long term outlook for the Cameron Run Regional Park.
Sincerely.
Agnès Artemel
Agnès Artemel Vice President Eisenhower Partnership
Attachment: EP Cameron Run Park Committee Notes and Plan for the Future of the Park
195 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
6/12/2017
The Eisenhower Partnership Plan for Cameron Run Park
A Balanced Plan for Cameron Run Park Offered by the Eisenhower Partnership
Delivered to the Alexandria Parks & Recreation Commission June 15, 2017 Message The Eisenhower Partnership suggests a mutually beneficial shorter term lease with NOVA Parks that includes a shared use provision, stronger lease enforcement, and designation of a portion of Alexandria’s annual funding contribution to NOVA Parks exclusively toward a year-round facility for the express benefit of both parties. Stakeholders Eisenhower Partnership favors a fiscally-feasible, balanced plan for Cameron Run Park that respects:
- Alexandria citizens who desire and expect a well-kept recreational space as the return on their investment tax dollars and natural areas
- Alexandria City Council’s obligation to modernize within its means
- NOVA Parks’ desire to plan and budget for future capital investments
- Regional members who desire a well-maintained, collaboratively funded attraction
Together we can find a creative solution to fit our common vision. Win-Win Approach Alexandria should grant NOVA Parks a shorter term lease that builds toward a mutually beneficial future for the residents, the city budget and the region.
Cameron Run Park is located directly between Alexandria’s two largest mixed use small area plans, increasingly making it the centerpiece of the Eisenhower Corridor. Another 1000 residential units will be added to Eisenhower East over the next 5-10 years. New development means new homes, restaurants, retail and tax revenue for Alexandria’s future. However, it also means more pavement, traffic and trash. It is important that we all invest in Cameron Run Park to become and remain an oasis of natural beauty, family entertainment and all-ages recreation.
Over time, Cameron Run Park should plan to serve increasing numbers of people in the Eisenhower
1
196 Appendix I: Eisenhower Partnership Concept Plan 197
6/12/2017 d be
d truck
lot. ge maintenance in the neglected Northeast
to NOVA Parks costs Alexandria taxpayers $7 beltway would benefit regional partners within 2 within side the waterpark, around Lake Cook and
benefiting both groups. over several years, ultimately decrease to its Parks will experience no to improve the facility. NOVA facility. then dedicated toward an all-ages, year-round 10-K races, pop-up ice markets, farmers markets, fund raisers, concerts, area and inhabiting wildlife. This area to preserve the natural beauty of the now, holiday incentive the City of Alexandria. The recreation center could be jointly managed by NOVA Run that generates its revenue, therefore ll be able to focus solely on part of Cameron protected and Cook’s $3 million dollar upgrade, paid for by this renovation has already begun with Lake sense, resource
would have an ongoing dialogue with their city skating and outdoor movies. Alexandria residents government about what to feature and when. built over the Over time, a recreation center with a turf field roof and underground parking would be parking lot. The easy access to the center from the Waterpark under a shorter lease, improve Great Waves NOVA Parks should continue to maintain and should reclaim and beautify the natural areas and within its existing developed footprint. Alexandria useful and attractive. By maintaining less property, parking lot with the goal of making them more NOVA Parks wi and trails and to offer all-ages, all-year use of the park. should include connecting to nearby paths should be installed to help meet the city’s goal of 40% Additional trees and maintained park space encoura tree canopy cover. A communal garden could In a of Virginia. the City of Alexandria and the Commonwealth festivals, pop-up tennis and futsal court markings for use outside The city-owned parking lot could feature basketball, lot could be marketed to host beer, wine and foo waterpark hours. Additionally, the parking serve this population to increase of the year. A year-round facility could corridor over more months Future Property, Shared Funding, Shared Vision: Shared community engagement conducted serve dual purposes as reflected in the Cameron Run Park should be better maintained. The waterpark Natural areas should stay natural but over the past six months. The space containing the parking lot shoul should remain a fun summer location for families. increasingly utilized draw for both the Eisenhower East and NOVA Parks. It could also be a revenue for both Alexandria plans, helping make both successful. End Small Area and West today. However, such a Neither group has funding to begin construction Getting there is the issue. financially viable facility could become the area out Alexandria should maintain all public park This will also preserve the natural areas around the revenue and share a potential long term gain. new development. waterpark and prevent difficult debates about Parks and Alexandria. round utilization now, upgrades to existing Parks to provide year This allows Alexandria and NOVA facilities in the near future and an indoor recreation center over the long term. A shorter term lease at the current city contribution NOVA Parks providing strong CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
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million dollars. The Eisenhower Partnership suggests that this contribution be put directly toward the construction of an indoor recreation center that benefits both groups. Nominal daily parking rates would be charged beginning immediately with the existing parking lot, eventually to include an entrance fee or membership to the indoor recreation center.
Great Waves Waterpark also fills to capacity on most weekends of the summer. The existing parking lot can only be improved but so much, and cannot be expanded as the space around it is protected area. By extending use to year-round, NOVA Parks can expand revenues during what is likely their least lucrative season. Lease Recommendation Alexandria should counter the lease offer with a fair plan that benefits both parties. Stronger governance, year round use, a shorter lease and a common future are important. By breaking the property into smaller parts and the lease into smaller more manageable increments, the City and NOVA Parks can both benefit immediately and over the long term. Alexandria and NOVA Parks would both benefit from a new recreation center that worked jointly with the existing waterpark, so long as both play a role in funding.
Before a decision is made with regard to any lease, an independent financial analysis must be conducted to quantify the return on investment of each plan to the greatest degree possible.
Cameron Run Regional Park rests on land owned by City of Alexandria that has been leased to NOVA Parks since 1981 at no cost, under the condition that NOVA Parks build and operate a waterpark. By all accounts, NOVA Parks has built a successful waterpark but has not developed or maintained the rest of the property. The NOVA Parks Blue-Green Plan asks for a 40-year lease in return for a dog park near the animal shelter, a park constructed on the east side of the property, a lazy river attraction near the waterpark entrance and renovation of splash pad in 15 years.
NOVA Parks is best prepared and incentivized to maintain Great Waves. Alexandria is best incentivized to maintain the natural areas and parking lot. Under the Eisenhower Partnership plan, the City of Alexandria would immediately reclaim all areas other than the existing waterpark facilities, including the area to the west of the parking lot (where the dog park is proposed), the parking lot, the resource protected areas, Lake Cook and all areas to the east of existing waterpark structures. There is precedent for reducing the footprint of the site. The original lease was amended in 1991 and again in 2002 to reduce the original leased area from 53 to 25.8 acres.
If NOVA Parks has less property to maintain, a shorter term lease with renewal if the waterpark passes annual inspections should be sufficient to plan new attractions within the existing footprint. Annual operations reviews should be conducted with by the City of Alexandria with penalties set out in the lease.
Alexandria and NOVA Parks should cooperatively fund a new recreation center from the $680,000 contributed each year by Alexandria residents to NOVA Parks. The first 10 years of paying less would yield approximately $7 million dollars. The new center could be half funded within 15 years and almost
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4 otherwise might not be. However, these are constrained as they the future of the Eisenhower Corridor. to 40 years ago in 1977. Most of in a drive down Eisenhower today compared options about for most of our lifetimes. It removes It locks Cameron Run Park into a single use
strongest source of modernization and se limits flexibility in the heart of Alexandria’s circumstances and continually make . This will allow both parties to adapt to new revenue. in a good financial its sister jurisdictions are currently operating Alexandria, nor any of
or beautify the property when circumstances call for it. our collective ability to modernize, protect term lease that encourages regular dialogue with Instead, Alexandria should commit to a shorter NOVA Parks balanced decisions a better financial position in five or 10 a loan, Alexandria will certainly be in back the loan. Even without years. Neither environment, therefore Final Consideration park, we ask that you considers plans for the As the Alexandria Parks and Recreation Commission consider the differences help cover costs. 20 years. Charging admission could also completely funded within could seek a loan to build a keeps a AAA bond rating, Alexandria Considering that Alexandria funding stream to pay Parks would provide a dedicated $680,000 from NOVA recreation center. The be even more rapid. years, the pace of change on Eisenhower will A 40-year lea future tax facility. No one could have predicted two metro Eisenhower was farmland and a railroad waste and modern homes in this location. Over the next 40 stations, two government agencies, tall buildings hasty decision. so City Council should refrain from a before the end of the next 40 years, conditions will likely improve This page intentionally left blank.
200 CAMERON RUN PARK PLANNING AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN FINAL REPORT
APPENDIX J: RELATED PLANS AND STUDIES
The following related plans and studies were referenced in the development of this report:
Eisenhower West Small Area Plan https://www.alexandriava.gov/EisenhowerWest
Eisenhower East Small Area Plan https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/planning/info/ masterplan/EisenhowerEastSAPJune2015.pdf
Last Surviving Flora of the Lower Holmes Run Stream Valley - Cameron Run Regional Park
http://vnps.org/potowmack/download/Last Surviving Flora of the Lower Holmes Run Stream Valley - Cameron Run Regional Park-1.pdf
Alexandria Citywide Parks Improvement Plan https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/ recreation/parks/Citywide Parks Plan_PRC Endorsement.pdf
Alexandria Urban Forestry Master Plan https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/ UrbanForestryMasterPlan03-19-09.pdf
Alexandria Environmental Action Plan https://www.alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/tes/eco-city/ EAP_FINAL_06_18_09.pdf
NOVA Parks 2016 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report 2016 https://www.novaparks.com/sites/ default/files/pdf/Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority2016.pdf
City Council Docket Links:
http://legistar.granicus.com/alexandria/meetings/2017/1/1590_M_City_Council_Legislative_ Meeting_17-01-10_Action_Docket.pdf
http://legistar.granicus.com/alexandria/meetings/2016/6/1470_M_City_Council_Public_ Hearing_16-06-18_Action_Docket.pdf
http://legistar.granicus.com/alexandria/meetings/2016/6/1469_M_City_Council_Legislative_ Meeting_16-06-14_Action_Docket.pdf
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