LAKE MERRITT PARK MASTER PLAN

July 2002 CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION IV. DETAIL GUIDELINES Mission Statement ...... I-2 12th St / Cultural District...... IV-2 Planning Context ...... I-4 Design Concept...... IV-2 Why Plan Now? ...... I-5 Recommendations...... IV-5 Water Quality ...... I-6 Additional Area Recommendations ...... IV-9 Relevant History ...... I-7 Other 12th Street Alternatives Studied ...... IV-10 Circulation...... IV-11 Landscape Recommendations...... IV-16 II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Downtown Park Edge ...... IV-18 Process ...... II-2 Design Themes ...... IV-19 Vision ...... II-4 Recommendations...... IV-19 Plan Summary ...... II-8 Circulation...... IV-24 1520 Lakeside Drive:The Municipal Boathouse .... IV-26 Landscape Recommendations...... IV-29 III. PLAN OVERVIEW Lakeside Park ...... IV-30 Design Concepts ...... III-2 Recommendations...... IV-32 Park Programming ...... III-4 Shoreline Management Zone...... IV-35 Water Resources ...... III-6 • Ecological Restoration Areas ...... IV-35 • Bluff Area ...... IV-37 Access and Circulation ...... III-10 • Beach ...... IV-37 Park Landscape...... III-20 • Sailboat House ...... IV-38 Ecology ...... III-38 Program Zone ...... IV-42 Buildings ...... III-44 • Bowing Green ...... IV-42 Shadow Study...... III-50 • Children’s Fairyland ...... IV-44 Art Element ...... III-52 • Lakeside Park Garden Center...... IV-46 • Junior Center for Art and Science (JCAS) ...... IV-48 • Maintenance Facilities...... IV-50 • Police Substation ...... IV-51 • Police Horse Stables / New Maintenance ...... IV-51 • Rotary Nature Center ...... IV-52 • Snack Bar ...... IV-53

ii V. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Free and Clear Open Space ...... IV-54 Overview ...... V-2 Circulation...... IV-56 A Park Conservancy...... V-4 Landscape Recommendations...... IV-58 Funding ...... V-6 Grand Ave. Promenade...... IV-66 Project Descriptions ...... V-8 Recommendations...... IV-67 Project Prioritization ...... V-12 Circulation...... IV-68 Landscape Recommendations...... IV-69 Lakeshore Ave. Edge ...... IV-70 VI. MAINTENANCE PLAN Recommendations...... IV-71 Introduction ...... VI-2 Circulation...... IV-78 Maintenance Review ...... VI-4 Landscape Recommendations...... IV-31 Guidelines for Care ...... VI-10 Irrigation Plan ...... IV-82 Existing Irrigation System ...... IV-82 System Rehabilitation ...... IV-84 VII. APPENDIX Site Furnishings ...... IV-86 Process Notes...... VII-2 Current Conditions ...... IV-86 Analysis ...... VII-8 Background on Park Furnishings ...... IV-86 Circulation Data ...... VII-16 Overall Bench Recommendations ...... IV-87 Sources ...... VII-30 Lake Merritt Necklace of Lights ...... IV-90 Credits...... VII-31 Bicycle Racks Recommendations ...... IV-91 Trash Receptacles ...... IV-91

iii INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER I

MISSION STATEMENT PLANNING CONTEXT WHY PLAN NOW? WATER QUALITY RELEVANT HISTORY

I-1 MISSION STATEMENT

Lake Merritt should continue to be a park for all of Oakland. Its green space, water area, playgrounds, and attractions should serve the widest audience of Oakland citizens and visitors. From the programs we should learn about the park as a natural resource - a unique ecology within our urban city. The needs of human users must be carefully balanced with goals for improving habitat value and water quality. Our City's youth should take their first sail and grow comfortable in a kayak on this water. We should be free to explore our park in all modes of transport. The grand perimeter roads should be made grand for bikes and pedestrians too. The rich botanical collections should be made inviting and in keeping with their famed status. As our Park ages with each generation, we must make the needed repairs that maintain the glory of Lake Merritt.

I-2 Special pavingwithoaktreeatthePergola Culture:toreflecttheuniquecultureofOakland,its • Recreation:toimprovetheparkasaplaceofinformal, • Education:torevealthenaturalprocesses,botanical • Ecology:tomanageandenhancetheparkasarefugefor • Four guidingprinciplesshapethepark’s planning: exploring culturalfactors. natural environment.Artelementsareonewayof builtform,history,diverse peoples,neighborhoods, and benefit fromthelake’s resources. outdoor recreation.Oakland’s youthshouldespecially programs, art,signage,andoverallparkdesign. surrounding communitythroughorganizedyouth interests, culture,andhistoryofLakeMerrittits zones aregiventhehighestpriorityforusebywildlife. people andwildlife.Naturalresourcesinecological Beach, LakesidePark Forested hillareaandMcElroyFountaininLakesidePark

I-3 INTRODUCTION PLANNING CONTEXT

Planning Context

In 1999, the city embarked on a plan to revitalize downtown Oakland. The vision espoused, an active city center sup- ported by new housing attracting ten thousand new resi- dents. Public open space is the essential amenity for the new urban residents. The restoration of Lake Merritt Park as a major urban green space will serve the established and new neighborhoods alike. The promenades, lawns, docks, and natural areas will define the daily lifestyles of those residents. Sidewalk and bicycle lane connections to the Lake and Estuary are also addressed as the primary means of circulation between home and park. Lake Merritt’s continuous park border touches the many communities of central Oakland. The park- its “necklace of lights” and green space- joins together these enclaves. Key city boulevards and avenues reach out from the lake back into the fabric of the entire City and its many neighbor- hoods. In this way, all communities of people are connected to the lake. By reinforcing these urban linkages, the people of Oakland will be afforded greater access to Lake Merritt’s open space and educational programs. Park amenities will serve the existing communities of Oak- land and the East Bay. From adjacent neighborhoods to nearby cities, Lake Merritt will continue to be a central park destination and green refuge.

Right: View of gondola tour at sunset

I-4 a majorconnectorbetweenLakeMerrittandtheEstuary. waterfront. TheLakeMerrittChannelisenvisionedtoserveas growing. theestuaryplanproposesahighlypublicurban benefit fromthemasterplan.Attentiontowaterfrontis the lakearealsopartofrenaissanceandthuswillgreatly space. Theneighborhoodsandbusinessdistrictssurrounding on newdowntownhousingfurtherstheneedforqualityopen Merritt asamajorpartoftheCity’s renaissance.Theemphasis the city, civicleadershaveidentifiedtherestorationofLake active streetlife.With centralOaklandbecomingahighlightof neighborhoods throughouttheCity-fromeconomicvitalityto Oakland’s renaissanceisquicklyshapingdowntown,and Changing UrbanConditions to occur. excitement generatedbytheplanprovidesacontextforchange operations andservicetoitsusers.Thecommonvision hensive programtomaketheparkchangesnecessaryimprove modest availableresources.Themasterplanlaysoutacompre- completed werebaseduponanunclearparkvisionandwith open spacecondition.Repairsandthefewimprovementsever under-funded urbanparkmaintenancehasdeterioratedthe plantings, andfurnishingsatthepark.Highuse,coupledwith The loveaffairbythepublictakesitstollonpaths,lawns, Time forMajorRenovations year. So whyisthereaneedforplan? highly reveredbythethousandsservedLakeMerritteach The Park’s celebratedhistoryanduniqueecologicalheritageare Why PlanNow? to ensureultimatefeasibility. Thisisthatplan. coordinate allrecommendationsandprovidetechnicalresearch was madetoprepareanofficialparkmasterplanthatwould of whicharestillquiterelevanttoday. Afinalrecommendation maintenance, andtheinclusionofartsintopark-many mendations toimprovesuchaspectsascirculation,recreation, completed athoroughanalysisanddevelopedseriesofrecom- Lake Merritt.TheCommunityAssistanceTeam (CAT) study ern CaliforniaChapterinitiatedacommunity-basedreviewof the AmericanSocietyofLandscapeArchitects(ASLA)North- a citizen-ledprojectexecutedfortheenjoymentofall.In1988, Lights bytheLakeMerrittBreakfastClubisarecentexampleof Oakland philanthropy. TherestorationoftheNecklace throughout itshistorythelakehasbeensubjectofnotable The ideaofrevitalizingLakeMerrittisnotanewone.Infact, Past Planning/CommunityEffortsatLakeMerritt Merritt. reflective ofthepeopleOaklandandusersLake whether ecological,educational,recreationalorcultural—are them whereappropriate.Thevaluesexpressedintheplan– projects shouldreviewthefundamentalvisionsandembrace to come.Futuremasterplanupdatesandrelatedplanning LMMP willactasaguideforimprovementprojectsintheyears have startedasabrainstormcommentatworkshop.The Recommendations intheplanadddetailtoanideathatmay then organizesthesebroadideasintoasingle,cohesiveplan. visions tobeshared.TheLakemerrittMasterPlan(LMMP) during theplanningprocessprovidedopportunityforthese community openhousesandstakeholderworkshopsconducted members ofthepublictoconsiderlongtermvisions.Themany A parkmasterplanprovidesopportunityforcivicleadersand A Time toDream WHY PLANNOW?

I-5 INTRODUCTION WATER QUALITY

Water Quality

Poor water quality affects the aesthetic, ecological, and recre- chemicals, hydrocarbons, and animal waste overwhelms the ational value of the park. Foul smells and unsightly detritus ability of the lake to flush and dilute the pollution. The low result from an unbalanced system. The historic decline of dissolved oxygen due to decomposition of organic matter is fisheries in the lake is a combined result of acute problems with further exacerbated by the stratification of lake salt water, and water quality and conditions in the greater San Francisco Bay. storm influxes of fresh water runoff. While the dumping of sewage has long been corrected, Lake The master plan coalesces the recommendations of several Merritt is still the downstream destination for over 4,670 acres studies and highlights the need for a water quality program. Not of urbanized watershed runoff. The amount of nutrients, surprisingly, the citizen participants in the planning process identified water quality as a high priority to be addressed.

I-6 2001 -Thefirststormdrainfilterisinstalledtoremovetrash 1971 -LaneyCollegeopens,builtuponformertidalmarshes 1962 -$8millionprojecttoeliminatelakecontamination 1951 -Threeadditionalbirdislandsareconstructed. 1948 -FederalFishandGameinvestigationofthe'Duck 1935 -Runof15lb.seabassintotheLake. 1926 -Annualbandingofmigratoryducksbegun. 1922 -Dredgingspoilscreatethefirstbirdisland. 1915 -Officialbirdfeedingsinstituted. 1870 -LakeMerrittisdesignatedbythestategovernoras 1869 -Thesouthernendofthesloughisdammed,restrict- 1852 -ThenewCityofOaklandbuildsapipesystem 1772-1852 -TheLakeispartofagrantcededtothe hunting andfishingground. Costanoan Indianslivednearby, andusedthelakeasa brackish tidalhabitatinhabitedbymanyfishandbirds. 4500 acresofuplands,cametogetherandformedamarshy, Trestle Glen,andParkBoulevardcreeks),drainingover Four streams(nowknownasGlenEcho,PleasantValley, Ecology from runoff. along SanAntonioCreek. through reroutingstormdrainsproposedandrejected Dinner' incident. edge. 1800’s, variousprojectsbegingivingthelakeahard first wildliferefugeinNorthAmerica.Inthelate to formalake. ing thetidalflowsandraisinglevelofwater discharging allofitssewageintotheslough. but isnotsubstantiallyaltered. Peraltas. Thesloughservesasashippingterminus, RELEVANT HISTORY

I-7 INTRODUCTION RELEVANT HISTORY

Patterns of Use 1918 - Edoff Memorial Bandstand. Late 1700s - Indians ousted by the Spanish Peralta family 1926 - Lawn Bowling clubhouse built. 1850 - Peraltas ousted by Horace Carpentier. 1927 - First powerboat regatta. 1853 - Erection of the Bridge of Sighs - exorbitant tolls 1950 - 3-acre Children's Fairyland completed. charged. 1950's - Water contact sports again banned in the Lake, 1854 - Horace Carpentier elected Mayor of Oakland: he due to water pollution. awards himself twenty-five miles of waterfront 1953 - Rotary Natural Science Center. 1869 - 12th Street Dam built. 1957 - Proposal approved to build a fleet of scaled-down 1898 - City of Oakland obtains 32 acre parcel “Peralta boats from all nations. Park” in the current area of 12th Street, Kaiser 1959 - Lakeside Park Garden Center. Center, Laney College, and Peralta Park. 1960 - Fairyland expanded to 10 acres. 1909 - City acquires the Lake property title. 1961 - Lake Merritt Rowing Club established. 1909 - Salt water pump house built for downtown fire protection. Later becomes Main Boathouse 1970s - 80s - Lake stocked with trout. 1911 - McElroy Fountain constructed. 1980 - First annual Festival at the Lake. Festival discon- tinued in late '80s. 1912 - Embarcadero pergola, lawn bowling greens, and tennis courts completed. 1980s - Cruising and working on cars in parking areas banned at the lake. 1912 - Swimming in Lake Merritt banned. 1996 - Children's Fairyland renovated. 1915 - Oak Street Main Boathouse completed. Later becomes a restaurant and Parks & Recreation 1998 - Festival at the Lake cancelled over security con- office. cerns. 1916 - Sandy beach installed on the Willows for sunbath- 1999 - Bandstand reopened after '89 closure. ing and swimming. 2000 - Bonsai and Suiseki garden completed.

I-8 1939 -Embarcaderomediansinstalled. 1922 -Afterfillingalongwestshoreoflake,cuttingoff 1914 -LooproadsconnectedaroundtheLake,except 1909 -Work ontheboulevardbeginsagain. 1893 -Boulevardproposedagainsupportedbyabond 1891 -CitydiscoversitdoesnotowntheLake. 1877 -200'wideperimeterboulevardproposed. 1876 -12thStreetdamiswidened,bridgeabandoned. 1869 -60'wideperimeterboulevardproposed. 1869 -12thStreetdamopenedasanalternatetraffic 1868 -NewbridgesinwhatwecalltheEstuary8th 1853 -12thStreet“BridgeofSighs”constructedby Ring Roads current configuration,moreorless. Lakeshore Avenue, bringingtheLaketoits many docksfromthewater, theCitycompletes for LakeshoreAvenue. Lakeshore Avenue begun. issue whichpasses.Dredgingandfillingalong route. Antonio Embarcadero. railroad bridgebuiltfrom1stStreettoSan Street toJeffersondrawbridgeconstructed, Horace Carpentier.

I-9 INTRODUCTION RELEVANT HISTORY

Big Dreams

1887 - Racetrack proposed for El Embarcadero. 1891 - Southern Pacific RR plan to fill the lake for a new train station. 1906 - City planner proposes boulevard, two islands connected by 'artistic' bridges. 1910 - Proposal to build a huge casino with fountains, domes, and Greek statues at present Kaiser Center site. 1915-1930 - Mayor Davie era - 1919 swimming beach, man- made island, trotting park for horses, and landing field for small planes; bridge across the lake touching down at a new landfill extension, and a 1930 four-lane tube. 1925 - Necklace of Lights built. 1930s - Swimming at Lake Merritt; one included a man-made, planted barrier cutting off the Glen Echo arm of the lake for swimming. 1938 - Bridge of Great Beauty, four lanes over the lake - the 'viaquadrome'. 1933 - New Lakeside library proposed and built. 1938 - Singing Fountain proposed. 1944 - Shooting Rainbow Fountain. 1950s - Thousands of fruit trees planned to ring the Lake - first groups planted are vandalized. 1951 - Necklace of Lights relighted after WWII. The “Singing Fountain” to be seen from the entire shoreline is proposed 1959 - Fishing lagoon with pier shaped like a boat. in 1938. 1962 - Plan to put flags of all fifty states along 12th Street dam. 1989 - CAT study makes recommendations for the Park’s improvement including a lid park at 12th Street. 2000 - Cathedral proposed at Kaiser Center parking lot area (formerly Peralta Park). Citizen group submits compet- ing proposal for a grand boulevard.

I-10 and bowlinggreeninLakesidePark. Oscar A.Prager’s 1906planforthefountain

I-11 INTRODUCTION

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

CHAPTER II

PROCESS VISION PLAN SUMMARY

II-1 PROCESS

Process

The Master Plan process occured under the guidance of the mayor, city council, and comunity leaders. Major renovations to the park are long overdue. The years of neglect show in the conditions of paths, planting, buildings, restrooms, benches, and wildlife areas. Furthermore, the Park’s programming does not support a use scenario that best benefits the community and wildlife. The master plan sets clear goals for improvements to the design, function, and ecological value of the Park. Based on a holistic approach that considers traffic, recreational use, urban design, architecture, planting, maintenance, and ecology, the plan supports the Park’s role as the “central park” or jewel of Oak- land. Lake Merritt is popular with all types of users, from October Public Open House enthusiasts of horticulture to wildlife, from strollers enjoying the evening light, to determined runners beating the pavement. The plan enhances these opportunities by recommending facility improvements and by clarifying the areas that support these uses. The master plan process was one year in duration. It began with detailed analysis of the Park. Analysis from previous studies contributed to the present understanding of the park. With input from the greater community, stakeholders, and city staff, the plan generated detailed goals and design alternatives for consideration. A preferred set of recommendations was then publicly reviewed and this final plan was prepared. December Public Open House

MOCHA craft project at the October Public Open House October Public Open House

II-2 Below Right:CommentonProjectPrioritization Below Left:CommentsoncreekdaylightingatPublicOpenHouse Right: CommentsonLakesideParkatPublicOpenHouse during theprocess,areanoutgrowthofinitialvisions. coordination concerns.Detailedrecommendations,developed provided directiontodesign,policy, management,andproject public, joinedindefiningthevisionforpark.Citystaff owners, residents,issueadvocates,andothermembersofthe planning process,stakeholders,parkusers,localbusiness recommendations (thisMasterPlan).Throughtheoneyear objectives havebeentranslatedintoacomprehensivesetof oned. Throughaparticipatoryprocess,thosecommunity Lake Merrittandthespecificvisionsthathavebeenchampi- The planisbasedonthecommunity’s longtermadvocacyfor Outreach

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II-3 VISION

Layers of ecological heritage, unique neighborhood cultures, and recreational expectations form the foundation of the plan. The Lake—a part of the original estuary system—its bay connection, and the stream corridors leading in to it, once played a major role in the function of this ecosystem. The master plan reflects this original ecological function. Creek restorations, reopening The City grows beyond the original of the estuary, interpretive elements, and habitat restorations are estuary. Overlaying historic watershed proposed as part of the ecological theme. Gateways are coordi- and shorelines with those of today. nated with the locations of creeks and borrow from that charac- ter. The plan also recognizes the Park’s role as the City’s central park or “jewel” of Oakland. Lake Merritt is central to both the downtown core, as well as the many historic neighborhoods that surround its edge. Each neighborhood district projects a unique culture rooted in a social story of ethnic diversity, architectural patterns, and urban form. Small plazas, docks, Highlight of major east-west circulation routes promenades and other design elements will tell these unique and the original estuary. Contemporary streets stories. Street tree species are associated with each neighbor- follow former creek corridors. hood. Special history markers advance the efforts of Oakland to identify and present its rich past. For the recreational benefit of all, new jogging and walking paths will circle the Lake uninter- rupted. Similarly, new bike lanes will be added to the roads surrounding the park. The plan envisions ring roads that surround the Lake be made more park-like and therefore be- come a part of the Lake Merritt landscape.

Historic watershed, major circulation routes of present day city. The Lake becomes the green “jewel” in the Original estuary system, circa 1850. center of Oakland.

II-4 and neighborhood. as alinkbetweenthem.Specialnodesareformedbytheoverlapofcreeks,park, Lake MerrittParkisborderedbymanyuniqueOaklandneighborhoodsandserves Figure II.1NeighborhoodsandCreeksSurroundingLakeMerritt 8 9 12 7 11 10 6 1 2 5 4 3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II-5 VISION

Figure II.2 Park Concept Plan

II-6 roadway. ecological patternsoffishspawninginthecreekthatflowsunderpresent Below: Thegatewayconceptexploredat18thstreethighlightsthehistoricand Above: ExistingconditionsphotoofEast18thStreet.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II-7 PLAN SUMMARY

Overall Plan Topics Design Guidelines

The plan makes recommendations to improve the following The park is described in greater detail on a zone by zone basis. aspects of the park: Recommendations for park programming, landscape, circulation and buildings are provided. The five zones include: • Park Programming: Land Use and Water Resources •12th Street/Cultural District • Planting and Arboretum Elements • Downtown Park Edge • Buildings • Lakeside Park • Circulation • Grand Avenue Promenade • Art Element • Ecology • Lakeshore Drive • Shadow Study

”I want to applaud ... the City of Oakland for making a genuine attempt to improve our Lake Merritt park area. I am especially excited about the significant efforts that you are making to enhance recreational, educa- tional, and natural uses of the historical park, i.e. the ecological impact that it has had for more than a century ” - Community Member com- ment on Lake Merritt in December 2001.

II-8 Figure II.3OverallIllustrativePlan

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II-9 PLAN SUMMARY

Five Overall Recommendations

While the plan makes many detailed recommendations, a sum 3. An Estuary Connection should be Initiated of these parts can be explained in the following five themes: The 12th Street area of the lake, historically Peralta Park, should be redesigned to allow for an open water channel connection to 1. The Park should be Expanded in Key Areas the estuary. Improved water flow can greatly enhance lake water Narrow park borders currently constrict the activities of those quality- improving the habitat value, appearance and even the using the park. Paths cannot live up to their popularity, yet smell of the Lake. Important pedestrian and bicycle opportuni- have nowhere to expand. Perimeter roadways at times seem to ties for new connections to the estuary are initiated by these overwhelm the fragile park. Crossing these streets can be changes. The now obsolete twelve-lane roadway should be dangerous, an unfortunate situation in the context of a park. reduced to an ample three lanes each way with an opportunity Under the master plan, the perimeter roadways have been for express bus lanes to be added. This should allow the park to carefully studied and selectively recommended for narrowing in be increased from a narrow sidewalk next to hostile traffic to a order to provide wider, multi-use paths and on-street bike lanes. hundred-foot wide green space re-establishing the “front yard” to Several intersections are likewise modified to improve pedestrian grand civic buildings and the Oakland Museum. The new park and bicycle safety while expanding the park. space also affords continuous perimeter paths, a beach, and open lawns for play and festivals. An art display—in conjunction 2. Park Amenities should be Enhanced with the Oakland Museum’s new entrance—may be incorpo- The park furnishings do not measure up to the natural grace and rated into the open space and its walkways. beauty of the landscape. Restrooms, drinking fountains, benches, signage, and other amenities critical to everyday use 4. Park Programs should be Improved should be upgraded, made more vandal resistant, and maintain- On the water and in the park, unique youth programs teaching able. These features may be improved through the art element. boating, ecology, reading readiness, horticulture, art, and science The prestigious Necklace of Lights should be expanded along all contribute to the value of the park. The plan proposes that a th 12 Street. Improvements specific to accessibility, drainage, new facility be developed which consolidates these programs lighting, and uneven pathways should provide a safer environ- within the interior of the park eventually replacing older struc- ment. tures and freeing up the shoreline for important park space. Additionally, non-Lake Merritt maintenance operations/ facilities should be relocated out of the park, opening up new park space for public use. Finally, park ranger patrols should be increased to improve public safety.

View of Lake from Cleaveland Cascade.

II-10 mission. the improvementandmaintenanceofparkasitsexpress proposed toprovideastrong,long-termadvocacygroupthathas guidance tocityagencies.Furthermore,aparkconservancyis The costsoftheseprogramsarecalculatedtogiveclearbudgetary necessary levelofcaretoproperlymaintainthenewfacilities. detailed maintenanceprogramsareoutlinedwhichprovidethe required tomaintainthenewgrounds.Aspartofthisplan, vision. Itisrecognizedthatadditionalresourceswouldbe Parkoperationsareacriticalpointofrealizingthelong-term 5. MaintenanceshouldbeImproved Figure II.4DiagramofFiveZones PedestrianCirculationandPathways •12 Water QualityandEcology • • the topprioritiesidentifiedbycommunityare: level costestimatesareincludedforreference.Ingeneralterms, organized accordingtopriorityandconstructionlogic.Planning The planincludesadiscussionofimplementation.Projectsare Implementation MOCHA craftprojectattheOctoberPublicMeeting in LakesideParkEcologyZone Boardwalk spurwithpostscontinuingacrossthepond,asisproposed th StreetAreaImprovements

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II-11 PLAN OVERVIEW

CHAPTER III

DESIGN CONCEPTS PARK PROGRAMMING WATER RESOURCES ACCESS & CIRCULATION PARK LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY BUILDINGS SHADOW STUDY ART ELEMENT

III-1 DESIGN CONCEPTS

Design Concept Zones

Detailed park area descriptions and recommendations are found in Chapter 4. For the purposes of this Master plan, the park is divided into the following zones:

•12th Street/San Antonio Creek/Estuary Connection/ Civic District • Downtown Park Edge • Lakeside Park • Grand Avenue Promenade • Lakeshore Park Edge Proposed 18th street perspective drawing

Gateways Neighborhood Nodes

Gateways highlight the sense of identity of our built environ- Oakland’s unique neighborhoods are one of the defining ments. They mark boundaries of districts, serve as points of characteristics of the City. The LMMP promotes the park as a reference, and often highlight the unique qualities of our envi- connector—a common thread that joins the surrounding ronment. The LMMP recognizes the lake’s presence as a natural communities. Special neighborhood nodes are proposed along gateway—giving identity to nearby streets and neighborhoods. the park perimeter. They are located at the terminus of streets, To further the characterization of the “lake district,” specific types and special view locations along the shoreline. The nodes are of markers are proposed. Each relates a particular theme identi- oriented to the pedestrian, using the perimeter paths or entering fied in the master plan, including creek ecology, surrounding the park from the adjacent neighborhood. Low seatwalls, neighborhoods, and Oakland history. special paving, and text inscriptions commemorate the nodes. These are second in hierarchy to the Creek nodes. Neighbor- Creek Nodes hood nodes could be included as part of the Art Element.

Creeks that once visibly flowed into Lake Merritt are the basis History Markers for special gateway nodes. Special planting, custom benches, and interpretive signage, marks the location of creek corridors. The history of Oakland is championed by its citizenry through The design encompasses the pedestrian realm of the park as well many institutions, interest groups, and city departments. Two as the surrounding street. Creek nodes typically occur at major historic resources, the Oakland Heritage Alliance, and the intersections—the entry point of various neighborhood en- Oakland Museum, are located on Lake Meritt. History markers claves. On 18th Street for example, the creek, business district, are proposed to present the history of the lake—its events, and street all converge at a single point. The plan recommends people, related Oakland lore, and the history of the surrounding improvements that celebrate the creek and provide for a lively, neighborhoods. The markers occur at irregular intervals, often urban streetscape. Creek nodes are the primary gateway and at park entry locations or near neighborhood nodes. They could be included as part of the Art Element. would be sculptural in form as opposed to a sign. History markers could be included as part of the Art Element. III-2 Figure III.1ParkConceptPlan

III-3 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK PROGRAMMING Figure III.2 Park Programming

III-4 The park widthbetweentheshorelineandroadway • Picnictablesandotheramenitiesforfamilygatherings • Selectopenlawnareasshouldbeenhancedforlarger • Openlawnareasontheparkbordershouldbe • Continuous,perimetercirculationshouldbeprovided • Land UseRecommendations experience ofparkusers. access toshorelineandopenspaceareasalsoimprovethe other inamoresuitablelocation.Promotingwaterviews,and clarified bymakingonemoreprominentandenhancingthe found toexist.Wildlife andrecreationalusesthatcompetedare Some parkprogrammaticchangesoccurwhereconflictswere benches, lawns,anddocksarerecommendedforrestoration. and facilitiesthatsupporttheusesareenhanced.Pathways, section. Inmostcases,existingpatternsofusearemaintained The park’s overallprogrammingisgraphicallydescribedinthis Land UseOverview of busyroadways. pathway circulationandtoreducethenegativepresence should beexpandedwherepossibletoallowforbetter should beprovided. scaled, active,informalsports. activities. provided forpicnicking,informalplay, andothercasual perimeter. granite pathshouldprovideasoftsurfaceforjoggingthe separate pathsprovidethisopportunity. Adecomposed for walkers,bicyclists,anddogsonleash.Generallytwo Privatelessee Restrooms • Facilities Commercial • Parking • EventSpaces • Beaches • NaturalizedLandscape • PicnicFacilities • DedicatedLawns • FreeandClearOpenSpace • Promenades • • Types ofProgramUsesConsidered

III-5 PLAN OVERVIEW WATER RESOURCES Figure III.3 Water Resources

III-6 12 Glen Echoarm,Bandstandbeach,18 docks aroundthelakeincludingthosenearLakesideDrive, Access tothewaterisimprovedbyrestorationofmany to betterprovidethepublicwithpositiverecreationalvenues. The planrecommendsenhancementstobothofthesefacilities Lakeside ParkandtheMunicipalBoathouseat1520Lakeside. facilitates supportwaterrecreation:theSailboatHousein some ofthemostestablishedeventsatpark.Two main for recreation.Sailingandrowingyouthadultsalikeare The waterportionsoftheparkofferexceptionalopportunities Water OrientedRecreation the City”shouldbereviewedforapplicability. such asCaliforniaDepartmentsofFishandGame’s “Fishingin opportunities foryouthbeimplemented.Existingprograms The planrecommendsthatprovisionsforcontrolledfishing 1950’s and1990’s, citysponsoredfishing eventswerepopular. concerns haveessentiallymarginalizedthisactivity. inthe mental contaminationconcernscoupledwithwildlifeprotection Fishing isnotcommonlypracticedatLakeMerritt.Environ- wading isappropriatenearbeachlocations. ning windsurfingisoftenpracticedonthelake.Swimming/ Water LakeMerrittRowingClub/BerkeleyHS contactsportsarecontingentuponwaterquality. Begin- DragonBoating • OPRBoatrentals • GondolaServicio • LadiesoftheLake • OPR’s SailingintoScience • • on thelakeinclude: Current waterorientedprograms(organizedgroups)operating should conformtoseasonalwildliferestrictions. a safeenvironmentforbeginnersandyouth.Allwateractivity California andtheBayArea.LakeMerrittofferscalmwater personal watercraftuseisincreasinginpopularitythroughout th Streetshorelinearea.Kayaking,dragonboatingandother th StreetLanding,andthe

III-7 PLAN OVERVIEW WATER RESOURCES

Water Oriented Recreation Recommendations

• Restore and maintain docks for water access, boat tie up, • Programs for youth that support water oriented recre- gondola use, water taxi use, and general public interac- ation should be supported. Current programs that use tion with the open water. the lake should enhance their operation by involving • Restore and maintain beaches for public use including youth in their organization. sunning, wading, kayak launch, and play. • Opportunities for a controlled, youth-oriented program • Maintain a minimum water depth in the high use to fish in select areas should be considered. corridors for sailboats, skulls, and windsurfers. • Water taxis should be considered as a means of further • Seasonal restrictions on use for wildlife protection reducing local vehicle trips and providing a unique should be maintained. means of experiencing the lake. Taxis should be coordi- nated with dock locations. Vessels should minimize pollutants by using manual power, electric motors or alternative fuels.

III-8 removal wasrecordedin1893,1907,1921-24,1934,1953, operations thatdeepenedandwidenedthewaterarea.Earth fact thelakequalityweknowtodayisaresultofdredging Lake Merritthasbeendredgedregularlyoverthelastcentury. In Dredging described intheEcologysection. ecology. Discussionsandrecommendationsregardingwildlifeare Water basedwildlifeareasignificantpartofLakeMerritt’s Wildlife December 2001. seagull sanctuary."-CommunityMembercommentonLake Merrittin "Diversify thebirdsanctuarysothatitisnotjustaduck,goose and Below: MooredboatsattheMuncipalBoathouse Facing page:Childrenplayonthebeachnearbandstand TheCityshouldexplorepurchasingasmalldredgeboat • Dredgingoperationstoremovesedimentsshouldbe • Dredging Recommendations by Citystaff. purchase theequipment.Thesmallmachinewouldbeoperated years. Inordertoreduceoperationcosts,theCitymayelect studies haverecommendedthatsomedredgingoccurevery2-3 areas (nottheentirelake)andcostover$1.5million.Past dredging operationincludedonlythemajorstormdrainoutfall process cantakeoneormoreyearstocomplete.Thelast bottoms. Permitapplicationproceduresarecomplicated.The and otherhazardspriortodisposal-notuncommoninbay of thelake.Soilsrequiretestingtodeterminelevelmetals drain outfallsandmigratesintocalmwater—typicallythearms grass, algae,andmudflats.Sedimentaccumulatesnearstorm become ashallowmudflatwithincreasedquantitiesofwidgeon out thisexpensivebutnecessaryproceduretheLakewould control capacityandsupportswaterrecreationactivities.With- twelve yearcycle.Theoperationisconductedtomaintainflood 1964, 1972,1985,and1997.Recentextractionoccursona widgeon grass,andodorousconditions. preventing thebuildupofsediment,expansion sediments insmallquantitiesmaysavemoneywhile to beoperatedmoreregulary. Annualremovalof and aboutevery12forthefulllake. continued onascheduleofevery2-3yearsforthearms

III-9 PLAN OVERVIEW ACCESS AND CIRCULATION Figure III.4 Circulation

III-10 tion goalsweredevelopedearlyintheprocess: eter roadwaysandmajorintersections.Thefollowingcircula- tion accesswasrequired.Studieswereconductedonallperim- Park, athoroughunderstandingoftrafficpatternsandcircula- In ordertodevelopcomprehensiverecommendationsforthe First, isthedevelopmentofacontinuoustrailaroundlake circulation fortheentirepark.Two facilitiesarerecommended. The MasterPlanaddressesimprovementofpedestrianandbike tion Objective 1:ImprovePedestrianandBikeCircula- Roadway Circulation Figure III.5 walks). III.6 ProjectBikeFacilitiesandIII.10PedestrianCross- land BicycleMasterPlanaroundLakeMerritt.(RefertoFigure street bikepathconformsto,andwouldimplementtheOak- vehicle travellanes.Creatingtheonstreetbikelanesandoff plus theadditionofbikelaneswouldrequirereductionin would notrequireanypavingoverparkgreenspace;howeverit reduce bicycleandpedestrianconflicts.Thewidemultiusepath for commuterandhighspeedbiketraffic.Thiswouldhelpto Second, isthecreationofon-streetclassIIbikelanesprovided street multiusepathforpedestriansandrecreationalbicyclists. and throughthepark.Thetrailwouldconsistofawideoff would requirenarrowingthestreetsaroundLakeMerritt.This Figure III.6

III-11 PLAN OVERVIEW ACCESS AND CIRCULATION

Figure III.7 Figure III.8

Objective 2: Improve Estuary Connection Objective 3: Connect Park to Neighborhoods

The Lake Merritt Master Plan calls for constructing a park link Narrowed roads would improve the pedestrian connection to that would directly connect Lake Merritt Park to Peralta Park. surrounding neighborhoods. Bulb outs would be added at The San Antonio Creek channel would be opened up, with crosswalks to reduce the crosswalk distance. The Master Plan channel side trails, providing a seamless small boat, pedestrian identifies several street segments surrounding the lake to be and bicycle connection without crossing a street. Twelfth Street reduced in the number of travel lanes. All crosswalks at signal- would span the channel over a signature bridge. For those who ized intersections should have audible countdown pedestrian would prefer not to cross under Twelfth Street nearby signalized signals. intersections with crosswalks would provide safe pedestrian crossings.

III-12 parking capacity. (RefertoFigureIII.8ProjectParking). solve theparkingdemands,whichattimes,exceedsparks participants wouldbedirectedtouseoffsiteparkingfacilities where therewouldbelessenvironmentalimpact.Specialevent Parking, therefore,couldbemovedtoareasinsidethepark total amountofparkingwithintheparkistobekeptsame. away fromtheenvironmentallysensitiveshorelineareas.The One goaloftheLakeMerrittMasterPlanistomoveparking Objective 4:Parking Figure III.9 Figure III.10 Objective 5:ImproveTransit Access Transit Access). utilized atBART Stations.(RefertoFigureIII.12Project also announceLakeMerrittParkevents,similartothedevices screen technology, toencouragetransituse.Thesedevicescould futuretechnology,accommodate forexample,nextbusmessage bus stopsaroundthelake.Theseshelterscouldbeequippedto information aboutLakeMerrittParkshouldbeinstalledatall gaps betweenstops.Distinctivebusshelterswithmapsand located onroadsaroundthelakeandparkwheretherearelarge transit accesstoLakeMerrittPark.Newbusstopsshouldbe Another goaloftheLakeMerrittMasterPlanistoimprove

III-13 PLAN OVERVIEW ACCESS AND CIRCULATION

Figure III.11 Figure III.12

Figure III.13 12th Street Existing Conditions

III-14 Therewouldbefournewsignalizedintersectionsinclud- • Boulevard. a normalurbancitystreet,potentiallycalledLakeMerritt Boulevard. The12thStreet"freeway"wouldbeconvertedinto Street with1stAvenue, betweenOakStreetandInternational Viaduct withanewsixlaneboulevard,connecting11th/12th The LakeMerrittMasterplancallsforreplacingthe12thStreet 12th Street/SanAntonioCreek/EstuaryConnection/CivicArea Recommendation OverviewbyZone as parking.ClassIIbikelanesprovidededicatedaccesstocommuters. Outer lanesserveasdedicatedExpressbusduringpeakperiodsandalternatively Figure III.1512thStreetProposedParkandBoulevard Proposed InterimPedestrian/BikeAccess Figure III.1412thStreet tions. 12th Street.Therewouldbecrosswalksatallintersec- vention Center, andLakeMerrittBoulevardwithEast 14th Street,LakeMerrittBoulevardwithKaiserCon- ing; 13thwith14thStreet,LakeMerrittBoulevard Onstreetparkingandbikelanescouldbeprovided. • Thecurrentpedestriantunnelswouldnolongerbe • Thestreetcrossesthechannelonabridgehighenough • needed andthereforeberemoved. Merritt ChannelProject. channel fromLakeMerritt,meetingagoalofthe the channel.Boaterswouldbeabletoaccess for pedestriansandbicyclisttocrossunderitadjacent

III-15 PLAN OVERVIEW ACCESS AND CIRCULATION

Downtown Park Edge

The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for narrowing both Lakeside Drive and Harrison Street providing on street bike lanes and room for a 14 foot two way multi-purpose trail to be built along the lake. Plan specifics are: • Narrowing a portion of Lakeside Drive, a one-way street, to three lanes, from 14th to 17th Street. A northbound bike lane to be added. • Also narrowing the two-way portion of Lakeside Drive to two lanes, with one in each direction, from 19th to 20th Street. Figure III.16 Lakeside Drive Existing Condition (14th to 17th) Bike lanes to be added in each direction for this two way segment. • Removing 20th Street between Lakeside Drive and Harrison Street and replacing pavement with parkland. The Harrison and Lakeside intersection to be moved to form a perpendicular T intersection. Both Snow Park and Lake Merritt Park would be ex- panded. • Harrison Street to be reduced to three lanes southbound between Grand avenue and Lakeside Drive. A new bike lane added in the southbound direction. • A 14 foot two way bike path should be built on the lake side of Lakeside Drive and Figure III.17 Lakeside Drive Proposed (14th to 17th) Harrison Street.

III-16 widened toaccomodateamulti-usepathandenhancedplanting. Northbound bikelanewidthisresizedtostandardlane.Theparkborder Figure III.19HarrisonStreetProposed Figure III.18HarrisonStreetExistingConditions

III-17 PLAN OVERVIEW ACCESS AND CIRCULATION

Lakeside Park Lakeshore Avenue Edge

The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for the Sailboat house • The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for narrowing parking lot to be removed, the parking to be replaced on Lakeshore Avenue allowing for on street bike lanes and Bellevue Avenue, and for the parking demand to be managed. room for a 14 foot two way multi-purpose trail to be built along the lake. • Bellevue Avenue, in Lake Merritt Park, to be widened by eleven feet. This would allow for diagonal parking • Lakeshore Avenue would be narrowed to two lanes, on both sides of Bellevue Avenue, replacing the spaces with one in each direction, between the El Embarcadero lost at the Sailboat House parking lot. intersection and the East 18th Street intersection. • Part of Sailboat House parking lot to be converted into • Lakeshore Avenue should be narrowed between 18th park space. A few spaces would be preserved for handi- and 15th to four lanes, two in each direction. capped, loading and boat trailer parking. • Existing parking on Lakeshore to be preserved. • It is proposed that events that have an expected 25 or • Bike lanes to be added in each direction. more visitors would be required to submit a proposal for • A fourteen foot wide multi-use path would replace the parking management. A new database would notify all six foot sidewalk on the lake side of the street participants, entities and the Lake Merritt management group, as to what events are to happen within the park • The Lake Merritt Master plan also calls for ending at any given time. Event planners could make an Lakeshore Avenue at 12th Street, with a cul-de-sac. informed decision as to if they need to utilize outside This would divert traffic to 1st Avenue allowing parking facilities as well as a shuttle service. Lakeshore Avenue to be narrowed to one lane each way and made into a more park friendly neighborhood Grand Avenue Promenade street. • East 15th Street intersection should be reconfigured to The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for the intersections of open up parkland next to lake. Grand Avenue and Bellevue, at both the park entrance and • The Master Plan would reconfigure 1st Avenue as a exit, to be narrowed. This would provide a safer and more four-lane street by eliminating parking. pedestrian friendly crosswalk across Bellevue. The bulb outs and crosswalks called for in the Grand Avenue Bicycle, Pedes- • 1st Avenue should be a signed bike route. trian, and Parking Project should be constructed. • The Lake Merritt Master Plan is compatible with and fully supports the Grand Lake Green Link Plan, and its recommendation to consolidate El Embarcadero to one road.

III-18 iueII2 is vneEitn odto Figure III.23Proposed FirstAvenue Figure III.22FirstAvenue ExistingCondition Figure III.21Proposed LakeshoreAvenue Figure III.20 Lakeshore AvenueFigure III.20Lakeshore ExistingCondition

III-19 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE

Figure III.23 Park Landscape

III-20 recommendations: and continuityofthelandscape.Thefollowingarespecific active reforestationprogramfortheParktoensurevitality lope oftheexistingBotanicalGarden.ThePlanalsooutlinesan planting beyondtheexistingfencedareastoexpandenve- logical landscapethemesthroughoutLakeMerrittPark,adding The LandscapePlanseekstostrengthentheculturalandeco- longer beavailableforfuturegenerationstoenjoy. care andattritionmanyothermaturespecimensmayno Mature Leptospermumsareindangeroflossfrominappropriate scape cohesiveness,andonlyscatteredislandsoftreesremain. In therecentpast,someareasofParkhavelosttheirland- collection. 1900s. Tree giftsfromthe1915World's Fairaugmentedthe South AfricaandtheAustralianregionwereaddedinearly from theeasternUnitedStates,Eurasia,temperateAfricaand multicultural landscapevision.Nativeplantsaswellspecies want toseeplantsfromtheirnativelands,"settingthestagefora sion expressedtheconvictionthat"visitorstothisparkwould around theworld.In1910,firstOaklandParksCommis- specimens ofbothnativeandexotictreesplantsfrom Lake MerrittParkisan85-acrepublicgardenwithunique Merritt's wildlifeprotection. Lake's uniqueconditionshavecontinuedtoadvocateforLake civic leaders,localscientistsandnationalecologistsstudyingthe (urban wildlifeprotectionarea)inMarchof1870.Sincethen, establishing theestuaryasoneoffirstfederalwildliferefuges neighborhoods. Anecologicalawarenesswasexpressedby throughout thehistoryofLakeMerrittParkanditssurrounding Two dominantthemesofecologyandmulticulturalismrecur Landscape PlanOverview themes andtherebyenhancethequalityoftheirexperience. seeks tostrengthenandcommunicateecologicalcultural from theirancestrallands.Forallparkusers,theLandscapePlan their countriesoforigin,theopportunitytolearnaboutplants provide secondgenerationimmigrants,whohavenevervisited lands. Today, byanironictwistofhistory, theParkmay arrived immigrantscouldseefamiliarplantsfromtheirnative The foundersenvisionedaparkwherevisitorsandnewly Demonstrationlandscapedesignutilizingrecycledwater EcologicalandBotanicalGardenthemes • NewplantingsintheEcologicalRestorationArea • • Reductioninopenlawnareaswithincrease • Massingofgroundcovershrubsfromvariousclimateand • Additionalsecondarypathsmeanderingthroughnew • StrongerpathwayconnectionfromBotanicalGardento entrytothefencedBotanicalGarden New • • AccentplantingsofLeptospermumsatgatewayentries • BoulevardtreesalongringroadsextendingParkbound- • ClustersofValley andBlueOaks alongperimeterPark • in newParkareaat12thStreet groundcover areas continental regions climate gardens Sailboat House to LakeMerritt ary areas

III-21 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE

History

The following is a brief history of the events shaping the eco- logical and cultural landscapes of Lake Merritt Park:

Ecological Landscape

• Originally named Lake Peralta, Lake Merritt was created • In 1923, the Lake was dredged and the fill used to in 1869 from the marshy San Antonio Slough, where construct manmade islands as nesting sites for birds. four creeks converged toward the Bay. In 1869, Dr. From 1920 to 1940, five resting and nesting islands were Samuel Merritt (then mayor) persuaded the state to constructed by driving piles into the lake bottom, designate the Lake as a National Wildlife Refuge. The fastening planks to the piles and filling the resulting designation was granted in 1870. The area's vegetation boxes with soil. Shrubs and trees were planted and fresh and wildlife included oaks, alders, maples, willows, water was provided on the islands. quail, deer, and rabbits. Fresh streams flowed where one could catch crabs, salmon, steelhead trout, smelt rock • Other filled lands included Adams Park, the bandstand cod, lobsters, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Lake Merritt, and beach area, Eastshore Park, Lakeside Drive from being the first National Wildlife Refuge, became the 17th to 20th Street, East 18th Street from Athol to model for President Theodore Roosevelt to follow in Park Boulevard, and the land under the Auditorium. setting up the national park system. Lake Merritt Wild • In the late 1970s, the refuge served 4,000 - 5,000 Duck Refuge is now a National Historic Landmark, migratory waterfowl daily during the migration season. designated by the Secretary of Interior on May 23, 1963. In 1977, there was a resident population of some 500 • In the late 1800s, Lakeside Park included scrub oaks birds who commuted to feeding grounds in the San and about 30-40 very old trees grouped around a small Francisco Bay, including a large population of American cove on the western half of the peninsula (Quercus and snowy egrets as well as approximately 200 black- agrifolia, Quercus kellogii, etc.). Oaks and a Redwood crowned night herons. grove could be seen from outside the San Francisco Bay and were used to navigate ships into the Bay.

III-22 Theoriginallights,whicharetodayalandmark,were • Trees wereaddedfromthe1915World's Fairheldon • In1909,thearchitectOscarPraegerwasaskedbyMayor • In1909,duringMayorFrankMott'stenure,Oakland • Inthe1870s,area,thenpristine,wasinhabitedbya • Cultural Landscape Romaine W. Myers.The"NecklaceofLights"referred installed in1925byconsultingelectricalengineer, existed onAdamsPointinOakland. the ConservatoryofFlowersinGoldenGatePark Treasure Island.Atonetime,aconservatorysimilarto birches (Betulaalba),madronesandfloweringcherries. and coccinea),groupsofpines(Pinusaustriaca) live oakswithdeciduousoaks,(Quercuscerris,rubra original bowlinggreenandfountainsite,augmentedby 45-acre LakesidePark.Preliminaryideasincludedthe Frank Motttodesignpartsoftheexistinglandscaped house wasacquiredforthenewOaklandMuseum boat landingwascreatedandtheCamron-Stanford paved, theboathouseandcanoehousewerebuilt,a Between 1907and1912theroadaroundLakewas land, spaciousupperareas,naturalandhistoricoaktrees. Lakeshore Avenue creek toParkStreethadwooded Embarcadero areaincludingTrestle GlenCreekand Commission andbegantodevelopLakesidePark.The acquired theentirelakefrontage,setupfirstPark tothebay.cattle products by thePeraltabrothersforboatstransportingtimberor location oftheGrandLakeTheater)wasapieroperated Miwok Indians.Attheheadofslough(thepresent handful ofsettlersandafewCostanoan(Ohlone) InNovember1999,theone-third-acreBonsaiand • Fairylandwasbuiltinthe1950sandreputedlyservedas • 1915 PanPacificExpositioninSanFrancisco. 400-year Japaneseblackpinebonsaiwaspartofthe have beeninfamiliesfor20,30or40years.Aspecial Many bonsais,byoutstandingmastersandcollectors, the GoldenStateBonsaiFederationCollection-North. workshop. Itservesastheopen-airculturalmuseumof entry gate,volunteers'office,displaybuildingandfuture booth, afencesurroundingthebonsaicollectionwith collection ofprecioustreesandstonesincludesadisplay Suiseki DisplayGardenopened.Thisnationallyknown exist fortheFairylandgrounds. Fairyland grounds.Mappingandplantcollectionlists children andavolunteergardener'sdocenttourofthe include areadingandlearningprogramforpreschool oversees educationalprograms.Newprogramswill Nancy Starkhasrenovatedthegardens,entryand ing playground.Currently, thenon-profitentityrunby fairy storiesandMotherGooserhymesformthepioneer- Russell Everritt.Approximately60settingsbasedon proximately 50oftheoriginalstructureswasWilliam the inspirationforDisneyland.Thearchitectofap- and nearbyvillagesclosetotheCityofSwatow, China. and theyendeduplightingamission,missionhospital bought thediscarded"FestivalLights"fromajunkyard circuit included3,400lights.In1946,aDr. Brown between temporarypolesandtheelectroliers.The the "FestivalLights"werestringsoflightssuspended to the128electroliersinstalledalongshorelineand

III-23 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE Figure III.24 Existing Vegetation

III-24 Significantandhistorictrees Lawn • Streettrees • Floweringornamentaltrees(accent) • Grovesofothertrees • Mixedpinewoods • Mixedoakwoods • Fencedarea(FairylandandBotanicalGarden) • Coastalbluffplantcommunities • • following zones: Existing Vegetation Plan.Vegetation isclassifiedintothe planting inLakeMerrittParkandservedasthebasisfor A treesurveywasconducted,whichidentifiedawidevarietyof Vegetation SurveyandAnalysis population becameproblematic. was oncegroundcover, butduetolackofmaintenance,arodent areas undertrees.TheplantingslopetothewestofFairyland Lawn occurspredominantlyinareaswithouttreesaswell in theEastBaybutnotSanFrancisco. within theBotanicalGardenthatwereidentifiedas"thriving" sanctuary space.Specimentreesincludesomespecific specimen sizeand/ortreesorgrovesofthatformaspecial, Significant treesarethosethathavegrowntoalarge were vandalized. ornamental cherrytreesduringthe1950s,butmanyof preserve theirviewoftheLake.Therewasalargeplanting resistance toplantingtreesbecausesomeresidentsprefer planted (replacingthosediseased),buttherehasbeenmuch from earlywritingsandplans.Sometreeshavebeennewly the NewZealandTea trees.Thesetreeswereidentifiedlargely or treesreferencedinPraeger'soriginalplantingdesign,suchas Historic treesarethoseplantedafterthe1915World's Fairand/

III-25 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE

Landscape Themes

Bio-diversity Ecological Systems

The Landscape Plan will focus on enhancing the biological Prior to the 1909 Park plantings, the existing site supported diversity and variety of life at Lake Merritt Park. Lake Merritt is groves of oaks and a few buckeye trees. Today striking speci- the first wildlife refuge declared in the United States. The mens of this period still exist and add to the rarity of the Park's challenge is to enhance this wildlife refuge within an encroach- collection of trees. The Landscape Plan extends clusters of ing urban environment while responding to increasing human Valley and Blue Oaks along the Lakeside and Lakeshore por- recreational demands. The Landscape Master Plan builds upon tions of the Park where site conditions permit. the existing wildlife habitat and park, offering a wide range Low groundcovers under oak trees will provide native oak specialty plants and environments. Restoring lost vegetation woodland habitat for plant and animal species and reduce such as oak trees along the narrow vegetated perimeters of the maintenance. A balance of open lawn areas and groundcover Lake will provide a wider range of habitat and wildlife corridors areas will help to restore bird and animal resources. to balance plant, animal and human needs. Along the Ecological Zone a restored tidal marsh is envisioned, Multiculturalism consisting of upland and wetland habitat and vegetation. In the Ecological Zone Area, the water's edge will be supplemented Building upon the multicultural theme, development of the with wetland plants to enhance bird habitat. The walkway will Botanical Garden extensions beyond the fenced gardens will be pulled back from the water's edge to allow more extensive capitalize upon the existing plant collections. Low groundcover wildlife habitats, similar to those existing prior to the massing of plants such as Hemoracallis and Phormium tenax undergrounding of creeks and damming of the estuary, and to will provide hardier theme plantings beyond the fenced areas. provide more natural viewing areas for people. These plants will be selected from the Mediterranean climate, African continent, temperate and mild temperate climates of Asia and Australia, tropical climates of New Zealand, native Bay Area habitats and drought-tolerant species. The drought-tolerant garden will combine plants from all areas to provide a design theme based on form, shape, color and textures. The Botanical Garden extensions (approximately 20- 45 acres) will provide seamless landscape transitions and add to the overall landscape character of the Park. Educational themes of the Botanical Garden will stress the ecological values of plants such as low water usage. In keeping with historic precedent, New Zealand tea trees (Leptospermum), "whose branches, as noted in early writings, “will droop into the lake and give a most pleasing effect," will be planted as accents along the bulkheads and at the gateway entries into the Park.

III-26 table. proposed alongthesecorridors,asoutlinedinthefollowing In ordertovisuallyrecalltheformercreeks,riparianplantingis Manyoftheexistingplantingsalongthesestreetsarean • Trees alongGrandAvenue areLondonplanetreeswith • riparian corridorsareasfollows: Creek (12thStreet).Currentconditionsalongtheseformer Creek (ParkBoulevard-FoothillStreet)andSanAntonio Avenue), GlenEchoCreek(HarrisonStreet),ParkBoulevard Merritt estuary:Trestle GlenCreek(GrandAvenue /Lakeshore route ofthefourcreeksthatformerlydrainedintoLake The largearterialstreetssurroundingLakeMerrittfollowthe Riparian Corridors Acer macrophyllum Acer rhombifolia Alnus Calycanthus occidentalis SHRUBS babylonica Salix Platanus racemosa Platanus TREES Botanical Name both LakesideDriveandLakeshoreDrive. large cohesivedesigntheme.Scatteredtreesexistalong accumulation ofsmallerlandscapesandnotparta sidewalks. trees andvegetationinAtholParkalongthe London planetreesinthestreetmedianandscattered evergreen floweringpeartrees.FoothillStreethas limbs prunedback.Pastthefreewaytreesare Spice Bush Spice Willow Weeping Maple Leaf Big Alder White Sycamore California Common Common Name hr odtospri X permit conditions where permit conditions where Comments Habitat X X X

III-27 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE Figure III.25 Existing Forest

III-28 new oakdiseaseshavenotyetbeenclearlyconsidered. of theoaktreeshavealongerlifespan.However, theeffectsof eastern, westernandsouthernshoresoftheLake.Luckilymany aging oftheforest.Very fewtreeshavebeenplantedalongthe habitat. Newtreeshavenotbeenroutinelyplantedtooffsetthe range ofwildlifeandwillneedtobereplantedfor scale, itmustberecognizedthattheseforestsalsosupportawide political climateofpreservingviewstheLake.Onalarger trees haveonlybeensporadicallyplantedlargelyduetothe A comprehensiveforest-managementprogramisneeded.New its wildlifeandrecreationvaluetotheCityofOakland. be moreaggressivetosustainthevalueofthisurbanforestand and hazardousweakeningeffects.Reforestationeffortsneedto mature treesaresusceptibletopestsanddiseases,winddamage of mostforestedsectionsLakeMerrittis87years.Over- Many ofthePark'streesareatendtheirlifespan;age Plantedtoreplacediseasedtreesandsporadicplantings 3. Plantedfrom1909through1915-includingdeciduous 2. GrownpriortoEuropeansettlement (1800s)-including 1. ing threegroupings: Lake MerrittPark(includingLakesidePark)fallintothefollow- nia buckeyes,andNewZealandteatrees.Ingeneral,treesin many historicandheritagecategorytrees,suchasoaks,Califor- urban forestintheheartofdowntownOakland,including Lake MerrittParkprovidestheCityofOaklandwithasignature Existing Conditions Urban ForestryProgram from 1950topresent. the 1915World's Fair. and floweringcherries.Includedarespecimentreesfrom (Pinus austriaca)andbirches(Betulaalba),madrones oaks, Quercuscerris,rubraandcoccinea,groupsofpines Quercus kellogii,douglasii). scrub oaksandwoodland(Quercusagrifolia, Boulevardstreettrees-providingaborderandexten- • Habitat-multi-storylandscapeprovidingadiversityof • Aesthetic-framingvistas,definingopenspaces,includ- • following goals with theExistingVegetation Plan,reforestationwouldservethe western shoresasdefinedintheLandscapePlan.Consistent 25-30-year replacementcycleandincludestheeastern A reforestationprogramshouldbeestablishedthatoperatesata Goals sion oftheParkboundariesbeyonditspresentedge. habitat, foodsourcesandcanopy. and providingcolorvisualaccents. Knoll Park),accentuatingripariancorridors(gateways), ing areasofsmallerparksinLakeMerrittPark(i.e.,Pine

III-29 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE

Forestry Recommendations

Specifically, the reforestation program should include the following elements:

• Public Information: Provide the public with informa- • Reforesting High-Use Areas: Reforest high-use and high- tion about the reforestation project and process through visibility areas in Lake Merritt Park (Boathouse, Sailboat informational brochures and signs at the sites and at the house, Tropical Garden area, New Promenade area, Rotary Nature Center. Duck Pond Feeding area, etc.) with larger trees rather • Native Plant Preservation: Preserve the remnant native than seedlings. Options include using trees being plant population, especially the oaks and California removed by the tree-spade method and moving them to buckeyes. Educate the public that this is an oak pre- new sites. serve and that other oak areas will be re-established in • Tree Maintenance: Provide ongoing maintenance of the historic areas such as Lakeside Drive, Lakeshore structurally weak trees that present risks to the health Drive and the 12th Street Peralta Park areas. Prepare and safety of the public and property. These need to be gateway areas for Riparian-native populations and identified, monitored and removed as an ongoing safety replanting at the gateways of El Embarcadero - Eastshore program. The Arborist Division of the City of Oakland Park, 18th Street, Harrison - Adams Park area, and the is addressing safety issues but is in need of more current Estuary Channel area. databases and tracking systems as afforded by a GIS tree • Specimen Tree Replacement: Replace individual large system. trees in kind, with similar species, such as the Italian • Reforesting Plant Communities: Use species and forest stone pines along the promontory in Lakeside Park. communities similar to those identified in the Existing Other large trees such as the California buckeye could Vegetation Survey and Analysis. For example, Coastal be planted around the Bandstand areas. The New Bluff plant communities should utilize a range of species Zealand tea trees and the Auraucaria tree outside of the similar to those found within the existing plant commu- Botanical Gardens should be identified and addressed in nity. replacement cycles.

III-30 birds areknowntonestduringbreedingseasons. negative impactisminimized,e.g.,avoidloppingtreeswhen developments shouldbeplannedandtimedtoensurethatany and habitatsinthearea.Differentcomponentsofnewpark Timing ofconstructioncanhaveamajorimpactonthewildlife Construction CoordinationwithWildife

III-31 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE

Visual Analysis

12th Street Panorama

The 12th Street panorama provides many opportunities for A. Fast-moving vehicular traffic conflicts with pedestrian, interpretive art. The view to the north provides views of the bicycling activities or crossing to Kaiser Convention Oakland hills and part of the watershed for Lake Merritt. There Center area. Provide elevation or landscape separation is one large building that mars the low, mass of buildings with experience to buffer from vehicular traffic. the Oakland hills beyond. The Park portion of land is narrow B. 30’ to 40’ wide beach at low tide used for two regattas, and the promenade continues along the 12th street “short in July and October. freeway.” This is the site where the estuary water entering and C. High tide - narrow path to ramp access. Ramp is not to exiting the Lake can be defined. It is also the historic site where ADA codes. Second area where public can contact the first bridge—Bridge of Sighs—connected the old township water’s edge / lake water. of Brooklyn and Oakland. It has a colorful history that can be interpreted here. This portion also links the Lake with Kaiser D. High-rise building can frame views across the Lake, Convention Center, the Oakland Museum and Laney College. however their mass can be imposing and unattractive. To the west is the Fire Alarm building. This site can be im- Higher degrees of facade articulaiton are desirable. proved with more civic uses and landscape - park connection to the Lake.

D E

G B

A

C

12th Street Panorama

III-32 .Saltwaterinflowopportunitytomaketidesreadable. High-risebuildingframesview. I. Views ofsailboatsandoppositeshores. H. G. PositiveviewofOaklandhills.Maintainlowbuilding F. Fewhigh-risebuildingsonhillpreserveOaklandHills E. F heights topreserveviewofOaklandhillsbeyond. views. H I

III-33 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE

Snow Park Panorama

Snow Park panorama provides a large park space for commercial office workers. The expansive lawn is sometimes used by geese and their feces remain. The lawn provides a sweeping view up to the Lake with water barely visible through the park setting of mature trees. Lakeside Park looks very wooded. Additional B siting of trees can visually screen the two predominant high-rises from this view. This park is a vital pedestrian link between the commercial downtown area and Lake Merritt.

A. Light standards create visual “noise” and clutter. C B. Cedar trees provide evergreen screening of buildings. C. Good landscape views of Lake Merritt, trees and banks from Snow Park. A D. High-rise building diminishes view. Provide additional evergreen trees for screening.

B A

C

Snow Park Panorama

III-34 D D .Trees andlandscapefrontingtallbuildingsprovide Lawngroundcoverprovidespositivehorizontalview. D. C. MatureNewZealandTea treeshavespecificpruning Open lawnarea. B. A. edge thatissoftenedontheeastsidebyParktrees. Park’s apparentsize.Thecommercialhigh-risesformastrong add significantlytothe“extension”ofParkandincreases Trees andlandscapefrontingthetallapartmentshigh-rises Park andprovidingvisualrespitefromthebuiltenvironment. creates astrongandpositivehorizontalband,extendingthe From theGrandAvenue panorama,thelawngroundcover Grand Avenue Panorama visual extensionofparkbeyondboundaries. have notbeendamaged. specimensofNewZealandTeaprovides good treesthat kill trees.Veteran’s MemorialAuditoriumGrove them sincedamagedonebyinappropriatepruningwill requirements. Onlyaqualifiedarboristshouldprune Grand Avenue Panorama

III-35 PLAN OVERVIEW PARK LANDSCAPE

B

C

E A D

Lakeshore Avenue Panorama

Lakeshore Avenue panorama has an open feeling. There are A. View of apartment building’s narrow side is less intru- few trees lining the Park boundary at this location. The large sive. apartment building to the south is less intrusive at this point B. Retaining wall with no landscape. and probably provides residents with striking views of the Lake. C. Federal Court House. From this vantage point the Federal Courthouse is visible. The Lake appears very large with a built skyline to the southwest and D. Sunny open lawn area. the Oakland hills to the northwest. The Park appears most E. Historical Cameron Stanford House. narrow at this panorama. F. Park setting around Boathouse. G. 19th Street skyline provides a backdrop of the Lake view. H. Open Lake view. I. “Borrowed view” of Oakland Hills makes the open space seem larger than it actually is. J. Extended green belt provides a buffer for viewers. A C G

B E DE F

Lakeshore Avenue Panorama

III-36 F to maintain. vide asolidarchitecturalelementthatisenduringandimportant The pierisinneedofrestoration.balustradedetailspro- exit thelake(besidesboatrampatSailboathouse). of thepierisaviewonlyangledbankwheregoslingscan improvements tothesouthandnorthofpier. To thesouth of thedowntownskylineisstriking.Thebanksneedlandscape tone fortherestofarchitecturewithinPark.Theview The buildingprovidesastrongarchitecturalfaçadeandsetsthe historic buildingsiteisenhancedwithinthelandscapesetting. vantage point,thegreenlawnisapositivevisualamenity. This and nowhousingtheParksRecreationoffices.Fromthis The historicpierisonaxiswiththeBoathouse,builitin1915 18th StreetPanorama H G I G .Bandfromgreenlawnenhancesview. Banksofsoil G. View of19thStreetbuildingskylinefrom18thstreet F. Boathouseisondirectaxisviewfrom18thstreetpier, E. View ofangledbankfrom18thstreetpierprovidesone Existingpalmtreecreatesstrikinglookagainstskyline. D. C. High-risebuildingprovideshousingdensityinrelation- B. Balustradedetailsof18thStreetPierprovideshistorical A. J need improvement pier. view providesparkarchitecturalsetting. of thefewplaceswheregoslingscanexitlake. or terracescouldsoftenimpactfromgroundview. Guidelinesforlandscapetrees ship togroundareaused. time setting,pierinneedofrepair. 18th SteetPanorama

III-37 PLAN OVERVIEW ECOLOGY

"The peaceful feeling. The wildlife refuge. The variety of people enjoy- ing it." - Community Member commenting on Sacred Aspects of Lake Merritt in October 2001

The Master Plan promotes the ecological value of Lake Merritt- its water, wildlife, open space, bay connections, and larger watershed. The following recommenda- tions summarize the steps proposed to accomplish this.

III-38 Buildinghookshaped"trashtraps"intotheshorelineat • ContinuationoftheCleanLakeProgramtoremove • Installation ofstormdrainfilters(CDSorotherbrand) • drains andfromtheshoreline.Thisshouldbeaccomplishedby: 2. ControlandremovetrashthatenterstheLakefromstorm Seeapplicableactivitiesonlistofprojectsfromwater • Educationalandenforcementcampaignstoeliminate • Continuouseducationalcampaignstargetingbusinesses Asignificantincreaseinenforcementoflitterlaws • • shed. Thisshouldbeaccomplishedby: 1. Improvewaterqualitybycontrollingpollutioninthewater- Water Quality Recommendations several locationswhenthebulkheadwallisreplaced. trash fromtheLake. five eachyearfor12years quality taskforce. waterfowl feeding where litterisgenerated Basedonmonitoringdata,targetsforreductionof • Obtainingasmall,cityowneddredgeboat(runbythe • Continuationofalgaeandwidgeongrassharvesting • plankton. Thisshouldbeaccomplishedby: 4. Provideforlongtermcontrolofsediment,seaweedand RelocatingtheAlamedaCountypumpfacilitytoa • Completionofahydrologysurveytorecommend • Eliminatingflowobstructionsinthechannelsuchas • Removingtheculvertconditionat12thStreetand • ForginganagreementwithAlamedaCountytomake • should beaccomplishedby: enhancing theconnectiontoestuaryviachannel.This 3. ImprovewatercirculationinthebottomlayerofLakeby should beestablished. nitrogen enteringtheLakefromcreeksandstormdrains and docks infestation andremovesedimentaroundstormdrains harvester operator)toreducetheareaofwidgeongrass with establishmentofseveralsanctuaryareas bottom oftheLake. location closertotheLakeanddrawingwaterfrom these. specific Lakewaterlevelsandalternativesforachieving Street), therailwaytracksandutilitystructures. culverts at10thStreet,theFloodControlStation(7th and scenicresources. water flowwhileminimizingdisruptiontorecreational lowering theweirelevationtoapointthatmaximizes tide gateclosuredecisionsona12hourbasis.

III-39 PLAN OVERVIEW ECOLOGY Figure III.26 Ecology

III-40 Providingperchesforbirdsonthewatersideof • Implementationofahabitatimprovementplanonthe • Creationofawetlandareabyremovingthecenter • Creationofapavedfreshwaterpondatthemouth • Calmingmotorandpedestriantrafficneartheduck • Movingthepathawayfromshorelineinkey • should beaccomplishedby: ecological zoneinLakesidePark(ShorelineZone).This 1. Enhancespecificareasforwildlife,includingcreationofa Wildlife perimeter bulkheadwalls islands and creatingafreshwaterpondwithintheisland one oftheislands,depositingitaroundshoreline, outfall #1bytheBandstandbeach pond byexpandingwalkways,andseparatingusers waterfront dependent. lots, activeplaygrounds,andoperationsthatarenot shoreline, relocatinginconsistentusessuchasparking locations, creatingamorenatural(slightgradient) Managementtoreduceoverwhelmingconcentrationsof • Aneducationalcampaigntoeliminate publicfeedingof • accomplished by: managed primarilyformigratorywaterfowl.Thisshouldbe 3. Establishmentofapolicythatthewildliferefugeshouldbe Requiringcompletionofaneducationalprogramprior • Establishmentofrulesincluding"nofishing"zonesin • AcceptingoffersfromthestateDepartmentofFishand • from allareasofOakland.Thisshouldbeaccomplishedby: 2. Restoreamanaged,youthfishingprogram,beneficialtothose pigeons, residentgeese,andsimilarlydomesticatedfauna birds to obtainingamandatorycityfishingpermit may occur natural areasorwhereconflictswithotherparkusers the City"programs. Game tostocksteelheadtroutandconduct"Fishingin

III-41 PLAN OVERVIEW ECOLOGY

Goose Management

The unique balance between wildlife and human users at Background Information ("Managing Lake Merritt is threatened by the large populations of geese. Canada Geese in Urban Environments") Both recreationalists and geese utilize the lawn areas of the park. The presence of fecal material from such high numbers • Canada gee se have undergone a significant population renders the areas unusable for human recreation. Walkways, increase from a few thousand in 1965 to 1.1 million in docks, bowling greens, and tables are also covered in goose 1996 in the central United States alone. excrement. This is especially problematic in areas where children congregate and during molting season (June to • Lake Merritt is not a historic site for large goose August). Geese feed on the mown lawns and are attracted by poulations. In the 1940's several crippled birds were the visual openness. The geese typically congregate nearer the released. Their numbers grew to about 75 in 1994. By shoreline, however it is not uncommon to find them along 2001, a total of 1,093 birds were noted before fall Grand Avenue or in Snow Park. migration. After migration, about 400 resident geese remained. The LMMP recognizes the need to review potential wildlife management practices to ensure that the notion of refuge is • Heavy concentrations of goose feces contain nitrogen afforded to all. During the outreach process, many voices in which can lead to excessive algae growth in Lakes. the public expressed that geese are negatively impacting the • High concentrations of geese increase the likelihood of park. As a significant ecological resource, Lake Merritt avian disease to be transmitted between geese and other management should be sensitive to habitat provisions for waterfowl. wildlife. Practices should emphasize native avian species • Migratory patterns have been researched and coordi- (shorebirds, migratory waterfowl) and fisheries. By imple- nated with habitat protection. menting a range of techniques, domesticated wildlife such as geese should be brought into balance with other species and • Geese at LM molt in summer early June to late July-they park uses. are flightless during this time and concentrate along the shoreline. Numbers at the lake increase dramatically during this period causing increased conflicts with the park's most popular summertime use by humans. • Geese prefer fertilized lawns to unfertilized ones and graze on the young grass shoots. • Goose management programs to reduce the size of local flocks have been initiated at numerous sites in the Bay Area. "Need to separate feeding and bird congregation areas from public paths where everybody walks." -Community Member commenting on geese at Lake Merritt in October 2001.

III-42 GoslingsappearonlakewithadultsduringApril. • Nestingareasonthelake'sshorearefew-Geese Visitors feedand greatly enjoythepresenceofgeese. • Accumulationoffeathersisvisibleintheshallowwater. • • PlaygroundnearRotarynatureCenterhasextensive Fecalmaterialcoversalllawnareasinhabitedbygeese. • Gatheringsof2-200+geesearecommon. • • Opengrasslawnsnearlakeedgearepopulatedwith • Studieshaveshownthatgeeseexcrete10,000,000fecal • Lake MerrittSiteConditions nesting occursontherefugeislands. bluff segmentsinLakesidemaybeused.Mostsuccessful made structuresorhighuseareas.Naturallakeedgeslike opportunists andwillfindsmall,protectedspotsinman fecal material. geese. islands inApril,2000. 170,000 (unitunknown)wasrecordednearthebird coliform bacteriaperday. Atotalcoliformcountof Allowingon-sidewalkleasheddogwalkingpercitypark • Establishmentofvegetativevisualandflightbarriersto • Reductionofgrassandreplacementwithvegetative Eliminatethefeedingofgeesebyparkvisitors. • • CreatingazonewithinLakesidePark(FreeandOpen • InitiatingaGooseManagementStudytodeterminethe • should beaccomplishedby: Limit gooseaccessinareasextensivelyusedbypeople.This Goose ManagementRecommendations Geeseavoidareasfrequentedbydogs. • Geeserequirefreshwaterandcongregateinareasofwet • Theytendtopreferparkareasthatarenearorinsightof • Geesepreferopengrassyareaswheretheyfeedonnew • Goose HabitatConditionsinPark code. discourage geesefromcongregatingindesignatedareas. areas; increasingmowingheightelsewhere. cover tothatpreventsgrazingbygeeseindesignated fecal material. areas forinformalrecreationwithoutdisruptionbygoose Space Zone)thatemphasizesunimpededuseoflawn during thesummer. geese fromcongregatingindesignatedrecreationareas trial useofcommercialGoose-Busterservicetoprevent ational users.Thismayinvolvecommencementofa on themselves,vegetation,otherwildlife,andrecre- best practicetechniquesforreducingtheimpactsofgeese grass whereavailable. the lake. grass growth.

III-43 PLAN OVERVIEW BUILDINGS

General Architectural Background

The buildings of Lake Merritt have evolved over a ninety year span, from the Mu- nicipal Boat House (originally constructed as the high-pressure salt water pumping station), to the recent Police Horse Stables. Understandably, there is a wide variety of styles, materials, scales, methods of construction, etc. in the architecture.

The buildings included in this study can be divided generally into two categories based on era of construction. The first era includes buildings constructed between 1909 and 1926: specifically, the Municipal Boat House, the Sailboat House, and the Lawn Bowling Clubhouse (and related outbuildings). The second era includes buildings originally constructed in the 1950's; the Rotary Nature Center, the Lakeside Park Garden Center, and the building which houses the Junior Center of Art and Science.

It should be noted that the Sailboat House and the Junior Center of Art and Sci- ence building have had major alterations during their history. in the case of the Sailboat House, the remodel has completley altered its appearance. The Master Plan makes recommendations for major reconstruction or replacement of these buildings.

III-44 11. SnackBar 10. PoliceHorseStables 9. JuniorCenterofArt&Science 8. RotaryNatureCenter 7. LakesideParkGardenCenter 6. LawnBowlingClubhouse 5. SailboatHouseStorage 4. SailboatHouseRestrooms 3. SailboatHouse 2. MunicipalBoatHouseRestrooms 1. MunicipalBoatHouse construction. Theelevenbuildingsincludedinthisstudyare: appearance ofexistingbuildingsandmakessuggestionsforfuture The LakeMerrittMasterPlanfocusesonexteriorformand Extents ofStudy 26. SnowParkRestrooms 25. FireAlarmBuilding 24. PineKnollRestrooms 23. LibraryRestrooms 22. ElEmbarcaderoLibrary 21. ElEmbarcaderoLandingPergola 20. GeodesicDome 19. McElroyFountain 18. GreenhouseandLathhouse 17. CorporationYard 16. GardenCenterRestrooms 15. EdoffBandstand 14. GlenEchoRestrooms 13. GlenEchoPumpHouse 12. CamronStanfordHouse Specifically, theseare: any discussionofarchitecturalcharacterthePark’s structures. around theParkwhichshouldbeevaluatedandinvolvedin There areothersignificantbuildingsandstructuresin

III-45 PLAN OVERVIEW BUILDINGS Figure III.27 Buildings

III-46 historicism. the building'scharacter, yetreadilyidentifiabletoavoidfalse removed orreconfiguredinamannerwhichissympatheticto Interior's standards.Additionsofpoorqualityshouldbe Restoration shouldbeperformedtotheU.S.Secretaryof inherent qualitieswhichshouldberevivedandencouraged. the definingbuildingsofLakeMerrittPark.Theypossessmany Boathouse, andtheLawnBowlingClubhouse.Thesearetwoof Buildings toberevivedandrestoredincludetheMunicipal 4. Newbuildings 3. Buildingstoberemovedorrelocated 2. Buildingstoberehabilitated/reconfigured 1. Buildingstoberevived/restored tions forthebuildingsincludedinstudy. The LakeMerrittMasterPlanmakesfourtypesofrecommenda- Architectural GoalsandGeneralRecommendations mended function andrelateittotheparkimprovementsarerecom- renovations totheexistingJCASbuildingthatimproveits programs andserveasapolicesubstation.Intheinterim,minor This newbuildingcouldalsoprovidespacetoothereducational this non-profitgroupofferstooperatewithoutinterruption. Junior CenterofArtandScience,allowingtheprogramsthat removed. Anewbuildingshouldbeconstructedtohousethe Center ofArtandScience(JCAS)shouldeventually, alsobe Snack Bar. Athird,thebuildingwhichhousesJunior removed fromtheParkarePoliceHorseStablesand be removedorrelocated.Two buildingswhich shouldbe Buildings whichareintrusive,anddetractfromtheParkshould ing shouldremainintact. handful ofdiscreetprojectsinkeyareas.Thebulkthebuild- site, theLakesideParkGardenCentercanbeimprovedwitha original characterofthe1915building,andintegrateitwith the SailboatHousewillrequiremajorworktouncover Sailboat HouseandtheLakesideParkGardenCenter. While Buildings toberehabilitatedandreconfiguredincludethe

III-47 PLAN OVERVIEW BUILDINGS

General Building Recommendations

General architectural goals for new and existing buildings include: 1. To strengthen the relationship of the buildings to the landscape, using the buildings to help define outdoor spaces. 2. To strengthen the relationship between buildings by enhancing or introduc- ing vistas, axes, etc. 3. To preserve key views and vistas around the Lake, and reinforce or establish view corridors where appropriate. 4. To enhance the sense of entry into the buildings. 5. To engage public interest with the buildings and invite interaction with the architecture, through introduction of courtyards, verandas etc. 6. To locate possible new buildings within the park, with the stipulation that there be no net increase to the overall ground coverage by buildings. 7. To provide a unified design theme for the two building types and new structures, this may take the form of materials, color palette, form, orienta- tion, siting, etc. 8. To clearly identify building use through a unified signage program and where applicable, through use of materials, forms, and artistry. 9. To incorporate sustainable architecture, including use of recycled and environmentally friendly materials and methods. 10. To encourage passive systems for energy conservation wherever possible, and active systems, such as solar panels where not. 11. To provide accessibility to all buildings for people with disabilities.

III-48 materials, andaccessibilitycompliancestudies. seismic/structural, planning/use,mechanical/plumbing/electricalsystems,hazardous buildings shouldbeperformedaspartofacompletestudy. Thisworkmight include ings andthematicstandardsforfuturebuildings,additionalexaminationofthe While theMasterPlandoesincludefaçadeimprovementstudiesforexistingbuild- Opportunities forFutureStudy Parkbuildingsshouldbeintegratedintothelandscape. 6. Newbuildingsshouldbesitedonmajorcirculationroutes,asdefinedbythe 5. Accessoryorsecondarybuildingsshouldnotovershadowobscureprimary Nonewbuildingshouldbemorethantwostoriestall. 4. 3. Architecturalmaterialsshouldbedurableandsolid,suchasconcreteor Buildingsshouldbeofacivicscale,withmonumentalpresence. 2. 1. Specific RecommendationsforFutureBuildings Master Plan. park buildings. stone, tosuggestpermanence.

III-49 PLAN OVERVIEW SHADOW STUDY Figure III.28 Shadow Study

III-50 Fourtotwelvestoryresidentialbuildingsthathave • Tall buildings(20+)floorsstandingalonearevisually • Groupsofbuildingsformacontinuousmassthatcan • Theblockageofafternoon/eveningsunlightprovides • Buildingsthatcastcontinuousshadeonthepark • Existing Conditions public commentwasreceivedtosubstantiatethisdiscussion. was completedduringtheplanningprocess,howevermuch planners offutureareabuildings.Novisualpreferencesurvey below. General recommendationsarealsostatedtoeducate policy tonon-parklanduseandmassing,theeffectsarestated being "walledin."WhiletheMasterPlanpresentsnoformal impact ofsuchstructures,oftencharacterizingthefeelingas graphs. Thepublichasexpressedconcernforthenegative section ofthischapterthoughtheusepanoramicphoto- and benchesnearby. ThisisfurtherdescribedintheLandscape fortable sensoryconditionforthoseusingthelawns,pathways, imbalance ofscalepresentedbythesemassescreatesanuncom- growing conditionsforparkvegetation.Furthermore,the reduces solaraccessforparkusersanddisruptsthenormal deep shadowsintotheparkland.Thisisproblematicinthatit Tall buildingsarelocatedontheperimeterofLakecasting Sunlight AccessandShadowStudy and onLakeshoreAvenue. amples ofthesearefoundonLakesidenearSnowPark ground generallyprovideapositiveatmosphere.Ex- greater façadearticulationandtalltreesinthefore- . 1960's and70's) several residentialtowersbuiltaroundtheLakein distracting whenviewedfromadistance(suchasthe further blocksunlightfromreachingthepark. further negativeimpactstoparkuseandenjoyment. day negativelyimpactsvegetationgrowth. (including SnowPark)formorethanseveralhourseach Ifheightsweremaximizedperallowablezoning,the • Theviewoftallbuildingsonthedowntownedgeare • Theplacementofnewbuildingsshouldconsiderviews • Thedesignreviewprocessrequiredbymostadjacent • Buildingsshouldaccommodateampleroomfortalltree • Districtzoning,designguidelines,andFARregulations • Newbuildingsshouldminimizeinterruptionofsunlight • General Recommendations zoning areasofsignificantheight. the facingpage).Designreviewisrequiredinmost shade onparkareaswouldbegreat(refertofigureIII. buildings affordedatthatdistance. more comfortablescalerelationshipbetweenpeopleand as opposedtofromtheDowntownParkEdgedue generally morescenicwhenviewedfromacrossthelake importance. Church, theTribune Building,and others ofvisual Convention Center, theOaklandHills,St.Paul's These couldincludetheCountyCourthouse,Kaiser to popularlandmarksfromtheLakeMerrittparkareas. mass impactstotheparkanditsusers. zoning shouldconsidersunlightaccessandbuilding plantings intheforegroundandalongstreet. sunlight access. should considerbuildingmassimpacttoparkscaleand into thePark.

III-51 PLAN OVERVIEW ART ELEMENT

The Lake Merritt Master Plan supports the City of Oakland's commitment to weaving arts and culture into the fabric of everyday life. Public art as an "ele- ment" of the park master plan maintains an openness of application. The art may include, singly produced objects, functional designs, a process of creation and collaboration, or an overall approach and design of a place. The art may be the product of individual artists' creativity or the result of collaboration between artists of different disciplines, designers, architects, and community members. The resulting condition can be a landscape of meaning and visual intrigue.

Through "Spotlight on the Arts", the Craft and Cultural Arts Department is seeking to establish Oakland as the center for artistic-cultural events and enter- tainment in the Bay Area. From downtown renaissance projects to the restora- tion of Lake Merritt, the opportunities to promote arts and culture are found throughout our city.

The LMMP recognizes opportunities for artists to reflect the unique environ- ment, culture and social conditions of Oakland, its neighborhoods, history, natural resources, and people. The intent of the art element is to describe the many opportunities for integrating arts into the revitalization of the park. No specific projects are determined, nor is a single arts approach recommended. Rather, the master plan sets the thematic and programmatic content of the Lake Merritt Park art element. The plan then acts as a guide to shape the artistic exploration of concepts and projects as part of the art element. This chapter describes the opportunities and highlights the guidelines.

III-52 walls, sectionsoftheperimeterpath,etc. historic markersandsignage,entirepromenades,lowretaining perimeter fencing,neighborhoodnodes(paving,seatwalls); include railings,fences,docks,botanicalgardenentriesand input onfunctionalelementsinthepark.Elementscould Artists andcraftspeopleshouldbeincludedtoprovideaesthetic Designed Elements nodes, birdperches,stormdrainfiltercovers,etc. Lakeside Park;creekdaylightinginEastshoreother this typeofexpressioncouldincludetheshorelinerestorationin and provideameansofitsinterpretation.Suitablelocationsfor art element-shouldintegrateecologyasafunctionofthepark site designandrestoration.Thelandscape-morespecifically, the Natural conditions/processesshouldberecognizedasabasisfor Environmental Art Art ElementOverview Opportunities overlay. as apotentialpartnerinthesculpturecomponentandartszone the 14thStreetterminus.TheOaklandMuseumisrecognized Street parkarea,theFireAlarmBuildingSite,andplazaat area forsculpturedisplay. Specificsitesincludethenew12th park- stretchingfrom14thStreettotheEstuary-isapotential nent andtemporarysculpturalwork.Thecivicdistrictofthe lake andparkoffersauniquesettingforthedisplayofperma- In additiontotheincorporationofartasadesignprocess, Environment forDisplay construction; andparkamenities. buildings recommendedforrestoration,remodelingornew zones orspaceswithinthepark;entrances,nodes,andgateways; Any improvementprojectisapplicabletothisprocessincluding between landscapeandart,meaningaesthetic. and executesuchawork.Suchaneffortobscurestheline requires thepartnershipandcollaborationofmindstoconceive collaborations betweenartistsanddesigners.Theprocess Many successfullydesignedandbuiltprojectsaretheresultof Collaborative DesignProcess

III-53 PLAN OVERVIEW ART ELEMENT

Ecology Recreation

The art element should reinforce the park's ecological heritage The park is used by many as a place for recreation. Provisions and potential. By highlighting the creeks, watershed, habitat for these movements could be explored through the art zones, and natural systems, the story of ecology can be made element. For example, park amenities such as benches, signs, evident. or walls, could combine exercise functions into their design; pathways could mark the pace or distance traveled of a jogger. Education The components could be artistically designed to serve a multipurpose role in the park. An understanding of natural processes, horticultural diversity, cultural heritage, and the history of Lake Merritt can be rein- Culture forced through the application of the art element. The plan describes several methods for application under Opportunities. Culture is an underlying theme to all aspects of the master plan. Oakland's urban form, social composition, ecology, history, and present activities each shape the notion of local culture. The art element can reflect the unique character of Oakland, its peoples, neighborhoods, built form, history, and natural environment.

III-54 Theartelementshouldconsidermaintenancerequire- • Theartelementshouldconformtoapplicabledesign • Theartelementshouldenhancethehistoric,cultural, • Theartelementshouldbecompatiblewithanden- • Art ElementRecommendations ments andminimizetheneedforspecializedpractices. necessary amenities. the aestheticandeducationalpossibilitiesofthese guidelines forfunctionalparkelements,whileenhancing ation. master planandthedepartmentofParksRecre- support theparkprogramandmanagementper aesthetic, andinterpretivepotentialofthepark hance ecology/resourcesensitivity.

III-55 PLAN OVERVIEW DETAIL GUIDELINES

CHAPTER IV

12TH ST/CULTURAL DISTRICT DOWNTOWN PARK EDGE LAKESIDE PARK GRAND AVE. PROMENADE LAKESHORE AVE. EDGE IRRIGATION PLAN SITE FURNISHINGS

IV-1 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

Figure IV.1 12th Street Existing Conditions Poor park access, 12 lane roadways, uninviting tunnel, limited park land at shoreline Design Concept

1. Restore the Urban Fabric 2. Connection to Channel Park and the Oakland Estuary

The 12th Street area should be restored as part of the urban The lake is currently cut off from the estuary, both physically fabric of Oakland. It is the basic vocabulary of our communi- and in spirit. No safe pedestrian access is possible to Channel ties- pedestrians, city streets, green parks, and natural areas- that Park from the Lake. As the Estuary area becomes an attractive should be use to form this new district. In this way, the follow- public destination, access must be improved in kind. The ing proposals seek to knit together the neighborhoods of the environmental health of the Lake is dependent upon tidal south end of Lake Merritt. The Kaiser Convention Center, flushing through the channel. Removing barriers such as low Laney College, and the Oakland Museum should be recon- culverts will allow for increased water exchange in the lake and nected to the Lake. improved habitat for fish and wildlife.

IV-2 BART stationshouldbemademoreaccessibletolakeusers. grand courthouseshouldbeunifiedwiththeirsetting.The appropriate inthisforum.TheornateKaiserBuildingand life, architecture,andgrandeur. Largescalegatheringswouldbe Several significant,civicentitiesmakeupthe12 3. CulturalDistrict of theseuses,theredesign12 Alarm Building.Recognizingthecivicandculturalimportance tion Center, LaneyCollege,OaklandMuseumandtheFire County Courthouse,CameronStanfordHouse,KaiserConven- the OaklandMainLibrary, CountyAdministrationBuilding, th streetprovidesastageforcivic th Streetdistrict: pedestrian streetcrossings cultural districtthemeandproximity display, tomuseumwithpublicart implement park areawithmulti-usepath,openlawn,specialplantingandbeach,engage Reconfigure roadwayfrom12to6laneswithcentermedian,createshoreline IV.2Figure Proposed Plan

IV-3 DESIGN GUIDELINES 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

IV-4 The12 • Boulevard park withconnectionstotheEstuary. The planproposestocreateagrandboulevardandnewshoreline Recommendations Facing Page:Birds-eyeviewofproposedboulevardandpark Above: Exisitngconditionsat12thStreet ACtransit’s expressbuslanesshouldbeprovidedonthe Bicyclelanesshouldbeprovidedontheroad. • • parking. Weekends andmid-daytimeswouldallowforon-street outer parkinglanesforuseduringpeakweekdaytimes. Convention Center. sections andatamid-pointlocationneartheKaiser nalized crosswalksshouldbeprovidedatallfeasibleinter- if thedistanceprovestoogreattocrossatonetime.Sig- be providedtoallowapersonwaitbetweensignalcycles crosswalks whereverpossible.Awidenedmedianshould College totheLakeshouldbeprovidedatsignalized Pedestrian accessbetweentheKaiserCenterandLaney tions toregulatetrafficandallowpedestriancrossings. number oflanestosixtotalandcreatesregularintersec- eliminating thehigh-speedroadway. Theplanreducesthe typical streetasfoundelsewhereinthecenterCitybyfirst th Streetroadwayareashouldberestoredtoamore

IV-5 DESIGN GUIDELINES 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

IV-6 Theproposedparkdesignacknowledgesthearchitecturalformal- • Eventsshouldbeaccommodatedonthelargeturfareas,roadway • Thenewparklandshouldallowforarangeofactivitiesfromkite • Continuousgreenspaceandcirculationaroundthelakeshould • Shoreline Park Lake MerrittChannel Facing Page:Viewofproposedboulevardandparkat overall usabilityofthenewparkspace. each building’s setting,theresponseshouldnotcompromise further reinforced.Whiletheplanpromotesenhancementsto these significantpublicbuildings,theurbanfabricshouldbe and openareastothebuildingaxes.Bycreatinga“forecourt” ity oftheKaiserCenterandCountyCourthousebyaligningtrees is ofconcern. other parkareaswheredisruptiontoneighborhoodsandwildlife scaled park.Eventsofsuchsizewouldberefrainedfromusing opportunities forlargescaledciviceventstobeheldinthisgrand sections andKaiserCenterparkinglot.Theplanidentifies as agentlyslopedsandbeach. strolling, biking,andjogging.Theshorelineshouldbedeveloped open turfforinformaluse,promenadesandmulti-usepaths flying toexercisingandstrolling.Thedesignshouldemphasize the channel.ThepathshouldconnecttoChannelParkarea. multi-use pathshouldprovideaccessalongtheshoreandacross be abasicprovisionofimprovementstothisarea.Acontinuous,

IV-7 DESIGN GUIDELINES 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

Estuary Connections

• Channel Park should be made accessible directly from the Lake. The plan proposes a multi-use path to pass under an elevated roadway bridge at 12th Street. • Flushing of the lake would be improved by removing the culvert system and creating bridges for circulation over the channel. Kayak access between the lake and channel should be accommodated as feasible by future flood control operations.

Figure IV.3 Existing Conditions

"Great urban design promenade concept. Add gateways at Park Ave Terrace, Perkins as a node. Street design along creek corridors empha- size original creek preserves. Access: need very wide class I continuous multi-use path. Restoring boathouse is great." - Community Member comment on Lake Merritt in March 2002.

IV-8 TheOaklandMuseumshouldbeencouragedtoopena • PartnerwiththeOaklandMuseumtodevelopa“Cul- • Additional AreaRecommendations special entranceontothe12 vicinity ofthenewboulevardandshorelinepark. tural District”withartandsculpturedisplaysinthe Plan. of 12thstreetdesignandtheOaklandMusuemMaster the Museum.Furtherstudyshouldbecompletedaspart be redesignedtocomplementsuchanimprovementby Convention Center. TheKaiserparkinglotareashould th StreetareaattheKaiser Expanded necklaceoflights Figure IV. 5LakeMerrittChannelBridgeandPathAccessSection Oakland Musuemareafacing12thStreet Refer tofigureIII.15foraccuratedimensions Figure IV.4 RoadwayandParkSection

IV-9 DESIGN GUIDELINES 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

Other 12th Street Alternatives Studied

Alternative: Lid Park Alternative: Boulevard with Pedestrian Bridge A lid park alternative was studied as part of the master plan. The envisioned structure extended from the current Kaiser This alternative provided many of the same benefits as the Center parking lot edge to the shoreline. The lid structure was recommended Boulevard and Park alternative. In contrast, a planted as a park with walkways, lawn and trees. To the pedes- pedestrian bridge was extended over the reduced roadway trian, the lid provides unimpeded access to the lake edge from connecting Kaiser Center and Laney College to the shoreline. the Kaiser Center. Stairs provide access down to the shore. The The alternative was identified as undesirable by the community roadway passed below the deck. In order for the structure to participants and design team due to several factors: meet elevations critical to pedestrians, the roadway was lowered and shifted away from the water. No specific lane reduction was • The roadway should be designed to accommodate at- proposed. The alternative was identified as undesirable by the grade pedestrian crosswalks as a means of reconnecting community participants and design team due to several factors: the pedestrian network, calming traffic, and repairing the urban fabric. • No direct estuary pedestrian connections were possible. • The master plan recognizes that future traffic and design • Tidal flow was not improved from the current condi- studies in the 12th street area may suggest a scenario that tions. makes pedestrian crossings less feasible. While not the • The structure would not enhance shoreline access. recommended alternative, pedestrian over-crossings could provide safe access for walkers, joggers, and • The costs to provide such a structure did not measure up bicyclists. to the benefits.

The master plan recognizes that future traffic and design studies in the 12th street area may suggest a scenario that makes pedestrian crossings less feasible. While not the recommended alternative, pedestrian over- crossings could provide safe access for walkers, joggers, and bicyclists.

IV-10 Drivewayaccesstothelargeapartmentbuildingat1200 • Onstreetparkingandbikelaneswouldbeprovided. • Thecurrentpedestriantunnelswouldnolongerbe • Thestreetwouldcrossthechannelonabridgehigh • Therewouldbefournewsignalizedintersections:13th • vard. with 1stAvenue, betweenOakStreetandInternationalBoule- Boulevard", istobeconstructedconnecting11th/12thStreet A newsixlaneboulevard,potentiallycalled"LakeMerritt Roadway Changes Circulation LakeMerrittBoulevardwouldbealignedwith1st • Traffic Operations of East12thStreetandFirstAvenue willbemaintained. Lakeshore Avenue, andtheparkinglotateastcorner Transit systemduringweekdaysorpeakhours. verted intobusonlylanesforthefutureBusRapid The parkinglanesshouldbewideenoughtocon- needed andthereforeberemoved. Lake MerrittChannelProject. the channelfromLakeMerritt,meetingagoalof adjacent tothechannel.Boaterswouldbeableaccess enough forpedestriansandbicyclisttocrossunderit Street. Therewouldbecrosswalksatallintersections. Center, andLakeMerrittBoulevardwithEast12th Street, LakeMerrittBoulevardwithKaiserConvention with 14thStreet,LakeMerrittBoulevard East 12thStreet. traffic onLakeMerrittBoulevardcomesfromorgoesto Foothill andEast18thStreet.Onlyonethirdofthe collects fromanddistributestoInternational,East15th, the southeastsidecomesfromorgoesto1stAvenue. It thirds ofthetrafficenteringorexiting12thStreeton Avenue andnotwith East12thStreet,becausetwo- ThisMasterPlanrecommendsthatthenewsignalson • Threelaneswouldbeneededeachwaytohandletravel • Fournewsignalizedintersectionswithcrosswalkswould • Themultiusepathalongthelakeandchan- • Thebikelaneswouldfillinagaptheregional • Theproposedroadwaychanges,especiallytheaddition • Bike andPedestrian When12thStreet isconvertedintoLakeMerritt • Parking Lake MerrittBoulevardbecoordinated. level ofservice,congestionandqueuing. tion wouldprobablycauseunacceptableintersection as 11thStreetand13thStreet.Afurtherlanereduc- one-way streetsonthedowntownendthatfeedit,such (LOS Eorbetter)andtobeintegratedwiththree-lane demand accordingtoCityLevelofServicestandards ing pointsacrossLakeMerrittBoulevard. provide multiplesafeandconvenientpedestriancross- pedestrian recreationalroute. nel, underthebridge,wouldprovideagreatbikeand downtown farmoreattractive. network. Thisshouldmakebikecommutinginto much saferandmoreattractive. of bikelanes,wouldmaketravelacrossthechannel would fillintheareabetween. away fromitspresentlocation.Openparkgreenspace apartment tower, wouldbemovedaboutahundredfeet tional Boulevardandthechannel,nexttolarge Boulevard andrealigned,theparkingbetweenInterna-

IV-11 DESIGN GUIDELINES 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

• The parking added to 14th Street and Lake Merritt • There are two alternative ways the design of Lake Boulevard (70 spaces) would mitigate the parking lost Merritt Boulevard (12th Street) could be modified to by the removal of Fallon Street (17 spaces). accommodate the bus only lanes of the Bus Rapid Transit Transit Project. Option one could be to have a wide on street parking lane that could be converted to bus lanes on weekdays or just during peak hours. This option The bus stop on 11th Street just as it exits the tunnel should be would only work if the bus lanes were on the outside moved, and a new westbound bus stop created. The two stops lanes, which is only compatible with the one-way street should be located at the intersection with the convention alignments in downtown Oakland (11th/12th or 12th/ center access road. Far side bus stops would work best opera- 13th). Option two could convert two of the vehicle tionally. It would most likely serve the 13, 14, 15, 40, 43 and lanes into bus only lanes permanently. Option two 82 AC Transit bus routes. This would create direct transit should work with both outside and inside lane configu- access to the South Lake Merritt Cultural District from a large rations. Inside bus lanes would work best for a down- part of Oakland. town 14th street alignment with median rapid bus stations. According to the traffic analysis, all six lanes Future Transit Alternatives would be needed to preserve acceptable Level of Service on Lake Merritt Boulevard and to prevent long queues. • AC Transit has recently completed a Major Investment Therefore, the plan recommends option one, six regular Study, to improve transit service. Several different lanes with outside bus lanes that are used for off peak routes between downtown Berkeley, downtown Oak- parking. This option has been utilized in many urban land and the Bay Fair Mall in San Leandro were studied. downtowns, (for example Seattle). It might be possible The route chosen by the MIS includes 14th Street and to have only four traffic lanes and two bus lanes in the International Boulevard and the Bus Rapid Transit was future, (option two), if traffic access to the convention the selected mode. The BRT system would include center is limited to peak hours. There is a small amount designated stations with loading platforms, shelters, of pedestrian traffic crossing 12th Street during peak proof-of-payment, ticketing, ticket vending machines, hours and the Bus Rapid Transit diverts a significant security features and real-time vehicle arrival informa- amount of traffic. At this time it is not known how tion. Low floor busses would travel in special bus only much traffic would be reduced by an improved transit lanes with traffic signal priority and coordination. This system and this is the subject of an ongoing AC Transit means that two of the four lanes on 14th Street and study. International Boulevard would be converted into transit lanes, leaving only two lanes for normal traffic. This • The Bus Rapid Transit System on Lake Merritt Boule- would most likely divert traffic from 14th Street and vard should include a station at the Kaiser Convention International Boulevard to 11th, 12th and East 12th Center access road, which could be skipped during Street. AC Transit would consider using 11th and 12th normal days. It would provide transit service for large Street downtown (west of the channel) instead of 14th special events at the South Lake Merritt Civic Area, Street. including the Kaiser Convention Center and the Oakland Museum.

IV-12 crossing betweenLakeMerrittandPeraltaPark. East Drivelocationtoprovidethebestat-gradepedestrian (East Drive).TheLakeMerrittMasterPlanrecommendsthe tered onthebuilding,andsoutheastsideofbuilding Street intersection(West Drive),thecurrenttunnelsitecen- Lake MerrittBoulevard.Possiblelocationsincludethe14th however; theycouldnegativelyeffectthetrafficoperationson left turnsintoandoutofthesitecouldprovidebetteraccess an assessmentofaccessfromLakeMerrittBoulevard.Allowing Improvements totheKaiserConventionCentershouldinclude Boulevard. Center parkinglotwillbeabletoturnrightontoLakeMerritt Center parkinglot.Vehicles exitingtheKaiserConvention Boulevard willbeabletoturnrightintotheKaiserConvention Convention Center. Vehicles goingsoutheastonLakeMerritt with LakeMerrittBoulevardwillimproveaccesstotheKaiser The demolitionofthe12thStreetViaduct anditsreplacement Convention CenterAccess Existingpedestriantunnel Inthefuture,whenlowerLakesideDriveisclosedwith • East12thStreet,westof2ndAvenue wouldbenar- • 1stAvenue, southofInternationalwouldbenarrowed • ThetwolanesofLakeshorewouldenterintolaneone • Thenorthernwestboundlaneof12thStreet(lakeside) • following: is notknowatthistime,itwouldmostlikelyincludethe improve bicyclesafetywasrequested.Althoughitsexactdesign Boulevard, ashorttermandlowcosttemporarymeasureto Street Viaduct demolitionandconstructionofLakeMerritt Due totheimmensecostandlengthytimerequiredfor12th Interim Measure lanes westbound. westbound andEast12thStreetwillberestoredtothree a cul-de-sac1stAvenue willberestoredtotwolanes 12th Street. rowed totwolanes.Itwouldenterlanesfourandfiveof 12th Street. to onelanewestbound.Itwouldenterthreeof and twoof12thStreet. five westboundlaneswouldremainon12thStreet. barrier wouldseparateitfrom12thStreettraffic.Only Lakeshore Avenue toLakesideDrive.Aconcrete would beclosed,andconvertedintoabikeway, from Kaiser Center entrancefromthe Existing pedestriantunnel

IV-13 DESIGN GUIDELINES 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

Feasibility of Closing the 14th Street Extension

There has been significant community interest in the potential • The street system in Oakland operates to a degree in a of closing 14th Street between Lakeside Drive and 12th Street. grid pattern, where vehicles have multiple crossing This would be done to unify the Fire Alarm Building property points, and multiple opportunities for turning. The with the lakeside park across the street. This would add about one-way pattern of the street system west of Lake Merritt half an acre to the park. limits the number of turning opportunities, and there- fore increases the turning movements. Drivers are only • Fourteenth Street, which extends from Lake Merritt permitted to turn right at every other corner rather than through City Hall area to West Oakland is a major east- every corner. At the south end of Lake Merritt, the lake west street. It connects with International Boulevard and the Kaiser Center/Oakland Museum, creates an and several nieghborhoods to the east. Fourteenth hour glass effect on traffic. It forces a merge and distribu- Street is the only two-way east-west street through tion at each end. As a result, there is significant weav- downtown Oakland. It is a very important route for ing as traffic enters and leaves the variety of streets that commuters as well as for visitors. East of the lake, traffic feed into the single crossing street (Twelfth Street) at the from International Boulevard connects with other south end of the lake. The result is that there are an significant flows of traffic from streets such as 1st Street, inordinately high amount of turning movements that Lakeshore Drive, Eighteenth Street, and Twelfth Street. occur at each side of Lake Merritt from Twelfth Street. In the morning, the traffic east of the lake merges to a One of the key streets that receives high traffic volumes single roadway at the south end of the lake and distrib- is Fourteenth Street. The distribution of traffic from utes to the network of streets on the west side. In the Twelfth Street during the morning commute to Four- afternoon, the reverse pattern occurs. The distribution teenth Street and Lakeside Street is significant requiring of the traffic flow at either end is critical to the level of multiple turning lanes. Currently the alignment of the congestion that the system experiences. street system allows the volume of the traffic to flow without significant backup. • Oak and Twelfth Street have a high number of pedes- trian crossings. Multiple turning lanes are undesirable for pedestrians, especially if right-on-red turns are permitted. We anticipate that without permissive right- on-red, congestion at the intersection would be unac- ceptable.

Existing 14th Street conditions at the Park

IV-14 Closing14thStreeteastofOakwouldforce • if14thStreet Anothernotableconsiderationisthat • District proposalinDecember2001. fantastic." -CommunityMembercommenton12thStreet/Cultural "People, bikesandkayaksbeingabletotravelbackforth wouldbe estbound 13thStreet. all thewayupto19thcrossoverMadisonget bound LakesideDrive.Theywouldthenhavetodrive Lakeside Drivebeingonlyabletoturnleftontonorth- right turnatMadisonandFourteenthendup Drivers unfamiliarwiththeareawouldlikelymiss Madison andFourteenth,Thirteenth. would resultinhighcongestionattheintersectionsof significant weavingpatternsandmergethat due totheshortblocksinarea,therewouldbe be neededtodivertvehiclesdownMadison.However, go eastover12thStreet.Traffic improvementswould son, whichisoneblockbeforeOakStreet,inorderto eastbound driverstocrossover13thStreetatMadi- the Twelfth Streetinordertoaddrightturn lanes. Museum andtheCourthousethereisnoroomtowiden movement isfurtherreduced.BetweentheOakland three lanesasplanned,thecapacityofrightturn the signal.Furthermore,ifOakStreetisnarrowedto westbound traffic.Thiswouldoverloadthecapacityof Twelfth andOakwouldbearthebruntofall ofthe 12th andOakStreetintersection.Theintersectionof 14th andLakesidewouldbeforcedtoturnrightatthe were closedallofthewestboundvehiclesheadedto stances change,thentheissuecouldbereinvestigated. Lake MerrittBoulevard.Ifatsometimeinthefuturecircum- closing 14thStreetbetweenLakesideDriveand12thStreet,or At thistimetheLakeMerrittMasterPlandoesnotrecommend Therewouldbeabouttwentyparkingspaceslostif14th • Analternativeproposalrecommendedclosing14th • additional parkland. if theFireAlarmBuildingparkinglotisreplacedwith Street wasclosed.Thisimpactwouldlikelybeincreased rily. to determineifthisalternativewouldoperatesatisfacto- Additional significanttrafficanalysiswouldbenecessary two-way streettoBroadwaydowntown,whereitends. could beeliminatedif13thStreetwereconvertedintoa going down13thStreetthewrongway. Thisproblem devised inordertopreventwestbounddriversfrom eastbound one-waystreet.Measureswouldhavetobe safety issuewherewestboundtrafficwouldbefacingan eastbound onthewesternapproach.Thiswouldcreatea lanes westbound,ontheeasternapproachandfour that 13thStreetwouldbetwolaneseastboundand to northboundOaktraffic.AtStreet,weassume would providetworight-turnlanesforwestbound13th two-way eastbetweenOakStreetandTwelfth. This street asdiscussedabove,butalsomaking13thStreet

IV-15 DESIGN GUIDELINES 12TH ST / CULTURAL DISTRICT

Landscape vegetation can focus on Kaiser Convention Center Landscape Recommendations (photo by Adrienne Wong)

This area provides an opportunity to add significant park acreage to Lake Merritt Park as well as a significant improve- ment to park usability. A strong landscape design will reflect well on the City of Oakland’s future. Among some of the many items to consider are: • Provide accent trees that focus attention on the Kaiser • A strong landscape design theme should include the Convention Center. existing Kaiser parking lot, extending the visible park • Provide accent trees that allow a strong axial relationship area by an additional 22 acres.. This would add empha- to the Oakland Museum and Laney College. sis to the park landscape and further reduce the impact of vehicles in the area. • Plantings shall be done in an informal style for design and continued maintenance concerns.

IV-16 Two axialalleesfromLakeMerrittParktoLaneyCol- • AnalternativetreemaybethePrincessFlowerthatisa • Boulevardtreesonsidewalksandan11-footmedian: • Useplants(trees,shrubsandlawn)thatarecompatible • Anewbeachisproposed.Hydrologicalmodelsshould • Thelargeopenspaceoflawnfromthenewroadwayto • paving andlightingimprovements. Flowering Pear, lege andtheOaklandMuseum,narrowfloweringtrees, a strikingeffectalongboulevard. smaller tree.Forseveralmonths,theblueflowersmake bloom forpedestrianenjoyment. anda willallowviewswhilealsoprovidingmonthsof Date PalmwithbluefloweringtreessuchastheJacar- recycled waterconnection. drought, planningmayallowforafutureEBMUD to therecycledwaterorotherconditionssuchasa with usingreclaimedwater. Ifthereareimprovements be formedtodetermineerosionpatterns. the edgeofLakeMerrittcanservemulti-functionaluses. (Pyrus calleryana‘Chanticleer) with Bottom: Lawnandparkformanamphitheater Top: Alleeffect oftrees

IV-17 DESIGN GUIDELINES DOWNTOWN PARK EDGE

The western edge of Lake Merritt is uniquely characterized – for better or worse- by the mass and vitality of downtown. City Center, Chinatown, the Oakland Mu- seum, Alameda County public facilities, Uptown District, and the intensive Gold Coast residential area, all are found nearby. The relationship between downtown workers and residents to the Park is important to nurture. The linkage is currently tenuous because streets from downtown only intermittently reach the Park. The connections need to be reinforced through streetscape treatments and park design at the street’s terminus.

The park border is narrow and subtle in contrast to the bulk of buildings and perim- eter roadways. Much of the green space is cast in deep shade during the afternoon. The plan makes recommendations to widen the park border in order to accommo- date improved pathways and park access. A proposed promenade linking street ter- mini acts to strengthen the character of the park edge and provide continuity. A major intersection redesign at Harrison and 20th streets transfers a significant new acreage to Lake Merritt Park and Snow Park. The improvements benefit pedestri- ans accessing the park from Uptown. The new park areas serve lunchtime gather- ing, informal sports, and lake border circulation.

IV-18 EnhanceperimeterparkssuchasSnowPark EnhancethePotentialforEveningUses • ReintroducetheFireAlarmBuildingintoPark • RestoretheMunicipalBoathouse • Widen theParkBorder by6-10Feet • ImprovePedestrian/BikeCirculation • HighlightDowntownStreetConnections • • Design Themes March 2002. comment onLakeMerrittin house..." -CommunityMember pecially, thesettingforCourt- the ideaofagrandcivicplaza.Es- " Iapplaudtheplan-embracing Special“Nodes”orpointsofinterestshouldbelocated • Downtown StreetTermini Recommendations Themajorgatewayat20 • Themajorgatewayat14 • gateways, symbolicofthepointarrival.14 designed assmallplazasfornoontimelunches,ormajor connections todowntown.Thesepointsmaybe at theendofdowntownstreetsinordertoenhance placed onaxis. opposite sideofthelakeorincludefloatingobjects The designcouldincorporatemodificationstothe path. connect fromtheintersectingstreettoshoreline Streets areexamplesofmajorgateways.Pathsshould border. green natureofSnowParkandtheLakeMerritt water. Thecreationofplazasshouldbalancewiththe visual elementinadditiontoexposingviewsthe nus to14 inclusion ofart.Theplazashouldofferavisualtermi- civic plazaforcasualgathering,publicevents,and th Streetwhilemaximizingviewstothewater. Figure IV.6Figure SectionattheDock Proposed th th streetshouldincorporatea Streetshouldincorporatea th and20 th

IV-19 DESIGN GUIDELINES DOWNTOWN PARK EDGE

The Park Border

• The width of Lakeside Drive should be reduced by one travel lane in order to provide new parkland and to create a bike lane on the street. Approximately 6-10 feet in addi- tional width is identified. Refer to Circulation for additional informa- tion. • A continuous, 12-14' multi-use path should be provided for joggers, children on bikes, dogs, and walkers. Its surface should be smooth concrete to accommodate all sizes of wheels. Special patterns of color and texture may be developed to express a particular cultural interest. • On-leash dogs should be permitted on the path nearest the street. • The dock opposite the Lake Merritt Hotel should be restored as a public use pier. Funding and preliminary design has been completed concur- rent with the master plan by the Lake Merritt Breakfast Club. Use by the Gondola, future water taxis, and casual park visitors should be encour- aged.

IV-20 dock attheLMHotel,andwidenpark. Accent streettermini,inproveSnowPark,restorethe Downtown Left: Existing Condition(12th-17th) Facing Page: FigureIV.8 ProposedPlantoConnect Figure IV.7 DowntownParkEdge

IV-21 DESIGN GUIDELINES DOWNTOWN PARK EDGE

Snow Park and Uptown Gateway

The Intersection of Harrison and 20th Streets should be redesigned in order to enlarge Snow Park and the lake park border. This recommen- dation improves pedestrian access from down- town by simplifying the route and reducing crossings.

IV-22 Merritt, createadowntownandparkgateway provide connectionbetweendowntownandLake Redesigned intersectionat20thStreetandHarrison, Edge Left: Grand Ave.) Existing Conditions(SnowParkand19th- Facing Page: FigureIV.10 ProposedDowntownPark Figure IV.9 DowntownParkEdge

IV-23 DESIGN GUIDELINES DOWNTOWN PARK EDGE

Circulation

Roadway Changes Traffic Operations

• The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for narrowing the • This design maintains a Level of Service of C or better. one way portion of Lakeside Drive to three lanes, from This meets the minimum standard of LOS E or better 14th to 17th Street. A northbound bike lane would be downtown. added. The Plan also calls for the removal of parking • Narrowing the one way portion of Lakeside Drive down th th on one side of the street from 17 to 19 Street if to three lanes would be consistent with the Downtown necessary to have a continuous bike lane. Streetscape Project study alternatives for a three lane • The Plan also calls for the narrowing of Lakeside Drive one-way Lakeside Drive. th to two lanes, with one in each direction, from 19 to • The reason that narrowing Harrison Street from four to 20th Street. Bike lanes would be added in each direction three lanes southbound could be done without unac- for this two-way segment. A 12-14 foot mulit-use path ceptable traffic congestion is that Harrison Street is only should be built on the lake side of Lakeside Drive. six lanes north of Grand Avenue. Only three lanes of • A double right turn bay would replace the double free traffic should enter the street. Harrison Street south of right-turn at the intersection of 14th and Lakeside Drive. 20th and 20th Street has only two lanes feeding Harrison Street north of 20th. • The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for removing 20th Street between Lakeside Drive and Harrison Street and • The existing northbound right-turn lane at Grand replacing the area with green park space. The Harrison would be preserved because of the high turning vol- and Lakeside intersection would be moved to form a umes. perpendicular T intersection. Both Snow Park and Lake Merritt Park would be expanded. • Harrison Street would also be reduced by one lane southbound between Grand avenue and Lakeside Drive. A new bike lane would be added southbound. • The northbound bike lane would be narrowed to four feet. • A southbound bike lane should be built on Madison to complement the northbound bike lane on Lakeside but this is outside of the Lake Merritt Master Plan scope.

• Driveway access to properties on Lakeside Drive would be maintained.

Above: Downtown district bus stop in Portland, Oregon

IV-24 Thenarrowerstreetswouldbemoreattractiveand • TheMasterPlancallsfortheadditionofa12-14foot • ItwouldimplementthebikelanesidentifiedinCity • Theproposedadditionofbikelaneswouldmake • Bike andPedestrian streetscape..., provideacontinuousjoggingpathatthePark edge... promenade..., highlighttheparkaspartofGrandAvenue Link downtownandGrandLakebusinessDistrictswith athemed Neighborhood streetwithviewleadingtothePark should makepedestrianscrossingfeelsafer. route. lake wouldprovideabikeandpedestrianrecreational Street andLakesideDrive.Themulti-usepathalongthe multi-use pathtobebuiltonthelakesideofHarrison of OaklandBicycleMasterPlan. convenient aswellattractivetobikeriders. travel alongLakesideDriveandHarrisonStreetmore The planned busstoponHarrisonStreetbetween21 • Theproposedroadwaychangesshouldhavenoimpact • Someparkingspaceswouldbemovedfromthe • ThefeasibilityofanewbusstoponLakesideDrive • Transit Therecouldpossiblybesomeparkingremovedonthe • parking loss. The MasterPlanrecommendsthattherebenoneton-street Parking parking onHarrisonStreetbetween20 to on-streetparking,becausethereisno Municipal BoatHouseparkinglot. Cameron StanfordHouseparkinglottoareconfigured Avenue. between Jacksonand20 park sideofthestreetfrom17 19 great directconnectiontoboththeLakeMerrittand Madison and20 transit accesstoLakeMerrittPark. Street andGrandAvenue shouldbebuilttoimprove north ofthe14 could bereplacedwithnewon-streetparallelparking Drive 20 be investigatedaspartoftheredesignLakeside th StreetBART Station. th Streetintersection.Thiswouldprovidea th th Streetintersectionandbetween . th , forthe59and59A,should th to19 th Street,butit th andGrand st

IV-25 DESIGN GUIDELINES DOWNTOWN PARK EDGE

1520 Lakeside Drive: The Municipal Boathouse

• Under the plan, the building should be restored in History architecture and in use. A restaurant, banquet hall, community meeting space, boat storage, rowing classes, This building was originally designed by John Galen Howard as and other public uses are recommended to be accommo- a "high pressure salt water pumping station" for the City of dated. Refer to the Buildings Chapter for additional Oakland Fire Department in 1909. The additions of two information. building wings to function as the Municipal Boathouse were • Public art commissions should be considered in the designed by Walter D. Reed in 1913. The Boathouse offered scope of the restoration. excursions, regattas, mooring privileges, locker rooms, a tea- room, and later a succession of restaurants. • Gondola service should be relocated from the Sailboat house to this facility in association with other food In 1935, the last of the open arches were filled in, and three services. new stationary piers were constructed. The Restroom building • The Parks and Recreation District may maintain a small was added in 1940 in conjunction with two tool houses, one public service counter if the need is identified. Other located at El Embarcadero, and one at Pine Knoll Park. Both planning and administration staff should be relocated to have since been converted to restrooms. offices in City Center or other locations to be identified. The pump station remained in operation until about 1955, at • The site around the building should be redesigned to which time the building was converted to offices. The Parks better facilitate public access along the shoreline. Park- and Recreation Department currently uses most of the building. ing for future uses should be provided within a single The Lake Merritt Rowing Club has used the lower south wing parking area. since 1961. • The master plan recognizes the potential for coordina- tion between 1520 operators, the Camron Stanford House, and the Masonic Hall. Opportunities for shared Left: Municipal Boathouse 1915 resources, marketing, parking, and event services should Below: Municipal Boathouse 1909 be explored.

IV-26 and boatingevents. city aswellthevariousboatingclubsthatuselake,storagefacilitiesforthoseusers,regattas The buildinguseshouldberestoredtoincorporatepublicactivitiesincludingboatstorageforthe park reservationsandschedulingofevents. could remainsomewhereintheparktofacilitateinteractionwithpublic.Forexample,making should berelocatedtoanotherbuildingoutsidethepark.Asmallsatellite"customerserviceoffice" reflect itsoriginalarchitecturalcharacteraswellfunction.TheofficeofParksandRecreation The MunicipalBoathouseisoneofdefiningbuildingsLakeMerritt.Itshouldberestoredto Design Recommendations community meetingspace banquet hall,boatstorage, public usesuchasrestaurant, historic building,andfuture Proposed restorationof Municipal Boathouse IV.11Figure Proposed

IV-27 DESIGN GUIDELINES DOWNTOWN PARK EDGE

Public interest in re-establishing a restau- rant in the building is high. This restored use could be coupled with a reception/ meeting hall that could accommodate a number of events that could be coordi- nated with adjacent established uses in the Camron Stanford House as well as the Masonic Temple. Architecturally, the Municipal Boathouse should be restored to its 1913 configura- tion. The original design successfully blurred the edge between water and park which has been obscured by additions and renovations. This relationship could be restored by reopening the veranda as a public access walkway, linking the lakeshore path, and encouraging public access. The arches, which support the wings of the building, should be reopened to allow for boat storage in the water.

Top: Restoration of arch at the Municipal Boathouse Middle: Sketch view of water-facing side of Municipal Boathouse Bottom: Proposed courtyard area at Municipal Boathouse

IV-28 cated inpanoramaChapterIII). extend beyondtheparkcurbandincorporatesouterstreetedge(asindi- Boulevard treesaddedtobothsidesofthestreetwillallowParkvisually new parklandwillaffordtheadditionofapromenadeandstreettreeplantings. The conversionofatrafficlaneresultsinanincreasedparkborderwidth.This Lakeside Drive Landscape Recommendations Tree selectionandspacingshouldconsiderviewsfromadjacentproper- • StreettreesshouldpresentagrandnessasenvisionedbyMayorMerritt • LeaflittershouldnotoverburdentheLakeandposeamajordetriment Streettreesshouldbeinscalewiththebuildingfacadeheights. • • Street Tree Recommendations ties withoutcompromisingthestreetorparkappearance. when heproposedscenicboulevardsaroundtheperimeterofLake. to waterquality. Figure IV.12 ProposedSectionLakesideDriveStreetTrees Ginko Trees onastreet

IV-29 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK

Lakeside Park is the heart of activity at Lake Merritt. The bulk of the public facili- ties for recreation, education, and leisure are found here. The park area receives the highest concentration of activity of the entire Lake Merritt area. Fairyland for ex- ample, attracts upwards of 2000 people per weekend. The park is also well utilized for organized activities such as concerts, Shakespeare theatre, youth classes, recep- tions, community meetings, gardening, and large special events. Several key build- ings house these activities and are also described in this chapter. Informal uses by the general public include strolling, picnics, boating, playground visits, and wildlife viewing. Facilities for these informal activities do not adequately meet the demand. Beyond its traditional community park attributes, Lakeside Park is the also the heart of the ecological mission of Lake Merritt. The refuge zone and islands occupy a potion of the shoreline area. Remnant oak woodlands and natural bluffs portray a landscape almost foreign to downtown Oakland.

"Lake Merritt Park's versatility is its most important quality; it offers the possibility of exercise, entertainment, and refuge to nearly every type of user." -Community Member Commenting on Sacred Aspects of Lake Merritt in October 2001.

IV-30 Glen lakearea,LakesideParkconstitutesthelargest,contiguous hood ofAdam’s Point,GlenEcholakearea,andtheTrestle Bounded bytheGrandAvenue BusinessDistrict,theneighbor- signage, coordinatedentrance,andtheArtElement. through fencingimprovements,façaderestoration,common is recommendedtointegrateintothepark’s sharedlandscape scape maintenance,andeducationalprograms.Eachparkentity such asoutdoorfacilities,eventplanning,composting,land- programs toworktogetherbycombiningoperationalresources the experienceofpublic.Theplanencouragesvariouspark ments toaccess,circulation,andprogramfacilitieswillenhance public’s useoflakesideParkanditsexistingprograms.Improve- The LMMPrecommendsimprovementsthatenhancethe grading, phasedtreeremoval,andthereplantingofgrass. important recreationaluseareasandshouldbeenhancedby safety hazardshouldbeselectivelythinned.Openlawnare improved. Denseunderstoryvegetationthatposesapublic while thesidewalksthatmeanderthroughthemshouldbe lookout pointsareproposed.Forestedareasshouldbeprotected Bluff areasshouldberestoredwithnaturalvegetation.Special facilitating publicuse. remarkable characterbyclarifyingthelandscapetypologiesand front bluffs.TheLMMPseekstoenhancetheparkarea’s lawn areastoimpenetrablethickets,andforestedhillswater- park zone.Itsareaoffersadiversityoflandscapesfromopen Garden Center, andotherpopularprograms are locatedinthisparkzone area boundbyGrandAvenue andtheLakeedge.Children’s Fairyland,the Lakeside ParkasdiscussedintheLakeMerrittMasterPlanrefersto

IV-31 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK

Recommendations

Lakeside Park Management Zones: Based upon existing landscape typologies and patterns of use, the plan establishes three management zones. It is important to clarify these zones in part due to the complex ecological and recreational resource balance.

Figure IV.13 Lakeside Park Zoning Diagram IV-32 tained attheSailboatHouseasitisawaterdependentuse. or notfacilitatingaccesstotheLake.Water recreationismain- mends relocationofusesnotessentialtotheshorelineecology landscape ismanagedtoemphasizehabitat.Theplanrecom- zone isenvisionedneartheislands.Wildlife isprotected.The ecological resource.Bluffareasarerestoredandamajornatural zone. Theinterfaceofwaterandshoreisahighlyvaluedasan The water’s edgeisemphasizedasLakeside’s Parkmostsensitive 1. Shoreline games. such asjogging,strolling,picnicking,tai-chi,andlowimpact mends facilityimprovementstoenhancerecreationalactivities open lawns,pathways,andforestedareas.Thezonerecom- in thismanagementzoneistheGrandAvenue Promenade, recommended (exceptforLawnBowlingactivities).Included use bythepublic.Noformalsportsorspecializedfacilitiesare weekday activitiesofnearbyyouthprogramsaswellweekend accommodate informalgames.Thelawnscansupportthe park ishigh.Mostnotable,aretheopenlawnareassizedto The recreationalvalueofnon-programmedopenspaceinthe 3. FreeandClearOpenSpace ment. tional componentthatisbasedupontheLakeMerrittenviron- in thiszone.Programsareencouragedtohaveastrongeduca- implemented, new/relocatedprogramfacilitiesshouldbelocated grams: parking,visibility, sidewalks,andsignage.Astheplanis emphasizes publicaccesstotheseimportanteducationalpro- the programswhileguidingtheirpublicinterface.Theplan open space.Thezonedesignationservestoprotectthevalueof of thepark’s landscapebyreducingthepublicnatureof Independent programsandtheirfacilitieschangethecharacter 2. InteriorProgramAreas

IV-33 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK SHORELINE

Figure IV.14 Proposed Lakeside Park Plan

IV-34 InformalAmphitheater McElroyFountainandimprovedPaths RelocatedPlayground P Jr.Arts &Science(PhaseI) for Center O EcologicalZone:ShorelineRestoration&Boardwalks N SailboatHouseandClassrooms Wetland RestorationTestM Site MaintenanceFacilityandServiceAccess L K EdhoffBandstandandBeach J Revegetated Bluff I OpenLawnAreas H G F ConsolidatedEducationCenter, Ranger Proposed MidParkCourtyardPlaza/GardenEntry MidParkPromenade E D C BellevueDrive EnhanceParkEntryandFairylandAccess B A Park Features and FutureJCASPhaseII. Station (1or2Bldgs.) - ExitBooth - EntryGate - Bulb-outCrossings - AngleParkingBothSides,withTree Pockets Boardwalksandotherspeciallydesignedaccessfeatures • Revitalizethefreshwaterpondatrefuge.Redesign • Usenativeplantingtoimproveecologicalvalue • CreateanaturalizedwateredgezonealongBellevueNE • Ecological RestorationAreas Shoreline ManagementZone ties. public accessandstrengthentheeducationalopportuni- should becreatedinthelesssensitiveareastofacilitate should beeliminated. educational displaysforvisitors.Publicfeedingofbirds should incorporatesustainableprinciplesforwildlifeand throughout thepark. area. The playgroundshouldberelocatedoutoftherefuge used sparinglynearthestreetforpicnickingandsitting. setback fromtheedgeappropriately. Lawnwouldbe from theRotaryCenter. Themainpathwouldbe by MaryMiss Double SiteProject Greenwood Pond

IV-35 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK SHORELINE

Figure IV.15 Detail Plan of Proposed Ecology Zone

Figure IV.16 Existing Condition Section at Future Ecology Zone

IV-36 Implementawetlandaspilotprojectbelowthebluff • Bluff Area interpretive signage. area. Anaccessibleoverlookshouldbeprovidedwitha Thebeachareashouldbepreservedforshorelineplay • Beach area. and wateraccess.Newsandshouldbeaddedtothe Figure IV.17 Proposed SectionatEcologyZone

IV-37 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK SHORELINE

Sailboat House

The Master Plan recommends improvements to the site and • The main building entry should be reoriented to building. The plan recognizes the historical conditions of Bellevue Avenue. access, visibility, and use, and seeks to reestablish those charac- • The area to the east should be developed as a public teristics into the contemporary park. shoreline use area with pathways, lawn, picnic tables, • The Sailboat House building should be remodeled to and boardwalks. The boat ramp and hoist should be reveal its historic character, to improve its use as a public rebuilt and be available for public use. Five to eight facility, and to integrate it into the park. The continued parking spaces for vehicles with boat trailers should be operation of sailing programs and boat rental is encour- provided. Accessible spaces should also be provided aged by the plan. • Public art commissions should be considered in the • The boat storage garages should be rebuilt in place to scope of the remodeling. accommodate aquatic-program related storage and youth classroom space.

Figure IV.18 Proposed Sailboat House Plan

IV-38 used forbothboatstorageandinstructionalclassrooms. hall withsupportingfacilities.Theboatstoragewingisnow plete replacementofthesecondstory, whichhousesameeting curved, onestoryboatstoragewing,restrooms,andthecom- for LakesideParkinthe50's.Includedworkwasanew Ponsford andPrice,whoundertookmostofthedesignservices which ishowitstandstoday. was Thearchitectofthisremodel In 1954thebuildingreceivedamajorrenovationandaddition, to theeastofbuildingonwater'sedge. north oftheSailboathouse.In1945parkinglotwasadded separate buildingsflankingthecourtyard,immediatelyto City ofOaklandParkDepartment.Theboatstoragewasintwo In 1940,newbuildingsforboatstorageweredesignedbythe through acourtyardandupsplit,exteriorstaircase. and gatheringplace,enteredfromthenorth(leeward)side The secondfloorwasacolumned,openairviewingplatform series ofboatstoragevaults,opentothelakeonsouthside. by Walter D.Reedin1915.Thefirstfloorwas,andstillis,a The SailboatHousebeganlifeasthe"CanoeHouse,"designed History architectural trendofthattime. recognizable. The1950'sremodelandadditionrepresentsthe still exists;however, therestoforiginalbuildingisnolonger and atileroof.Thevaultedboatstoragespaceonthefirstfloor The originalSailboatHousehadstuccowalls,brickdetailing, tion. by shrubberyandtherearwallof1940boatstorageaddi- sional entrythroughthecourtyard.Thissideisnowobscured northwest face,whichfacesthepark,nolongerhasproces- now borderedbyparkingandaccessroadsoneitherside.The site hasbecomeincreasinglyutilitarianovertheyears,andis the tipofLakeshorePark.Thebuildingsrelationshipto The buildingsitsonthesoutheasternshoreofAdam'sPoint,at elevator. Theupstairsmeetingroomwasremodeled. In the1970’s, toaddthe thebuildingwasagainremodeled

IV-39 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK SHORELINE

Design Recommendations

The Sailboat House is one of the most used buildings in should be linked to the greater park via a new pathway. The Lakeside Park. Unfortunately, it has been isolated from the rest first floor vaulted spaces should be restored. of the park by the succession of remodels and additions over the The second floor should be completely redesigned to restore the years, and now has very little relation to anything but the building relationship to the park, and give it a strong identity. parking lot and the Lake itself. Its prominence should be Second story windows should be aligned on the north and restored through architectural and landscape design. south walls to allow pedestrians at the street level to see through The Sailboat House should receive a complete architectural the building to the Lake's far edge. rehabilitation and reconfiguration. All of the outbuildings A new one story building should be constructed to the north- added to the site should be removed, as they are of poor quality, west of the main building to accommodate boat storage lost by do not suit the current uses, and obscure the main building from removal of the existing buildings. New landscaping should be the rest of the park. The formal entry to the Sailboat House introduced to help re-establish the building's relationship to the should be reinstituted to face Lakeside Park, and pass through a park. revitalized courtyard on the leeward side. The main entry

Sketch of park-facing side of proposed Sailboat House

IV-40 Sketch ofwest-facingsideproposedSailboatHouse

IV-41 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK PROGRAM

Program Zone

Bowling Green

• Restore the front bowling green with an artificial turf History system for ease of maintenance and competition superi- ority. Spectator seating and new attractive fencing The first lawn bowling green was conceived as part of the would make the game a more publicly accessible and original master plan for Lake Merritt Park by Landscape Archi- understood activity. Membership could be bolstered as a tect Oscar A. Prager in 1909. Green 1, on the east side of the result. The rear bowling/croquet court should be clubhouse was dedicated in 1912. Greens 2 and 3, on the west similarly addressed for club use and public visual access. side of the clubhouse, were dedicated in 1923 and 1935 respec- Natural grass should be used. The replacement of one tively. front court with additional practice greens or bocce ball courts should be considered in the future. In 1926 The Bowling Green Clubhouse, designed by Architect Charles W. McCall, was built. Charles McCall's building continued the Lake Merritt tradition of stucco buildings with clay tile roofs. An arch-topped colonnade runs the length of both the east and west facades, enabling the clubroom to be opened up to the greens on either side. Carved wood detailing exists at the eaves and windows and doors. Tile mosaics illus- trating the game of lawn bowling are inlaid in the exterior walls, some from the time of original construction and some from the recent work of Robert Howden in 1993. Originally, there were Lawn Bowling Clubhouse and greens terraces with balustrades on both the west and east sides. They have since been removed. Although the building is essentially at grade, there are shallow steps on the west side which are a barrier to accessibility

IV-42 Figure IV for futuredesigninLakeMerrittPark. fixtures makethisbuildingsignificantinestablishingapalette illustrating thegameoflawnbowling,andcustompendantlight Other customdetails,suchascarvedwooddetailing,tilemosaics the addition,andhassincebeendamagedbyfire. An equipmentstorageshedwaslaterattachedtothenorthof horizontal woodoutriggersattheeaveswhicharedeteriorated. slope tarandgravelroof,clerestorywindows,flatwoodtrim match theoriginalstyleorqualityofbuilding.Ithasalow H.T. Johnson,Architectin1948.The1948additiondoesnot of alockerroomandrestroomonthenorthend,designedby This buildingstandsmuchasitoriginallydid,withtheaddition .19 Proposed LawnBowlingClubhousePlan building shouldberaisedtoremovetheaccessibilitybarrier. The gradeelevationonboththenorthandsouthsidesof detailing, butshouldbecarefultoavoidafalsehistoricism. building. Thiscouldincludesimilarmaterials,rooflineand should beremodeledtomoresympatheticwiththeoriginal tectural character, andisinpoorcondition.Theaddition The 1948additionisnotinkeepingwiththebuildingsarchi- condition, andwillneedonlyminorexteriorrestorationwork. The originalLawnBowlingClubhouseisinrelativelygood Design Recommendations.

IV-43 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK PROGRAM

Children’s Fairyland

• City and Fairyland operators should improve perimeter fencing and visible interior conditions over time. • The entry approach to Fairyland should be enhanced in association with Bellevue Avenue and Lakeside Park entry projects. New accommodations for bus loading, staging, seating, and entry visibility are recommended. • Service access and additional staff parking should be provided on the West service road. The road should emphasize use by staff and service vehicles, however full public, pedestrian access should also be accommodated. Extraneous perimeter gates should be phased out and staff parking that occurs in the planted areas by the fence should be eliminated.

Entrance to Children’s Fairyland Entrance to Lakeside Park from Grand Avenue

IV-44 New roadway, busloading,andenhancedlawnarea Figure IV.21Proposed SectionatBellevueEntrancetoLakesidePark Children’s Fairyland Figure IV .20 Plan ofLakesideParkEntry and .20

IV-45 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK PROGRAM

Lakeside Park Garden Center

History Design Recommendations

The Lakeside Park Garden Center was designed by Ponsford & The Garden Center building would benefit greatly from better Price Architects in 1957. The complex of buildings and integration with the site through façade remodel and additional structures was built in phases and includes the Garden Club landscaping. The main entry to the building is on the west side, itself with meeting facilities, a large work shed with storage, a fronting on Bellevue Ave. This entrance should be reinforced glass greenhouse and an aluminum lath house. Adjacent to the as a clear, processional entry with vegetation leading the way buildings and structures are the demonstration gardens. and continuing into the building. The existing monumental trellis at this entry should be highlighted and plants should be encouraged to grow on it, blurring the boundary between garden and building.

Figure IV.22 Proposed Lakeside Park Garden Center plan

IV-46 way bisectingthebuilding. will requireanextensionofthe"lanai"whichisawidehall- surrounding theentry. Connectingthetwobuildingentries building. Thisentryshouldalsohaveheavyvegetation posed asthenewcourtyardentryoneastsideof A newbuildingentryshouldbeintroducedonwhatispro- with thegardensbyuseoftrellises,arborsetc. natural lightandair. Thesouthfaçadeshouldalsobeintegrated space toopenoutthedemonstrationgardensandgain the southwallofhall,whichwillenablenewassembly should beupgraded.Asunkengardenintroducedon remodeled tobeaninvitinghall.Accessibilityandventilation The largeabandonedassemblyspacebelowgradeshouldbe Center andConceptofnewarbor Bottom: EntryviewofLaksideParkGarden Top: Proposed from terrace lowerlevel

IV-47 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK PROGRAM

Junior Center for Art and Science (JCAS)

The master plan recommends the relocation of the facility in a two-phased approach.

Phase 1: Phase 2:

• Current (2002) building remodeling and facility expan- • A new facility should be provided to accommodate the sion should be supported. Specific recommendations JCAS program within the educational complex in the are made in the description of the building on the Program Zone. Outdoor classroom space should be following pages. Site improvements should enhance shared with other facilities. public access around the structure and minimize impacts • The new facilities should be completed prior to demoli- to the shoreline. tion of the old structure. • The JCAS program should maintain a sense of indi- viduality from other uses in the building cluster whether housed in a detached building or not. • The existing JCAS location would become important waterfront open space for a demonstration wetland, or interpretive area. Pedestrian circulation would be improved through the currently constrained portions of sidewalk. • Public art commissions should be considered in the scope of the new construction.

Figure IV.23 Proposed Junior Center for Art and Science Plan

IV-48 materials andmethodsofconstruction. shape, manyunharmoniousrooflines,andpoorbuilding tionally, thebuildinghasnoclearentry, andcarvedup anodd the edgeoflake,constrictingbothaccesscorridors.Addi- location. ItissituatedveryclosetobothBellevueAvenue and This buildinghasmanyproblems,butthemostseriousoneisits needs. building togainmoreclassroomspaceandbettersuittheir ten yearsandiscurrentlydevelopingplanstoremodelthe Junior CenterofArtandSciencehasoccupiedthebuildingfor remodeled andaddedtonumeroustimesovertheyears.The almost fiftyyears.Itoriginallyhousedarestaurant,andhasbeen and SciencehasbeeninitscurrentlocationLakesideParkfor The buildingcurrentlyoccupiedbytheJuniorCenterofArt History Existing ComfortStation .Mitigationofconstrictedpathatlakeedge. C. ProvideaclearstreetpresenceonBellevueAve. B. Unificationofthebuildingmass. A. plans. considered inconcertwiththeJuniorCenter'sschematicdesign building, initscurrentlocation.Thefollowingitemsshouldbe The firstphaseofworkshouldbearemodeltheexisting mendation. fundraising plans,theMasterPlanwillhaveatwophaserecom- Given thecurrentstatusofprogram'sremodeland and proposeddesignthemesinamoreharmoniousmanner. The buildingshouldrespondtothepark'sarchitecturalcontext DesignRecommendations building • Reconstruction/reconfigurationof"cupola"portion • Newbuildingidentificationsignage • Relocationofmainentry • Uniformityofmaterialsandcolors • Integrationofoutdoorclassrooms • Infillofawkwardexteriorspaces • Fewerroofshapes

IV-49 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK PROGRAM

Maintenance Facilities

• The existing regional maintenance facility in the center of the park should be reorganized and relocated to maximize park use by the public. Non-Lake Merritt The second phase of work should provide a new home for the equipment, staff facilities, and storage should be located Junior Center of Art and Science as part of a new educational outside the park. complex situated on the current site of the park maintenance shed. This building should include enough space to accommo- • Lake Merritt equipment, staff facilities, and storage date the Junior Center's expanded programs, including outdoor should be relocated to a combined service area in classrooms, along with classroom space designated for Garden conjunction with Fairyland. The operation should add Center education programs, expanded Rotary Nature Center a modest new building, and occupy the adjacent historic programs, auxillary Sailboat House classrooms, and others. A building (currently a closed restroom). police sub-station, and concession stand should also be housed • An educational sustainable maintenance center is in the complex. The existing original park "comfort station" proposed at the “Garden Center Courtyard”. This should be restored as new accessible restrooms. This site will be facility would operate as part of the Garden Center and highly visible on the border of the new pedestrian promenade, demonstrate sustainable maintenance techniques. anchoring the east side of the new hilltop courtyard, with views Organic composting, integrated pest management, and and direct access to the shore of Lake Merritt. ecological management are activities that could be emphasized to the public.

IV-50 Publicartcommissionsshouldbeconsideredinthe • Signageshouldindicatethepresenceofranger • Meetingspaceinothernearbyfacilitiesshouldbemade • Thefacilityshouldhouseasmall,permanentofficefor • addition toincreasedvisibilityofsecurity. Lakeside Park.Increasesinpatrolhoursshouldbeprovided A permanentfacilityforrangerpatrolshouldbeprovidedin Police Substation scope ofthenewconstruction. station. available torangersforcommunityoutreach. Patrol vehicleparkingshouldbeprovidednearby. areas foroff-dutyrangers,andstoragepatrolbicycles. full timeadministrativeattendant,stafflockers,break adjacent totheaccessroad. storage shedforequipmentandsuppliesshouldbeconstructed tural characterofthebuilding'sexterior. Inaddition,amodest office andrestroom,takingcaretopreservethehistoricarchitec- closed restroombuildingshouldbereconfiguredtohouseastaff be dedicatedtoLakeMerrittmaintenanceonly. Theexisting tion Gardens,shouldberelocatedhere.Thesefacilities removed fromtheircurrentlocationadjacenttotheDemonstra- Lake MerrittParkmaintenancefacilities,whichshouldbe valuable spacetoreclaim. situated isessentiallycutofffromthepublic,andwillbea poor waterqualityofthelake.Thehilltoponwhichitis from thepark.Therunoffpasturecontributesto The buildingandsurroundingamenitiesshouldberemoved Design Recommendations the siteavailableforotheruses. Rangers, thestablewillbeclosedinnextfewyears,making barbwire toppedchainlinkfence.AccordingtothePark The entiresite,includingacorralandpasture,issurroundedby material isaparticletypeboardwhichalreadyshowingwear. barn, thebuildinghouseshalfadozenhorses.Theexteriorwall recent architecturaladditiontoLakesidePark.Essentiallya The OaklandPoliceDepartmentHorseStablesarethemost Police HorseStables/NewMaintenance

IV-51 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK PROGRAM

Rotary Nature Center

History Design Recommendations

The Rotary Nature Center is a natural science education center The Rotary Nature Center is a well-loved and unobtrusive that was designed by Chester H. Treichel, Architect in 1953. building, which is well sited. The building should receive new The redwood clad building houses an assembly hall, interactive signage and the restrooms should be upgraded. displays, which include an active beehive integrated with the architecture, and more. The building has canted exterior walls and wide overhangs. It has sloped glazing for glare-free viewing of the lake to the south and twelve foot tall glazing to the north. It has bathrooms, which are directly accessible from the adjacent park. Minor additions and remodels have occurred over the years, most notable in 1970 and 1994. All are in keeping with the original architectural style. The Rotary Nature Center is situated on the north shore of Lake Merritt, directly ashore from Lake Merritt's man-made islands. It is adjacent to the freshwater duck pond, which has been present at The Lake for at least eighty years.

Existing Rotary Nature Center Example of interpretive signage

IV-52 from thewind,shouldhelpmakesanitationcontrollable. aged. Thislocation,awayfromthelake'sedgeandprotected avoided. Theuseofbiodegradablecontainersshouldbeencour- courtyard. Extensivecommercializationandtrashshouldbe porated intotheeducationcomplexatnewGardenCenter be removedfromthepark.Newconcessionsshouldincor- The buildingisinpoorrepairandasitseldomoperates,should Design Recommendations stainless steelcounter. small nondescriptwoodbuildingwitharollupcounterdoorand between TheGardenCenterandtheEdoffBandstand.Itisa construction costof$300.Today's snackbarsitshalfway 1912, whenapermitforrefreshmentstandwasgrantedat The presenceofasnackbarinLakesideParkdatesbackto General Snack Bar on LakeMerrittinMarch2002. and enhancethecontributingelements.”-CommunityMember comment “Picking outhistoricdetailingisgreat.Wewantwhat'snew toblendin

IV-53 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK OPEN SPACE

Free and Clear Open Space

• A central lawn should be provided for informal, active • The viability of scheduled Bellevue street closures for recreation. The site should be graded and the lawn promenading and events should be explored. Timing of replaced. Select removal of existing trees should be closures would be critical in order not to disrupt parking considered where play opportunities would be en- needs. hanced. • The operation and context of the Mclroy Fountain • New pathways should be added and existing ones should be restored. Lighting should be provided that is replaced to facilitate better circulation in Lakeside Park. in keeping with the historic character while maintaining Pathways to be used by Fairyland’s Lark Train should be safe levels of illumination. The pump house should be sized to safety accommodated the vehicle. eliminated and the pump operations moved below • The center of the park should be enhanced for public ground. use. A pedestrian promenade should be created that • Geese should be actively discouraged from using this connects the two sides of the park- the bandstand and zone. Refer to the Ecology section of the Plan Overview the ecological restoration area. Benches, lights and for additional recommendations. special paving should be included.

IV-54 Figure IV .24 Proposed Free andClearOpenSpacePlan

IV-55 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK CIRCULATION

Circulation

Roadway Changes Parking

• The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for Bellevue Avenue, The Lake Merritt Master Plan recommends that there be no net within the park, to be widened by eleven feet. Diagonal gain or loss in parking within the park. parking could be implemented on both sides of Bellevue Avenue and could be broken up by planter islands at • Diagonal parking would be striped on both sides of important view areas and by bulb outs at crosswalks. Bellevue Avenue to replace the spaces lost at the Sail- The plan also recommends the reduction in paved area boat House parking lot. The diagonal parking would be and the removal of all but boat related parking in the broken up by occasional bulb outs for crosswalks and shoreline lot next to the sailboat house. landscaping. • Bellevue, at Parkview, should be narrowed to one lane • A majority of the Sailboat House parking lot would be at the entrance. That would provide a much narrower converted to park space. A few spaces should be pre- and safer pedestrian crossing. It would also make it clear served for handicapped, loading and boat trailer parking. where cars should queue up to get a parking ticket. Parking would be more efficiently managed by charging people • Improvements to the bus pickup and drop off to Fairy- by the hour instead of by the day. This should discourage all- land are recommended. day parking by local residents, businesses and other off-site users, and provide more parking opportunities for park visitors. Traffic Managing Bellevue more like a parking garage should accom- plish this. A ticket machine at the entrances could issue drivers • Implementing diagonal parking on Bellevue would a time-stamped ticket. Push buttons for ticket machines would encourage reduced travel speeds within the park. need to be located low for autos and high for busses. Drivers • Two gate parking control systems should be added to the would then turn the ticket in to a live person at an exit booth parking lot. Its purpose would be to discourage that would check the ticket for time parked, charge the driver through- traffic and parking fee violators. and collect the money. If someone could not find a parking space on Bellevue and exited within ten minutes of entering, Transit they would not be charged. A high fee could be implemented for overnight parking. The entrance gate would be closed at night when the park is closed. It could be left open for free • Improvements to the bus pickup and drop off to Fairy- days. land are recommended.

IV-56 could beanimportantresourceinthisregard. large orsimultaneousevents.TheKaiserCenterparkinglot facility shouldsolvetheparkingproblemsinparkcausedby facilities aswellashuttleservice.Theuseofoutsideparking decision astoiftheymightneedutilizeoutsideparking park atagiventime.Eventplannerscouldmakeaninformed ment group,toknowwhateventsarehappeningwithinthe database wouldallowallparticipants,entitiesandthemanage- could becompletedthroughaninternetbaseddatabase.The needs tobegivenparking.Theeventregistration/application events areoccurringwithintheparkandifspecialattention management. Thiswouldbedonetogetabettersenseofwhat or morevisitorswouldberequiredtosubmitaproposalfor park events.Itisproposedthateventshaveanexpected25 group shouldbeemployedtooverseethecoordinationofall The LakeMerrittMasterPlanrecommendsthatamanagement Parking EventManagement - CommunityMembercommentonLakeMerrittinMarch 2002. incentives. Parkmanagementshouldprioritizenon-automobile access." "Event plannersshouldencouragepatronsnottodriveand provide

IV-57 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK LANDSCAPE

Landscape Recommendations

Park Management and Botanical Gardens

A new botanical area of approximately 17 acres, organized by Newer gardens include Firescape Garden, Bonzai Garden, geographic areas will expand beyond the existing Botanical Community Gardens and the new Mediterranean Garden. The Garden fenced collections. The new botanical area is intended continued support and involvement of garden volunteers and as an adjunct to the existing Botanical Garden to entice the non-profit groups in the maintenanceand programming of the Park visitors to enter the Botanical Gardens and walk leisurely arboretum grounds should be encouraged. These clubs and along additional pathways through new planting bed areas on vignettes provide a dynamic to the educational mission of the both sides of Bellevue Avenue. Seating areas should be pro- garden. vided for park visitors to rest. This area could be distinguished from the rest of Lake Merritt Park by entry points and a different A high cyclone fence surrounds the existing Botanical Gardens color aggregate treatment on the pathways as well as interpretive to protect the valuable collections within. The fencing is signage. necessary, however it is not inviting for visitors. To lessen the divisiveness, tree plantings that knit the outside form to the The new planting beds build upon the original intent of the inside form are recommended. Dominant trees are Italian stone Lakeside Botanical Gardens. The original garden vignettes pines and palm trees. New tree and palm massings will build within were intended as small sample gardens that post World upon these existing plantings. In addition to the Mediterranean War II homeowners could build in their yards. Garden themes plant areas, a tropical plant area is planned next to the Botanical included water gardens, Japanese gardens, small arbor seating Palm collection, extending toward the Lake’s edge in the new areas and annual flowering gardens, such as chrysanthemum picnic and lawn area. gardens, dahlia gardens, etc. Drawing upon the multi-cultural make-up of the City of Oak- land, the arboretum ideas draw upon geographic-based, climate- adapted garden beds. The Mediterranean Northern African and South African vegetation provide physical representation from this area as well as from the southern European continent. People from many cultures could visit and see plants from distinctive landscape zones around the world.

IV-58 • Provide educationalareasforschools- fromyouthsto Provide Providevegetationthatbenefitswildlife. • Increasetheuseoffloweringplantsinpark • • Provideplantingsthataddtotheexistingbotanical • Botanical gardenrecommendationsinclude: visitors, andforresidentprogramsofLakesidePark. interested inplantsusefultotheirhomeyards,forpark community collegestudents-forthegeneralpublic themes. To provide non-lawnareasthatreducegoosegrazingand • To reducethemaintenancerequiredin17acresoflabor- • Figure IV.25 IllustrativeLandscapeRecommendationsPlan quail, hummingbirds,butterflies,etc. provide habitatforotherwildlifesuchassmallerbirds, intensive areassuchaslawns.

IV-59 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK LANDSCAPE

Figure IV.26 Botanical Garden Diagram

IV-60 • Shrub areas(mostlyinLakesidePark)shouldbe Shrub • Massingoflowshrubsfromthevariousthemezones • Plantcollectionsshouldbeselectedthatcansurvive • Arboretum Recommendations and SouthwesternAustraliaCalifornia. South Africa,CentralandCoastalChile,Southern European andNorthAfricanMediterraneanArea, from variousMediterraneangeographicareas: organized intoMediterraneanclimateadaptedplants visual safety. groundcover shouldbeunderthreefeetinheightfor geographic areatothenext.Shrubsand is designedwithaseamlessprogressionfromone outside thefencedarea. allow maintenancestafftimeforothernecessarytasks. adapted shouldbeusedtoreducemaintenancehoursand vide habitatforadditionalwildlife.Shrubsthatareclimate lawn areasusedasfeedingbythegeeseandwillpro- These plantchangeswillaidgoosemanagementbyreducing mingbirds andbutterfliesareincluded. used bywildlife.Smallerareasofplantsattractinghum- such asquails,etc.Lowergrowingshrubsincludeplants groundcovers toprovidecoverandnestingforsmallerbirds recommendations allowlowergrowingshrubsand ing designtoolbalancesvariousneedsofwildlife.The management andlong-termmaintenancegoals.Theplant- The Vegetation Planiscompatiblewithparkwildlife lawn area. extending towardtheLake’s edgeinthenewpicnicand plant areaisplannednexttotheBotanicalpalmcollection, In additiontotheMediterraneanplantareas,atropical Interpretivesignage,suchasanumberingsystem, • signageshouldbelocatedonpathways Educational • Plantsshouldbeselectedbasedonthebenefitsfor • Colorschemesshouldbeselectedbycolorofbloom, • grounds. trained for)furthertoursofthenewArboretum Children’s Fairylandgardensmayinclude(orbe Volunteers (orothers)whonowleadtoursof educational facilities/landscapemaintenancearea. made availableatChildren’s Fairylandorthenew geographical areasandinterpretationshouldbe should beprovided.Brochuresdetailingplants, to depictbotanicalthemesandspecies. wildlife habitatsuchasshelterand/orfood. texture orcontrastingelementsdrivethedesign.

IV-61 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK LANDSCAPE

Botanical Garden Interpretive Walk

An interpretive path of colored aggregate asphalt that has a beginning and ending trailhead with signage could mark the arboretum path. The path should provide inscribed directions to other areas of interest, such as the North African plants or the Mediterranean plants from the European Continent and Mediterranean climate areas. The pathway meanders through the Botanical area on both sides of Bellevue. The pathway with interpretive signage at the entry point will provide educational material concerning the trees and native locations. The path- way will end at the axial connections between the Sailboat House and the new entry to the enclosed Botanical plant collections.

Figure IV.27 Proposed Tree Planting on Mid-park Promendade

IV-62 in LakesidePark IV Figure in LakesidePark Figure IV .28 Proposed SectionwithExpandedPalmTree.28 Planting .29 Proposed Section withExpandedPineTree Planting

IV-63 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESIDE PARK LANDSCAPE

Entry Gates

New entry gates to the Botanical Gardens would clearly mark the points of public entry and provide a more significant pres- ence to the gardens. Gates should be constructed of metal material and to provide a strong entry statement to the Botani- cal Gardens.

Major entry control points: 1. Entry across from Sailboat House on a direct axis. 2. Entry from Interior Promenade Walk: This entry can have a focal fountain in a paved plaza area. Area can be a gathering area and waiting point where people can meet. 3. Minor entry at the Garden Center Side. This entry gate should be similar in design and meterial, but less elabo- rate. 4. Other entries: The entry from the former Firescape Garden area is abandoned. Problems controlling the area exist when the gates are left open. This gate should not be used by Botanical Garden visitors, but could be used as a maintenance access. All other gated entries should be abandoned aside from maintenance staff access points.

Top: Gate by Tito Patri & Associates Bottom: Gate detail at Jewish Center, San Francisco Facing Page: Flowering magnolias

IV-64 be allowedunderanydriplines. with mulchorsod.Noautomobilesheavymachineryshould Lawn shouldberemovedfromthebaseoftreeandreplaced and needleswillbeutilizedasmulchesunderthedriplines. area. Meanderingpathwaysareidentifiedtoberepaved.Leaves identified thisareaasantobemaintainedawoodland the viewsofhousestonorth.TheMasterPlanhas secluded spaceintheurbanworld.Thetalltreeshelpedblock pines. Theareawasoriginallyplantedtoaffordvisitorsa Avenue andPerkinsStreetwasplantedin1910withAustrian The northeasternsectionofLakesideParkboundedbyGrand Woodland Areas picnics andotherrecreationalneeds. and newlawnareasbytheSailboatHouseshouldbeaddedfor Highly usedlawnareasshouldremainopenforactivepublicuse Lawns Other SpecialAreasinLakesidePark Tall streettreesthatallowaclearviewoftheKaiser • ThiswoodlandareaalsocontainstheMcElroyMemorial • material concerningthetreesandnativelocations. interpretive signageattheentrypointwillprovideeducational rollerblading, skating,andsmallbicycleareas.Pathwaywith Pathway: Coloredaggregateconcreteofasurfaceconduciveto enade. Trees canbeofvariousspecieswithpinkflowers. Master PlanGuidelines: It hasabackyard,neglectedfeeling. during theirlunchbreakandparkvehiclesunderthetrees. staff andCityofOaklandemployeeswhooftendrivearound Current Conditions:Thisareaisnowusedbyparkmaintenance Interior PromenadeWalk Recommendations Landscape Bellevue Drive planted inbetweenthetallstreettrees. trees thatprovidecoloratapedestrianlevelshouldbe Convention Centerareappropriate.Smallflowering sculptor DouglasL.Tilden. Fountain. Builtin1911,ithasbasstonereliefsbythe

Provide floweringMagnoliaprom-

IV-65 DESIGN GUIDELINES GRAND AVE. PROMENADE

Grand Avenue is a common link to a diverse collection of urban conditions. Stretching from the Grand Lake business district to downtown at Harrison Avenue, it ties the local businesses to the park façade. The master plan recognizes the op- portunity to extend the improved park character to the local business community. The design concept is to create a unified streetscape/sidewalk that composes plant- ing, decorative paving, unique benches, banners, park signage, and gateway mark- ers. The condition to connect the two ends as well as the many pieces in between. As a promenade, it would be designed for movement: strolling, jogging, shopping, and passing driving by. Local residents, customers and downtown walking commut- ers would use the promenade daily. It would be identifiable by night and day. The improvements would become a central part of the revitalization of Grand Avenue and Lake Merritt’s Lakeside Park.

IV-66 Facing PageRight:Sidewalkwithsurfacingintheplantingstrip Facing PageLeft:ProposedGrandAve.Promenade Specialattentiontonight-timeilluminationofbenches, • Overtime,newplanetreeswithnaturalbranchinghabit • Theparkingstripshouldbeplantedwithlawnin • InthebusinessandresidentialsectionsofGrand,a • A3'decomposedgranitejoggingtrackshouldbeplaced • Thepromenadepavingshouldbeenhancedartistically • Inparksegments,theconcretesidewalkshouldbe • park borderareasandretailsegments. A promenade(enhancedsidewalk)isrecommendedinboththe Recommendations markers, andthepromenadeshouldbeprovided. should replacethepollardedspecies. applicable parksegments. promenade themepaving). natively, theentiresidewalkshouldbereplacedwith paving motiftomatchtheparksegmentdesign.(Alter- portion ofsidewalkshouldbereplacedwithdecorative adjacent tothesidewalkonparksegments. to highlighttheuniquenessofrouteandcontext. neighborhood pedestriansandrecreationalusers. widened to8feetinordercomfortablyaccommodate along ParkSegments Figure IV.30 ProposedGrandAvenue Promenade Lake Merrittentrysignscurentlywelcomewith“NO”. along NeighborhoodBusinessSegments Figure IV. GrandAvenue 31Proposed Promenade

IV-67 DESIGN GUIDELINES GRAND AVE. PROMENADE

Circulation

Roadway Pedestrian and Bike

• The Lake Merritt Master Plan recommends that the • The Lake Merritt Master Plan recommends that the two Bellevue Avenue leg of the intersection of Grand crosswalks crossing Bellevue Avenue be shortened to less Avenue with Parkview Terrace should be narrowed to than half their current length. This should make Grand one lane with bulb outs. Avenue more pedestrian friendly. • The southern leg of the intersection of Grand Avenue • The existing on-street bike lanes on Grand would with Bellevue Avenue should be narrowed to two lanes become part of the bike lane loop around Lake Merritt. with bulb outs, removing the sweeping right turn. • The bulb outs and crosswalks called for in the Grand Parking Avenue Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Parking Project should be constructed. There would be no parking impact to Grand Avenue.

Traffic Operations Transit

• The proposed changes to Grand Avenue will not have • The feasibility of moving bus stops from the near side to any significant impact on traffic operations. the far side of signalized intersections should be investi- gated when improvements to the respective streets are designed. This would reduce bus blockage of through vehicle lanes.

IV-68 in parksections. remain. Turf shouldbeplantedintheparkingstrip plane treesalongGrandAvenue Blvd.should recommended. Existingnon-pollardedLondon without pollardingorheadingbackoflimbsis trees on GrandAvenue Blvd.shouldbeLondonplane Successive treestoreplaceexistingornewstreet Boulevard Effect Landscape Recommendationsfora limbs. London PlaneTree Current Conditions Landscape Recommendations (Platanus acerifolia). (Platanus acerifolia) A naturalgrowthhabit withheaded

IV-69 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESHORE AVE. EDGE

The master plan identifies the Lakeshore Avenue Edge as a unique zone character- ized by the low-scaled neighborhoods, the narrow park border, the perimeter parks, and the panoramic views of downtown. Opportunities are discussed for each area. The sum of the parts will provide the restoration of the entire Lakeshore Avenue park zone.

IV-70 MarkedlanesonLakeshoreshouldbeprovidedinorder • TheplanrecommendsnarrowingLakeshoreDrivein • Lakeshore Avenue ParkBorder ThesegmentsofparkalongLakeshoreAvenue are • LakeshoreAvenue (UpperandLower) Recommendations Proposed multi-usepathalongLakeshoreAvenue to improveregionalandlocalbicyclecirculation. land CascadeandPineKnollPark. recreational usersandthoseseekingaccesstotheCleve- order toprovideadditionalparkarea.Thisbenefits along theshoreline,possiblythroughArtElement. neighborhood historiesareexpressedatnodesfound opportunities forviewingareproposed.Significant street, intheparkandonshore.Newbenches pathways forthediversetypesofmobility-bothon scenic enthusiasts.Theplanproposestoprovidenew the areaisapopulardestinationforwalkers,joggers,and With dramaticviewsofthelakeframingcityskyline, identified asimportantpassagesandplacesforpause. Adecomposedgranitepathshouldbeprovidedalong • Lakeshore Avenue ShorelineTrail Asixtoeightfootlawnstripplantedwithstreettrees • A12-14'multi-usepathshouldextendtheentire • Multi-Use Path combine toformasingle,multi-usepath. two paths.Inthesefewcases,thepathsshould 50 feet,thereisinsufficientwidthtoaccommodatethe segments wherethecurb-to-shoredimensionislessthan the lakeedgeforjoggingandwalking.Intwoshort should separatethestreetcurbandpromenade. lar culturalinterestsuchasthehistoric“SpanishTrail”. color andtexturemaybedevelopedtoexpressaparticu- accommodate allsizesofwheels.Specialpatterns be madeofconcrete.Itssurfaceshouldsmoothto joggers, wheelchairs,andstrollers.Thepathwayshould along thisedgesuchaschildrenonbikes,dogwalkers, Lakeshore zonetoprovidecirculationforthemanyusers

IV-71 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESHORE AVE. EDGE

Lakeshore Avenue Nodes/ Gateways

Viewpoints or intersections with neigh- borhood pedestrian routes should be highlighted as important nodes. A higher level of landscape development such as planting, paving, low walls, or other subtle treatments should mark these locations. History markers or Art Ele- ments could also be included here. Special paving such as stone unit pavers should be used.

Figure IV.32 Existing Lakeshore Avenue

IV-72 Figure IV.33ProposedAvenue Lakeshore storage forusebymaintenancepersonnel. that time,itwouldbeconvertedto constructed atnearbyAtholPark.At until amodernreplacementcanbe restroom facilityshouldbemaintained from LakeMerrittPark.Thehistoric be placedinthestreettoenhancedaccess Bulb-outs andmarkedcrosswalksshould entry andprovidealookoutfromthetop. design includesastaircasetomarkthe area oftheupperterrace.Theproposed base oftheslopetoimproveusable retaining wallshouldbeplacedalongthe the downtownwaterfrontedge.Alow afternoon sunningspotandviewpointto The planenvisionstheparkasaprime parkland bothvisuallyandphysically. rated intothelargerLakeshoreedge The perimeterparkshouldbeincorpo- Pine KnollPark

IV-73 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESHORE AVE. EDGE

East 18th Street

The dock at the terminus of East 18th Street is restored and made accessible. Athol Park and street medians are also improved. • The historic dock is rebuilt as an important plaza and viewpoint. • Railings, pavement, planting, lighting, and signage are replaced. Ecology and history should be interpreted by use of interpretive signage and art. • The plan identifies the potential for redevel- oping the shopping center to better address Athol Park and the business street. By pro- Figure IV.34 Section at Lakeshore Avenue (Park is moting a more intensive use of the site, the less than 50 feet wide) park and retail street could become more active and successful. • Athol Park is revitalized as a part of Lake Merritt Park and gateway to the 18th Street business district. Envi- sioned as a pocket park, the new destination provides community event space for markets (combined with a street closure), a children’s playground, new furnishings, and a restroom. The tennis courts remain. • Renovate street medians and islands per the gateway concept. • Special paving such as stone unit pavers should be used in the vicinity. Photo of East 18th Landing "I'm glad to hear the pier at 18th is going to be developed. That could be a beautiful spot. The whole little area, with tennis courts, greenery, pier-it could be quite idyllic." - Community Member comment on Lake Merritt in December 2001.

IV-74 greater than50feetwide) Figure IV. 35SectionatLakeshoreAvenue (Parkis Street Modifications Figure IV. 36 Plan ofProposed AtholParkand

IV-75 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESHORE AVE. EDGE

Figure IV.37 Existing Grand Lake Green Link Area Figure IV.38 Proposed Grand Lake Green Link Area

Grand Lake Green Link and Eastshore Park

This perimeter park area represents a significant open space area to the proposed promenade along Grand Avenue. The feasibil- with heavy use by neighbors, local shoppers, and school chil- ity of daylighting the creek needs further technical exploration. dren. The tot lot, restrooms, and open lawn areas are recom- As an alternative to daylighting the creek, its presence could be mended for enhancement. The plan recognizes the subsurface interpreted by a designed surface landscape. A special area for creeks as asignificant element of the lake’s ecology. A creek dogs (per city parks rules) is identified along MacArthur Boule- restoration is envisioned as a central feature of the park adjacent vard.

IV-76 Themodifiedparkinglotshouldbeaccessedfrom • Librarybuildingrenovationandprogramenhancement • Allfeaturesoftheparkarerenovatedincluding • Lowfencescouldbeusedtodesignateandcorralactivi- • spaces ismaintainedintheproposal. implemented inthereconstruction.Thequantityof Lakeshore Avenue. Greendesignprinciplesshouldbe facility bychildren,teens,andadultsisencouraged. during themasterplanprocess,presentuseof no specificimprovementproposalswereidentified at theLakeviewLibraryissupportedbyplan.While parking, sidewalks,furnishingsandlighting. restrooms, lawn,pathways,plantingareas,fencing, ties adjacenttoMacArthurBoulevard. Theplanidentifiesadoguseareaaspotentialin • Playfieldsshouldbemaximizedforusebythecom- • PleasantValley Creek(orTrestle GlenCreek)should • quired tocorraldogsinanoff-leashconditions. of Oaklandregulation.Lowfencingshouldbere- the park.Off-leashstatusshouldbepursuanttoCity should beusedtoreduceconflictswithpassingcars. munity andnearbyschools.Decorativefencing land plantingsareproposedtolinetherestoredcreek. to theparkinterior. Specialriparianandoakwood- bridges shouldconnecttheGrandAvenue promenade MacArthur BoulevardtothePergola.Pedestrian be uncoveredorpartiallydivertedtothesurfacefrom

IV-77 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESHORE AVE. EDGE

Circulation

Roadway Changes

• The Lake Merritt Master plan calls for Lakeshore Av- • The Master Plan would reconfigure 1st Avenue as a four- enue to be narrowed to two lanes, with one in each lane street by eliminating parking. Unfortunately there direction, from west of the El Embarcadero intersection would not be enough room for bike lanes on 1st Av- to east of the East 18th Street intersection. At those enue. This short street section should be made as bike intersections there would still be four through-lanes, and friendly as possible by narrowing the two inside lanes to a left turn lane. At all other intersections there would the minimum width and therefore making the outside be three lanes, including center left turn lanes. Restrict- lanes wide enough for bicycles and vehicles to share. 1st ing parking near the intersection would provide the Avenue would be a signed bike route. The two-lane space for the center left turn lane. This is already done free-right-turn onto International would be converted at those intersections. Therefore, there is no loss of into a double right turn bay to improve bicycle safety. parking. On street parking should be provided every- • No property would need to be acquired because the where else. Bike lanes would be added in each direction proposed changes only narrow the road. Thus the • Lakeshore Avenue should be narrowed between 18th project would stay within the existing road right of way. and 15th to four lanes, two in each direction. Bike lanes • The Grand Lake Green Link Plan calls for closing one would be added in both directions. A narrow median of the El Embarcadero roadways. The remaining road- would be built between Foothill and 15th Street way would be converted into a two way operation. This • The Lake Merritt Master Plan recommends ending would increase park space and reduce the number of Lakeshore Avenue at 12th Street, with a cul-de-sac. street crossings for pedestrians. The Lake Merritt Master This would divert traffic to 1st Avenue allowing Plan is compatible with and fully supports the Grand Lakeshore Avenue to be narrowed and made into a Lake Green Link Plan and its recommendation to close more park friendly neighborhood street. The East 15th one half of El Embarcadero. Street intersection would be reconfigured to open up • Driveway access to properties on Lakeshore Avenue will parkland next to the lake. be maintained.

Figure IV.39 Existing Condition Section at Lakeshore Avenue IV-78 ThereasonLakeshoreAvenue couldbenarrowedto • Traffic Operations Leftturnsfrom1 • LeftturnsfromsouthwestboundLakeshoreAvenue to ThisdesignmaintainsaLevelofServiceCorbetter. • • only onelaneeachwaynorthof18 hill, East15 through trafficvolume. lanes (withaleftturnlane),asneededtohandlethe East 15 turns leftfromsouthboundLakeshoreontoEast15 under theproposedconfiguration,rafficthatcurrently because thereisnotenoughroomforleftturnbays. Avenue andEast12 would turnearlyatEast18 Avenue togetoverthechannelat12 south ofEast18 there aresignificantlyhighertrafficvolumesonthestreet to befourlanessouthofEast18 would notbeenoughspaceon1 th wouldbeprohibited.Thisisbecausethere th andInternationalmergesontoLakeshore th st Street.Traffic fromEast18 Avenue wouldbeprohibited,again th Streetintersection. th orlateratthenew1 th st Street),isbecause Avenue forfivefull th Street(butneeds th Street. th , Foot- st th Between16 • Figure IV.40 Proposed SectionatLakeshoreAvenue There isalsonoroomforaleftturnbayon1 and tooclosetobeaseparatesignalizedintersection. East 12 15 that desiretoentermaygoaroundtheblockofEast East 15 make aU-turnattheintersectionof1 Vehicles exitingtogonorthonLakeshoreAvenue may are expectedtobeverysmall. Lakeshore Avenue and1 right-out only. Thisisbecausetheintersectionofwith First Avenue drivewayaccesswouldberight-inand th , 2 nd th th , FoothillandLakeshore.Thetrafficvolumes Streettobepartofthesignalizedintersection Street.Vehicles goingnorthon1 th Streetandthecul-de-sacat12 st Avenue istoofarawayfrom st Avenue with st th Avenue st Street, Avenue.

IV-79 DESIGN GUIDELINES LAKESHORE AVE. EDGE

Bike and Pedestrian Parking

• The addition of bike lanes should make bike travel on • There would be no loss of parking on Lakeshore. Lakeshore Avenue much safer. • All parking would be removed on 1st Avenue between • The bike lanes would implement a portion of the East 15th Street and International Boulevard. Oakland Bicycle Master Plan. • Some of the parking would be replaced by new parking • A fourteen foot wide multi-use path would replace the on Lakeshore between Foothill and 15th Street. six foot sidewalk on the lake side of the street, with a • There would be new parking spaces created about a park strip in between the path and the street. The block away on East 12th Street. multiuse path along the lake would provide a bike and pedestrian recreational route. Transit • The narrower streets should make pedestrians feel safer when crossing. • The bus stops on 1st Avenue just north of International Boulevard would most likely be relocated north of 15th Street or south of International Boulevard. This would affect AC Transit bus routes 13, 14, 15, 40, 40L, 43, and 618. • When number of lanes on Lakeshore Avenue is re- duced, the northbound bus stop at Brooklyn Avenue should be moved north of Brooklyn Avenue to prevent bus blockage of Lakeshore Avenue.

IV-80 Maintenanceoftreesshouldbecompletedwhenseason- • Tree selectionandspacingshouldconsiderviewsfrom • Streettreesshouldpresentagrandnessasenvisionedby • LeaflittershouldnotoverburdentheLakeandposea • Streettreesshouldbeinscalewiththebuildingfacade • Street Tree PlantingSelectionCriteria Landscape Recommendations ally appropriateandinanexpeditiousmanner. park appearance. adjacent propertieswithoutcompromisingthestreetor around theperimeterofLake. Mayor Merrittwhenheproposedscenicboulevards major detrimenttowaterquality. heights. Figure IV.41 Proposed SectionLakeshoreAvenue Street Trees Ginko treeleaf

IV-81 DESIGN GUIDELINES IRRIGATION PLAN

Existing Irrigation System

Water Supply Sources Pipeline Distribution System

Currently Lake Merritt Park uses one source of supply for Irrigation system distribution pipelines are generally positioned irrigation, the East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD) two feet off of sidewalks in Lake Merritt Park. Some lines cross domestic water supply. The water is delivered at five water Lakeshore or Lakeside depending on water meter locations. meter locations. There are 19 controllers for the irrigation Pipelines that are four inches and smaller are generally schedule water. 40 PVC pipe. Generally, distribution pipes are no larger than A backflow device is located at each of these series of metered four inches, but there are some areas along Lakeshore that are service connections at various locations in the periphery of Lake six inches PVC for short runs. The only information available Merritt Park. These backflow devices prevent reversal of the regarding the condition of the old water pipe system is from irrigation system into the EBMUD water distribution system. water system operating personnel who have observed the condition of the pipe while repairing leaks and breaks. There is a mixture of old and newer irrigation pipeline systems. The newest areas where mainlines have been replaced are the 18th Street to Kaiser Area and at newly repaired sections along Lakeshore Avenue. The Harrison Street area from Snow Park to the median islands and up to Grand Avenue, Grand Avenue and Lakeside Park areas have the oldest systems. The oldest areas and systems (+30 years) are the area just east of Fairyland in the lawn and tree areas and areas surrounding the Kaiser Building. The mainlines in the Kaiser Area and 19th / Harrison Streets are transite pipe lines and patched new PVC lines. Many of Lake Merritt’s Park areas are watered through a hose system. There are irrigation plans for Eastshore Park, areas next to the Veterans’ Building, and Snow Park (1986). Plans of the Veterans’ Building and Eastshore Park are not dated. There are no as-built drawings of the irrigation systems. There are no accurate maps of the existing water pipelines. Leakage quantities from irrigation system distribution pipelines are not known.

IV-82 Figure IV.42 Irrigation LocationMap Controller

IV-83 DESIGN GUIDELINES IRRIGATION PLAN

System Rehabilitation

System Evaluation Water Supply Sources

• Water Quality The domestic water supply system by EBMUD will continue to be used for irrigation water. Reclaimed water trunk lines Most areas of Lake Merritt Park have sensitive vegeta- will not be in the Grand Area - Lakeside Park area in the near tion that is not conducive to reclaimed water use. The future. There is an EBMUD reclaimed water supply line water quality is good and should be free of algae growths which is in the 12th Street shoreline park area. Use of the and debris. Typically, the irrigation system is in working reclaimed water needs to be balanced with vegetation and order but commonly malfunctions due to old age or more importantly, additional reclaimed irrigation mainte- damage from vehicles and people. nance. Reclaimed (tertiary) water delivery systems need to be • Water Pressure flushed once a month to flush out build-up of salts in the soil. Measured at about 70 psi by OPR staff. Reclaimed water may be used to flush toilets or be used in water features. Monitoring and Control System

Operations are inefficient due to a lack of current control systems, satellite remote control systems and old inefficient irrigation systems. New clocks have remote control capacity, but lack of funding eliminate this remote use presently. Some parks have been watered by hand (hose) in the past, necessitat- ing a half day of labor every day.

Maintenance

Maintenance is insufficient due to a very old irrigation system and lack of adequate personnel and funding.

IV-84 furthure reducerunoff. soil compactionandinstallinganewdrainagesystemwill delivery andmanagementwillreduceoverwatering.Minimizing performance, anddegradedpathlawnuse.Newirrigation seasonally drymonths.Thiscontributestoerosion,poorplant Standing wateriscomonlyfoundthroughouttheparkduring Drainage asRelatedtoIrrigation method usedtopreventdeliveryinterruptionduingrepairs. to becloseddownforrepair. Aloopeddeliverysystemisa designed tocontinuedistributionwhenirrigationcircuitsneed maintenance equipment.Thepipelinesupplysystemshouldbe adequate depthtominimizerootintrusionandimpactby two feetfromthewalkedge.Mainlinesshouldbeburiedtoan promenade andtheLakeedge,mainlineshouldbeplaced minimize pavementorroadwayrepair. Betweenthenew able toplacethemainlinesinsoilareaswhichareaccessible charged withthecosts.Duetoaccessandcosts,itisdesir- repair. TheOfficeofParksandRecreation(OPR)isthen under thejurisdictionofPublicWorks Agency(PWA) for the mainwatersystemisplacedunderornexttoroadways,it the mainpipelineisaffectedbydepartmentallabordivisions.If with newpipelineswhenareasarerenovated.Thelocationof The existingirrigationwatersupplylinesshouldbereplaced Pipeline DistributionSystem failed irrigationcircuits. The computersystemwouldtheninterveneandshutdown pointed inareassuchaswaterflow, electricalorotherfailures. AutoCAD irrigationdrawings.Systemfailurescanbepin- A computercontrolledcentralsystemshouldbelinkedto by windorweedbuild-uparoundirrigationheads. distribution inthefield.Irrigationcanbeaffected works withtheoff-siteunitandverifiesconditionsofwater and havinganirrigationmaintenance/monitorpersonwho off-site withpersonnelcapableofrunningthiskindsystem would betohavethecomputermonitoringandcontrolsystem system beretainedforthisspecificwork.Anotheralternative person withinthedepartmentcapableofmonitoringsucha work ofthemaintenancepersonnel.Itisrecommendedthata A newmonitoringandcontrolsystemcaneffectivelystreamline cities ofasizablereductioncomplaintstotheCity. similar parks.Moreimportantlyareotherbenefitsfrom control systemshaverealizeduptoa40%watersavingsin maintenance byparkpersonnel.Appropriatemonitoringand monitoring systemshouldbekeptassimplepossibletohelp educational trainingprovidedbythemanufacturers.Thenew not onlyqualityanddurabilityofthesystembutalsoon-going automatic operations.Thisnewsystemshouldbeevaluatedfor A newmonitoringandcontrolsystemwillbeprovidedfortotal Monitoring andControlSystem

IV-85 DESIGN GUIDELINES SITE FURNISHINGS

Current Conditions Background on Park Furnishings

• Park site furnishings have suffered from decreases in park Site furnishing input was gathered from the Redevelopment budgets over time. Existing park benches are in poor Agency, Public Works Agency and Office of Parks and Recre- shape and the few that remain are scattered throughout ation staff, stakeholders as well as the technical advisory com- the park. Benches not secured to the ground can be mittee. This background information about durability, life moved by people into inappropriate places, and are cycle, replacement ease and maintenance contributed to the sometimes thrown into the Lake by vandals. selection and design of new site furnishings. Input gathered • The Lake Merritt light fixtures are in better shape; through public outreach suggested fostering an eclectic appear- however, when damage occurs the fixtures are not ance, yet avoiding great variation in style. always replaced, creating gaps in the necklace of lights. Benches are important public resources that are essential in The original necklace of lights was made up of 3200 making the Park part of a functioning, open-space system. The lights, and hung in 1925. For 17 years the necklace Master Plan recommends their use to highlight the character of gave Oakland nation-wide renown. The necklace was certian park features such as creeks. taken down during World War II. • There are three types of trash receptacles. One is made of concrete, one is of recycled plastic, and one is of cardboard Oakland type. Maintenance of the various trash receptacles varies, with different scheduled times to empty the containers. Two separate groups maintain the trash receptacles: PWA and OPR.

IV-86 Publicbenchesalongsidewalksshouldleaveaminimum • Benchesmustleaveatleastthreefeetclear onallsides • Publicbenchesshouldbeplacedinthecurbstreet • Benchplacementshouldnotinterferewithdisabled • BenchesinLakeMerrittParkshouldbeattachedor • Benchesshallbeeightfeetlongandifmorethanone • Benchesshouldhaveanarminthemiddlesoasto • Donotusewoodorrecycled“plasticwood”inparksite Usecastironcomponentsinparkbenches. • • Overall BenchRecommendations of sixfeetclearanceforpedestriantraffic. parking metersandutilitypoles. from anystandingobjectsincluding,butnotlimitedto, a minimumoftwofeetfromthefacecurb. furniture areaorientedtowardsthesidewalkandplaced hydrants, oremergencyvehicleaccess. access ramps,bluezoneparkingorloadingareas,fire zone alongsidewalksmustbeanchoredtothesidewalk. anchored totheground/sidewalk.Benchesincurb feet leftclearbetweenthebenches. bench isinstalled,thereshouldbeaminimumoffour discourage sleepingonthebenches. have ashortlifecycle. furnishings sincetheyaresusceptibletovandalismand date paticularviews. carefully placedtofacilitatetheneedsofusersandaccommo- Bench sponsorshipshouldbesoughtafter. Benchesshouldbe rial benchesarenotrecommended. metal similartoasshownbelow. recycledmate- Plastic,wood, eter parksshouldbeanhistoricallystyledbenchofcastironand The preferred,standardbenchforLakeMerrittParkandperim- Lake MerrittBench Proposed parkbenchstyle

IV-87 DESIGN GUIDELINES SITE FURNISHINGS

Grand Avenue Bench Riparian Corridor– Gateway Benches

The custom bench developed for Grand Avenue Blvd. is a Develop custom bench in cast iron and granite, to be used in perforated metal base of approximately 4’ with a granite top, lit the special Riparian - Gateway Areas. Cast iron bench shall from the interior. Base shall be black powder coat. The guide- have backing with a design based on riparian plant such as lines outlined above for bench placement along Grand Avenue cattail, tulle, or red willow leaves. Base and cast iron compo- Blvd. shall be the same as outlined above. nents shall be black powder coat. The guidelines outlined above for bench placement along Riparian Area Corridors (18th Street, Eastshore Park Area – Embarcadero, - Piedmont Street) shall be the same as outlined above.

Figure IV.43 Proposed Grand Avenue Bench Figure IV.44 Proposed Riparian Corridor Bench

Bench

Bench

Figure IV.45 and Figure IV.46 Proposed Variations for Neighborhood Node Seating and Art Element

IV-88 adjoining neighborhoods,andaccentplantings.Theseatwalls within thepaving,paving“patternlanguage”reflectiveof opportunities forinterpretiveart,suchastiles,insetwriting Lake Merrittshouldbedesigned.Thesenode-seatingareasare Lake, built-inseatingwithatypicalcaptobeusedthroughout At thenodesorvistapointsestablishedatstreettermini Node Seating Figure IV.47 ProposedNodeSeatingatGrade color toblendwiththepositivevisualcharacteroflawn. Terra19th Streetnodes. cottaat19thStreetcouldbeagreen vary insizefromsmalltolargerareassuchasthe18thStreetor tiles fromChinaHill/HaddonHillarea.Thenodeareasshould such asterracottafromtheuptowndistrictandMoorishstyle should havefacingsreflectiveoftheadjoiningneighborhoods, Figure IV.47 ProposedNodeSeating

IV-89 DESIGN GUIDELINES SITE FURNISHINGS

Lake Merritt Necklace of Lights

Original lights were installed in 1925 by consulting electrical the next 120’ interval. Where possible, the light engineer, Romaine W. Myers. The term “necklace of lights” standards should stagger back and forth. referred to the 128 electroliers installed along the shoreline • The “Necklace of Light” light standard shall be the light while the “Festival Lights” were the strings of lights suspended fixture used at the new shoreline park at the 12th Street between the temporary poles and the electroliers. The circuit area. Spacing along this boulevard section will be 75’ included 3,400 lights. on-center and at the typical recommended distance from the street curb. Standard light placement is in the curb / Lighting Recommendations street furniture, eighteen inches (18”) from the outside edge of the curb. • Shoreline lights in Lake Merritt Park are referred to as • All lights should be directed downward with light the Necklace of Light light standard. They shall be shields to prevent light pollution. placed at a standard spacing around the Lake at 120’ on- center The light standards where possible should be • Lighting on interior park paths should be provided for staggered in the original pattern of close to the water’s public safety and wayfinding. edge, then back thirty feet (30’) from the water’s edge at Lake Merritt Riparian Corridor Lights

Light fixtures shall have the same blue patina as the Lake Merritt Light Fixture, yet a more contemporary designed fixture. Light fixture glass shall be the same amber color as the Lake Merritt Park Light Fixture.

IV-90 Theinverted“U”railrackandtheribbonare • Theremustbe36inchesofclearancebetweenbicycles • Aminimumofsixfeetclearpedestrianthrough • Nobicyclerackshallbepermitteduponanyportionof • BicycleracksarepermittedthroughoutLakeMerritt • Bicycle RacksRecommendations tion. Thepreferredfinishisanodizedbronze. preferred racksfornormalparkandsidewalkinstalla- parked attheracksandanyotherstreetfurniture. bicycles areparkedattherack. space mustbemaintainedatalltimes,includingwhen on whichmotorvehiclesarelawfullypermitted. the park’s street,roadway, orotherpublicright-of-way not blockpedestriantraffic. gateways intoLakeMerrittPark.Bicycleracksshould Park andareencouragedalongthestreetcorridor Proposed bikerackstyle bench. should matchorbeconsistantwiththestandardLakeMerritt areas. Thematerials,color,trash receptacle andformofthe ashtray optionwhenplacednearbuildingentriesorseating receptacle shouldhavean recycled cardboardbox. Thetrash receptacle shouldbemodifiedtoacceptaCityofOakland should beincludedwitheachreceptacle.Thesizeofthetrash out LakeMerrittParkandperimeterparks.Arecyclebin Trash receptaclesofaconsistantdesignshouldbeusedthrough- Trash Receptacles Proposed trash receptacle style receptacle trash Proposed

IV-91 DESIGN GUIDELINES

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

CHAPTER V CHAPTER V OVERVIEW A PARK CONSERVANCY FUNDING PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS PROJECT PRIORITIZATION

V-1 OVERVIEW

Implementation

The Lake Merritt Master Plan sets goals and makes specific recommendations for various improvements. This chapter presents how those goals and improvements can be realized in a timely and sensible manner. The plan prioritizs certain projects for immediate implementation based on community interest, consultant recommendation, and City staff guidance. Construction sequence and concept level cost estimates are provided to guide project planning. A description of funding opportunities is included as an additional resource to park management. A park conservancy is proposed as a means of implementing the master plan and advocting for the park’s long term management.

Master Plan Improvement Projects Project Prioritization

Improvement projects are categorized by zone in Table V.1. The community has weighed heavily on what types of improve- Descriptions of the type of improvements to be completed are ments and specific projects are of greater importance. Based on provided. the public's survey responses and stakeholder input, several project themes have consistently been highlighted as essential: Project Prioritization and Planning Level Water Quality: Projects that improve water quality in Lake Merritt such as storm filters and removal of tidal flow barriers Cost Estimate (12th Street culverts). Table V.2 presents recommended project implementation Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation: Projects that improve sequencing based on priority and logical construction tech- circulation around the lake such as: multi-use paths, class II bike niques. Planning level estimated costs are provided for each lanes, soft surface jogging paths, and shoreline access at 12th project to assist planning and funding procurement. Street. Ecology and Wildlife Interaction: Projects that benefit the lake Construction Sequence ecology such as habitat restoration, wildlife viewing armoval. Park Maintenance: The basic care of landscape elements and The following table outlines the various projects recommended park furnishings is considered by many to be the single most by the Master Plan and identifies a logical implementation pressing deficiency at Lake Merritt. Repair and replacement of sequence based on project priority, construction sequencing, many park elements are chronically deferred, resulting in a lack other parallel projects, and potential funding. of amenities.

V-2 3SailboatHouseRestorationandSiteImprovements NewStreetTrees 3 Pergola Restoration 4 Neighborhood InterpretiveMarkersandMini-Plazas 5 EnhancedPlantinginStreetMedians 6 RestorationofPerimeterParks 7 Arboretum/Botanical Plantings 9 Restored Lawns 9 NewParkFloweringTrees 9 MajorGatewayEnhancements(CreekNodes) 10 DockRenovations 10 Signage:Directions,MileMarkers,LocationNames 10 11 BoatHouseRestorationandSiteImprovements(1520 13 ParkFurnishings(Benches,DrinkingFountains,Trash OnStreetBikeLanes 18 CreekDay-lighting 19 20 BellevueShorelineNaturalization:Wetlands and Widening ofParkBorders 22 Multi-UsePathwayaroundLake 30 Water QualityImprovements(ie.StormDrainFilters) 35 39 (Numbers reflectrankingbynumbersofresponses) Projects PrioritizedbythePubliconMarch13,2002 Lakeside) Receptacles, Etc.) Boardwalks 6LakeshoreAvenue (ClevelandCascade) LakeshoreAvenue (E.18thto12thStreet) 6 LakeshoreAvenue (EmbarcaderotoE.18th) 16 16 DowntownParkEdge(OaktoGrand,Snow LakesidePark 18 22 LakeshoreAvenue (GrandLakeGreenLink/Eastshore GrandAvenue Promenade 23 27 12thStreet/SanAntonioDistrictandEstuaryConnec- 59 ZonesPrioritizedbythePubliconMarch13,2002 Expansion) Park) tion House, March2002 activity, Publicopen priorititization Project

V-3 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN A PARK CONSERVANCY

"Need independent foundation or conservancy for the Park that can oversee all activities, projects, programs and maintenance " - Community Member comment on Lake Merritt in March 2002.

V-4 and itssurroundingparklands. be chargedspecificallytopromotethewell-beingofLake Lake MerrittConservancy. Thisnon-profit(501-c(3))would this advocacy, theMasterPlanrecommendsestablishing cussed advocacyisneededfortheLake.Inordertoaccomplish without distractionsfromotherpriorities.Astrongandfo- and strongcommitmentexpresslyfocussedonLakeMerritt, But topursuethesegoalseffectively, strongleadershipisneeded and operations. increasing sourceforsupplementalassistancemaintenance over timethroughfund-raisingcampaignsandprovidean ment shouldbepursued.Thisendowmentcouldgraduallygrow operations budgets.Eventheideaofestablishinganendow- to beconsistentlysetasidecontributemaintenanceand private doners,pro-rataportionsofcapitalprojectbudgetsneed funding needtobeidentifiedfrombothpublicgrantsand those allocationspreservedoverthelongterm,newsourcesof manner. GeneralFundallocationsneedtobeearmarkedand need tobeprovidedinamoreconsistent,guaranteed Somehow, thefundsneededforpark’s propermaintenance of funds,orlackthereof,formaintenanceandoperations. The problem,historicallyhasbeenoneofconsistentallocation maintenance ofthepark. costs willnotgofarenoughtoensurethelong-termsuccessful However simplyrecommendingtheprogramsandidentifying fied inordertoaddressthisstrongdesireofthecommunity. nance andoperationsprogramscostsarealsoclearlyidenti- Plan recommendationsaddresscapitalimprovements,mainte- maintained andoperatedpark.AlthoughmuchoftheMaster edly expressedbythecommunity;desireforaproperly Throughout theMasterPlanProcess,acleardesirewasrepeat- Oakland andthecommunity. should betailoredtobestsuittheobjectivesofCity agement ofthePark.TheroleLakeMerrittConservancy actually contractedwiththeCitytoundertakeallofman- Central ParkConservancy. Inthiscase,theConservancyhas accomplished quitesuccessfullyinNewYork Citywiththe sembled, additionalinitiativeswillsurelyfollow. Thishasbeen group ofqualifiedandenthusiasticboardmembersareas- name ofpromotingthewell-beingLakeMerritt.Oncea Numerous otherfunctionsandprioritiesarepossibleinthe Pursuingthepotentialcreationofanendowmentfor • Conductingprivatefundraisingcampaignsforfunding • Identifyingotherpublicfundingsourcesforparkmainte- • PoliticaladvocacyfortheallocationofCityfundsto • ThepromotionoftheimplementationthisMaster • to thefollowing: The Conservancy’s prioritieswouldincludebutnotbelimited costs. long-term contributiontomaintenanceandoperations of parkmaintenanceandimprovementsprojects nance andimprovementsprojects Lake Merrittmaintenanceandoperations Plan

V-5 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FUNDING

Local Funding State Funding

Oakland City Council, the Mayor, and citizens are currently Following the March 2002 passage of the State parks bond pursuing a bond measure to fund various waterfront improve- Proposition 40, $2.6 billion has been designated by the Coastal ments throughout Oakland. Cost for the creek, park, and Conservancy for various State projects. The City of Oakland estuary projects identified as part of the bond are currently may apply for project funding to the Coastal Conservancy. totaling over $250 million. Lake Merritt projects total over $50 The City of Oakland should actively apply for future dollars that million. are to be allocated for the following types of projects: Landscape and Lighting Maintenance Districts (LLMD) can • Parks assess property owners for both capital and maintenance costs. LLMD are currently formed to provide streetscape improve- • Open space ments and maintenance. No limits are placed on dollars to- • Tree planting wards maintenance. Assessments are fixed, despite inflation, • Fit cities rising costs of operation, or needed improvements. • Urban art/environmental art Sub-Regional Watershed Center is an organization that was recently founded to support citizen groups, schools, and provide • Heritage buildings and landscapes information to planners, land owners, businesses, and elected • Public building seismic upgrades/code based improve- officials. The Watershed Center, a one-stop-shop accessible to ments those with local creek interests, is located at the Merritt College • Water quality Environmental Center, 12500 Campus Drive, Oakland, CA 94619, off Redwood Road in the Oakland hills. The geographic • Pedestrian enhancements area (Sub Region) covered by the Watershed Center stretches • Major Roadway/Transportation from San Pablo Creek in Richmond south to San Leandro • Transit corridors, stops, and shelters Creek in Oakland. The Center houses monitoring data and equipment, a reference library, a meeting place, a classroom, and • Habitat restoration an office. Center staff has developed a Field Program in Water- • Flood control shed Awareness, a Monitoring Program, an Outreach Program, an Assessment Science Program, and a Policy Program. • Volunteer/environmental education programs • Youth recreation programs

Figure V.1 Project Locations Use the map on the right to locate projects listed in Table V.1. Only projects with a specific location are shown. Overall (OVRL) projects are not shown.

V-6 V-7 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

Table V.1 Lake Merritt Park Master Plan Project Descriptions Construction Item Length Phase No. Project Title Project Description (Months) Phasing Opportunities 12th Street / Shoreline Park 12ST 1 PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING, Preliminary engineering study of 12th street roadway, bridges, SCHEMATIC DESIGN STUDY approaches, bike circulation, construction staging, and transit 8-14 mos accommodations. 12ST 2 ROADWAY RECONFIGURATION & Demolition of 12th Street roadway and tunnels, bridges; construction of Median plantings INTERIM LANDSCAPE new boulevard and bridge over the estuary channel; realignment of 1st, 12th, 13th, 14th approaches; median planting and irrigation; crosswalks; 16-32 mos channel path under bridge; interim shoreline multi-use path; temporary lawn; reclaimed irrigation supply connection. 12ST 3 SHORELINE PARK Complete park design/installation including multi-use path; beach restoration; pedestrian bridge over channel; focal fountain; art element; 4-8 mos plaza; restroom; streetscape; planting; irrigation. 12ST 4 COURTHOUSE PLAZA Complete plaza design/installation including plaza; hardscape; art element; planting, irrigation. 4-6 mos 12ST 5 KAISER CONVENTION CENTER Complete design/construction including tunnel area re-landscaping; streetscape; parking lot; planting/ irrigation. 4-6 mos 12ST 6 PERALTA PARK Park renovation to include shoreline trail; furnishings; restoration area; planting; irrigation. 4-6 mos 12ST 7 DOCK RENOVATION Rebuild posts, decking and railings of wooden dock at shoreline area. Add accoutrements such as lights, banners, signage, plaques, benches. 2-4 mos

12ST 8 FIRE ALARM SITE Site improvements such as new hardscape; furnishings; signage; planting; irrigation. 1-2 mos Downtown Park Edge DWTN 1 PRELIMINARY Preliminary architectural/engineering study of building for seismic, code, ARCHITECTURAL/ENGINEERING and other relevant investigations. 1-2 mos INVESTIGATION OF MAIN BOATHOUSE DWTN 2 RELOCATION OF PARKS AND Relocation of Parks and Recreation Department including, staff, computer systems, and furnishings. RECREATION DEPARTMENT 1-2 mos OPERATION DWTN 3 MAIN BOATHOUSE (1520 Lakeside) Building renovation to restore historic structure and prepare for new public/commercial use; building lighting; project area work to include building entry; drop off; parking lot; temporary multi-use path; furnishings; 6-12 mos planting; irrigation. DWTN 4 INTERSECTION Demolition of roadway; construction of new intersection and street Focal Art Element, non- segments; median planting and irrigation; crosswalks; Snow Park impacted Snow Park renovation. RECONFIGURATION & SNOW 3-6 mos PARK RENOVATION improvements including hardscape; furnishings; lighting; focal art element; planting; irrigation. DWTN 5 LANDSCAPE RENOVATION & Complete park design/installation including roadway modifications; multi- use path; street sidewalk; streetscape; furnishings, lighting; planting; MULTI-USE PATH (14th to 19th 4-6 mos Streets) irrigation. DWTN 6 14TH STREET PLAZA Complete plaza design/installation including hardscape; art element; planting; irrigation. 4-6 mos DWTN 7 LANDSCAPE Renovation & MULTI- Complete park design/installation including multi-use path; street USE PATH (19th to Grand Avenue) sidewalk; streetscape; retaining wall construction at grade separated walkways; decorative railing and crash barrier; dock area enhancements; 4-6 mos furnishings, lighting; planting; irrigation. DWTN 8 DOCK RENOVATION Rebuild posts, decking and railings of wooden dock at shoreline area. Add accoutrements such as lights, banners, signage, plaques, benches. 2-4 mos

V-8 GRND LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSD GRND Phase Grand AvenueGrand Promenade Park Lakeside No. Item 14 13 12 11 10 1 1 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 2 DOCK RENOVATION DOCK ( Nodes Furnishings, Promenade, STREETSCAPE: AVENUE GRAND RENOVATION DOCK Demonstration Center. Maintenance and Station, Ranger (JCAS), Science and Arts for Center Junior CENTER: EDU PARK MID HOUSE CLUB BOWLING PARK IMPROVEMENTS EASTLAKESIDE / GRAND AREA BANDSTAND LAKESIDEPARK WEST & BOTANICAL GARDEN RENOVATION SAILBOAT HOUSE BUILDING RENOVATION PARK MID FACILITY MAINTENANCE AREA HILL FORESTED McELROY FOUNTAIN & ENHANCEMENTS LAKESIDE PARK ENTRY ECOLOGY ZONE DEMONSTRATION WETLAND PARKING LOT & ENTRY SHORELINE AVENUE, BELLEVUE Project Title Harrison to MacArthur to Harrison ) irrigation. areas; entry; greens;fencing; furnishings;lighting; drainage; planting; Renovation building of exteriorandsite including overhangs; roof storage open lawns;planting; irrigation. Renovation of eastern park area including shoreline path, other pathways; road; maze clearing art element; planting; irrigation. beach;bandstand other area; pathways; openlawns;Fairyland service Renovation westernpark of area including shoreline path, bluff vegetation; gates; exterior pathways; lighting; expanded botanical planting; irrigation. Renovations include interior pathways; new perimeter fencing; entry facilities; pedestrianentry; site work. Renovation Sailboat of building; House main classrooms, storage irrigation. outdoor theater area; botanical courtyard;playground relocation; planting; Renovation of the central park area including mid park promenade; maintenance shed; clean up site. restroom building onserviceroadusefor by existing remove staff; Design/installnew amaintenance facilityonservice road; remodel existing planting, irrigation. Renovation area including of fountain, house, pumplighting, pathways, planting; irrigation. pathways; Fairylandcharacters;element;art monument entry signage; Completion improvements of at entry park including decorativewalls; planting; lawn area; Renovationinclude area to of pathways; boardwalks; fencing;natural management; interpretive signage, and overlook platform. wetlandsLakein Merritt. Project would include wetland creation and Construct a demonstration wetland to test the feasibility of permanent outs; crosswalks; entry gate; exit gate and booth; tree planting; irrigation. configuration;adjust parking onBellevueto two sides;sidewalks, bulb of sailboat parking lot; porous pavement; basic planting; entry Parking management planning/design/implementation including redesign Description Project Add accoutrements such as lights, banners, signage, plaques, benches. Rebuild posts,and decking railings woodennodecreek of at dock area. neighborhood nodes; light fixtures. promenade; decomposed granite pathway; specialbenches; Design/installation of park segment promenade; business segment plaques, benches. shoreline Add area. accoutrements as such lights, banners,signage, Rebuild posts,and decking railings woodenbandstand of at dock beach Maintenance. JCAS,Oakland Rangers, Park and & Recreation Parks Garden Center New facilities serving educationaland publicsafety including uses the Mnh)Phasin (Months) Length Construction 8-12 mos 8-12 mos 8-12 mos 4-6 mos 2-4 mos 4-6 mos 2-4 mos Botanical courtyard, outdoor mos 4-6 2-4 mos 1-2 mos 2-4 mos 2-4 mos 4-6 mos 2-4 mos 4-6 mos 2-4 mos theater, playground Pathways renovation. until concurrentwith park mid Delay relocation of playground access. orderto maintain parking and completed as a later phase in Parking lot area could be neighborhood nodes. construction; benches; Business segment pathway g Opportunities

V-9 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

Lakeshore Park Edge LKSH 1 GRAND LAKE GREEN LINK / EL Realign roadway to single two way couplet with new green space and Green space areas. EMBARCADERO improved crosswalks per the Grand Lake Green Link Plan. 4-6 mos

LKSH 2 LANDSCAPE RENOVATION & Complete park design/installation including roadway modifications; multi- Description of Interim, Phase 1, MULTI-USE PATH (Embarcadero to use path; shoreline path; pergola pathways; streetscape; furnishings, 4-6 mos 2 E. 18th) lighting; planting; irrigation. LKSH 3 LANDSCAPE RENOVATION & Complete park design/installation including roadway modifications; multi- MULTI-USE PATH (E. 18th to 12th) use path; shoreline path; streetscape; furnishings, lighting; planting; 4-6 mos irrigation. LKSH 4 EAST 18TH CREEK NODE (Landing Renovation of landing including structure; hardscape; walls; special and Gateway) benches; interpretive signage; lighting. Design installation of gateway elements in 18th Street approach including art elements, hardscape; 4-8 mos planting; irrigation. LKSH 5 Renovation of park including perimeter retaining wall; staircase; lighting; PINE KNOLL PARK RENOVATION 4-6 mos planting, irrigation. LKSH 6 ATHOL PLAZA PARK RENOVATION Renovation of park including new play area; restroom, plaza; lighting; bus shelter; planting, irrigation. LKSH 7 NEIGHBORHOOD NODES Design/installation of art element nodes to depict local history. Amenity includes low seatwall; art tiles; special planting; paving. 2-6 mos LKSH 8 CLEVELAND CASCADE Renovation of area including crosswalk; railings; fountain; lighting; 2-4 mos RENOVATION planting, irrigation. LKSH 9 EASTSHORE PARK RENOVATION Renovation of park area including parking lot; library sitework; open lawn areas; dog area enclosure; sports facilities; lighting; planting; irrigation 4-6 mos

LKSH 10 CREEK DAYLIGHTING Design/engineer/construct open creek channel along Grand Avenue promenade in Eastshore Park including excavations; pedestrian bridges; 4-6 mos filtration devices; stabilization; planting; irrigation, art element; signage.

V-10 OVRL OVRL OVRL OVRL OVRL OVRL OVRL OVRL OVRL OVRL Overall Park Projects 10 9 7 6 5 4 3 8 2 1 PARK CONSERVANCY PARK STUDY MANAGEMENT GOOSE OF LIGHTS NECKLACE FILTERS DRAIN STORM BUILDINGS OFPARK INVESTIGATION ARCHITECTURAL/ENGINEERING PRELIMINARY SYSTEM IRRIGATION CONTROL CENTRAL RULES PARK SIGNAGE: KIOSKS MARKERS TRAIL HISTORY DIRECTIONS SIGNAGE: and to assist funding of park maintenance. ConservancyImplement aPark to leadtheplan master implementation relocategeese andClear Free Open from Spaces inLakesi maybecoupled withimmediate(Goosebusters measures dogpatrol) to surrounding area to determine best management practices. The study Complete a study of geese and wildlife at Lake Merritt and the filters) (30 years 10 for Installfiltersin drains storm around major at the3per yearof arate Lake andrelevant other investigations. Preliminary architectural/engineering study of building for seismic, code, Existing controllers not compatible with the system are replaced. Installation acentral of controlcomputer andmanagementsystem. Design/installation of City signage at key locations or at kiosks. Design/installationto display6kiosks of park related notices. neighborhood nodes. Design/installation alongmarkers of the perimeter path andat Design/installation of directional signage. 6-12 mos 6-12 mos 2-4 mos 1-2 mos 2-4 mos 1-2 mos 2-4 mos 2-4 mos 2-4 mos areas. immediately inhighuse human Begin Goosbuster dogpatrol project project year; could beincludedin zone Installatthree ofper rate (3) incrementally could becompleted simultaneously; building signage signagePark should beinstalled

V-11 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN PROJECT PRIORITIZATION

Table V.2 Lake Merritt Park Master Plan Project Prioritization and Costs

Additional Percentage of Contingency @ Construction Estimated Design Estimated 5% (permits, fees, Inflation to 2004 @ Estimated Total Sequence Zone Project Title for Design Cost Construction Cost etc) 5% Project Cost 1 OVRL PARK CONSERVANCY

120,000 $ 6,000 $ 6,000 $ 132,000 DWTN LANDSCAPE RENOVATION, NODES 2 & MULTI-USE PATH (19th to Grand Avenue) 18% 309,708 $ 1,720,600 $ 86,030 $ 86,030 $ 2,202,368 DWTN INTERSECTION 3 RECONFIGURATION & SNOW PARK RENOVATION 18% 749,070 $ 4,161,500 $ 208,075 $ 208,075 $ 5,326,720 OVRL CENTRAL CONTROL IRRIGATION 4 SYSTEM

8% 2,800 $ 35,000 $ 1,750 $ 1,750 $ 41,300 5 DWTN DOCK RENOVATION

10% 10,000 $ 100,000 $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 120,000 6 12ST INTERIM SIDEWALK WIDENING

20% 236,640 $ 1,183,200 $ 59,160 $ 59,160 $ 1,538,160 DWTN PRELIMINARY 7 ARCHITECTURAL/ENGINEERING INVESTIGATION OF MAIN BOATHOUSE 46,000 $ 2,300 $ 2,300 $ 50,600 8 OVRL GOOSE MANAGEMENT STUDY

20,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 22,000 12ST 12TH STREET PRELIMINARY 9 ENGINEERING, SCHEMATIC DESIGN STUDY 8% 1,408,100 $ 70,405 $ 70,405 $ 1,548,910 DWTN RELOCATION OF PARKS AND 10 RECREATION DEPARTMENT OPERATION $ - $ - $ - 11 LKSD DEMONSTRATION WETLAND

10% 30,000 $ 300,000 $ 15,000 $ 15,000 $ 360,000 OVRL PRELIMINARY 12 ARCHITECTURAL/ENGINEERING INVESTIGATION OF PARK BUILDINGS 234,000 $ 11,700 $ 11,700 $ 257,400

V-12 euneZn Project Title Zone Sequence 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12ST 12ST DWTN DWTN OVRL DWTN LKSD 12ST 12ST 12ST 12ST 12ST DOCK RENOVATION DOCK LANDSCAPE SITE ALARM FIRE PLAZA COURTHOUSE RENOVATION DOCK PARK PERALTA AREA SITE CENTER CONVENTION KAISER SHORELINE PARK LANDSCAPE INTERIM & RECONFIGURATION ROADWAY PLAZA STREET 14TH MAIN BOATHOUSE (1520 Lakeside) FILTERS DRAIN STORM Streets) & MULTI-USE PATH (14th to 19th NODES, RENOVATION, LANDSCAPE for Design for Construction Percentage of 10% 12% 10% 10% 10% 12% 10% 12% 12% 15% 15% 18% Cost Estimated Design 28,162,000 423,000 471,000 822,000 100,000 237,500 276,000 100,000 1,305,000 5,490,000 1,500,000 1,716,500 3,379,440 130,500 823,500 225,000 308,970 42,300 56,520 98,640 10,000 28,500 27,600 10,000 Construction Cost Estimated 1,408,100 $ 5,000 11,875 $ 13,800 $ 5,000 $ 21,150 $ 23,550 $ $ 41,100 $ 65,250 $ 274,500 75,000 $ 85,825 $ $ etc) fees, (permits, 5% Contingency @ Additional 1,408,100 $ 5,000 11,875 $ 13,800 $ 5,000 $ 21,150 $ 23,550 $ $ 41,100 $ 65,250 $ 274,500 75,000 $ 85,825 $ $ 5% @ 2004 to Inflation 34,357,640 $ 120,000 289,750 $ 331,200 $ 120,000 $ 507,600 $ 574,620 $ $ 1,002,840 $ 1,566,000 $ 6,862,500 1,875,000 $ 2,197,120 $ $ Project Cost Project Estimated Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

V-13 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN PROJECT PRIORITIZATION

Additional Percentage of Contingency @ Construction Estimated Design Estimated 5% (permits, fees, Inflation to 2004 @ Estimated Total Sequence Zone Project Title for Design Cost Construction Cost etc) 5% Project Cost LKSH LANDSCAPE RENOVATION, NODES, 25 & MULTI-USE PATH (E. 18th to 12th)

18% 338,400 $ 1,880,000 $ 94,000 $ 94,000 $ 2,406,400 LKSD BELLEVUE AVENUE, SHORELINE 26 PARKING LOT & ENTRY

18% 484,758 $ 2,693,100 $ 134,655 $ 134,655 $ 3,447,168 LKSH LANDSCAPE RENOVATION, NODES 27 & MULTI-USE PATH (Embarcadero to E. 18th) 18% 280,728 $ 1,559,600 $ 77,980 $ 77,980 $ 1,996,288 LKSD LAKESIDE PARK WEST & 28 BANDSTAND

10% 485,250 $ 4,852,500 $ 242,625 $ 242,625 $ 5,823,000 LKSH EAST 18TH CREEK NODE (Landing 29 and Gateway)

10% 100,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 1,200,000 LKSD LAKESIDE PARK ENTRY 30 ENHANCEMENTS

12% 90,000 $ 750,000 $ 37,500 $ 37,500 $ 915,000 LKSH GRAND LAKE GREEN LINK / EL 31 EMBARCADERO

18% 248,616 $ 1,381,200 $ 69,060 $ 69,060 $ 1,767,936 32 LKSH EASTSHORE PARK RENOVATION

10% 193,500 $ 1,935,000 $ 96,750 $ 96,750 $ 2,322,000 33 LKSH CREEK DAYLIGHTING

20% 100,000 $ 500,000 $ 25,000 $ 25,000 $ 650,000 LKSD MAINTENANCE FACILITY: Demo of 34 Old Structure, New Shed, Renovation/Reuse of Existing Restroom Bldg. 15% 60,900 $ 406,000 $ 20,300 $ 20,300 $ 507,500 35 LKSD MID PARK RENOVATION

10% 250,200 $ 2,502,000 $ 125,100 $ 125,100 $ 3,002,400 LKSD MID PARK EDU CENTER: Junior 36 Center for Arts and Science (JCAS), Ranger Station, and Maintenance Demonstration Center. Demo of Old Structure 15% 288,675 $ 1,924,500 $ 96,225 $ 96,225 $ 2,405,625

V-14 euneZn Project Title Zone Sequence 48 47 46 45 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 LKSD LKSD GRND LKSD LKSD LKSD LKSH LKSH LKSH LKSD GRND LKSD RENOVATION CASCADE CLEVELAND RENOVATION PARK KNOLL PINE ATHOL PLAZA PARK RENOVATION PARK IMPROVEMENTS EAST LAKESIDE / GRAND AREA (Harrison to MacArthur) Promenade, Furnishings, Nodes GRAND AVENUE STREETSCAPE: BOWLING CLUB HOUSE GARDEN BOTANICAL BUILDING GARDEN BOTANICAL RENOVATION DOCK AREA HILL &FORESTED FOUNTAIN McELROY Auxillary Structures Old of Demo Including RENOVATION: SAILBOAT HOUSE BUILDINGS ECOLOGY ZONE for Design for Construction Percentage of 10% 10% 10% 10% 12% 15% 10% 15% 10% 10% 15% 10% Cost Estimated Design

100,000 243,000 332,500 707,500 624,000

1,175,616 105,300 141,250 405,000 139,000 742,500 462,000 10,000 24,300 33,250 70,750 62,400 Construction Cost Estimated $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 9,796,800 1,412,500 2,700,000 1,390,000 4,950,000 4,620,000 702,000 etc) fees, (permits, 5% Contingency @ Additional $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 489,840 135,000 247,500 231,000 12,150 16,625 35,375 31,200 35,100 70,625 69,500 5,000 5% @ 2004 to Inflation $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 489,840 135,000 247,500 231,000 12,150 16,625 35,375 31,200 35,100 70,625 69,500 5,000 Project Cost Project Estimated Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 11,952,096 1,695,000 1,668,000 3,375,000 6,187,500 5,544,000 120,000 291,600 399,000 849,000 748,800 877,500

V-15 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN PROJECT PRIORITIZATION

Additional Percentage of Contingency @ Construction Estimated Design Estimated 5% (permits, fees, Inflation to 2004 @ Estimated Total Sequence Zone Project Title for Design Cost Construction Cost etc) 5% Project Cost 49 OVRL NECKLACE OF LIGHTS

20% 20,420 $ 102,100 $ 5,105 $ 5,105 $ 132,730 50 LKSH PERGOLA RESTORATION

15% 75,000 $ 500,000 $ 25,000 $ 25,000 $ 625,000 51 OVRL SIGNAGE: PARK RULES

15% 7,500 $ 50,000 $ 2,500 $ 2,500 $ 62,500 52 OVRL HISTORY TRAIL MARKERS

15% 37,500 $ 250,000 $ 12,500 $ 12,500 $ 312,500 53 OVRL SIGNAGE: DIRECTIONS

15% 37,500 $ 250,000 $ 12,500 $ 12,500 $ 312,500 54 OVRL KIOSKS

20% 24,000 $ 120,000 $ 6,000 $ 6,000 $ 156,000

GRAND TOTAL $ 14,801,601 $ 98,337,600 $ 5,008,285 $ 5,008,285 $ 123,155,771

V-16 V-17 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN MAINTENANCE PLAN

CHAPTER VI

INTRODUCTION MAINTENANCE REVIEW GUIDELINES FOR CARE

VI-1 INTRODUCTION

While the planning and design of a park may paint a picture of beauty, the long term care and durability of a public environment is the realistic factor in its success. The Lake Merritt Master Plan promotes a durable, yet thoughtful design for the park improvements. The standard level of care for the park is provided as a guide for park managers. Maintenance practices and expected life cycle timeline are shown. Expected cost for this level of care is provided to similarly inform the park operations.

Public comment throughout the LMMP's process indicated a high level of enthusi- asm for improved maintenance practices- funding, operations, skill levels, etc. It was well understood that the current level of degradation in the park is mostly at- tributed to lack of proper maintenance. The public was critical of potential, future funding sortages after improvements are made.

VI-2 for thisstandardareincluded. quality ofmaintenanceatLakeMerrittPark.Estimatescosts The LMMPmakesstrategicrecommendationsforimprovingthe Maintenance Recommendations ness ofmaintenanceissueseffectingOakland'spublicparks. on parkmaintenance.Thedocumentindicatespublicaware- In Aprilof2002,theOaklandParksCoalitionreleasedareport space expendituresagainstothercomparablecities. (Peter Harnik)publicationareusefultogaugeOaklandopen Figures fromtheTrust forPublicLand's2000"InsideParks" Comparative AspectsofMaintenance standards forparklandscapeandfurnishings. Tables VI.1andVI.2describesexpectedcarelifecycle Guidelines forCare/LifeCycle Left: Harvestermachine County CourtHouse Facing Page:Alameda

VI-3 MAINTENANCE PLAN MAINTENANCE REVIEW

Maintenance Facilities Park Management

Maintenance and Operations Areas Park Management and Maintenance

Maintenance and operations areas within Lake Merritt Park are The City of Oakland Parks and Recreation Department has necessary for efficiency and care of Lake Merritt Park. The several maintenance groups that work in Lake Merritt Park: Maintenance operations facilities now house maintenance operations for other City of Oakland parks. The other mainte- Gardeners nance facilities needs are over taxing the current area where these facilities are housed. Recently, an area formally park forest and grass areas was converted to a parking lot for maintenance Gardeners have primary responsibility for horticultural and vehicles. Maintenance needs for other Oakland parks should landscape maintenance. Lake Merritt Park is based on a “beat” be housed at another facility, leaving the maintenance opera- system with the Park divided into five sections. There is one tions area for caring for Lake Merritt Park. Below are recom- supervisor who oversees the gardeners who are assigned to beats. mendations for the site: This system provides knowledgeable gardeners who can take pride in their section. Some jobs may be more efficiently handled with more gardeners working as a crew. Trash pick-up • Remove truck parking facility for overall City of is an additional responsibility. Oakland parks to another location. • Remove large maintenance structure and integrate Irrigation Division maintenance staff needs into new educational facility. This division has 3 full time employees who repair irrigation • Relocate maintenance equipment (large trucks) needed systems for the City of Oakland parks. They design irrigation to maintain Lake Merritt Park to the location recom- systems, repair major plumbing such as repairs below the irriga- mended in this plan. tion head (lateral and mainlines) and conduct irrigation inspec- tions.

Tree Division

This division cares for trees, pruning, removal. At present, due to lack of personnel and funding, responds only to crises. The division operates throughout the City of Oakland.

Turf Management

This division maintains the turf areas. There are two people who mow the lawns. They are not dedicated to Lake Merritt

Existing trash/recycling Park, but mow turf areas throughout the City of Oakland parks receptacle in Lakeside park and recreation areas.

VI-4 and cleansthewatershoreedgeofLakeMerritt. handled bytheTree Division.Anothernon-profitgroupisthe which maintainsitsgardensasidefromtreerepairis Lake MerrittPark.Onenon-profitisChildren’s Fairyland, There aremanynon-profitgroupsthattakecareofareaswithin Non-profits Trash pick-upisanotherresponsibilityofDPW • Anothercrewhandlessitefurnishingrepair, play • OnecrewhandleswidgeongrassharvestingonLake • Merritt Park. This divisionhasseveralcrewsthatareinvolvedwithLake PWA Lake MerrittInstitute,whichamongotheraims,maintains roadways. crews. ThistakesplaceattheParkedgesalong structures, waterfountainsandswings. time employees. Merritt sixmonthsoutoftheyearutilizingfourfull data. requirements, orirrigationsystemcomponentsoperational the park’s inventory:squarefootageofareas,plantinventoryor little appearstobeknown,documented,oravailableregarding While somestaffhasworkedattheparkforanumberofyears, ently donebyothersonanemergency, as-neededbasisonly. irrigation workisdonebyanothercrew. Alltreeworkisappar- crew. Minorirrigationrepairsaredonebystaff,but“other” nance tasks,mowing(edgingandcleanup?)isdonebyanother apparently fivepermanentstaffmembersresponsibleformainte- able incarryingoutthosetasks.Forexample,whilethereare specifically whatthosetasksare,andsortofdataisavail- It isunclearwhatpersonnelareresponsibleforvarioustasks, development ofanoverallplanforbettermaintenancepractices. the qualityofparkbysimplyinvolvingstaffin immediate andsignificantimprovementcouldbeachievedin day maintenancetasksareperformedonanas-neededbasis.An scape management”hasnotbeenintroducedandthatday-to- park maintenancetasks.Itappearsthattheconceptof“land- There seemstobenooverallplanorstrategyforcarryingout have beenprovidedbystaff. models, watermeterandbackflowlocations,mowtimes,etc. Information regardingirrigationcontrollerlocations,makes,and landscape maintenancepractices,whichisaddressedhere. can beattributedtoanynumberoffactors,onewhichis The overallqualityofthelandscapecanberatedaspoor. This Landscape Evaluation

VI-5 MAINTENANCE PLAN MAINTENANCE REVIEW

Costs for Maintenance

Current Areas New Park Areas

Annual landscape maintenance cost, excluding forestry and Estimated costs of maintenance for additional park area is PWA mainenance, was projected to be $1,125,000. This figure approximately $300,000 per year (number includes new shore- breaks down to an average of $13,235.00 per year per acre. The line park area in the 12th Street/Cultural District). This new work includes gardeners, mowing lawns, edging, keeping path- park acreage translate to an additional 3.88 persons required. ways clean, attending to plant needs of turf, groundcovers and shrubs, and irrigation maintenance. Annual costs for maintaining wetland and restored upland No cost basis was available for labor, benefits, materials, equip- plantings in the Ecology Zone are estimated at $12,000 for a 5 ment, or administrative overhead. An average hourly cost of acre area. This is recommended to be completed by a contract $35.00 was used in this first iteration. This rate was averaged to company specializing in habitat restoration type projects. be $75,000 per year per person labor including overhead. At Maintenace should be considered for inclusion in the contract the calculated costs for proper maintenance, this translates from to install the specialized plantings. the schedule to an average of fifteen (15) people required per year at $1,125,000 per year. At 85 acres in the current park this Recommendations translates to $13,235 per acre maintenance costs. The projec- tions of 15 full-time equivalent people is an average, with • Involve the staff in the development of an overall plan October, November and December carrying the most persons for better maintenance practices. (24.50) and May requiring the least (9.4). Park managers typically utilize part-time (floating) people relative to the cyclical • Change lawn mowing heights to four inches instead of demands of maintenance. one inch and transfer labor to another labor item. • There is no question that instituting the practice of In addition to the Park landscaped areas are the lake mainte- integrated pest management (IPM), which would nance and watershore edge clean-up. These costs are $132,000 include the safe, judicious, and very limited use of herbi- for Lake Merritt edge clean-up performed by the Lake Merritt cides, would improve the appearance of the park land- Institute and widgeon grass harvesting, performed by four people scape. The implementation of an IPM program would from PWA for four months per year. not reduce labor costs, but would most surely allow for a far more effective use for those costs. Due to the long term establishment of a number of perennial weeds, herbicides might be required, in certain locations only, and in very minimal quantities, for one season. After that, good horticultural and management practices would, to a large extent, nearly eliminate the need for their further use. This is, after all, the basic tenant of integrated pest management, the integration of a number of tools and management practices in the management of pests.

VI-6 Nohistoricallandscapewaterusedatawasavailableat • TheCAL/FEDBayDeltaagreementincludesthe • Immediatelyimplementagoosemanagementsystemthat • FuturegardeningstaffforLakeMerrittParkhiredbythe • highly recommendedthatstaffbegintorecordlandscape controllers tomeetEBMUD’s goal.Additionally, itis required toeffectivelyprogramthepark’s irrigation immediately undertakentogatherallthelandscapedata historical applicationatthepark.Stepsshouldbe the writingofthisreporttobeabledetermine target is80%forturfand60%shrubareas. reference evapotranspiration(ETo) rate. EBMUD’s landscape wateruseshallnotexceed100%ofthelocal pertains totheuseoflandscapewaterandrequiresthat nia. EBMUDissignatorytothisagreement.BMP#5 Practices” (BMP)toconservewaterthroughoutCalifor- implementation ofanumber“BestManagement areas surroundingthearboretum. of unusedlawnareassuchasinwoodlandand balancing numbersofgeese,accesstolawns,elimination scape andcomputerskills. a minimumbackground/degreesinhorticulture,land- City ofOaklandshouldbetechnicallyskilledandhave ReorganizetheinteriorofLakesideParktobetter • Betterpoliceenforcementofparkingonstreetsabutting • Prepareaforestryplanusinggeographicinformation • Incorporatethechecklistsystem(RefertoOaklandPark • These parkingrestrictionsshouldbeenforced. City ofOaklandandChildren’s Fairylandemployees. monitor andeliminateon-siteparkingundertreesby trimming. the park.Gardenerscanthenschedulelawnedging, such asspecies,conditionoftree,heights. system outlininglocationsoftreesandassociateddata, oped. checklist specifictoLakeMerrittParkshouldbedevel- landscape maintenanceonanon-goingbasis.A Coalition report,notattached)intoevaluatingthe current use. meter readingsonaweeklybasistobeablemonitor

VI-7 MAINTENANCE PLAN MAINTENANCE REVIEW

Role of Volunteers Landscape Maintenance Estimated Monthly Tasks and Frequency Schedule Volunteers are becoming a strong constituency that increases the awareness, commits community involvement and provides The attached annual frequency schedule should be considered a political support. Volunteers are increasingly playing important first iteration for establishing a higher level of staff understand- roles in the continued maintenance of parks. The Presidio and ing of the park’s requirements, with the ultimate goal being an San Francisco parks systems have viable involvement of com- improvement in the overall quality of the park and a higher munity volunteers. return for taxpayer invested dollars. Management and supervision of volunteers is important for This first iteration has been prepared to establish baseline of meaningful participation and effects of their work. Volunteers those tasks presently being performed and the frequencies that can be used to fill maintenance voids that existing staff cannot they are performed on weekly, monthly, and annual basis. handle. Using volunteers should be balanced with not threat- Hours have been estimated for each task to establish monthly ening jobs of park staff. Sometimes, specialized volunteers can personnel requirements. (Please note that we have not been effectively be used for special areas needing special expertise. able to ascertain the present number of “floating” personnel used). Based on the limit data available, the estimate of person- Volunteers should work under the supervision of park staff. nel required is for all tasks and assumes that mowing and tree This may require flexibility to be available on weekends when work is done by other (and therefore is not included). most volunteers are available. A number of tasks on the frequency schedule show no frequen- cies associated with them. It is assumed that these (required or not) are not being performed. Other task frequencies have been assigned as a “best guess.” At present, it appears that no such task frequencies exist, or are at least are documented.

Note: An urban forestry evaluation was not done. This was out of the scope and no existing maps or counts are known to exist of the conditions of the trees, maturity or heights.

VI-8 Table VI.1GuidelinesforLandscape/LifeCycle Groundcovers Vines Procedure Annual Maintenance and Shrubs Trees Type Planting Park Landscape Park Pruning Repair Plant Control Pest Mulch Fertilization W Trimming Control Pest Mulch Fertilization Planting Pruning Repair Plant Control Pest Mulch Fertilization Planting Planting e e d C o n t r o xxxx l itrSrn umrFall Summer Spring Winter x x x x x x xxxx xxxx pi ueSept. June April Sept. June April Sept. June April x x x x x x x x x form a hazard. Do not prune notprune Do a hazard. form will that branches lower Prune stakes. tree Remove damage from pedestrians. from damage against base at young vines Protect along ground. grow that runners Prune growth. direct to selectively prune and trellises to vines Train period. establishment during off area andfence replant establishment, groundcover prohibiting is traffic pedestrian Where andre-plant. soil amend unsuccessful, proves establishment where In areas shear shrubs. not Do shrub. of look improve will this where of shrubs woody branches back Prune leader. At 2Years trunck. tree with will interfere that grate tree of sections Remove shrubs. shear not Do shrub. of look improve will this where shrubs of branches woody back Prune woody. overly havebecome that shrubs replace Selectively At Years 5 become toowoody. become theyhave where areas in groundcovers Replace woody. overly become have that shrubs Replace At 10+ Years 10+ At

VI-9 MAINTENANCE PLAN GUIDELINES FOR CARE

Planting Type Annual Maintenance Procedure

Winter Spring Summer Fall At 2 Years At 5 Years At 10+ Years Ornamental Grasses Planting x x Grasses may be divided. Replace dead clumps. Replace dead clumps. Remove dead strands. Fertilization April June Sept.

Mulch x

Pest Control x x

Trimming x

Weed Control x

Lawn De thatching x x Regrade sections that may Complete major rennovation have subsided. Remove of lawn areas designated for Aeration April June Sept. invasive grass types, clover, more active sports such as etc. (Chamomile may be those in Lakeside Park, desireable). Eastshore Park, 12th Street Mowing x Remove lawn from area Shoreline Park, and Snow around trunk. Park. Re-sodding x x

Re-seeding x

Park Naturalized Areas Mixed Understory and Marsh Planting Planting x x Weeding and landscape Species selection should be Long term management management is critical during modified based on success should consider the habitat the first two years of rate of plant species quality. Plant species should establishment with the goal of according to the unique be further modified to improve Weed Control xxxxminimizing efforts in conditons present in soil, salt, foraging, nesting, and subsequent years. As a wildlife use, water level, aesthetic qualities. Plants wildlife habitat zone, human maintenance, and irigation. A should be replaced or intrusion for maintenance major thinning or mowing reseeded as required due to pourposes hsould be carefully should occure as requred to die-back. balanced with nest reduce that

VI-10 Planting Type Annual Maintenance Procedure Maintenance Annual Type Planting Aquatic Zones Aquatic Harvesting Grass Widgeon Harvesting Algae Operations Dredging Removal Trash itrSrn umrFall Summer Spring Winter x x xx x x x x regular lake clean up programs and special lake cleanig events should be promoted in the inthe be promoted should events cleanig lake special and programs up clean lake regular as such activities volunteer Organized efforts. volunetter highlyfrom benefit practices removal Current sources. direct and drain, storm windblown, from trash of removal Ongoing interfer with boating. In areas of boating use, direct removal by harvester is required. is by harvester removal direct use, ofboating Inareas boating. with interfer theylay and where over surface the reach blades Its water. shallow more inthe roots grass The isaccelerated. growth grass widgeon months, andsummer spring the During required. is byharvester removal direct however algae, of onreduction focus also should quality programs water Other shore. of 50feet within water still and shallow in the problem a generall is Algae surface. tothe float matts The algae. of growth yeilds massive sunlight increased with coupled loads nutrient high months, andsummer spring the During 2009. is date scheduled next The years. 12 every beenabout has frequency Past bytheCity. purchased is machine dredge ifa basis anongoing on or required as conducted be should outfalls storm themajor near arms lake from material sediment of dredging The future At 2Years At 5Years At Years 10+

VI-11 MAINTENANCE PLAN GUIDELINES FOR CARE

Table VI. 2 Guidelines for Furnishings

Landscape Element Maintenance Procedure Frequency Bi- Bi- Weekly Monthly Annually Yearly

Park Vehicle Roads Includes Bellevue Ave in Lakeside Park Maintenance Sweep with street sweeper machine. Patch cracks with x tar. Repair Saw-cut or lift portions to be removed. Replace with matching asphalt or unit pavers. Avoid uneven conditions.

Replacement See "Repair" 20 yrs

Concrete sidewalks Maintenance Power wash, remove gum. Check for uneven or lifting x sections. Re-caulk expansion joints as required. Repair Saw-cut along existing score lines. Replace with matching concrete only. Score new concrete to match Replacement See "Repair" 50 yrs

Decomposed Granite Maintenance Rake surface to smooth any uneveness. Moisten as x required. Repair See "Maintenance"

Replacement Excavate effected area. Re-mix material with binder. Add 15 yrs new material to match as reqiured. Re-compact in place.

VI-12 Stone Seat Walls Seat Stone Fountains Decorative Water S Landscape Element Maintenance Procedure Maintenance Landscape Element p ecial Metal Fencin Replacement See "Repair" See with elements tiles with broken matching Replace Replacement Repair tile clean debris, of drain clean pool, from debris Remove Maintenance or sections required whole Replace as to match fence Replacement Repair dents, for securityand potential rust, Inspect breaches. Maintenance the with caps and stones tiles, art irreparable Replace Replacement Repair Power wash stone facing and wall caps Maintenance g Includes neighborhood nodes neighborhood Includes Includes historic fountains historic Includes etc. Fairyland, garden, botanical at fencing Includes Check for loose stones, re-mortar and re-point where where re-point and re-mortar stones, loose for Check manufacturer's instructions. instructions. manufacturer's per systems technique. mechanical fountain Repair and color grout Match etc.. oprnament, tiles/relief, instructions. per as function manufacturer's mechanical Ensure proper be necessary in fall) req'd. monthlyif often Empty filter or (Bi-weekly may more surfaces architect. landscape City of direction design per or exisitng painting. before and prime clean spots rust Grind paint. inhibiting rust matching with Repaint type color. Match same of grout material. it is unless paint a painted over surface. graffiti not Do necessary. when graffiti remove to stone/concrete Applyspecification. to untreated light sand-blast coating Clean grafitti proof manufacturer's per necessary. graffitti for marring, and remove Inspect ekyMonthly Weekly Bi- x x x nulyYearly Annually Bi- x Frequency

VI-13 MAINTENANCE PLAN GUIDELINES FOR CARE

Landscape Element Maintenance Procedure Frequency Bi- Bi- Weekly Monthly Annually Yearly

Standard Furnishings Includes benches, bollards, bike racks, and trash receptacles. Maintenance Clean tables, benches, etc. with water or mild, non- x phosphorous soap as required to remove food, gum, grafitti, bird feces, and dirt. Inspect for chipped or cracked paint and rust spots x

Re-apply wood treatment on any exposed wood. x

Repair Replace fixtures and other components per manufacturer or replace item alltogether. Repaint where necessary with matching color Replacement Replace irreparable furnishings with the same make and models.

Drinking Fountains Maintenance Clean and polish drinking fountain bowls and fixtures x

Check for water pressure and adjust according to x manufacturer's instructions Repair Repair per manufacturer's instructions

Replacement Replace with the same make and model

Custom Furnishings Includes creek node benches Maintenance Inspect all hardware and tighten if necessary. Inspect x metal parts for chipped paint and rust spots. Re-galvanize and re-paint as req'd. Re-apply wood treatment on arbors and benches. x

Repair Replace hardware with same type. Re-weld, re-galvanize and repaint or powdercoat broken custom metal fabrications in shop specializing in metal work. Replacement Replace damaged wooden parts with same type of material, including stone and metal parts.

VI-14 Beaches Lake Dred Lake Pla Landscape Element Maintenance Procedure Maintenance Landscape Element y Areas Maintenance Remove grafitti, trash, feces, and other materials and other trash, grafitti, materials feces, Remove Maintenance Maintenance Remove sediment from lake bottom and dispose per per and dispose bottom lake from sediment Remove Maintenance and other sticks, trash, feces, feathers, bird Remove Maintenance g in g Includes bandstand and 12th Street shoreline park area. equipment, edges, rust, bolts.sharp and loose equipment, worn as such conditions dangerous for structure Check and surfacing. area structures play from and children people to potentially harmful Control Board regulation. Board Control Quality Water Regional per Dispose areas. Glen Trestle at GlenEcho and bottom lake from sediment Remove regulation. Board Quality Control Water Regional and of friable objects. free bysand Rake hand to with keep or tractor a mechanical and wadingarea. sand potentially to peopleand from harmful children materials ekyMonthly Weekly Bi- x x x x nulyYearly Annually Bi- Frequency 2-3 Yrs. 2-3 10-12 10-12 Yrs.

VI-15 MAINTENANCE PLAN APPENDIX

CHAPTER VII PROCESS NOTES ANALYSIS CIRCULATION DATA SOURCES CREDITS

VII-1 PROCESS NOTES

The appendix section contains various summaries, documents, and ancillary infor- mation essential to understanding this plan. Other information generated during the Master Plan process such as public opinion surveys, have been assembled sepa- rately. Stakeholder Participation

A Stakeholder committee was formed from community leaders. Local business groups, Oakland neighborhood associations, advocacy groups, and park-based programs, and user groups were represented by individuals with a good understanding of Lake Meritt and its parks. Three meetings were held over the course of the master plan. Most attended the public open house events as well. The input from the stakeholders served to direct the planning team and City towards visions and solutions that met the criteria of those who regularly use the park. Early discussions set a vision for the park to continue to serve a wide audience: age, ethnicity, activity, and accessibility. Stakeholders such as Children's Fairyland worked to ensure park facilities would continue to serve their guest’s needs. Environmental concerns were given high priority. Local advocates for the Park gave direction to resolve the problems of pedestrian and bicycle access in the existing 12th Street roadway area. Over the course of the plan, additional ideas and input were provided to the planning team. At each critical point of the plan-analysis, alternatives, and preferred plan-a presentation/ workshop was held to review the team's progress. Special meetings were occasionally held to review design concepts with stakeholders to ensure the program needs were fully understood.

VII-2 Sean O'Hara Duncan Susan Ray King Dr. RichardBailey Dennis Powers OaklandHeritage Alliance Arredondo Jose Pamela Magnusson-Peddle Shor Helen Simon Joshua Davenport Don Stein David Karen Mary Michael Gabriel Schiano Elain Flack David Chris Roberts Klein E. John Cumings Lakeshore Ruth Homes Association Carol Ellis/ClaudiaSkapik Smith Nona Tamara Katsikas Harry Jacobs Paul E. Garrison Oldham Ellen Reynolds Donna Aziz Khatri Barbara Neustader Morra Ron Kidd Robert Sandy Threlfall Nancy Stark Participating Stakeholders Lake Merritt Institute Waterfront Coalition Camron StanfordPreservationAssociation East LakeMerchantsAssociation Director, Children'sFairyland Mediterranean PlantSociety Spanish SpeakingCitizen'sFoundation Greater MandanaActionCoalition Lakeshore BusinessAssociation Laney NeighborhoodAssociation Lake MerrittBreakfastClub/MerrittLakesiders/CoalitionofHomeownersAroundthe Chinatown CentralCommunityDev. DistrictBoard Haddon HillNeighborhoodAssociation Peralta CommunityCollegeDistrict Glen EchoNeighborhoodAssociation Oakland MuseumofCalifornia,KaiserConv. Center,Camron StanfordHouse East BayAsianLocalDevelopmentCorporation Brooklyn NeighborhoodPreservationAssociation Coalition ofAdvocatesforLakeMerritt(CALM) Rose GardenNeighborhoodPreservationAssociation Friends ofOaklandParksandRecreation Adams PointPreservationSociety San AntonioCommunityDevelopmentCorporation Grand Avenue BusinessAssociation Lake MerrittBusinessAssociation St. Paul'sEpiscopalChurch&School Glen View NeighborhoodAssociation Adams PointPreservationSociety Junior CenterforArts&Science

APPENDIX VII-3 PROCESS NOTES Public Open Houses

Outreach to the greater Oakland community was essential to the Following the open house, displays were set up in other public Lake Merritt Master Plan. Three major public events were held locations. Master Plan graphics were shown at City Hall, the at which guests were invited to comment and provide direct Oakland Main Library, and the Veteran's Memorial building to input to the consultant team. Surveys asked detailed questions capture a wider audience. about patterns of park use, issues to be resolved, and favorite places. Importance was placed on the apparent preference of Special presentations were also made to select groups-some were one topic towards another. Comments were recorded, summa- public forums. These included: rized, and distributed to the planning team and City. Lake Merritt Breakfast Club Each open house displayed graphics ideas produced to date. Downtown Oakland Rotary Club According to the project phase, site analysis graphics, alternative Oakland Chamber of Commerce concepts, and preferred concepts were respectively presented. Port of Oakland Executive Board Guests engaged in a dialogue by writing additional comments on Life Enrichment Agency Post-It notes and placing them directly on the graphics. Special Oakland City Council boards were created to record preferences in a visible and partici- patory means. Dots were distributed and placed by individuals next to the topic of most relevance to the respondent or on a map to make a geographic connection to the topic. The results provided the participants with an understanding of general preference. The first open house was held in Lakeside Park on a warm Saturday in October. A tent was erected to house project displays and prioritization exercises. The event included activi- ties for children by Oakland-based MOCHA. The park loca- tion maximized the Master Plan's exposure to park users not normally inclined to participate in public processes. Other open houses were held in the Sailboat House. Notification for all events was made by direct mail postcard, fax, telephone, flyer, email, and print media. A ticker tape advertisement was pro- vided by KTOP. A web site was established in January to display additional Master Plan graphics.

VII-4 o odDCE(GrandAvenue HoodDesign- SplashPadPark Plan) Patillo&Garrett(CALMplanforLakeMerrittBoulevard) BottomleyAssociates(DowntownStreetscapeMasterPlan) BottomleyAssociates(DowntownStreetscapeMasterPlan) Walter Hood Outreach, Architect DKS Associates TomFord HansenMurikami Eshima Kathy Garret WRT Donaldson Gail Adrienne Wong Assoc. Terry Bottomley WRT Norman Hooks WRT Tom Krakow PlanningDirector, CityofOakland Nelson John Adrienne Wong Ji-In Son Steve Hammond Oakland of City John Gibbs Leslie Gould Kerry JoRicketts-Ferris Participants Splash PadPark,HoodDesign Grand Avenue Streetscape,DesignCommunityEnvironment Lake MerrittBoulevard(12thStreet),CALM Downtown StreetscapeMasterPlan,Terry BottomleyAssociates Projects Discussed teams tocoordinateprojectswasparticularlybeneficial. ters, andOaklandcharacter. Theopportunityforthedesign linkage opportunities,urbanconnections,futureactivitycen- mon visionsfortheLakeMerrittdistrictinvolvedpedestrian discussed foritsbroaderrelevancetotheotherprojects.Com- through theplanningprocess.Eachprojectwasintroducedand professionals workingintheLakeMerrittareawasheldmid-way A collaborationandcoordinationsessionforOaklanddesign Professional Charette

APPENDIX VII-5 PROCESS NOTES

Technical Advisory Team (TAC)

Monthly progress meetings were held with City staff to review technical issues related to the plan. Various City departments were represented including Public Works, Traffic Engineering, CEDA, Parks and Recreation, Park Ranger, Arts Commission, City Council, and the Coastal Conservancy. Individuals included: Zac Wald Humberto Castillero Catherine Payne Dwight Chambers Barry Miller J. B. Chew Kathryn Hughes Andrew Clark-Clough Alicia Perez Deborah Cooper Niko Letunic Lesley Estes Marge Stanzione Natalie Fay Alex Greenwood David Ferguson Jim Ryugo Gerry Garzon Maxene Spellman Justin Horner David Skinner Joe LaClair Pat Kernighan Angela Joyner Amanda Brown-Stevens Susan Kovacevic Athur Yamashita Jesse Kupers Sgt. Ron Yelder Ralph Lacer Marc Oliver Patrick S. Lane Dennis Powers Carmen Martinez Brian Wiese Moses Mayne Noel Gallo Iris Merriouns Libby Schaaf Theresa M. Navarro Dana Riley Kenneth W. Parris Annalee Allen Rodney Satterfield Roberta Babcock Samee Roberts Jayne Becker Willie Yee Christine Calabrese Burl Welton

VII-6 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK LEFT

APPENDIX VII-7 ANALYSIS

Inventory of Park Programs June 2001

CAT Number of Area Facility Event Wkday Wkend Day Night Program or Use Area Description of Use No. Management Visitors Use Use Use Use Lakeside Park WILDLIFE REFUGE Public viewing only- no access to islands or OPR/ ✸✸✸ display area 1 CHILDREN"S FAIRYLAND Learning and Reading Readiness, Non Profit 1000 per ✸✸✸ Entertainment weekend day ROTARY NATURE CENTER Eucational Center, Displays, R.N.C. Classrooms,Children After School Programs ✸✸✸✸

2 ARTS & SCIENCES CENTER Children After School Programs A.S.C. ✸✸

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK Free presentations of Shakespeare to the PRIVATE 150-300 ✸✸✸ Public, Open Lawn Area TOLL BOOTH CHARGES FOR WEEKEND PARKING OPR ✸✸ SAILBOAT HOUSE- Upstairs Open room, balconey, restrooms, and kitchen OPR 100-150 available for rent. 3 seated RECEPTIONS Weddings, Luncheons, Birthdays, Special Club OPR Events, Etc.. ✸✸✸

PUBLIC MEETINGS Workshops for City Employees, Homeowners, OPR Meetings: Ladies of the Lake, Oakland ✸✸✸ Womens's Rowing, Club meetngs.

SAILBOAT HOUSE- Downstairs and Area

REGATTAS Annual event on lake. PRIVATE ✸✸

PUBLIC BOAT RENTALS Sailboats, Paddleboats, Canoes OPR ✸✸✸

Girl Scouts, YMCA, Schools, etc.. KAYAKS, PONTOONS, WHALEBOATS PRIV/OPR ✸✸✸ BOAT STORAGE OPR

GONDOLA CONCESSIONAIRE Gondola rides on lake from Sailboat house PRIVATE 2-4 per boat docks at lunchtime and twilight. Some ✸✸✸ excurions include dinner. Eve

AND EARLY EVENINGS

MC ELROY FOUNTAIN NO SCHEDULED USES OPR NA ✸✸✸ 4 LAWN BOWLING GREENS BOWLING & CROQUET CLUBS 40 ✸✸✸ 6 GREENS GREENS MAINTAINED BY OPR PRIVATE ✸✸✸

CLUB HOUSE BUILDING Building PRIVATE ✸✸✸

VII-8 GARDEN CENTER- Outdoor Area Program or Use Area VETERANS MEMORIAL BLDG. MEMORIAL VETERANS BANDSTAND EDOFF FESTIVAL OF THE LAKE FAIRYLAND CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND ROTARY @ ADAMS PARK GARDEN CENTER- BUILDING BONZAI CLUB MEETINGS ORCHID SHOWS DAHLIA GARDEN RECEPTIONS MEDITERRANEAN GARDEN FRAGRANCE + HERBGARDEN FIRESCAPE GARDEN PALM Parking onpremises. Private events scheduled by center. Seniors. withPark an enterance on Grand Ave. hadbeenlocatedNo longer held. inLakeside Music, Weddings, Children Events by used childrenWell Etc.. Events, Luncheons,Weddings, Birthdays, Special Club Club Community special events, Montclaire Womens KITCHEN W/ ROOMS MAIN 3 FUNDRAISERS, K DRAW, BIG Active Club, display meetings, SHOWS HORTICULTURE CENTER Description of Use EEP PROFIT Area Area CAT No. 12 10 11 7 9 8 Veterans OPR PRIV/OPR OPR PRIVATE OPR OPR CLUB? OPR PRIV/OPR OPR CLUB? OPR Mana Facility g ement 10,000-25,000P Number of 30-50C-P 30- Visitors To 150PTo 150PTo 50-400P 10-50P Event Event 100 P ????? Use Wkday ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ Use Wkend ✸✸✸ ✸✸ Use Day Use Night APPENDIX VII-9 ANALYSIS

Park Programs

CAT Number of Area Facility Event Wkday Wkend Day Night Program or Use Area Description of Use No. Management Visitors Use Use Use Use Kaiser Building LAKE MERRITT PLAZA 14 SNOW PARK Casual use, formal office picnics, music OPR ✸✸✸ concerts, golf putting, volleyall 15 LAKE MERRITT HOTEL Private Hotel across Lakeside Drive from Lake PRIVATE ✸✸✸✸

Parks and Recreation Area MUNICIPAL BOAT HOUSE- Office of P&R Offices, equipment storage, public restrooms, OPR ✸✸✸ parking 17 ROWING FACILITIES Two docks, hull and equipment storage PRIV/OPR ✸✸✸ MERRITT QUEEN BOAT No longer in operation OPR 18 CAMERON STANFORD Non-profit management, Law firm rental space, PRIV/OPR activities include receptions, meetings ✸✸✸✸

19 CAT Number of Area Facility Event Wkday Wkend Day Night Program or Use Area Description of Use No. Management Visitors Use Use Use Use 12th STREET CIVIC AREA & CHANNEL OAKLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY Main Library. History Room, Children's Room, 20 LIBRARY General, central administration, service / ✸✸✸✸ deliveries

ALAMEDA COUNTY COURTHOUSE 21 COUNTY ✸✸✸✸

KAISER CONVENTION SPECIAL EVENTS 22 PRIV/OPR 10,000+P ✸✸✸✸

OAKLAND MUSEUM Rental space, museum showns, special events 23 PRIV/OPR ✸✸✸✸

PERALTA PARK Playground, jogging, estuary connection to lake 25 OPR ✸✸✸

CHANNEL PARK Sculpture garden, events, jogging 26 OPR ✸✸✸

LANEY COLLEGE Regional Community College LANEY ✸✸✸✸

VII-10 18TH STREET DOCK STREET 18TH LOUVRES - CHURCH CLEVELAND CASCADES ATHOL PLAZA 18th St. BOAT LANDING BOAT St. 18th PLAY AREA LAKESHORE PARK- SPORTSFIELD PASSIVE RECREATION PINE KNOLL ACTIVE RECREATION Activity EMBARCADERO PERGOLA LAKEVIEW LIBRARY Area Use or Program General ParkActivities Lakeshore Drive Area Link Green Lake Grand DOG WALKING SWIMMING STROLLING SPORTS - FRISBEE, BALL PICNICS ROWING SAILING BICYCLING JOGGING No tables available, most lawn areas fouled by by geese fouled areas lawn most available, tables No ACTIVITY SPORTS maximum for runlength routes Selected only By rental sidewalksPerimeterstreets and preferred surface ordirt Asphalt sidewalk. perimeter lawn, Lake edge, Open lawn areas. district and neighborhood Gatewayuse.to business No programmed CEREMONIES WEDDING MID-BLOCK CONNECTOR EXERCISE, Sunbathing, picnics,restrooms PARK/PICNIC COURTS, TENNIS GATEWAY PICTURES, WEDDING Renovated 1990's, in restoroom non-lighted,games, used by Lakeview School openlawnSinglebackstop, noleague area, Perimeter sidewalks only- discontinuous sidewalks Perimeter Description No body contact allowed, health and safety Description of Use of Description Area Area CAT No. 30 34 31 32 34 29 33 PROGRAM NON- PROGRAM NON- PROGRAM NON- Programming PROGRAM NON- PROGRAM NON- PROGRAM NON- PROGRAM PROGRAM PRIVATE OPR OPR OPR OPR OPR Mana Facility g ement N Number of Visitors Visitors um Event Event Event Event 8-25P AN AN NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA b er o er f

Use Wkday Use Wkday ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸✸ ✸✸✸ Use Wkend Use Wkend Use Day Use Day Use Night Use Night APPENDIX VII-11 ANALYSIS

Park Use Analysis

VII-12 Circulation Analysis

APPENDIX VII-13 ANALYSIS

Visual Analysis

VII-14 Opportunities Diagram

APPENDIX VII-15 CIRCULATION DATA

Existing Conditions

1.1 Lakeshore Avenue AM peak traffic is expected to grow to 1900 vehicles per hour by 2021. In the evening traffic from 12th Street travels up 1st Lakeshore Avenue is the minor arterial serving the neighbor- Avenue to Lakeshore Avenue. Traffic disperses onto East 15th hoods east of Lake Merritt. It parallels the east shore of Lake Street, East 18th Street and upper Lakeshore Avenue. Currently Merritt with all access on the east side. It connects I-580 and El about 1400 northwest trips and 800 southwest trips are made in Embarcadero on the east end with 12th Street on the west end. the morning. Southwest PM peak traffic is expected to grow to Local traffic uses Lakeshore Avenue to either El Embarcadero or 1600 vehicles per hour by 2021. 12th Street to get around Lake Merritt into downtown. It may serve as an alternate route between I-580 and lower downtown. 1.1.2 Roadway Lakeshore Avenue has two main sections. Upper Lakeshore Avenue is between El Embarcadero and East 18th Street. Lakeshore Avenue is a four lane street between El Embarcadero Lower Lakeshore Avenue is between East 18th Street and 12th and East 18th Street, with left turn bays at the intersections. It Street. is six lanes between East 18th Street and Foothill Boulevard. Between Foothill Boulevard and 12th Street, Lakeshore Av- 1.1.1 Traffic enue splits between 'lower' Lakeshore Avenue and 1st Avenue. Lakeshore Avenue is two lanes westbound and one lane east- The Lakeshore Avenue serves as the major roadway link be- bound. 1st Avenue is one lane westbound and two lanes tween the east Lake Merritt neighborhoods, downtown and eastbound. Currently there are signals at the intersections of Interstate 580. Lake Merritt is a major barrier to travel in Lakeshore with El Embarcadero, Brooklyn, East 18th Street and Oakland. It separates the southeastern neighborhoods from Foothill Boulevard. There is a signal now being installed at downtown. There are no bridge crossings for one mile. All Hanover. There are signals at the intersections of 15th Street traffic must go around the northern or southern ends of the and International Boulevard. There is parking on both sides of lake. Lakeshore Boulevard is the only multilane boulevard to Lakeshore Avenue, with a few exceptions. There is no parking connect I-580 and 12th Street east of Lake Merritt until 14th between East 18th Street and Foothill Boulevard. Avenue. Traffic is fairly even on upper Lakeshore Boulevard because it collects and distributes traffic from the neighborhood 1.1.3 Transit south to 12th street and north to I-580. Traffic varies between 500 to 1000 vehicles in the morning and 700 to 1100 vehicles Upper Lakeshore Boulevard is minor bus transit route. The 13 in the evening. By 2021 traffic volumes are projected to rise to and K AC Transit bus routes use it. There are bus stops at between 600 to 1100 vehicles in the morning and 800 to 1200 Brooklyn and Hanover. These bus routes serve as transit access vehicles in the evening. The main travel patterns on lower between the east Lake Merritt neighborhoods and downtown Lakeshore Boulevard are southwest in the morning and north- Oakland. The 13 serves southern downtown around 14th east in the evening. In the morning traffic from upper Street. The K serves northern downtown around Grand Lakeshore Avenue traffic merges with heavy traffic from East Avenue as well as providing access to Lakeside Park. 18th Street and Foothill and travels down to the 12th Street Lower Lakeshore Boulevard is bus transit route. It is used by the dam using Lakeshore. Currently about 1600 southwest trips 13, 14, 15, 40, 40L, 43, and K AC Transit bus routes. There and 600 northwest trips are made in the morning. Southwest are bus stops at 1st/International and Lakeshore/E.15th. These

VII-16 tions. both the15thStreetandInternationalBoulevardintersec- and littered.Therearesignalizedcrosswalkson1stAvenue at underground pedestriancrossingtunnel.Itissteep,narrow 12th Street.Itisonacurve.AtStreettherean There isonemidblockcrosswalkbetween15thStreetand on LakeshoreAvenue ateither15thStreetor12thStreet. Boulevard onthenorthleg.Howeverthereisnocrosswalk There isonesignalizedcrosswalkattheintersectionofFoothill Street. At18thStreettherearetwosignalizedcrosswalks. are fourpedestriancrosswalksbetween18thStreetand12th Avenue betweenElEmbarcaderoandEast18thStreet.There street. TherearefivepedestriancrosswalksonLakeshore Lakeshore Avenue hassixfootsidewalksonbothsidesofthe 1.1.5 Pedestrian First Avenue. Currently therearenobikelanesonLakeshoreBoulevardor 1.1.4 Bikes AC Transit busroutes. First Avenue isusedbythe13,14,15,40,40L,43,and618 Foothill Boulevard,carries22,600ridersaday. which serves12thStreet,11thEast15thStreetand neighborhoods anddowntownOakland.The4040L, bus routesserveastransitaccessbetweentheeastLakeMerritt around thenorthernorsouthernendsoflake.On There arenobridgecrossingsforonemile.Alltrafficmustgo separates thesoutheasternneighborhoodsfromdowntown. hoods. LakeMerrittisamajorbarriertotravelinOakland.It link betweendowntownandtheeastLakeMerrittneighbor- The 12th/14thStreetHighwayservesasthemajorroadway 1.2 12thStreet-"FrickstadViaduct" suburban side1stAvenue, InternationalBoulevardandEast Oak StreetandtheOaklandMuseum.Currentlyon eastbound. EleventhStreetemergesfromatunnelunderneath being fourlaneswestboundand11thStreetthree streets with13thStreetbeing3laneseastbound,12th two waystreetwithlaneseachway. Therestareoneway side. Currentlyonthedowntownside14thStreetisonly 14th St.)andEast12thStreetonthesoutheasternsuburban Lakeshore Avenue, 1st Avenue, InternationalBoulevard(E. 11th Streetonthenorthwesterndowntownsidewith ments. Itconnects14thStreet,13th12thStreetand dam. ItistypeAweavingsectionwithgradeseparatedmove- Currently thereisonetwelvelanedividedhighwayoverthe 1.2.2 Roadway be 3300westboundpeakAMtripsby2021. cross 12thstreetinthePMpeakhour. Thereareforecastedto street. By2021itisanticipatedthatupto4800vehicleswill In themorningpeak3000vehiclestravelwestboundon12th Currently 4200vehiclescross12thstreetinthePMpeakhour. 1.2.1 Traffic major employmentcentersdowntown. Merritt neighborhoodsuse12thand14thStreetstoaccessthe Street runparalleloneblockapart.ResidentsoftheeastLake borhoods. InternationalBoulevard(E.14thSt.)andEast12th Street. ThismakesitunusabletotheeastLakeMerrittneigh- However therearenoaccessrampstothefreewayuntil22nd access todowntownforthesouthernsuburbsofOakland. downtown. Below7thStreetisInterstate880.Thisamajor southwestern edgeoftheneighborhoodsandgoessouthwest Street whichisatwowayfourlanestreet.Butitatthevery way streetwithverylimitedcapacity. Blowthatthereis7th Highway. Thenextis10thStreetwhichonlyatwolaneone first crossingonthesouthernsideis12th/14thStreet southern sideofthelakethereisariverchannelaswell.The

APPENDIX VII-17 CIRCULATION DATA

12th Street are two way four lane streets. Lakeshore Avenue is Convention Center side, between Oak and East 12th Street. odd with two southbound lanes and only one northbound There are no crosswalks on 12th Street between 2nd Avenue lane. It has only right-in right-out access to westbound 12th/ and Oak Street. There are three pedestrian tunnels. They 14th Street. The right-in northbound lane is for local access provide a pedestrian crossing of the street separate from traffic. only. Lakeshore acts as a one way two lane street for regional The tunnels currently have problems with minor flooding, traffic. All the northwest traffic from Lakeshore Avenue, 1st insufficient lighting, trash, graffiti, and a perception of being Avenue, International Boulevard and East 12th Street are unsafe. The tunnels do not provide assess for the disabled. Two combined and then distributed to 14th Street and 12th Street have only steep stairs. One has a ramp but it is not Americans on the downtown side. All the southeast traffic from down- with Disabilities Act compliant. town are combined and then distributed to 1st Avenue, International Boulevard and East 12th Street. Traffic is 1.3 Lakeside Drive collected and distributed via grade separated ramps. There are two grade crossings, one on each side of the dam. Lakeside Drive is a major arterial street. It parallels the west shore of Lake Merritt. It is divided into two different sections. 1.2.3 Transit The upper section is from 20th Street to 19th Street. The lower section is from 19th Street to 14th Street. Lakeside Drive The 12th/14th Street Highway is a major bus transit route. It serves as the major downtown roadway link on the southwest- is used by the 13, 14, 15, 40, 40L, 43, 82, 82L and 618 AC ern coast of Lake Merritt. It connects north downtown with Transit bus routes. There are bus stops at either end. There is Interstate 880. The lower part of Lakeside Drive is part of a one one little used bus stop on the structure. It is a southeast way couple that includes Madison Street. bound stop just outside of the 11th Street tunnel. It serves the 14, 15 and 40 routes. These bus routes serve as transit 1.3.1 Traffic access between the east Lake Merritt neighborhoods and downtown Oakland. The 82 and 82L, which serves 14th Lakeside Drive is part of the downtown street system. A large Street and International Boulevard, carries 22,600 riders a day. amount of traffic exits I-880 freeway onto Lakeside Drive and The 40 and 40L, which serves 12th Street, 11th Street, East then proceeds up Lakeside Drive into upper downtown (Keiser 15th Street and Foothill Boulevard, carries 22,600 riders a area). Slightly less vehicles proceed down Lakeside Drive to day. There are 26 busses an hour that cross the 12th/14th Madison Street, and then take Madison Street to the I-880 Street Highway in the peak weekday hours. freeway. Therefore Lakeside Drive has heavy AM peak hour traffic, but it is lighter in the PM peak hour. The existing AM 1.2.4 Bikes peak hour volumes are 890 to 790 northeast bound and 530 southwest bound. The existing PM peak hour is 750 to 1050 Currently there are no bike lanes on 12th Street. northeast bound and 720 southwest bound. The 2021 AM peak hour volumes are 1190 to 1040 northeast bound and 530 1.2.5 Pedestrian southwest bound. The existing PM peak hour is 860 to 1140 northeast bound and 840 southwest bound. 12th Street has a twelve foot sidewalk on the lake side, from Lakeshore to Oak Street, and a six foot sidewalk on the

VII-18 tion ofLakesideDrivewith20thStreet.SecondSection legs ofJacksonStreet.Therearenocrosswalksarttheintersec- between thetwo.Therearesignalizedcrosswalksacrossallthree the westernlegofLakesideDriveand19thStreetwithanisland intersection of17thstreet.Thereisonesignalizedcrosswalkon There isanunsignalizedcrosswalk,acrossthreelanesatthe A "SeniorCrossing"warningsignispostedatthiscrosswalk. entrance oftheScottishRiteCenter(between14thand17th). unsignalized mid-blockcrosswalk,acrossfourlanes,atthe of theLakesideDriveand14thStreetintersection.Thereisan and 20thStreet.Therearesignalizedcrosswalksonallfourlegs There arefivecrosswalksonLakesideDrivebetween14thStreet Lakeside Drivehassixfootsidewalksonbothsidesofthestreet. 1.3.5 Pedestrian Currently thereisnobikelaneonthestreet. 1.3.4 Bike between JacksonandHarrisonStreet. Currently ACtransitrunsthe59and59AonLakesideDrive, 1.3.3 Transit parking onlyonthelakeside. both sides,exceptatthebendwhereitisthreelaneswith Lower LakesideDriveisfourlanesnorthboundwithparkingon two laneseachway. Thereissomeparkingonthissection. Most ofLakesideDriveisfourlanes.Upperhas 1.3.2 Roadway the GlenEchoarmofLakeMerritt.HarrisonStreetservesa Between 20thandGrandAvenue itparallelsthewestshoreof Harrison Streetisamajorarterialstreet.Ittwoway 1.4 HarrisonStreet side ofHarrisonbetweenLakesideDriveand21stStreet. Street onthewestside.Howeveroneisproposedforeast Street betweenGrandAvenue and20thStreet.Itisat21st AC Transit busroutes.Thereisonly onebusstopsonHarrison Harrison Streetisbustransitroute.Itusedbythe11and58X 1.4.3 Transit lanes eachway. Harrison Streetiseightlanesnorthof20thStreet,withfour 1.4.2 Roadway hour. grow to1100southboundand2300northboundvehiclesper made inthemorning.By2021AMpeaktrafficisexpectedto about 900southboundtripsand2100northboundare southbound and1300northboundvehiclesperhour. Currently morning. By2021AMpeaktrafficisexpectedtogrow1500 southbound tripsand1100northboundaremadeinthe morning andnorthintheevening.Currentlyabout1200 The maintravelpatternsonHarrisonStreetareeveninthe 1.4.1 Traffic Street with20thStreet,LakesideDrive,21standGrand There aresignalizedcrosswalksattheintersectionsofHarrison Harrison Streethassixfootsidewalksonbothsidesofthestreet. 1.4.5 Pedestrian Currently thereisnobikelaneonthestreet. 1.4.4 Bike Grand Ave. toHarrisonStreet20thStreet. Piedmont andInterstate580.AlotoftrafficfromI-580uses major downtownroadwaylink.Itconnectswith

APPENDIX VII-19 CIRCULATION DATA

Avenue. The intersection of Harrison Street with 20th Street booth located at the entrance to Lakeside Park, the western has crosswalks on the west leg of 20th, the south leg of Harrison end. The parking is limited to two hours. There is a $2 fee to and the east leg of 20th, but not the north leg of Harrison. The park all day on weekends. There is a large asphalt parking lot intersection of Harrison Street with Lakeside Drive only has on next to the Lake Merritt at the Sailboat House. The boat crosswalk on the south leg, crossing Lakeside Drive. The launch ramp is located on the edge of this parking lot. Cur- intersection of Harrison Street with 21st Street has crosswalks rently there are 378 spaces located within Lakeside Park. There on the west leg of 21st and the south leg of Harrison, but not is a narrow service road that shortcuts Belleview Avenue, from the north leg of Harrison. There are crosswalks on all legs of the Lawn Bowling are to the educational Center. It is restricted Harrison and Grand. to maintenance vehicles.

1.5 Belleview Avenue 1.5.3 Transit

Belleview Avenue has two different sections. The section in There is no regularly scheduled bus service on Belleview Av- Lakeside Park is a controlled Park access road and linear parking enue. Bus access is provided on Grand Avenue, which is one lot. It can only be accessed after paying a fee during the week- block away. ends. The section outside the park is a local residential street. It is always open and free. 1.5.4 Bike

1.5.1 Traffic There are currently no bike lanes on Belleview Avenue.

Approximately two thousand vehicles a day travel on Belleview 1.5.5 Pedestrian Avenue through Lakeside Park. Currently there are 360 park- ing spaces available on Belleview Avenue and in the Sailboat There are seven pedestrian crosswalks on Belleview Avenue. House parking lot. On an average day about 260 parking spaces The two signalized crossings are on Grand Avenue at either end are used (70%). Some people back up into the park from of Belleview. There is an unsignalized crossing at Perkins Perkins in order to park for free. It also may be faster than going Avenue. There are no crosswalks at Ellita Avenue and Staten through the park. This causes a safety hazard as this is in the Avenue. Perkins is the major gateway into Lakeside Park from congested Rotary Nature Center Area. It also causes a loss of the Adams Point Neighborhood. It is signalized on Grand revenue. Avenue. Parkview Terrace, Staten Avenue and Belleview Avenue are minor gateways into Lakeside Park from the Adams 1.5.2 Roadway Point Neighborhood. Parkview Terrace and Belleview Avenue are signalized on Grand Avenue. There are four pedestrian Belleview Avenue is a two lane one way eastbound street with crosswalks on Belleview Avenue in Lakeside Park. The first is parking on both sides. In Lakeside Park there is diagonal the crossing for the service road between the Fairyland and the parking on the lakeside and parallel parking on the landside. maintenance building. The second is on the path between the The exception is parallel parking on both sides near the Rotary bandstand and the garden center building. The third is on a Nature Center. There is parallel parking on both sides of the path between the botanical gardens and the sailboat house. street outside of the park. There is a parking lot fee collection There is one very wide crosswalk next to the science center.

VII-20 APPENDIX VII-21 CIRCULATION DATA

VII-22 APPENDIX VII-23 CIRCULATION DATA

Effect of Traffic Diversion

Downtown Park Edge

The diversion of traffic from 20th Street to Harrison Street, The diversion of southbound Lakeshore Avenue traffic destined from Lakeside Drive to Harrison Street, might lower the level of to points east from East 15th to East 18th and East 12th might service and increase delay on Harrison Street. However with cause some travel time delay to those vehicles. However some the roadway changes that the master plan proposes, and signal vehicles might have their travel time reduced because the access timing improvements, these negative effects can be mitigated. to East 12th Street provides them a more direct route to their In fact the level of service could improve at the intersection of destination. Currently this movement is not allowed. The Harrison and 20th because the intersection becomes a three-leg increase in left turn traffic will cause some more signal delay at intersection instead of a four-leg intersection. The intersection the intersections of East 18th and East 12th. However this can is also a spit phase signal. Therefore eliminating one leg elimi- be mitigated by optimized signal timing. The signal delay at East nates one phase and reduces lost time. Allowing left turns from 15th Street is virtually eliminated because there are no longer Lakeshore to Harrison, and the reverse right turns, can easily conflicting traffic movements. accommodate the very low volume of redirected 20th street traffic. The close proximity of the 20th and Lakeside intersec- tions could cause problems but this can be minimized by signal coordination.

Lakeshore Park Edge

The diversion of southbound traffic from Lakeshore Avenue to First Avenue, from East 15th to East 12th Street, might nor- mally lower the level of service and increase delay on First Avenue. However with the roadway changes that the master plan proposes, and signal timing improvements, these negative effects can be mitigated. In fact the level of service could improve at the intersections along First Avenue, although the travel time for southbound vehicles would increase. This is because southbound Lakeshore Avenue traffic does not cur- rently cross any intersections between Foothill and 12th Street. Therefore it experiences no signal delay. When the Lakeshore traffic is rerouted to First Avenue it must pass through two signals it did not pass through before. This will increase travel time and delay. The level of service improves because optimized signal timing and coordination can reduce signal delay. With the increase in volumes being in the coordinated direction, the average delay for all vehicles is reduced.

VII-24 not anurbanshoppingorbusinessarea. was usedbecausethenewintersectionsaresurroundedbypark, typical estimateof15perhourforalowpedestriantrafficarea only toestimatetheireffectonincreasingrightturndelay. The Estimates ofpedestrianvolumesfornewintersectionsweremade service andthereforedoesnotneedtobestudied. have nosignificantimpactonpeakhourintersectionlevelof tend tobeonweekendsorduringspecialevents.Thiswould traffic totheparkdueimprovedfacilities,howeverthiswould pedestrian volumes.Theremaybesomeincreasein this projectthatareexpectedtoproducelargerpeakhour volume projections.Therearenolandusechangesaspartof vehicular volumesdonotprovideroadwayspecificpedestrian The traveldemandmodelsthatwereusedtodevelopfuture This studydoesnotpredictfuturegrowthispedestrianvolumes. Pedestrian were adjustedtomeetthenewroadwayconfigurations. baseline levelofservice.Inthedifferentalternativesvolumes current roadwayconfigurationandsignaltimingtoestablisha added tothe2021volumes.Thesevolumeswereanalyzedwith City theprojectvolumesfrom"LakepointTower" EIRwere the existingvolumestoget2021volumes.Atrequestof get atwentyyeargrowthintraffic.Thiswasaddedto County model.The2005and2025modelswerecomparedto Future trafficvolumeswerecalculatedusingtheAlameda Vehicular Growth inTravel Volumes volume projections.Therearenolandusechangesaspartof vehicular volumesdonotprovideroadwayspecificbicycle The traveldemandmodelsthatwereusedtodevelopfuture This studydoesnotpredictfuturegrowthisbicyclevolumes. Bicycle increase inparkingdemand. normal weekends,thereisenoughsparecapacitytohandlea9% spaces allaroundthelakeopenevenduringpeakhoursof (2000). With 28%ofspacesinLakesideParkand 34% of by 9%inthenext20yearsaccordingtoABAGprojections population. ThepopulationofOaklandisprojectedtoincrease parking volumeswouldnotexceedtheincreaseinOakland's A roughestimatecouldbemadethattheincreaseinnormal Park. supply. Thereareover2000spacesavailablenearLakeside nearby parkinggaragescanbeopenedtoincreasethe ties, howeverthiswouldtendtobeduringspecialeventswhen increase inparkingvolumetheparkduetoimprovedfacili- parking volumes,onaregulardailybasis.Theremaybesome part ofthisprojectthatareexpectedtoproducelargerpeaktime parking volumeprojections.Therearenolandusechangesas future vehicularvolumesdonotprovideroadwayspecific volumes. Thetraveldemandmodelsthatwereusedtodevelop This studydoesnotpredictfuturegrowthisvehicleparking Parking need tobestudied. peak hourintersectionlevelofserviceandthereforedonot Increase bicyclevolumesshouldhavenosignificantimpacton blockage ofvehicles.Thiswouldreducevehiculardelay. fact removingbikesformvehiclelaneswouldreducebicycle in bikelaneswouldnotinterferewithvehiculartrafficflow. In to theparkdueimprovedfacilities.Higherbicyclevolumes bicycle volumes.Theremaybesomeincreaseintraffic this projectthatareexpectedtoproducelargerpeakhour

APPENDIX VII-25 CIRCULATION DATA

General Design Guidelines

The final plans should not reduce the amount of on street parking in total, and on Lakeshore Avenue (including 1st Avenue) and Lakeside Drive individually. Parking should not be moved more than one block. Travel lanes should be 11 feet wide, parking lanes 8 feet wide, bike lanes next to parking 5 feet wide and bike lanes without parking 4 feet wide. Curb radii should satisfy the needs of the type of traffic turning on the street. Bulb outs should not inhibit the turning of AC transit busses.

VII-26 APPENDIX VII-27 CIRCULATION DATA

VII-28 AEIE19th to 14th Harrison to 19th LAKESIDE LAKESIDE HARRISONall AEHR lEbcdr oE 8h6 0222 2 0 2 2 0 2 4 4 50 80 50 0 2 0 2 2 2 4 4 3 60 E. 15th to 12th LAKESHORE E. 18th to E. 15th 80 LAKESHORE El 50 Embacadero to E. 18th LAKESHORE Harrison to El Embacadero Grand to Grand GRAND AVE BELLEVUE E. 15th to International 1ST AVENUE typical section 12TH STREET tetSection Street NoteAnalysis 4: doneusin Note 3: Used 1999 counts (4-5) provided by intersections City, between by PC-HC in volumes by difference counts Estimated 2: Note Korve by EIR, Tower Lakepoint from counts Used 1: Note 01poetoscluae yadn hnei ouefo h lmd ony2005 County Alameda the from volume in change adding by addin then 2001 counts, base the to model base and 2025 base calculated projections 2021 Pro Existin 11t tetEs 2hSre AN AN B B B B A A A A D C C A NA NA B NA C NA B NA NA B NA E NA NA NA E D NA B NA NA NA A NA B B NA Street A East12th B Keiser Convention B A Street 14th Street 12th A 21 Street 14th A 12th Street 20 A B Street 12th 19 A Street 13th 18 Ave. Lakeshore 14 St. 15th East Ave. Lakeshore St. 18th East 17 International Ave. Lakeshore 13 Blvd. Foothill Ave. Lakeshore 12 Ave. 1st 11 Ave. 1st 10 Dr. Lakeside 16 15 Harrison St. Harrison 15 a tet1t tetBBBBBB B A B B B A A C NA B B A A A NA B B B C A A A A B B F B A A A A B B E A A A A A Street 12th East E A A 12th Street A 13th Street D A Ave. 2nd A 9 Street Oak St. 14th 8 Street Oak St. Madison / 19th A 7 Dr. Lakeside 6 Dr. Lakeside St. 20th 5 20th St. Dr. Lakeside Dr. Lakeside 4 St. Harrison 3 St. Harrison 2 arsnGadDEDEDE D E D PM E AM PM D AM PM AM Grand Street Cross Harrison 1 Street Main # j ect timin g Conditions anal g developed b Intersection Hannover Jackson St. B 21th St. g simplified timin simplified roo y sis kl y yn yn S ( 1 Base y A nchro. 3 ve. 2 )

was done usin g 4 plan, observed plan to complex to analyze. to complex to plan observed plan, Street Width ais6006 2 1 4 64 0 0 6 varies 4 20010622 2 6 110 0 0 12 144 12280098702 feet###feet### 52205 0 2 2 56 0 2 2 45 03205 2 2 2 1 50 2 0 3 2 50 3 0 60 2 4 60 04205 2 2 2 50 0 2 4 60 AE20 BASE 2021 BASE 2001 BBCC C BBCB D C BBBA C B ABBB C D BBCB g Travel Lanes field field timin observed real Existing Parking Lanes g the Lakepoint Tower EIR Tower Lakepoint the Lanes Bike PROJECT 2021 PROJECT g plans. Street Width Travel Lanes Future Parking Parking Lanes Lanes Bike Bike

APPENDIX VII-29 SOURCES Image Sources

Image page III.52, IV.35 used by permission from Mary Miss.

Image page II.11 used by permission from Mira Engler.

Imge page III.31 used by permission from Daniel D’Agostini

VII-30 Niko Letunic Kerry JoRicketts-Ferris Leslie M.Gould,PlanningDirector Robert C.Bobb,CityManager Henry L.ChangJr., AtLarge Larry Reid,District7 Moses LMayne,Jr., District6 Ignacio DeLaFuente,District5 Dick Speese,District4 Nancy Nadel,District3 Danny Wan, District2 Jane Brunnerc,District1 Jerry Brown,Mayor Mayor andCityCouncil City ofOakland (CEDA), Planning&ZoningDivision Community &EconomicDevelopmentAgency Interim ProjectManager (CEDA), Planning&ZoningDivision Community &EconomicDevelopmentAgency Project ManagerandWaterfront OpenSpace Hansen MurakamiEshima,Inc. Architecture DKS Associates Traffic Engineering Adrienne Wong &Associates Landscape Architecture Wallace Roberts&Todd, Inc. Team Leader, PlanningandDesign Planning ConsultantTeam Chamber ofCommerce,CALM,andWolfeMason&Associates. Merritt BreakfastClub,theprofessionalcharetteparticipants,Oakland many havemadetothismasterplanincludingScottMedbury, theLake The planningteamwouldliketonoteourappreciationofthecontributions Environmental Liaison Public Outreach Zachary D.Goodman,Architect John Nelson,SeniorArchitect Kevin Stankiewicz Tom Krakow, P.E., ProjectDirector Daniel Bandini,ArchitecturalDesigner Dah-win Sheu,LandscapeArchitect Designer Urban Adrienne Wong, PrincipalLandscapeArchitect, Ji-In Son John R.Gibbs James Stickley, ASLA,ProjectDirector Dr. RichardBailey, Water QualityAssociates Norman Hooks,Architect CREDITS

APPENDIX VII-31