Parks and Trails Master Plan

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan

September 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction ...... 1 8 .0 Moving Forward… Strategies & 1.1 Master Plan Purpose ...... 1 Actions ...... 97 1.2 Study Area...... 2 8.1 Expand, Diversify And Connect The System ...... 97 1.3 Planning Process...... 4 8.2 Enhance The 2 .0 Benefits and Trends...... 5 System–Upgrades, Amenities 2.1 Benefits...... 5 & Programming...... 108 2.2 Trends...... 7 8.3 Keep Nature In Our Future . . . 116 8.4 Actively Manage The System. . 118 3 .0 Planning Context...... 9 8.5 Spread The Word About The 3.1 Our Current Demographics . . . 9 System ...... 128 3.2 Policy, Plans & Strategies. . . . 17 8.6 Collaborate...... 129 8.7 Sustain our Capacity. . . . . 131 4 .0 Engaging Our Residents and Partners...... 19 9 .0 Future Parks & Trails System...... 133 4.1 Stage 1 What We Heard. . . . 21 4.2 Tourism & Target Markets. . . . 32 10 0. Implementation...... 137

5 .0 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs 11 0 . References...... 145 Assessment...... 39 Appendix A 5.1 Parks Inventory & Needs. . . . 39 Policy Context Summary...... A .1 5.2 Our Nature...... 52 5.3 Trail Inventory & Needs . . . . .58 Appendix B Park Quality and Condition 5.4 Resourcing & Capacity. . . . .64 Assessment Methodology . . . . . B .1 6 .0 Parks & Trails Classification...... 67 Appendix C 6.1 Park Classifications...... 67 Trail Quality and Condition 6.2 Trail Classification & Difficulty. . 69 Assessment Methodology . . . . . C .1 6.3 Staging Areas & Furnishings . . .87 Appendix D 7 .0 Osoyoos’ Parks & Trails In 2025. . . . . 91 On-Street Multi Modal Corridor 7.1 Vision...... 91 Proposed Cross Sections...... D .1 7.2 Plan Goals...... 92 Appendix E Public Engagement Details ...... E .1

Appendix F Parks Classification Table...... F .1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Our town, Osoyoos, is a vibrant and growing community. As a resort municipality, we not only provide an incredible way of life for our residents, but we also invite the world to experience what we have to offer.

Our parks and trails are a foundation of our residents’ quality of life and the memorable experiences our visitors take home with them. Recognizing that our parks and trails play a vital role in the future health of the Town’s ecosystems, community and economy, the Town has prepared this Parks and Trails Master Plan. Reflecting the desires of the community, the plan is a future-focused, system wide, strategic plan that guides the resourcing, development, management, provision and expansion of our parks and trails over the next 20 years. Not only does the plan represent our commitment to the future of our parks and trails, but it reaffirms our comprehensive understanding of the important role our parks and trails play in protecting our ecosystems, enabling our residents and visitors to be more active more often, connecting families to each other and with nature, strengthening our economy and attracting and maintaining skilled labour on which our economy depends. The plan works to position our parks and trails system as an interconnected, high quality and diverse network of conservation and recreational spaces that attract the world and satisfy our residents.

VISION

The success of Osoyoos as a resort municipality and community with a high quality of life relies heavily on how we maintain the natural beauty of our community and provide appealing recreational opportunities facilitated by our landscape. Future planning and management decisions about our parks and trails system need to be based on a shared vision of where we want to go into the future. We have worked collaboratively with our partners, stakeholders and the community to develop this shared vision of the future.

Imagine… In 2025

We are working with our partners to provide a diverse network of high quality, safe and well managed parks and trails that share our stories, those of our natural heritage and First Nations. Our network is accessible, seamlessly connected locally and regionally and our residents have become more active more often in our parks and trails. Our conservation parks are protecting our most sensitive ecosystems, our scenic landscapes and maintaining important local and regional habitat connections. Meanwhile, residents are regularly taking part in outdoor recreation and cultural and social experiences in our parks and trails while visitors are enjoying sophisticated all-season tourism experiences that allow them to experience what Osoyoos has to offer.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan i GOALS

To guide our path to realizing our vision, we will work to achieve the following goals:

1. Accessible & Inclusive: Our network of parks and trails will be equitably distributed across the municipality and be designed to improve accessibility where feasible for those with mobility and other limitations. 90% of residents will be within 400m of a quality park space and trailhead that provides diverse recreation experiences.

2. Enhanced, Diversified & Expanded: Enhance the quality of existing parks and trails by upgrading amenities with clear wayfinding and signage and comfort and convenience amenities. The recreational opportunities available will be expanded and diversified to meet the needs of our residents and tourists.

3. Physically Connected: Our parks and trails will be physically connected to one another, our neighbourhoods, destinations within the municipality and to our regional neighbours.

4. Conservation & Functioning Ecosystems: Our parks will conserve and, where needed, restore the quantity, quality and function of natural habitats and ecosystem services while contributing to ecological connectivity within the region.

5. Shared Stewardship & Well Managed: Our residents will be actively engaged as partners and shared stewards in the planning and management of our parks and trails system. Our parks and trails will be actively managed and maintained to ensure they provide visitors with a safe and memorable experience.

6. Economically Beneficial: Our parks and trails will generate reasonable revenues, create value for future development and serve as a foundation on which tourism to our region can grow.

As population densities increase the pressure on our natural areas will continue to intensify. It is important for the Town of Osoyoos to be able to manage this resource while being realistic about the desires and expectations for accessing these areas. This Parks and Trails Master Plan will make Osoyoos a leader in managing parks and trails in a resort municipality and community.

ii 1 0. INTRODUCTION

1.1 MASTER PLAN PURPOSE

Our town, Osoyoos, is a vibrant and growing community. As a resort municipality, we not only sẁiẁs (“soo-yoos”) provide an incredible way of life for our residents, means “narrowing of the but we also invite the world to experience what we have to offer. waters”

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 1 1.2 STUDY AREA

The parks and trails master is focused on the 9.64 km2 within the Town boundaries (see Figure 1). We are also considering the intersection and connection of parks and trails within the Town to adjacent parks and trails provided by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (see Figure 2) and British Columbia Provincial Parks and other protected areas.

Figure 1 Study Area

2 Introduction N

Figure 2 Regional Context

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 3 1.3 PLANNING PROCESS

Development of a Parks and Trails Master Plan that positions the Town to meet future demands while reflecting the desires of the community, First Nations and partners was no small undertaking. The planning process kicked off in July of 2015 and was completed in August 2016. As shown in Figure 3, the process was organized in four phases:

1. Project Start-up & Information Gathering

2. Consultation, Needs Assessment & Visioning

3. Draft Master Plan

4. Final Master Plan

Project Consultation, Final Start-up & Needs Draft Master Master Information Assessment & Plan Plan Gathering Visioning

Figure 3 Process

4 Introduction 2 .0 BENEFITS AND TRENDS

2.1 BENEFITS

Parks and trails offer many benefits to our Our parks and trails are not simply nice community that help improve our quality places in our community . They are of life. Our current system provides places for recreation, activity, engagement, purposeful strategies that help address socializing, peace and enjoyment with some of our most challenging issues . many other untapped benefits not yet realized. These benefits range from environmental and health, to social and economic—combined, they provide a sustainable environment in our Town. These benefits are briefly summarized below and illustrated in Figure 4.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 5 BENEFITS

Access and active use of parks and trails can enhance our community’s environmental awareness, and improve our understanding of our natural heritage and stewardship of the environment 1. Protecting our parks and trails provide benefits including habitat for birds and wildlife, increased flora and fauna biodiversity and ecological function from hydrologic health to air quality and carbon sequestration .2 Both parks and trails, especially when integrated, provide opportunities for active transportation which can reduce a community’s

Environmental transportation‑based greenhouse gas emissions .

The research is well established: a healthy active lifestyle is associated with a longer, disease- free life with decreased stress levels, lower risks for obesity, and decreased levels of mental health problems .2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Both parks and trails offer opportunities for residents and visitors to exercise and have closer access to nature . Physical activity can reduce obesity and risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other health conditions . In particular, research has found that high rates of childhood obesity and illness often correspond to less available open space 7. Parks that contain amenities such as playgrounds, benches, picnic areas, and open spaces can foster community wellbeing by providing opportunities for residents to get to know each 7 Physical and Physical Mental Health other while providing children with a place to play .

Parks and trails can increase opportunities for social interactions which can help residents (family and friends) connect with one another leading to more cohesive communities and enhanced quality of life .8 Research has reported that trail systems have been shown to foster social relationships and share responsibility, improve self-image, reduce crime rates, and encourage youth to engage in a lifestyle that develops social and life skills 9. Crime reduction or prevention is another social benefit of parks and trails; both structured and unstructured recreation can provide youth with a healthy and productive way to channel energy . Access 10 Social and participation in recreation activities can reduce delinquent behaviour .

Given the appeal of parks and trails to residents and visitors alike, economic benefits are typically seen through increased tourism revenues, greater business investment, and enhanced property values . Parks and open spaces in particular, have been shown to make less appealing parts of a community more attractive for investment by attracting and expanding local businesses or increasing property values 11. Moreover, residents and businesses looking for a new location that provides a higher standard of living are more likely to consider a community with a well-developed parks and trails system 12. Beyond these economic benefits, municipalities can also accrue economic efficiencies when constructing trails; compared to other public recreation facilities such 13 Economic as gyms, pools, or ice rinks, trails are a low cost and easily maintained public amenity .

Figure 4 Benefits of Parks and Trails

6 Benefits and Trends 2.2 TRENDS

A critical component of understanding long range planning for parks and trails is understanding how current trends—such as demographics, economics, consumer preferences, organizations, and the environment—influence our Town and its parks and trail needs. There are a number of trends that affect leisure lifestyles, parks and trail use, and overall recreational activity across BC and Canada and therefore needed to be considered in the Parks and Trails Master Plan.

Demographics

Our Town is a retirement community and also a tourist town which has an aging population which is resulting in a higher proportion of older adults and a declining proportion of children. This trend is also occurring at the national level, as explained in the Framework for Recreation in Canada’s 2015 Pathways to Wellbeing report.14 Other documents such as the BC Trails Strategy have found that more people are using trails as a form of physical activity, especially those in the 55+ age group. As a result, trail use in BC is growing considerably among baby boomers and their children, both of whom value a healthy lifestyle. There is also growing demand for more recreation trails near urban centres, long distance trails, and increased day-use opportunities.15

Activity Choices

Society is working harder than ever before which is resulting in people choosing to do less structured activities that fit into their sporadic and changing schedules.16 According to the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA), we are pursuing a greater diversity of activities to improve our lifestyles and wellness. These changing trends can impact the way we design our parks, trails, and facility operating schedules.

In general, recreation trends nationally suggest that we are seeing a shift to individual and informal recreation with a greater focus on unstructured activities. Our busy schedules are resulting in higher levels of stress and forcing us to squeeze in activities at convenient times, closer to home or work. Demands for trail users are also changing, especially in BC. Demand for trails is growing with the number of activities taking place on trails including mountain biking, cycling for recreation and transportation, walking and hiking, etc. There is also growing trail demand from motorized recreationists who desire ATV and off-road motorcycle experiences. As a result, there are competing demands for trails and recreation opportunities which reflect different values among users.17

Infrastructure

A significant portion of BC’s recreation and parks infrastructure is aging. Older facilities are declining in quality due to lack of preventative maintenance programs.18 It has and continues to be an expensive undertaking to renovate these facilities. Parks and recreation infrastructure will need to be renewed and maintained to keep up with growing recreation demands.

The BC Trails Strategy reported that the trends for trail use are shifting in the Province; there is increasing demand for community-based, highly connected and locally developed trail networks that provide linkages between communities and regions and to nearby parks

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 7 and natural areas.19 This is the result of trails being increasingly used for transportation and commuting purposes that connect to key destinations in the community. For instance, communities are finding new ways to integrate transportation such as improved linkages between road systems and commuter bike routes. Trails are an important part of the overall active transportation infrastructure network and as people continue to realize the health and environmental benefits of walking and cycling, trails will continue to be highly utilized.19

As municipal infrastructure ages, surpassing its useful lifecycle, most communities have significant infrastructure deficits. Parks and trails capital and operational budgets are competing against those of roads, water, sewer, bridges, emergency services and others. There is limited resourcing and competition is fierce.

Parks and trails need to be positioned as essential services that are as important to the community’s well-being as the traditional services. Managers need to make compelling cases using real data and information that show the immense benefits parks and trails bring to residents, the economy and the environment.

Tourism & Traveller Demands

Our Town is one of the Province’s 14 Resort Municipalities and relies heavily on tourism to support the community. Community leisure programs and facilities are increasingly playing a role in attracting tourism and economic development. The Trails Strategy for BC identified recreation trails in particular as becoming an important driver of economic development and tourism. Trails can provide opportunities for commercial recreation businesses, for example, that contribute directly to the local economy.19 The strategy also explains how economic benefits can increase if trails are designed and managed as a network of interlinked connections between communities and a range of attractions.

Nature Deficit

Our population is becoming increasingly urbanized. Furthermore, technology is providing citizens, and particularly youth, with other leisure opportunities that extract them and, in some cases, serve as a barrier to interacting with the natural world. A deficit of nature is directly tied to lower creativity, sedentary lifestyles, implications on early childhood development and a disconnect from the vital services nature provides us.

In summary, the overall benefits and trends of recreation programs, facilities, parks and open spaces, and trails can be summarized as follows:

• A growth in trail use • A shift to less formalized activities • The co-location of facilities, programs, and services • An increased role of community programs and facilities in enhancing economic development opportunities • And provides opportunities outdoors (through our parks and trails) to help fight the increase in Nature Deficit

8 Benefits and Trends 3 0. PLANNING CONTEXT

When preparing a parks and trails master plan, we need to be mindful of the planning context. Our community’s demographics, regional district demographics as well as federal, provincial, regional and local policy influence our planning considerations.

3.1 OUR CURRENT DEMOGRAPHICS

Our Town boasts a resident population of 4,845 and a population density of approximately 504.7 residents per square kilometre as of the 2011 Census. Our residents live in 2,966 private dwellings of which 2,261 dwellings were occupied by usual residents. Between 2006 and 2011, population growth was relatively low at 2% which is well below the provincial growth rate of 7% for the same period.20 Recognizing that regional residents are also interested in our parks and trails offering, it is important to know that the regional population (Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, Electoral Area A and Town of Osoyoos) is 6,200 permanent residents. However, we have a vibrant tourism and agricultural industry which attract temporary residents and visitors to our community and region. During the peak summer months (June–August), statistics suggest our local and regional populations grow to approximately 20,000.21 Our Official Community Plan (OCP) predicts that our total population will be between 7,000 (low growth scenario) and 8,140 people (high growth scenario) by 2025. In accordance with the Regional Growth Strategy, the RDOS is expected to see a moderate population increase of more than 1.5% per year by 2031.

It is clear; our permanent resident population is much older than the provincial average and continues to age (see Figure 5) for population distribution statistics in 2011). In fact, we have one of the oldest population bases in the province. The median age in our community is 60.3 compared to the province’s 41.9. Just over 50% of the population is over 60 years of age compared to 22% at the provincial level. While the Town only grew by 2% from 2006 to 2011, its increase in the median age from 58.8 to 60.3 over this time period suggests that the Town’s community is aging as it continues to be popular retirement destination.22 Adults, young adults, youth and children represent a small proportion of our Town’s population.

Just over 50% of the population is over 60 years of age compared to 22% at the provincial level . Emphasis ought to be placed on planning parks and trails opportunities that meet the needs of the aging population, while also those opportunities that work to attract younger families .

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 9 60+

50−59 years

40−49 years s

up British Columbia ro 30−39 years G Regional District e g

A Town of Osoyoos 20−29 years

10−19 years

0−9 years

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

Figure 5 Age Distribution (2011)

As of 2010, median household income in Osoyoos was $49,460, which was lower than the provincial average ($60,333).23, 24 Our residents are educated; about 17% registered as having a university certificate, diploma or degree at bachelor level or above as of 2011 which is about the same percentage as the provincial average (17.3%). Only 14% of our residents registered as having no certificate, diploma or degree, which was slighter higher than the provincial average (10%).

According to the 2006 Census, the Town’s visible minority population was 95 persons, or 2%; its Aboriginal population was just over 1%; and its non-visible minority population (i.e., Caucasian) accounted for 97%.24 According to the 2011 National Household Survey, the majority of Osoyoos residents reported English as their first language. Other languages spoken in the Town include German, Portuguese, Punjabi, and French with each representing less than 5% of the population.

10 Planning Context 3.1.1 Spatial Population & Demographic Patterns

With an understanding of our Town’s demographic composition, it is important that we understand the patterns in how our population is distributed across the community. Figure 6 below shows the total population for each Statistics Canada dissemination area in the Town and the percent of the Town’s population that lives within each. As can be seen, the population is relatively evenly distributed throughout the Town with some neighbourhoods being slightly larger than others.

Figure 6 Population by Dissemination Area

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 11 The 2011 National Household Survey’s dissemination area (DA) data were mapped to understand income, education and age distribution patterns. As shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8, the youth population is evenly distributed through the Town. However, some portions of the Town (DAs 59070292, 59070293, 59070294) contain a much higher concentration of seniors where nearly 50% of the population registers as over 65.1

Legend

Osoyoos Municipal Boundary 50 50–60 60–70

Figure 7 Youth Population (Age 0–19) by Dissemination Area

1 Please note that for the 2011 National Household Survey estimates, the global non-response rate (GNR) is used as an indicator of data quality. This indicator combines complete non-response (household) and partial non-response (question) into a single rate. The value of the GNR is presented to users of the data. A smaller GNR indicates a lower risk of non-response bias and as a result, lower risk of inaccuracy. The threshold used for estimates’ suppression is a GNR of 50% or more. Some of the dissemination areas in Osoyoos have a GNR exceeding 50% and therefore the results should be used with caution.

12 Planning Context N

Legend

Osoyoos Municipal Boundary 65–130 130–240 240–340

Figure 8 Senior Population (Age 65+) by Dissemination Area

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 13 Figure 9 and Figure 10 show some disparities in education and household income distribution. The percentage of ‘persons more than a high school education’ ranges from 70% to as high as 100%. While there is less difference for median household income, using the statistic ‘prevalence of low income in 2010 based on after-tax low income measure’, some portions of the Town (DAs 59070285, 59070288) have a higher concentration of poorer households. Understanding these demographic and socio-economic differences are important for informing where future parks and trails are needed most.

Legend

Osoyoos Municipal Boundary 0–10% 10–15% 15–25%

Figure 9 Percent Population with more than High School Education

14 Planning Context N

Legend

Osoyoos Municipal Boundary 40,000–45,000 50,000–65,000

45,000–50,000 No Information

Figure 10 Median Household Income

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 15 What Does our Current Demographics Mean for our Parks & Trails?

Given our appeal as a retirement and resort destination, we have a very high percentage of older adults . Our parks and trails system must be planned to serve the needs and interests of an aging population along with young families and other age groups .

The Town is generally well educated with a moderately high median household income . However, disparities in income and education exist . We need to focus on ensuring a strong supply of parks and trails opportunities in all neighbourhoods throughout Osoyoos .

We experience significant seasonal population fluctuations during peak tourism and agricultural seasons as visitors and temporary workers travel to the region . We need to plan our parks and trails with these temporary residents and visitors in mind .

Our permanent resident population is expected to grow as is the popularity of our Town to tourists and therefore our seasonal temporary population and visitation . Demands will continue to increase by both residents and visitors and we need to understand and plan for the needs of each . A focus on diversifying the economy by attracting people from all age groups will help the community grow in a more sustainable way .

16 Planning Context 3.2 POLICY, PLANS & STRATEGIES

Municipal parks and trails are but one component of a much larger regional, provincial, national and international network of parks and trails. There are policies, priorities and plans at all scales that provide important direction that this plan will influence and is influenced by. A brief summary of each is included in Appendix A.

The most prominent guiding directions for our Parks and Trails Master Plan include:

• Parks and trails bring diverse tangible benefits to communities including environmental, individual and community health, quality of life, cultural celebration and economic growth and diversification. • The Town acknowledges the importance of visual character of its landscapes and work to retain large open spaces and parks that contribute to its rural ambiance. • A coordinated systems approach to parks and trails planning will be taken between municipal, regional and provincial parks and trails managers. • Osoyoos neighbourhoods are densifying. The focus on infill and compact urban form will intensify the importance of a well-planned parks and trails network that offers diverse experiences. • Trails and on-road cycle routes need to connect our neighbourhoods to our parks as well as regional and provincial Pathways to Wellbeing: A parks, and key community destinations. Framework for Recreation • Our trails are part of the in Canada provides a new vision Provincial trail network and for recreation and parks and suggests should contribute meaningfully some common ways of thinking about to the Province’s interconnected this renewal, based on underlying network of world-renowned values and principles . The Framework sustainable trails. is a call to action, which invites leaders • The Province and our Town and stakeholders in a variety of sectors are working to grow tourism. to collaborate in the pursuit of five Our parks and trails will have goals and priorities for action: an important role to play in contributing to this growth and Goal 1: Active Living providing world class visitor Goal 2: Inclusion and Access experiences. Goal 3: Connecting People and Nature

Goal 4: Supportive Environments

Goal 5: Recreation Capacity

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 17 18 Planning Context 4 .0 ENGAGING OUR RESIDENTS AND PARTNERS

Town staff cannot do it alone. We will require support and help from many—residents, stakeholders and other municipal government departments. As such, it was critical that we provide opportunities for anyone with an interest in parks and trails to meaningfully engage in the planning process and co-creation of the plan.

Engagement occurred in two stages:

1. Awareness, visioning, issues and opportunities

The planning team set out to raise awareness about the project and ENGAGEMENT opportunities to engage. Focused attention was paid on understanding BY THE NUMBERS: the perceived issues facing the parks and trails system, opportunities to enhance the system and garnering 18 charrette participants insights into a future vision for our parks and trail system.

2. Input on the draft master plan 124 survey submissions

The draft plan was released for public and stakeholder review, input and revision. 60 comments via StanMAP

To make the planning process as accessible and convenient as possible, a diverse suite unique visitors of MindMixer of engagement tactics were applied 833 (see Figure 11).

1807 MindMixer page views

25 MindMixer comments

XX open house attendees

Achieving the aspirational vision, priorities and actions identified in the plan will be a team effort .

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 19 1 2 MindMixer Online Engagement: Parks and Trails Planning Key stakeholders were invited Charrette: to join MindMixer and provide A day-long parks and input on parks and trails in trails planning charrette Osoyoos. was held with the Osoyoos Parks and Trails Study Coordination Committee and key stakeholders. 3 StanMAP: The community was invited to share their spatial feedback on StanMAP to document the key issues and priorities for Online Survey: the parks and trails system. The community was invited to respond 4 to a series of survey questions about participation and barriers to accessing parks and trails and the top issues and priorities needing to be addressed in the Plan.

5 6 Open House & Council Presentation: Staff Meeting: The draft Plan was presented An interactive webinar was held with to the Osoyoos community, key the Osoyoos Parks and Trails Study stakeholders, the Osoyoos Parks and Coordination Committee. to present Trails Study Coordination Committee and receive input on the draft Plan. and Council. Feedback was solicited and incorporated into the final Plan.

Figure 11 Engagement Phases

20 Engaging Our Residents and Partners 4.1 STAGE 1 WHAT WE HEARD

In stage 1, we reached out to our residents, First Nations and stakeholders through:

• Parks and trails charrette • Online survey—hard copies were also made available to the community at the Osoyoos Town Hall • StanMAP—an interactive online crowd source mapping tool, web-based, crowd source tool • MindMixer—an online community conversation tool focused on key topic questions

4.1.1 Parks and Trails Planning Charrette

Held on October 14, 2015 at the Osoyoos Sonora Centre with 18 participants including: Mayor Sue McKortoff, Councillor Jim King, Councillor CJ Rhodes, Barry Romanko, Jim Dinwoodie, Alain Cunningham, Dilys Huang, Mark Pendergraft, Chris Bower, Paul Scanlon, Michelle Quail, Brian Lobb, Carol Nesdoly, Marieze Tarr, Mike Stiles, Carol Boan, Matt Hassen, Kara Burton.

The intent of the charrette was to:

1. Kick-start the project

2. Identify the strengths, issues needing to be addressed, barriers to access, key community destinations, and top priorities for the parks and trails system.

3. Develop input into draft vision and outcomes for the master plan.

Here is what we heard (see Appendix E for the detailed charrette results):

• A trail hierarchy and classification system is needed • Connectivity of trails, parks and destinations is a priority (see Figure 12 for the top destinations participants needed to be connected via the Town trail system) • Increase and diversify recreational opportunities for residents and tourists • Provide system wide parks and trails signage and way-finding • Collaborate with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to coordinate ROW improvements on provincial highways running through the Town • Improve park safety and maintenance • Increase accessibility of parks and trails • Acquire new parks and trails in undeserved areas “Osoyoos is already a tourism destination, let’s build on that to promote outdoor recreation tourism such as mountain biking” . —Charrette Participant

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 21 N

Figure 12 Key Destinations

22 Engaging Our Residents and Partners Figure 13 Charrette participants sharing Figure 14 Charrette participants sharing ideas on what most needs to ideas on barriers to parks and change for Osoyoos’ parks and trails in the Town trails system

4.1.2 Online Survey and StanMAP

The online survey and StanMAP were available online from September through November 2015.

The survey and StanMAP were used to generate insights into:

• Satisfaction with the current parks and trails system • Top barriers to accessing and participating in the parks and trails system • The motivations and popular activities in parks and on trails • Top priority issues for the parks and trails system • Identifying park acquisition and redevelopment priority areas

There were 124 people that submitted survey responses. The majority of survey respondents were older (61% between the ages of 50 and 70 years old). Younger and middle aged adults were relatively underrepresented in the survey (about 10% were between 18 and 39 years old). 86% of respondents were Osoyoos residents while the remaining 10% were residents of the Regional District. 55% of respondents were male and 45% female.

In total, 60 individual ideas were submitted via StanMAP. The tool allowed participants to “drag and drop” an icon on a particular location to indicate whether a barrier was present, if an upgrade was needed or to identify the location for new parks and/or trails. Participants were prompted to provide written input to support their idea.

Here is what we heard:

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 23 Top Motivations Activities to Visit in Parks & Trails: Parks & Trails: #1 #1 #2

Relaxing

Exercising

Walking/Hiking #3 #2 #4

Being close to nature

Dog Walking Family time

Active recreation (e.g., playing sports, biking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing) were less frequently reported. This may be a reflection of the respondent demographics (i.e., an older population and no visitor or tourist responses) than the availability of active recreation opportunities provided in the Town and region.

Satisfaction:

In general, respondents were satisfied with the current parks and trails system. In particular, park maintenance and park quality and condition yielded high satisfaction. However, a number of components received lower satisfaction including management of park users, enforcement, park amenities, wayfinding/signage, promotion and information about parks and trails, trail connectivity and trail surfacing.

24 Engaging Our Residents and Partners Most Popular Parks & Trails to Visit

Parks Trails 1. Gyro Park (85%) 1. Haynes Point Provincial Park trails

2. Lions Park (66%) 2. Gyro Park Walkway

3. Pioneer Walkway (68%) 3. Pioneer Walkway

4. Cotton Wood Park (54%) 4. Lakeshore Walkway

5. Desert Park (41%) 5. Irrigation Canal Trail

Other Popular Parks:

• Haynes Point Provincial Park • Dog Parks

Barriers to Participation

Respondents identified a number of barriers to accessing parks and trails, including:

• I don’t know where park facilities and programs are offered (19%), • Lack of free time (18%), and • Infrastructure barriers (e.g., highway) (15%). The top barriers to accessing trails included:

• Poor, uneven surfaces (28%), • Poor access to certain trails (27%), and • Infrastructure barriers (20%).

38 44.7% Off-road trail connectivity

37 43.5% Access to lake and rivers

41 48.2% Quality and condition of parks

31 36.5% Diversity of recreation amenities in parks

29 34.1% Wayfinding and signage

Figure 15 Top Parks and Trails Issues

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 25 Priorities:

In alignment with the issues identified above, “The parks should be clear respondents indicated that improving: on the Town map including • Off-road trail connectivity what amenities they include” . —Survey respondent • Access to lake and rivers • The quality and condition of parks • The diversity of recreational amenities in parks • The number of designated parks focused on conservation • Wayfinding and signage were the greatest priorities for the plan

Many respondents noted that quality paved trail surfaces are critical to ensuring visitor safety given the older demographics of the Town.

34 40.0% Improve off-road trail connectivity

34 40.0% Improve access to lake and rivers

34 40.0% Improve the quality and condition of parks

29 34.1% Diversify recreation amenities in parks

21 24.7% Designate more parks focused on conservation

21 24.7% Improve wayfinding and signage

Figure 16 Top Improvement Priorities for Parks and Trails

The following graphics illustrate some of the input we received from StanMAP. The maps show where participants identified the top barriers to connectivity, where upgrades to parks and trails are needed, new locations for parks and trails and conservation priority areas.

26 Engaging Our Residents and Partners Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 27 “Osoyoos has gorgeous scenery and much potential for recreational hiking, walking, running and biking trails . Trails have been started, but there is so much more untapped potential at the north end of Osoyoos that needs to connect trails there towards Oliver and connect with the amazing River/Canal Trail . The current trails just end and don’t provide much signage on how to connect to other trails ”. —MindMixer Participant

4.1.3 MindMixer – Stage 1 Results

The online MindMixer was available online from September through January 2016. MindMixer was used to generate insights into the following topics:

• Share your ideas on how to help Osoyoos develop a high quality parks and trails system! • Our parks and trails today... • Barriers to access • Improvements to our parks and trails • Priorities for our parks and trails • Our vision for parks and trails • Guiding principles

Twenty-five people submitted comments on the MindMixer page; there were 833 unique visitors to the Mindmixer page and 1,807 page views. The average age of MindMixer participants was 33 years old. 33% of respondents were male and 67% female.

Here is what we heard:

28 Engaging Our Residents and Partners Parks and Trails System Improvements

More hard surfacing trails needed and ensure Replace they are maintained to benches with keep puncture vine off multiple seating like picnic tables

Separated recycling More parks and trash with camping receptacles opportunities

Bike parking, bike wash and repair station

Allow gatherings of groups, organized sport events, physical activity, community events, and passive flex space all in one park

Barriers To Access

Extend Cost and Irrigation accommodation Canal Trail Safety Improvements issues for low North to the at major crosswalks and mid income Town of Oliver along Hwy 3

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 29 WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Stage 1 input means that the Town should:

• Plan for Diversity! Residents like a combination of parks that provide active programmed spaces, passive spaces for spontaneous play and recreation, natural environment parks, action sports parks etc .

• Make Use Easy! Clear wayfinding and signage through the parks and trails system is needed

• Accessibility: Improve accessibility throughout the parks and trails system

• Ensure Quality: The quality and condition (e g. ,. maintenance) of the Town’s parks and trails are as important as having good access to them

• Achieve Connectivity: Trail connectivity between urban and rural areas is critical for enhancing overall utilization and addressing barriers (e g. ,. highway, roads, traffic barriers)

• Conserve: Conservation of sensitive habitats and ecosystems is an important part of parks and trails planning

Planning for parks and trails is no easy task . The common themes in the Stage 1 engagement established the overall priorities and principles for the Master Plan and reflect the diverse needs of the community’s residents and visitors .

30 Engaging Our Residents and Partners Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 31 4.2 TOURISM & TARGET MARKETS

We offer visitors many memorable and authentic visitor experiences. As one of 14 Resort Municipalities in the province, we are focused on growing tourism. With over 350,000 visitors to the South Okanagan Tourism Area and an estimated $59 million annually in direct visitor expenditures, tourism is one of our most important economic drivers.25 The development of new wineries, recreational condos, hotel expansions, and resort developments are creating a positive business climate for our Town and expanding the need to grow supportive visitor experiences. Our parks and trails contribute positively to our tourism aspirations. As such, it is imperative that we understand our target markets and their expectations and consider these as we plan and develop our parks and trails.

Focusing on the expectations and needs of our target visitors is one of the most important aspects of delivering memorable visitor experiences. It is important to consider who is visiting our community now, who we want to be visiting our community in the future and what they expect in terms of parks and trails services. Visitors to our Town are diverse as are their expectations, attitudes, motivations, behaviours and willingness to pay for tourism experiences. Our parks and trail system needs to be as appealing to visitors as it does to our permanent residents.

One way to understand our markets of greatest potential is through the application of Destination Canada’s Explorer Quotient (EQ) traveller types. Destination Osoyoos, our local Destination Management Organization, has adopted the EQ and is targeting the following three traveller types from domestic and international market origins:

• Free Spirits, • Cultural Explorers • Authentic Experiencers

The Explorer Quotient is an innovative market segmentation tool based on the science of psychographics . Instead of defining people based on age, income, gender, family status or education level, psychographics look deeper at people’s personal beliefs, social values and views of the world . These factors are what drive real people to seek out certain types of experiences . (CTC)

32 Engaging Our Residents and Partners Key characteristics for each target market include:

FREE SPIRITS

Characteristics eorais • Highly social, open-minded, fun-loving and adventurous • Attracted to luxury hotels, tourism hot- spots, and group tours 45% 55% • Value sample travel, constant Education: Average exploration, companion experiences Employment: FT, PT, above avg. # and indulgence of students • Represent 12% of the Canadian Household Income: Higher than average

market; 45% male and 55% are female Age: 18–34 49% with average education levels 35–54 40%

• They have higher than average 55+ 11%

income and are more likely to be iestae Mature students 7% Young no kids • About 49% are between 18 and 34 Families 25% years of age while another 40% are 48% between 35 and 54 Middle Age no kids at home Implications for Parks and Trails 20%

This traveller may not seem a likely candidate Figure 17 Free Spirits Demographics to be motivated to travel for parks and trail- based experiences. The Free Spirit is a strong potential target market for high quality soft adventure parks and trail excursions; they want to see the main attraction, but not in-depth. An appealing park or trail-based experience for Free Spirits would be front- country and could be packaged with high- end luxury accommodations, spas/wellness and first class culinary options.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 33 CULTURAL EXPLORERS

Characteristics eorais • Positive, open-minded, curious, risk- taker and attracted to heritage sites, cultural events, B&Bs, etc. • Value spontaneity, cultural sampling 34% 66% and novelty, personal escape and Education: Average seeking out new challenges Employment: FT, slightly above avg. # • Not defined by their confidence in big of homemakers business or ostentatious consumption Household Income: Average

• Represent 9% of the Canadian Age: 18–34 28%

market; 34% are male vs 66% female 35–54 47% with average level of education and 55+ 26% average income levels iestae Mature 19% • About 26% of the group is 55 years of Families age or older and 47% are between 35 30% Young and 54 years of age no kids 18% Implications for Parks and Trails Middle-age This traveller can be motivated to travel no kids at home 33% to high quality softer adventure parks and trail-based experiences that are packaged Figure 18 Cultural Explorers Demographics with learning/interpretive opportunities that allow them to immerse themselves in local and Aboriginal cultures. Outside of hiking, these travellers are not motivated by outdoor adventure; therefore, parks and trails situated in mid and front-country settings are likely to be more appealing. To cater to Cultural Explorers’ demands, the parks and trails in Osoyoos should be located near smaller, more intimate accommodation types that allow them to interact with other visitors. They expect easily accessible and informative interpretive information be made available about the park or trail via the Internet to support their trip planning and execution.

34 Engaging Our Residents and Partners AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCERS

Characteristics eorais • Ethical, eco-conscious, independent, open-minded and likely to be attracted to nature reserves, hike trails and campsites 51% 49% • Value authentic learning travel, Education: Higher than average nature, cultural immersion and Employment: FT, higher than avg. personal development are retired • They hold a scepticism toward Household Income: Average advertising and the health of the Age: 18–34 18% planet is important to them 35–54 31% • Represent 12% of the Canadian 55+ 51% market; 51% are male vs 49% female iestae with higher than average education Families 19% but average income Mature • Just over half are 55 years of age or 40% Middle-age older no kids at home Implications for Parks and Trails 28% Young no kids These travellers can be motivated to travel 13% by high quality hard and soft adventure parks and trail-based experiences that Figure 19 Authentic Experiencers are packaged with cultural and natural Demographics attractions, learning/interpretive opportunities and authentic, less refined, accommodations. This traveller is willing to travel longer to access their experiences and will expect easily accessible and informative information to be made available about the park and trail via the internet and print copy to support their trip planning and execution.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 35 4.2.1 Osoyoos Summary

Based on stats provided by Designation Osoyoos it is estimated that each year May to September the majority of visitors to Osoyoos fall into the Free Spirits demographics.26 This takes into account the young adults, families and foodies that arrive throughout the summer for events, food, wine, and outdoor experiences—biking, hiking, water sports, etc. The second most prominent traveller type is the Authentic Experiencers who arrive throughout October— April of each year. This accounts for the over 2000+ snowbirds that flock to Osoyoos annually to escape cold climates.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Hiking and backpacking have been cited as one of the most popular activities and traveller motivators for visitors from British Columbia and the rest of Canada .

• Hiking or backpacking was identified as the second most popular trip activity for BC residents and other Canadians to the Thompson Okanagan region .

• Visiting a national, provincial or nature park was the top trip activity for US and other international markets . It could be assumed that hiking and/or walking on trails in these parks is a regular activity in which these markets engage .

36 Engaging Our Residents and Partners The 2006 Travel Activity and Motivation Survey (TAMS) reported that hikers take vacations to:

• Get a break from the day to day routine (73.5%) • Relax and relieve stress (70.2%) • Create lasting memories (57.9%) • Enrich relationships (54.9%) • To see or do something different (53.5%)27

The five most critical attributes of a destination for hikers are:

1. Feeling safe (57.8%)

2. No health concerns (43.5%)

3. Lots for adults to see and do (41.7%)

4. Convenient access by car (41.4%)

5. Availability of mid-range accommodations (28.1%)

Though hiking opportunities are an important travel motivator, hikers also engage in other activities while travelling. The most popular activities included:

• Visiting a nature park • Sunbathing • Strolling to see city buildings • Swimming (oceans & lakes) • Visiting historic sites or buildings • Visiting well known natural wonders • Farmers markets and fairs27 In summary, our parks, and especially our trails, have the potential to serve all three EQ types. Our visitors are diverse and many enjoy nature-based activities and our parks and trails system will be planned with their needs and expectations in mind.

A 2011 mountain bike visitor study in Rossland, BC found that mountain bike travellers to Rossland participated in a number of leisure activities during their trip including visiting municipal, provincial, or national parks, hiking, and shopping for local arts and crafts . —Tourism BC, 2013 .

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 37 Park Supply by the Numbers:

14 parks

2 School Parks

94 acres of park space

21.5 acres of school park space

115.5 acres of total park space (including school park lands)

4.8% of the Town is parkland (including school lands)

23.8 acres of park space/1,000 residents

5.8 acres of park space/1,000 (peak season)

38 Engaging Our Residents and Partners 5 0. PARKS & TRAILS INVENTORY & NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Before beginning to identify new strategies and actions for our parks and trails system, we first needed to understand our supply of parks and trails and how well our current system is serving the needs of our community and visitors. In line with recent trends in parks and trails planning, we utilized a data-drive approach to identifying answers to the following questions:

• Do we have enough park space and trails? • Do our residents have easy access to quality parks and trails? Do our residents and visitors have access to a diversity of recreational experiences??

• Do our parks protect the Town’s most environmentally sensitive areas? • How well are our neighbourhoods connected to the community’s and region’s key destination via trails/active transportation options? • Is our parks and trails program effectively resourced?

5.1 PARKS INVENTORY & NEEDS

5.1.1 Parkland Supply

Currently, we offer residents and visitors 14 diverse parks to visit and 2 school parks. This represents a total of 115.5 acres of parkland or approximately 4.8% of the Town area. Comparing this overall level of service with other parks systems provides an effective benchmark to understand how well we are doing. In comparing our park acreage with data from the National Recreation and Parks Association’s 2015 Field Report, we can see that our current supply of park space is above median28 for communities of similar density to ours. However, when we consider our projected future population, we see that our provisioning will drop below the national median in the US for jurisdictions with a similar population density as ours. When we consider the seasonal influx of temporary workers and visitors, we are that much further below the median rates of provision.

Median for similar towns 12 1.

Osoyoos Future (high growth) 14 2.

Osoyoos Future (low growth) 16 5.

Osoyoos Today 23 8.

Peak Permanent & Temporary Population 5 8.

0 5 10 15 20 25

Parks Acres per 1,000 Residents

Figure 20 Future Parkland Supply: Osoyoos 2025 High Growth—2025 Low Growth

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 39 5.1.2 Park Quality

However, parkland supply does not tell us the full story. Next, we looked at the condition and quality of our parks. A rapid onsite condition assessment was undertaken to evaluate the quality of each park (see Appendix B for further details). The assessment scored each park and categorized it into one of the following quality classes:

• Below expectations • Meets expectations • Exceeds expectations The park quality and condition scores ranged from below expectations to exceeding expectations.

• 5 parks were below expectations: –– Skatepark (Score: 38) –– Legion Beach (Score: 39) –– Jack Shaw Gardens (Score: 46) –– Kinsmen Park (Score: 51) –– Westbench Complex (Score: 53) • 5 parks met expectations: –– Veterans Park (Score: 54) –– Desert Park (Score: 58) –– Goodman Park (Score: 65) –– Pioneer Walkway (Score: 64) –– Town Square (Score: 66) • 4 parks exceeded expectations Park Quality Criteria –– Gyro Park (Score: 67) included: –– Lions Park (Score: 71) • Condition –– Finch Park (Score: 72) –– Cottonwood Park (Score: 74) • Comfort and Convenience Amenities

• Design & Ambiance

• Park Inclusivity

• Location & Access

• Intended Purpose

• Naturalness & Low Impact Design

40 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment N

Legend

Osoyoos Municipal Boundary Below Meets Exceeds

Figure 21 Park Quality & Condition

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 41 5.1.3 Access to Quality Parks

With an understanding of the quality of each park, we analyzed residents’ access to our parks to determine what proportion of residential parcels (a proxy for residents’ homes) 33 9%. of residential parks are within walking distance to parks that meet or exceed are not within walking quality expectations. Proximity and easy access to parks are distance to a park . a determinant of park use and therefore a determinant of the positive societal outcomes that can be achieved through parks. Research has found that most users of a park are drawn from within a 500 metre radius.29

The walking analysis utilized a network analyst tool that accounted for trails and sidewalks within the Town. As shown in Figure 23, 50% of the Town is within walking distance (400 m) to a park. However, where we consider the quality of the park in which they have access to, we found that (see Figure 22):

• 45.3% of residential parcels have access to parks that meet or exceed quality expectations • 20.8% have access to parks that do not meet quality expectations • 33.9% of residential parcels are not within walking distance to any park. The areas of the community with the least access to parks as shown on the following figures (Figure 23 and Figure 24) include:

• Northwest – Strawberry Creek Rd. area Southwest – Fairwinds Dr. neighbourhood • • Northeast – Cottonwood Dr. area • Southeast – Lakeshore Dr. area

20.8% Below 33.9% Meets 13.1% Exceeds No Access 32.2%

Figure 22 Percentage of Residential Parcels within Walking Distance (400m) of Park

42 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment N

Figure 23 Parcels within Walking Distance (400m) to Parks

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 43 N

Figure 24 Parcels within Walking Distance (400m) to Parks that Meet or Exceed Quality Conditions

44 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment 5.1.4 Diversity of Outdoor Recreation Opportunities

Our park inventory illustrates the distribution of sport, play and other leisure amenities throughout our current system (see Figure 25). These amenities facilitate the range of outdoor recreation opportunities that are available to our residents and visitors (in addition to the Town’s indoor facilities). Our park visitors are diverse and so too are their outdoor recreation desires. We know that a single park “cannot be all things to all people.” However, the park system as a whole can be. As such, it is important that we purposefully plan for recreation diversity across our system. The greater the recreational diversity of the Town’s park system, the more likely it is to serve its residents’ and visitors’ diverse needs. We have also included in our inventory ‘spontaneous outdoor recreation’ amenities which we define as having the following characteristics: undertaken for enjoyment, occur or can occur with minimal organization, at any time, generally unstructured and unprogrammed, with rules and regulations that are self or group organized and adjudicated, and for which no fees are charged. Further detailed in Table 1, we provide our residents and visitors with:

• 6 spontaneous outdoor recreation amenities • 11 outdoor sport fields • 7 outdoor sport courts (Tennis, Basketball & Volleyball) • 3 playgrounds • 2 action sport amenities • Numerous comfort and convenience amenities such as washrooms, drinking fountains, benches and shade structures

A single park “cannot be all things to all people ”. However, the park system as a whole can be . The greater the recreational diversity of the Town’s park system, the more likely it is to serve its residents’ diverse needs .

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 45 Table 1 Recreational Diversity

Park Name Action Sports Action Playground Field Soccer Area Picnic Field Baseball Court Tennis Basketball Court Court Volleyball Structure Shade Fountain Drinking Washrooms Swimming Area Dog Dog Off-LeashPark Beach Park Splash Skate Park 1 1 Legion Beach 1 1 1 1 Jack Shaw Gardens 1 1 1 1 1 Kinsmen Park 1 1 1 1 West Bench Complex 1 1 3 1 1 Veterans Park Desert Park 3 5 1 Gyro Park 1 3 1 1 1 Pioneer Walkway 1 1 1 Goodman Park 1 1 1 1 Town Square 1 Lions Park 1 1 1 1 1 1 Finch Park 1 Cottonwood Park 1 1 1 1 TOTAL 2 3 4 8 6 3 1 3 5 3 9 4 1 4 1

46 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment N

Figure 25 Distribution of Outdoor Recreation Amenities

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 47 Our parks provide both spontaneous and structured park amenities. For example, Kinsmen Park and Lions Park provide opportunities for youth to engage in spontaneous play with access to playgrounds. Some parks provide picnic areas including Cottonwood Park, Legion Park, and Lions Park, to name a few—all of which offer much needed space for passive recreation. With sporting facilities such as soccer fields and baseball diamonds, our Town also provides opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy a variety of structured park amenities.

To evaluate the diversity of opportunities available to residents, our analysis was based on the number of different amenities available in each park within 400 m of residential parcels. As shown in Figure 26, areas of the Town that have fewer recreation amenities available (shown in red—no access, orange—access to 1-3 amenities and yellow—access to 4–6 amenities) need to receive higher park planning priority.

Figure 26 Access to Park Based Outdoor Recreation Amenities

48 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment 5.1.5 High Need Areas

To determine the areas of greatest need for park development or redevelopment, we built a digital analysis tool that took into account the following criteria from the previous analyses:

• Median Household Income • Percent Population with more than High School Education • Youth Populations • Senior Populations • New Growth Areas in Town • Areas zoned as High Density Residential • Access to Park by Park Quality • Recreation Diversity

Each of the indicators above are important for determining where parks are needed most. For example, youth may have demand for playgrounds and active recreational facilities to support their physical activity needs. The Town’s large senior population has different needs; they generally desire passive recreation parks with opportunities for benches for sitting, certain types of games, and gatherings. Importantly, parks must be located close to homes so access is possible. Median household income and lower education are two other socio- economic variables that represent “higher need” areas that may face social and economic disadvantages.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 49 N

Figure 27 Existing Areas of Greatest Need of Park Development or Redevelopment

50 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment The Town’s existing density and future growth areas also demand parks. Areas with residential density are more suitable for park investments because of the larger number of residents the park can serve. In addition, the ‘New Growth Areas’ will also demand natural assets and are therefore more suitable for park investment. Finally, the park needs assessment also incorporated and prioritized areas with poor access to parks, access to parks that are below expectations and those that have limited recreation diversity. The combination of these eight criteria resulted in the areas of greatest need for park acquisition and/or redevelopment (see Figure 27). The four highest priority areas are:

• South of Strawberry Creek Growth Area: –– Conservation Park with sustainable hiking, running, mountain biking trails, pump track and mountain bike skills park. • Southwest – Fairwinds Dr. (Dividend Ridge Neighbourhood): –– Neighbourhood Park with amenities such as a playground, washroom, seating, picnic area, trailhead, parking area. • Northeast – Cottonwood Dr. area: –– Neighbourhood Park with riparian plantings, interpretive programs, a nature play area, small washroom, seating, picnic area, beach access and trailhead for future trail connections. • Southeast – Lakeshore Dr. area: –– Linear and/or Pocket Park with public lake access, beach, dog off-leash and dog swimming areas.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 51 5.2 OUR NATURE

Our parks system is part of something much bigger. Our region is home to some of the greatest concentrations of species diversity and species at risk in the Country and is recognized as one of the Country’s most endangered natural systems. Our region forms an important corridor of movement for wildlife through to the interior grasslands of British Columbia. In addition to providing outdoor recreation and active transportation, our parks and trails system is part of a larger ecological network. Our system plays an important role in conserving regional biodiversity, providing critical ecological connections between larger regional and provincial protected areas and continuing the flow of vital ecosystem services.

Places such as the West Bench lands, Kruger Mountain and Osoyoos Lake are some of our most unique natural features. Our most sensitive ecosystems include:

• Antelope brush grasslands • Wetlands • Riparian areas30

However, the Town and Region have experienced declines in native species and habitats as habitat conversion and fragmentation, non-native species, climate change, pollution, and development continue to expand.31 For example, within the Town boundary, there are 12 km of Osoyoos Lake shoreline. However, only 3.1 km of our shoreline is currently dedicated as park, protecting the lake’s sensitive riparian areas while maintaining selective public access to the lake (see Figure 28). Additionally the Town does have in place the Riparian Development Permit Area which is integral to the protection of riparian areas from development so that they can support fish life processes, specifically by means of implementing the BC Riparian Areas Regulation (RAR).

Biodiversity… short for biological diversity—the variety of life in all its forms that many people think of simply as “nature”

—A Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for the South Okanagan Similkameen, 2012

52 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment N

Figure 28 Shoreline Within Parks

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 53 By protecting local biodiversity and ecosystem services, we can lower our Town’s impact on the environment, enhance our quality of life and save precious tax dollars at the same time. However, the South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Strategy (SOSCS) (2012) concluded that although municipalities in our region have allocated comparable amounts of parkland per capita adopted by Canadian and US parks, almost half of that parkland is for active recreational use, not for conservation. It is a priority for us to plan and manage our parks system in a way that protects our most precious natural environments, achieves ecological connections where it is ecologically valuable to do so and restores and enhances the ecosystem services our natural environment provides our community.

In accordance with the Osoyoos Primer produced as part of the SOSCS, we know that:

• 31% of our land base contains ecosystems ranked high or very high in conservation importance (see Figure 29) • 26% of the Osoyoos Lake shoreline within the Town is contained within Parks (see Figure 28) • Many, but not all, of these ecosystems are included in parks and designated open spaces already • 26% of our Town is classified as having a very high or high relative biodiversity (see Figure 30) • A sub-regional movement corridor runs along the West Bench of Osoyoos and is critical for large mammals to access their vast range and habitat need (see Figure 31) • Osoyoos is a barrier to the east-west migration of wildlife

It is clear from the maps presented below that parks such as Desert Park overlap with areas of high relative biodiversity, high conservation ranking and high habitat connectivity. Desert Park protects remnants of an ecologically unique antelope brush habitat. As the home of a multi-use recreational complex, Desert Park provides everything from a horse track, to baseball diamonds, soccer fields and natural areas.

Ecosystem services are the benefits people obtain from ecosystems . Services are categorized as:

• Provisioning Services (e g. ,. food and water)

• Regulating Services (e g. ,. air quality, flood, and disease control)

• Cultural and Amenity services (e g. , spiritual,. recreational, and cultural benefits)

• Habitat Services (e g. ,. lifecycles and genetic diversity

54 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment Conservation Ranking—ecosystems that are of more importance to conserve .

Relative Biodiversity—hot spots of greatest ecological and biodiversity significance .

Habitat Connectivity—describes the degree to which ecosystems and habitat for wildlife are linked to one another to form an interconnected network across the land . This network provides opportunities for wildlife movement through habitat corridors . Breaking these linkages results in habitat fragmentation thereby reducing biodiversity, ecosystem functions and the ability for species to fulfill their needs for food, shelter, and reproduction .

Figure 29 Conservation Ranking Conservation Ranking

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 55 Keep Nature in our Future… Wine aficionados tell us that there is no place in Canada better for producing fine wines, biologists tell us that the diversity of its birds is unequalled anywhere on the continent, and a glance at any one of the sandy beaches on a sunny day in July tells us exactly why thousands of visitors flock to the valley each year . Where else in Canada can you walk through an alpine meadow, pick a ripe peach and enjoy a glass of wine produced from your neighbour’s vineyard, all on the same day? . . But we can’t take it for granted .

—A Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for the South Okanagan Similkameen, 2012

Figure 30 Relative Biodiversity Ratings

56 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment The maps also illustrate where there is overlap with two of the high priority areas that were identified in the park needs assessment (see Figure 27). Both of these areas are found just north and south of the Osoyoos Golf Course and are located in areas designated as class 2 land management ‘dedicated open space’. In addition, these areas overlap with areas of high conservation ranking, high relative biodiversity, and high habitat connectivity, which present an opportunity for new parkland acquisition.

Figure 31 Habitat Connectivity Ratings

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 57 5.3 TRAIL INVENTORY & NEEDS

5.3.1 Trail Supply

Currently, we have approximately nine designated trails offering residents and visitors 13.52 km of formally designated off-road gravel and paved trails to explore. Residents and visitors also frequently make use of an additional 19.94 km of informal trails within the Town boundary. Our trails and neighbourhoods are connected via an additional 54.8 km of sidewalks and one 440 long designated on-road cycle route.

In addition to the Town supply of on and off-street trails, residents and visitors can access numerous formal and informal trails just beyond the Town’s boundary which are provided by BC Parks, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and/or the Osoyoos Indian Band (see Figure 32).

TRAILS SUPPLY BY THE NUMBERS:

10 Designated Trails

13.52 km formally designated off-road gravel and paved trails

54 km Sidewalks

440 m Designated on-road cycle route

58 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment N

Figure 32 Trail Inventory

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 59 5.3.2 Trail Quality

Trail design and siting, location, ambiance, the supply of comfort and convenience amenities such as benches, accessibility/inclusivity can affect the quality of a trail and therefore its appeal to users. A rapid onsite evaluation of Town owned trails was undertaken to assess their quality. Through the assessment we found that our trails are in very good condition. The trail quality and condition scores ranged from below expectations to exceeding expectations. Specifically, we found that:

• 1 trail was below expectations: –– Solana Key Walkway (Score: 17) • 7 trails met expectations: –– Acacia Trail (Score: 24) –– Airport Trail (Score: 25) –– Dividend Ridge Trail (Score: 26) –– Irrigation Canal Trail (Score: 26) –– Gyro Park Walkway (Score: 32) –– Lions Park Walkway (Score: 32) –– Pioneer Walkway (Score: 32) • 1 trail exceeded expectations: –– Lakeshore Dr. Pathway (Score: 36)

The majority of our trails provide visitors with a paved or hard compact surface and a variety of comfort and convenience amenities such as benches, washrooms and drinking fountains.

60 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment N

Figure 33 Walking Access to Trails that Meet or Exceed Quality Expectations

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 61 5.3.3 Access to Trails and Trailheads

Like parks, proximity to trails can have a direct influence on trail use. Trails that are of a good quality and connect our neighbourhoods to key community destinations and assets tend to be used more frequently. With an understanding of the quality of each trail, we determined what proportion of residential parcels (a proxy for residents’ homes) are within walking distance to a trail head that provides access to a formal Town trail that meets or exceeds quality expectations (Note: the analysis did not account for sidewalks). We found that (see Figure 34):

• 22.6% of residential parcels have walking access to formal trails that meet or exceed quality expectations • 10.1% of residential parcels have walking access to formal trails that do not meet quality expectations • 67.3% of residential parcels are not within walking access to any formal trail head

Figure 34 Trail Condition

62 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment In addition, we also looked at what residential parcels have access to designated trailheads and staging areas. Here is what we found (see Figure 35):

• 32.8% of residential parcels are within 400m of a trail head—a distance commonly used to evaluate the proximity of trails for walkers • 80.3% of residential parcels are within 800m of a trail head—a distance commonly used to evaluate the proximity of trails for cyclists

67 .3% of residential parcels N are not within walking distance to a trail head

Figure 35 Walking and Cycling Access to Trailheads

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 63 5.4 RESOURCING & CAPACITY

Osoyoos, like all municipalities in Canada, faces difficult decisions about where budgets and staff time are allocated. Staffing and budget decreases to parks and trails programs are well documented throughout the Country in the 2016 Canadian Infrastructure Report Card. In 2015, operational expenses for the Town’s parks and trails program was $503,196 with a 5‑year average operational expenses of $403,852. Approximately 92% of this budget is allocated to operating our parks and outdoor sport fields with the remaining 8% allocated to maintaining our trails. Since 2011, our total parks and trails operational budget has increased by 32% from a low of $340,574. Our five year annual average revenue generation was $8,921 per year. A look at our average financial performance over the past 5 years tells us that:

• We are investing less per acre to maintain our parks and trails. Our parks operating expenditures per acre of parkland was $3,918 which is considerably less than the $7,438 (CAD) median for benchmarked communities in the NRPA 2015 Field Report.32 • Osoyoos residents are investing less in our parks and trails than other similar communities. Parks operating expenditures per capita (2011 population) was $76.01 which is lower than the $89.48 (CAD) median for benchmarked communities • Our parks system generates limited revenues. Revenues per capita was $1.84 which is significantly less than the $20.92 (CAD) median for benchmarked communities in the NRPA 2015 Field Report • Cost recovery for our parks and trails is limited. Average revenues as a percent of average operating costs (cost recovery) was 2% which is significantly less than the 31.7% median for benchmarked communities in the NRPA 2015 Field Report

In 2015, we had 10.29 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff who were involved in the planning and operations of our parks and trails Key Learning – Financial & Staffing system. This has increased over • Our budgets and staffing have been the past five years by 2.91 FTEs. increasing consistently over the past 5 years . To understand how well we are resourced from a staffing • Most of our available budget and staff perspective, we compared how time are dedicated to our parks and sports many acres of park land our fields with minimal operational investment staff is maintaining per FTE with in our trails . communities of a similar size. We discovered that, as of 2015, our • Current operational expenditures per acre acres of parkland maintained per and investment in parks per capita are well FTE was 9.1, which is less than the below similar benchmarked communities . 2014 median of 13.5. As such, we are fairly well staffed compared to • Revenues earned by our parks are limited the benchmark communities. leading to a very low cost recovery ratio .

• Our staff are required to manage less parks space per FTE than similar communities .

64 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment 92% operating parks and outdoor $503,196 sport fields 2015 operational expenses for the Town’s parks and trails program 8% maintaining our trails

$7,438 $89 .4 median for median for $3,918 benchmarked $76 01. benchmarked Osoyoos communities Osoyoos communities Parks Operating Parks Operating Expenditures Expenditures per acre of parkland per capita

$20 92. 31 7%. median for median for $1 84. benchmarked 2% benchmarked Osoyoos communities Osoyoos communities

Revenues Cost Recovery per capita

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 65 OCP Guidance:

The Town of Osoyoos adopts the following park classifications and design guidance as identified in this plan:

• Conservation Parks

• Town Parks

• Community Parks

• Neighbourhood Parks

• Public Plazas

66 Parks & Trails Inventory & Needs Assessment• Special Purpose Parks 6 .0 PARKS & TRAILS CLASSIFICATION

The Town manages a diversity of parks and trails. Each site’s and each trail’s size, setting, the amenities provided, accessibility and environmental values combine to provide a unique character and visitor experience. Recognizing the uniqueness of each site, we know that providing consistent park and trail design guidance to staff, contractors, developers, and the community is an important foundation in ensuring the delivery of safe, quality, sustainable and diverse visitor experiences. A classification system also allows our users to better select parks and trails that are likely to meet their skill level and desired experience. As such, there is value in categorizing parks and trails based on common characteristics and establishing high level design, development and management guidance that ensures a desired level of service while being careful not to homogenize our parks and trails experiences or infringe upon future design processes.

The intent of this section is to establish a clear classification structure for parks and trails in our community. The result is consistent direction for the planning, design and programming of parks, off-road trails, on-road multi modal corridors and associated staging areas.

6.1 PARK CLASSIFICATIONS

The following park classes and design guidance will be applied:

• Class 1: Conservation Parks—To conserve provincially, regionally and/or locally significant native habitats protect species at risk and maintain ecosystem processes. Enhance and/or continue the supply of ecosystem services to the community. • Class 2: Town Parks—To serve as a leisure destination for Town and regional residents and visitors. Provide diverse spontaneous and programmed recreational opportunities. May conserve important habitats and provide for functioning ecosystem processes. • Class 3: Community Parks—To provide for the spontaneous and, to a lesser extent, programmed recreational needs of multiple neighbourhoods. May also conserve locally important habitats and provide for functioning ecosystem processes. • Class 4: Neighbourhood Parks—To provide for the spontaneous recreational needs of the surrounding neighbourhood. • Class 5: Public Plazas/ Pocket Parks—To provide residents and visitors respite from busier urban environments, places for children to play, places to rest, space for performers and vendors to enhance visitor experiences and cultural heritage interpretation. • Class 6: Special Purpose Parks—Stand-alone parks that are designed for a particular use such as BMX parks, mountain bike skills parks, skate parks or specialty gardens. Industry best practices should be used to guide the design parameters. • Class 7: Water Access/Linear Parks—Providing public access to ocean, river or lake frontage. Secondary uses include natural area protection and viewing opportunities.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 67 6.1.1 Beyond Designated Parks

Parks are not the only open spaces in the Town. The golf course, school sites, cemetery, streetscapes, boulevards and even vacant lots contribute to our network (See Figure 36). The spaces can provide valuable aesthetic, recreational, health and ecological benefits as they connect our formal parks and trails network.

Figure 36 Beyond Designated Parks

68 Parks & Trails Classification 6.2 TRAIL CLASSIFICATION & DIFFICULTY

The following trail classes and design guidance will be applied:

On-Street Multi-Modal Corridors

• Class 1 – 2-way Separated with Green Boulevard • Class 2 – 2-way Separated with Delineator Post • Class 3 – 1-way on each side of road (no barrier) Off-Street Trails

• Class 1 – Greenway/Urban Trail • Class 2 – Double Track • Class 3 – Single Track Natural Surface • Class 4 – Single Track Mountain Bike Trails The following graphics illustrate the design guidance for each class of on-street multi modal corridor and off-street trails. Cross sections and typical construction details as well as direction regarding design elements, amenities, staging areas and maintenance levels are outlined.

It’s not the acreage or park type standard that should motivate cities, but the direct awareness of the need for different kinds of parks and activities . Instead of setting a standard to measure against, such as certain number of hectares per 1,000 people, what’s important is understanding how residents want to use their parks and trails and devising a plan to meet those desires .

—Urban Green

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 69 6.2.1 On-Street Multi-Modal Corridors Classification Table 1 CLASS 1 MATRIX

CLASS 1: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE This 2-way on-street multi-modal corridor separates cyclists from vehicle High High Paved Gentle (0–5%) 3.0m MAX 1 3 2% 10–20 traffic with a vegetated green boulevard. If located properly, cycling lanes Max. 10% can make active transportation more desirable for day-to-day activities by connecting various community amenities. Some of the connected amenities may include; parks, community facilities (e.g. the seniors centre, the recreation complex), offices, and shops within residential areas.

TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Trail Section

CLASS 1: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CLASS 1: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR Scale: 1:100 Concept Detail

Scale: 1:50 SURFACE: ASPHALT RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME TRAFFIC

GRAVEL BASE STREET TREE

CONCRETE CURB AND FINISHED GRADE 0.15m GUTTER CURB 2%

EXISTING CURB 2.75m AND GUTTER 3.0m GREEN SPACE TWO WAY CYCLE BOULEVARD WITH 3.35m 3.35m TRACK STREET TREES TRAFFIC LANE TRAFFIC LANE

0.15m FLUSH CURB

70 Parks & Trails Classification Table 1 CLASS 1 MATRIX

TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Trail Section

CLASS 1: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CLASS 1: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR Scale: 1:100 Concept Detail

Scale: 1:50 SURFACE: ASPHALT RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME TRAFFIC

GRAVEL BASE STREET TREE

CONCRETE CURB AND FINISHED GRADE 0.15m GUTTER CURB 2%

EXISTING CURB 2.75m AND GUTTER 3.0m GREEN SPACE TWO WAY CYCLE BOULEVARD WITH 3.35m 3.35m TRACK STREET TREES TRAFFIC LANE TRAFFIC LANE

0.15m FLUSH CURB

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 71 Table 2 CLASS 2 MATRIX

CLASS 2: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE This 2-way on-street multi-modal corridor separates cyclists from vehicle High High Paved Gentle (0–5%) 3.0m MAX 1 3 2% 10–20 traffic with a delineator post. If located properly, cycling lanes can Max. 10% make active transportation more desirable for day-to-day activities by connecting various community amenities. Some of the connected amenities may include; parks, community facilities (e.g. the seniors centre, the recreation complex), offices, and shops within residential areas.

TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Trail Section CLASS 2: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CLASS 2: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR Scale: 1:100 Concept Detail

Scale: 1:50 SURFACE: ASPHALT RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME TRAFFIC

GRAVEL BASE

DELINEATOR POST EXTENSION CONCRETE CURB AND FINISHED GRADE GUTTER 0.35m CONCRETE CURB (FLUSH OR 2% STANDARD CURB AND GUTTER)

EXISTING SIDEWALK, CURB AND GUTTER TWO WAY CYCLE TRACK VEHICLE LANE VEHICLE LANE 3.0m 3.35m 3.35m

0.6m PERMANENT MARKINGS OR FLUSH CONCRETE

72 Parks & Trails Classification Table 2 CLASS 2 MATRIX

TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Trail Section CLASS 2: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CLASS 2: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR Scale: 1:100 Concept Detail

Scale: 1:50 SURFACE: ASPHALT RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME TRAFFIC

GRAVEL BASE

DELINEATOR POST EXTENSION CONCRETE CURB AND FINISHED GRADE GUTTER 0.35m CONCRETE CURB (FLUSH OR 2% STANDARD CURB AND GUTTER)

EXISTING SIDEWALK, CURB AND GUTTER TWO WAY CYCLE TRACK VEHICLE LANE VEHICLE LANE 3.0m 3.35m 3.35m

0.6m PERMANENT MARKINGS OR FLUSH CONCRETE

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 73 Table 3 CLASS 3 ,MATRIX

CLASS 3: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE The on-road bike lane is an extension of the road shoulder and does not High High Paved Gentle (0–5%) 1.5m MAX 1 3 2% 10–20 have a physical barrier between vehicle traffic and bicycles. Line painting Max. 10% and bike lane symbols will be utilized, along with approved signage to identify this bike lane. Bicycles will be required to travel one-way with the direction of vehicle traffic. This style of bike lane is considered the least desirable to cyclists and should be developed only when conditions are unsuitable for class 1 and 2.

Trail examples: Cottonwood Road Bike Lane TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS Sample Image

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Trail Section Cottonwood Road Bike Lane

CLASS 3: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CLASS 3: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR Scale: 1:100 Concept Detail

Scale: 1:50 SURFACE: ASPHALT RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME TRAFFIC

GRAVEL BASE

CONCRETE CURB AND FINISHED GRADE GUTTER 2%

VEGETATED VEGETATED BUFFER AND BUFFER AND SIDEWALK TO REMAIN SIDEWALK TO REMAIN 1.2 - 1.5m 3.5m 3.5m 1.2-1.5m BIKE LANE TRAFFIC LANE TRAFFIC LANE BIKE LANE

74 Parks & Trails Classification Table 3 CLASS 3 ,MATRIX

Trail examples: Cottonwood Road Bike Lane TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS Sample Image

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Trail Section Cottonwood Road Bike Lane

CLASS 3: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CLASS 3: ON-STREET MULTI-MODAL CORRIDOR Scale: 1:100 Concept Detail

Scale: 1:50 SURFACE: ASPHALT RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME TRAFFIC

GRAVEL BASE

CONCRETE CURB AND FINISHED GRADE GUTTER 2%

VEGETATED VEGETATED BUFFER AND BUFFER AND SIDEWALK TO REMAIN SIDEWALK TO REMAIN 1.2 - 1.5m 3.5m 3.5m 1.2-1.5m BIKE LANE TRAFFIC LANE TRAFFIC LANE BIKE LANE

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 75 6.2.2 Off-Street Trails

Table 4 Trail Type 1 Matrix

TRAIL CLASS 1: OFF-STREET GREENWAY / URBAN TRAIL DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE These trials are completely separated from vehicular traffic and support High High Paved Gentle (0–5%) 4 1 3 1–2% 10–20 high volumes of users. Paving options include asphalt, unit pavers, Max. 10% concrete or compacted gravel. Class 1 trails will typically provide universal access to a variety of community amenities and are intended to function as an active transportation route for residents and tourists alike.

Trail examples: Gyro Park Walkway, Lakeshore Pathway, Pioneer Walkway

TYPICAL USERS Sample Image HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS TRAIL CLASS 1 MATRIX

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING Gyro Park Walkway

Trail Section Concept Detail SURFACE: 50 mm ASPHALT Scale: 1:100 RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME Scale: 1:50 TRAFFIC (SEE OPTION)

150 mm 19 mm (3/4”) CRUSHED GRAVEL BASE COMPACTED TO 95% MODIFIED PROCTOR DENSITY

DRAINAGE SWALE ON UPHILL SIDE(S) TO RUN UNOBSTRUCTED PARALLEL TO PATH

3 m VERTICAL HYDROSEED PATH EDGES TO SLOPE TO DRAIN CLEARANCE LIMIT OF WORK OR VEGETATE AS (2% MIN.) FINISHED GRADE MIN SPECIFIED

2% 75 mm MIN. GROWING MEDIUM OR AS SPECIFIED

NATIVE OR APPROVED SUBGRADE COMPACTED TO CONSTRUCTED BUFFER: 1 m 2 m to 4 m 1 m VEGETATED BUFFER TO 1 m 4m 1 m 95% MODIFIED PROCTOR EXISTING OR INSTALL AS REMAIN CLEAR TRAIL SHOULDER SHOULDER DENSITY CLEAR NEEDED ZONE ZONE

76 Parks & Trails Classification Table 4 Trail Type 1 Matrix

Trail examples: Gyro Park Walkway, Lakeshore Pathway, Pioneer Walkway

TYPICAL USERS Sample Image HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS TRAIL CLASS 1 MATRIX

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE LIGHTING RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING Gyro Park Walkway

Trail Section Concept Detail SURFACE: 50 mm ASPHALT Scale: 1:100 RATED FOR HIGH VOLUME Scale: 1:50 TRAFFIC (SEE OPTION)

150 mm 19 mm (3/4”) CRUSHED GRAVEL BASE COMPACTED TO 95% MODIFIED PROCTOR DENSITY

DRAINAGE SWALE ON UPHILL SIDE(S) TO RUN UNOBSTRUCTED PARALLEL TO PATH

3 m VERTICAL HYDROSEED PATH EDGES TO SLOPE TO DRAIN CLEARANCE LIMIT OF WORK OR VEGETATE AS (2% MIN.) FINISHED GRADE MIN SPECIFIED

2% 75 mm MIN. GROWING MEDIUM OR AS SPECIFIED

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 77 Table 5 Trail Type 2 Matrix

TRAIL CLASS 2: OFF-STREET DOUBLE TRACK DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE MATRIX Class 2 Trails Typically provide a mid-country and neighbourhood level Moderate Medium Crushed Up to 30% 1–1.5 1 3 1–2% Provide safe recreational experience. They are typically more challenging than Class 1 Gravel or sight lines trails as they are constructed of softer surface materials (gravel, sand, etc.) Natural and cover a more varied terrain. These are the most common trail types Surface found in Osoyoos and provide a link to amenities outside of the urban trail TRAIL CLASS 2 network. Example: Airport Trail

TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS Sample Image

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Airport Trail Trail Section Concept Detail Scale: 1:100 Scale: 1:50

75 mm 9 mm (3/4”) MINUS AGGREGATE SURFACE COMPACTED TO 95% PROCTOR DENSITY DRAINAGE SWALE ON UPHILL SIDE(S) TO RUN UNOBSTRUCTED PARALLEL TO PATH

VERTICAL CLEARANCE SLOPE TO DRAIN HYDROSEED PATH EDGES TO 2.5M MIN (2% MIN.) FINISHED GRADE LIMIT OF WORK OR VEGETATE AS SPECIFIED 2% 75 mm MIN. GROWING MEDIUM OR AS SPECIFIED NATIVE SUBGRADE TO BE CLEARED OF ALL VEGETATION 1 m 1–1.5 m 1 m VEGETATED BUFFER TO 1 m 1–1.5 m 1 m CONSTRUCTION BUFFER: AND ORGANIC MATTER REMAIN CLEAR CLEAR EXISTING OR INSTALL AS SHOULDER SHOULDER ZONE ZONE NEEDED

78 Parks & Trails Classification Table 5 Trail Type 2 Matrix

TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS Sample Image

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Airport Trail Trail Section Concept Detail Scale: 1:100 Scale: 1:50

75 mm 9 mm (3/4”) MINUS AGGREGATE SURFACE COMPACTED TO 95% PROCTOR DENSITY DRAINAGE SWALE ON UPHILL SIDE(S) TO RUN UNOBSTRUCTED PARALLEL TO PATH

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 79 Table 6 Trail Type 3 Matrix TRAIL CLASS 3: OFF-STREET SINGLE TRACK NATURAL SURFACE DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE Single-track trail, typically not universally accessible due to surfacing and Low Low Natural Up to 30% 0.5–1 0.5 2.5 2–4% Provide safe terrain. Provides a mid-country to more back-country experience and very Surface/ sight lines few amenities. The narrow natural surface trail has fewer environmental gravel impacts, protects sensitive ecosystems, and enhances user experience. added where Trail examples: Strawberry Creek Trails needed

Sample Image TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS TRAIL CLASS 3 MATRIX

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Strawberry Creek Trails Trail Section

Scale: 1:100

Concept Detail 25–75 mm NATIVE SOIL (19 mm (3/4”)MINUS Scale: 1:50 AGGREGATE SURFACE MAY BE APPLIED IN HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS) CLEAR ALL VEGETATION AND ORGANIC MATTER FROM FULL WIDTH OF TRAIL TREAD SURFACE

DRAINAGE SWALE ON UPHILL SIDE(S) TO RUN UNOBSTRUCTED SLOPE TO DRAIN PARALLEL TO PATH (2% MIN.) FINISHED VERTICAL GRADE CLEARANCE AVOID DAMAGE TO / REMOVAL 2.5m MIN OF VEGETATION ADJACENT TO TRAIL SURFACE 2%

IF REQUIRED, RESTORE VEGETATION WITHIN LIMIT OF WORK AS SPECIFIED VEGETATED BUFFER TO 0.5– VEGETATED BUFFER 0.5 m 0.5–1 m 0.5 m REMAIN 0.5 m 0.5 m TO REMAIN CLEAR 1 m CLEAR ZONE ZONE SHOULDER SHOULDER

80 Parks & Trails Classification Table 6 Trail Type 3 Matrix TRAIL CLASS 3: OFF-STREET SINGLE TRACK NATURAL SURFACE DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE Single-track trail, typically not universally accessible due to surfacing and Low Low Natural Up to 30% 0.5–1 0.5 2.5 2–4% Provide safe terrain. Provides a mid-country to more back-country experience and very Surface/ sight lines few amenities. The narrow natural surface trail has fewer environmental gravel impacts, protects sensitive ecosystems, and enhances user experience. added where Trail examples: Strawberry Creek Trails needed

Sample Image TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS TRAIL CLASS 3 MATRIX

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Strawberry Creek Trails Trail Section

Scale: 1:100

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 81 Table 7 Trail Type 3 Matrix TRAIL CLASS 4: OFF-STREET SINGLE TRACK MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE MATRIX Single-track trail, typically not universally accessible due to surfacing and Low Low Natural Up to 30% 0.5–1 0.5 2.5 2–4% Provide safe terrain. Provides a mid-country to more back-country experience and very Surface/ sight lines few amenities. The narrow natural surface trail has fewer environmental gravel impacts, protects sensitive ecosystems, and enhances user experience. added where needed TRAIL CLASS 4 Trail examples: Skaha Bluffs - Rock Oven

Sample Image TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Skaha Bluffs - Rock Oven Trail Section

Scale: 1:100

Concept Detail 25–75 mm NATIVE SOIL (19 mm (3/4”)MINUS Scale: 1:50 AGGREGATE SURFACE MAY BE APPLIED IN HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS)

CLEAR ALL VEGETATION AND ORGANIC MATTER FROM FULL WIDTH OF TRAIL TREAD SURFACE

DRAINAGE SWALE ON UPHILL SIDE(S) TO RUN UNOBSTRUCTED SLOPE TO DRAIN PARALLEL TO PATH (2% MIN.) FINISHED VERTICAL GRADE AVOID DAMAGE TO / REMOVAL CLEARANCE OF VEGETATION ADJACENT TO 2.5m MIN TRAIL SURFACE 2%

82 Parks & Trails Classification Table 7 Trail Type 3 Matrix TRAIL CLASS 4: OFF-STREET SINGLE TRACK MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS DESIGN ELEMENTS SURFACING SLOPE TRAIL WIDTH (M) CLEARING WIDTH ON CLEARING HEIGHT CROSS SLOPE SIGHT LINES (M) DESCRIPTION RELATIVE LEVEL OF MAINTENANCE EACH SIDE OF TRAIL (M) (M) USE MATRIX Single-track trail, typically not universally accessible due to surfacing and Low Low Natural Up to 30% 0.5–1 0.5 2.5 2–4% Provide safe terrain. Provides a mid-country to more back-country experience and very Surface/ sight lines few amenities. The narrow natural surface trail has fewer environmental gravel impacts, protects sensitive ecosystems, and enhances user experience. added where needed TRAIL CLASS 4 Trail examples: Skaha Bluffs - Rock Oven

Sample Image TYPICAL USERS HIKING WALKING EQUESTRIAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ROLLER UNIVERSAL TYPICALLY PROVIDED BIKING BLADES ACCESS

OCCASIONALLY PROVIDED

AMENITIES FURNISHINGS GARBAGE KIOSK REST TOILETS BICYCLE VEHICLE RECEPTACLES AREAS PARKING PARKING

Skaha Bluffs - Rock Oven Trail Section

Scale: 1:100

Concept Detail 25–75 mm NATIVE SOIL (19 mm (3/4”)MINUS Scale: 1:50 AGGREGATE SURFACE MAY BE APPLIED IN HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS)

CLEAR ALL VEGETATION AND ORGANIC MATTER FROM FULL WIDTH OF TRAIL TREAD SURFACE

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 83 N

Figure 37 Trail Inventory

84 Parks & Trails Classification 6.2.3 Trail Difficulty Guidelines

Trail difficulty is a key consideration in our visitors’ decision making process. Some seek a challenge while others look for less adventurous trail opportunities. Ensuring visitors understand the difficulty of each trail is essential to helping visitors remain safe while on our trails. As such, it is essential to classify the difficulty of our off-street trails. Table 2 identifies the classes of trail difficulty—from easy to extremely difficult—and presents the characteristics that are evaluated in assigning each. These classes are to be applied to all existing and future off-road trails in Osoyoos including walking, hiking and mountain biking. Additionally, detailed descriptions of natural obstacles and mountain bike Technical Trail Features (TTFs) that could be associated with each difficulty rating are referenced.

Table 2 Trail Difficulty Standards

Easy Moderate Difficult Extremely Difficult

Difficulty Rating Sign Graphic

Trail Width 4 m 1–1.5 m 0.5–1 m 0.25–0.5 m Tread Surface Paved or Gravel or natural Natural surface Natural surface compacted gravel surface hard surface Average Trail 0-5% 10% or less 15% or less 20% or more Grade Max Trail Grade 10% 25% 30% 30% or more Natural Obstacles None • Unavoidable • Unavoidable • Unavoidable and Mountain bridges 1m or obstacles 0.25m obstacles 0.25m Bike Technical wider tall or less tall or greater Trail Features (TTF) • Avoidable • TTFs 1.25m high • TTFs 1.25m high obstacles may or less, width of or greater, be present deck is less than width of deck is 1.2 the height unpredictable

• May include • Avoidable loose rocks obstacles may be present • Avoidable obstacles may • May include be present loose rocks

• Short sections • Many sections may exceed may exceed criteria criteria Associated with Trail Class 1 Trail Class 1, Trail Trail Class 3, Trail Trail Class 4 following Trail Class 2, Trail Class 4 Class 4 Classification

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 85 N

Figure 38 Formal Trails by Difficulty Rating

86 Parks & Trails Classification 6.3 STAGING AREAS & FURNISHINGS

Staging areas are situated at the entrance of certain parks and trails. Staging areas create a first impression and set the tone for the recreation experience. Staging areas vary, based on the type of park or trail, location, usage level, demand, and space provided. Considering the diversity of conditions through the Town, staging areas are grouped into three distinct classes each with unique design guidelines and amenities. The following matrix outlines the three different types of staging areas:

VEHICLE HANDICAP BICYCLE GARBAGE MAP KIOSK STAGING TYPE TOILETS SEATING PARKING PARKING PARKING RECEPTACLES DIRECTIONAL

1 High Use 1 3

2 Medium/ 2 3 Low Use

3 Access Point

1 Minimum of 10 stalls Required 2 Minimum of 5 stalls 3 If trail is universally accessible

Optional

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 87 Type 1 Staging Area—High Use

The high use staging area is designed for large multi or single use trails or popular parks with a high demand and substantial traffic flow.

• The parking area should have a minimum of 10 parking stalls, and must include a minimum of one accessible parking space, if the trail is universally accessible (indicated by designated wheelstops/signs). • If space allows and there is a high level of equestrian use, then the design should include space for horse trailers as well as hitching rails and/or corrals. • Design of the staging area must consider the needs of emergency vehicles and should also consider the need for bus access. • Bicycle parking should be provided. • Toilet facilities, mainly portable toilets, should be provided. • Garbage receptacles should be provided and should be animal proof, with an option for recyclables. • A map kiosk of the park or trail is required. Information should include orientation signage which shows the user’s current location, rules and regulations of the park or trail, permitted uses, and potential hazards, Osoyoos contact information and hours of operation. • At least one picnic table or bench should be provided for seating.

Type 2 Staging Area—Medium/Low Use

The medium/low use staging area is designed for multi or single use trails and parks and trails with intermediate demand level, and less traffic flow than the high use staging area.

• The parking area should have a minimum of 5 parking stalls, and must include an accessible parking space if the trail is universally accessible (indicated by designated wheelstops/signs).

• Design of the staging area must consider the needs of emergency vehicles and also have trailhead barriers for ATVs (e.g., bollards).

• Bicycle parking, washrooms, and seating are typically not provided, except in certain situations.

• A map kiosk of the park or trail is required. Information should include orientation signage which shows the user’s current location, rules and regulations of the park or trail, permitted uses, and potential hazards, Osoyoos contact information and hours of operation.

88 Parks & Trails Classification Type 3 Staging Area—Access Point

The access point staging area is designed for trails or parks with a low traffic flow and demand level. This trailhead may also be used at a secondary access point of a higher demand trail, or as an access point to a trail where no parking is required, such as a small trail in a community neighbourhood.

• There are no parking spaces, and bicycle parking and washrooms are not provided.

• Barriers (e.g., bollards, boulders) are included to restrict motorized access.

• Garbage receptacles are not required.

• Generally no kiosk is provided, but directional signage and maps showing the user’s location, rules and regulations of the trail, trail uses, and potential hazards should be included.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 89 90 Parks & Trails Classification 7 0. OSOYOOS’ PARKS & TRAILS IN 2025

7.1 VISION

Imagine… In 2025

The plan and the vision align with our Official Community Plan’s Goals 4 and 7:

Goal 4 – Amenity Values: Quality amenities serving residents and visitor needs including parklands, walkways, an accessible lakefront and well-equipped recreational and cultural facilities .

Goal 7 – Resource Conservation: Conservation of natural resources for current and future populations, including a sustainable agricultural base, clean air and water, protected and enhanced wildlife habitats and secure scenic vistas .

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 91 7.2 PLAN GOALS

To guide our path to realizing our vision, we will work to achieve the following goals:

Accessible & Inclusive

• Our network of parks and trails will be equitably distributed across the municipality and be designed to minimize barriers for those with mobility and other limitations. 90% of residents will be within 400 m of a quality park space and trailhead that provides diverse recreation experiences.

Enhanced, Diversified & Expanded

• Enhance the quality of existing parks and trails by upgrading amenities with clear wayfinding and signage and comfort and convenience amenities. The recreational opportunities available will be expanded and diversified to meet the needs of our residents and tourists.

Physically Connected

• Our parks and trails will be physically connected to one another, our neighbourhoods, destinations within the municipality and to our regional neighbours.

Conservation & Functioning Ecosystems

• Our parks will conserve and, where needed, restore the quantity, quality and function of natural habitats and ecosystem services while contributing to ecological connectivity within the region.

Shared Stewardship & Well Managed

• Our residents will be actively engaged as partners and shared stewards in the planning and management of our parks and trails system. Our parks and trails will be actively managed and maintained to ensure they provide visitors with a safe and memorable experience.

Economically Beneficial

• Our parks and trails will generate reasonable revenues, create value for future development and serve as a foundation on which tourism to our region can grow.

92 Osoyoos’ Parks & Trails In 2025 Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 93 VISION Imagine… In 2025 We are working with our partners to provide a diverse network of high quality, safe and well managed parks and trails that share our stories, those of our natural heritage and First Nations. Our network is accessible, seamlessly connected locally and regionally and our residents have become more active more often in our parks and trails. Our conservation parks are protecting our most sensitive ecosystems, our scenic landscapes and maintaining important local and regional habitat connections. Meanwhile, residents are regularly taking part in outdoor recreation and cultural and social experiences in our parks and trails while visitors are enjoying sophisticated all-season tourism experiences that allow them to experience what Osoyoos has to offer.

GOALS

ACCESSIBLE & INCLUSIVE ENHANCED, DIVERSIFIED & EXPANDED Our network of parks and trails will be equitably distributed across Enhance the quality of existing the municipality and be designed parks and trails by upgrading to minimize barriers for those with amenities with clear wayfinding mobility and other limitations. 90% and signage and comfort and of residents will be within 400m of convenience amenities. The a quality park space and trailhead recreational opportunities available that provides diverse recreation will be expanded and diversified to experiences. meet the needs of our residents and tourists.

94 Osoyoos’ Parks & Trails In 2025 PHYSICALLY CONNECTED SHARED STEWARDSHIP & WELL Our parks and trails will be physically MANAGED connected to one another, our Our residents will be actively neighbourhoods, destinations within engaged as partners and shared the municipality and to our regional stewards in the planning and neighbours. management of our parks and trails system. Our parks and trails will be CONSERVATION & FUNCTIONING actively managed and maintained ECOSYSTEMS to ensure they provide visitors with a Our parks will conserve and, where safe and memorable experience. needed, restore the quantity, quality and function of natural ECONOMICALLY BENEFICIAL habitats and ecosystem services Our parks and trails will generate while contributing to ecological reasonable revenues, create value connectivity within the region. for future development and serve as a foundation on which tourism to our region can grow.

STRATEGIES Expand, Diversify and Connect the Keep Nature In Our Future System • Expand & Diversify Parkland Actively Manage The System Supply • Signage & Wayfinding • Expand, Diversify & Connect Spread The Word About The System Our Network Of Off-Street Trails & On-Street Multi-Modal Corridors Collaborate

Enhance The System–Upgrades, Sustain Our Capacity Amenities & Programming • Parks • Trails (Off-Street) • On-Street Multi-Modal Corridors • Sidewalk Network

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 95 96 Osoyoos’ Parks & Trails In 2025 8 0. MOVING FORWARD… STRATEGIES & ACTIONS

To achieve our vision and goals, we have identified a number of strategies and actions that will advance our parks and trails system to where we want to be. These strategies and actions have been informed by our learning’s from the review trends, our evolving demographics, our needs assessment and the ideas our community, stakeholders and First Nation’s raised during engagements. To create a network of parks and trails that meet our vision, we will focus on the following 7 strategies over the next 10 years:

• Expand, Diversify and Connect • Enhance • Keep Nature in our Future Strategy • Actively Manage What we will do! Spread the Word • Action • Collaborate How we will do it? • Sustain our Capacity

8.1 EXPAND, DIVERSIFY AND CONNECT THE SYSTEM

8.1.1 Expand & Diversify Parkland Supply

As shown in the needs assessment, we have some gaps in our parks network. Acquisition of new parklands in these locations would help us ensure a more equitable distribution of parks across the Town as well as providing for better access to our most prized outdoor recreation. Additionally higher density residential areas may be better candidates for park acquisition and/or reinvestment because of the larger number of residents they can serve. Figure 39 shows areas of the Town that are zoned as ‘high density residential’. In addition, the Town’s new growth areas (shown in Figure 40) are areas that have been identified for new development. These areas, similar to those zoned for high density residential, can be good candidates for park acquisition or reinvestment due to the anticipated residential/commercial growth and corresponding demand for park space.

Expanding the network in key areas will also improve our protection for some of our most sensitive ecosystems while enhancing local and regional habitat connectivity. Additional parkland supply also affords us the opportunity to provide a greater diversity of visitor experiences. We will expand, diversify and connect our park system through the following actions.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 97 N

Figure 39 High Density Residential Areas

98 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions N

Figure 40 New Growth Areas

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 99 Actions:

1. Work with partners and the development community to assemble land and dedicate new parks in priority areas, including:

1.1. Neighbourhood Park near Fairwinds Drive and Olympic View Drive (Dividend Ridge Neighbourhood). This park could provide amenities such as a playground, washroom, seating, picnic area, parking area and trailhead with access to Kruger Mountain trails.

1. 2. Neighbourhood Park at the north end of Cottonwood Drive near the Nk’MIP Resort. This park could be a natural themed park site with riparian plantings, interpretive programs, a nature play area, small washroom, seating, picnic area, beach access and trailhead for future trail connections.

1. 3. Water Access/Linear Park northwest of Lacey Point maintain public access to the lake and shoreline with designated dog off-leash and dog swimming areas.

1. 4. Water Access/Linear park southeastern shoreline of Osoyoos Lake along Lakeshore Drive to further enhance and maintain public access to the lake and shoreline while protecting the lake’s riparian area. Designated dog off-leash and dog swimming areas should also be considered where appropriate.

1. 5. Conservation Park in the area between the Osoyoos Golf Course and Strawberry Creek Road (South of Strawberry Creek Growth Area). This park would be focused on protecting native biodiversity and maintaining habitat and wildlife connectivity corridors with the Kruger Mountain Extension Area (see Osoyoos OCP) while developing sustainable hiking, running and mountain biking trails that have minimal impact on the site’s conservation values. Additionally this park would serve as a key staging area for access to the Town’s West Bench lands, Kruger Mountain trails and the proposed Dry Grasslands National Park. Consideration should be given to the development of a mountain bike focused intensive area including pump track, mountain bike skills park and comfort and convenience amenities such as a bike wash station, trailhead, day use area, parking, washrooms and information/interpretive kiosks.

1. 6. Conservation Park for the “Y” Park Site northwest of Lions Park. Habitat restoration works include removal of invasive species, trash and replant with native species. Minimal development for this park would include pathways, observation structures and a series of interpretive signs/kiosks depicting the historic railway uses of the site along with the current wetland habitat value.

1. 7. Conservation Park for Pfingsttag Pond (in the Southeast Meadowlark Area) including protecting and enhancing its ecological values through careful design and limited public access.

2. Undertake the preparation of collaboratively developed master plans to provide design, development and management direction for all new parks.

100 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions 3. Continue to develop Veterans, Gyro and Legion Parks into a seamlessly connected iconic waterfront park destination for all-seasons. This fully connected seamless waterfront park destination could feature festival, performance and concession spaces, natural playground, native gardens, public art, picnic and gathering spaces and perhaps a pathway for play. Undertake the preparation of a collaboratively developed master plan to provide a new vision as well as design, development and management direction for the sites. As part of the master planning process, consideration should be given to implementing the proposed pier along with an enhanced water park and swimming area for children and families that provides wheelchair accessibility.

4. Redesign Kinsmen Park into an outdoor fitness focused park target adults and older adults.

5. Through the urban core of the Town, consider and support initiatives to implement “pop-up places” including parks, plazas, markets and art displays. Pop-up places can be sited in parking stalls, vacant public lots, streets and other unused public spaces. These temporary park spaces can provide fun, unique and appealing places for residents and visitors while building community. They should be considered as part of the downtown revitalization plan.

Pop-Up Places are temporary park places that are tactically used to convert underutilized street and urban spaces into vibrant community oriented places . These initiatives can breathe new life into our Town while bringing people together in fun, creative and invigorating ways .

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 101 8.1.2 Expand, Diversify & Connect our Network of Off-Street Trails & On-Street Multi-Modal Corridors

The Town of Osoyoos has many exciting options for developing new trails and tourism focused themed cycling and hiking routes. As shown in the needs assessment, many areas of the Town are not connected to the Town’s off-street trail system and the system is often unconnected from key destinations. We also heard that moving forward deliberately to improve the Town’s provision and connection to mountain biking opportunities is important. The area between Strawberry Creek Road and the Osoyoos Golf Course has potential for sustainably developed mountain bike trails. Furthermore, given Osoyoos’ natural gift of Osoyoos Lake, having trail connections along the lakefront with lake access could create a beach-hopping family activity over a day. We will expand and connect the network of off-street trails by delivering the following actions.

Osoyoos’s strategic location along major transportation routes provides regional access to and from the Town, enabling an important tourism economy and benefiting residents and visitors. For pedestrians and cyclists however, these transportation corridors often represent significant barriers to connectivity. Highway 3 bisects the Town along its east-west axis, particularly through the downtown area, and Highway 97 bisects the Town along its north-south axis. In addition, the Osoyoos Lake and its tributaries represent significant barriers to the Town’s neighbourhoods.

The following were the top key destinations mapped by participants at the October workshop; the majority of the local destinations are waterfront parks and walkways. This again identifies the importance of lakefront parkland and how it is utilized not only by tourists/visitors but by local residents as well.

Local Destinations (inside Town boundary):

• Lions Park • Gyro Park • Legion Beach • Jack Shaw Gardens • West Bench Complex • Desert Park • Kinsmen Park

Regional Destinations (outside Town boundary):

• KVR Trail • Kruger Mountain/West Bench Trails • Haynes Point (swiws) Boat Launch • Osoyoos Desert Centre • NK’MIP Resort

102 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions • Dewdney Trail – is a 720 km long trail that served as a major thoroughfare in the mid-19th century connecting mining camps and small towns along the southern border. Today 80% of the original trail route has been incorporated in the Crowsnest Highway, however the remaining trail sections are popular hiking and biking destinations. • Osoyoos Lake Regional Park

Key Regional Connections:

• KVR Trail • Nk’MIP Resort • Trail of the Okanagans • Connection to proposed National Park • Dewdney Trail

Given the Town residents’ desires and interests, there is the potential to create themed touring routes within Osoyoos such as “Sip and Cycle Osoyoos” or “Pedal to Produce” similar to what other successful tourist destinations have done such as Australia’s Victoria High Country.33 These signature trails/routes can cater to both the active tourist who wants to ride technical mountain bike trails for the day and the leisure tourist who wants a more relaxed experience bike touring the wineries or lakefront with their family. Beyond the need for signature trails and routes, new trails and connections to complete the Osoyoos trails network are required, making the usability and safety paramount for both locals and visitors. These routes, if located properly, can also make active transportation for day-to-day activities about town comfortable and desirable by connecting the vast majority of parks, community facilities (e.g., the seniors centre, the recreation complex), offices, and shops with residential areas.

In the Stage 1 engagement, we heard from residents their concerns, ideas, and opportunities for new trails within our Town. What we heard on this topic can be summarized as follows:

• Concrete barriers, roads and other infrastructure (e.g., highway) are posing major obstacles to accessing trails within the Town boundaries and the larger region (See Barriers in Section 3.2 for more detail). • With two major highways intersecting the Town, new trail alignments are needed to have safe crossings for major roadways. • New trails should focus on connecting the gaps so existing trails can create a seamless network both within the Town limits and connections to the regional trail system.

We also recognize that from an overall transportation safety perspective, on more heavily travelled corridors, it is best to separate modes as much as possible. Our approach is to integrate modes on low speed, low volume roads, but on most of the busier corridors in town, to provide sidewalk facilities for pedestrians and mobility challenged persons using wheelchairs and scooters, segregated cycle tracks for cyclists and inline skaters, and exclusive travel lanes for vehicles.

Sidewalks provide vital connections between the Town’s off-street trails and key destinations. We are currently working to implement our sidewalk retrofit program. To continue to enhance the connectivity of our active transportation network, we will continue to make investments in sidewalk infrastructure in tandem with the on-street multi-modal corridors noted in Section 8.2.3.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 103 Off-Street Trails

Actions:

6. Conduct a mountain bike trail feasibility/impact study for the currently undeveloped open space between Strawberry Creek Drive and the Osoyoos Golf Course. Improvements to the existing trails and development of new ones could be completed sustainably with the sensitive habitat utilizing the IMBA (International Mountain Bike Association) design guidelines and best management practices. Additionally a pump track and mountain bike skills park could be incorporated to this area pending a more in-depth study.

7. Create a series of signature themed touring trails/routes focused on the Town’s natural and cultural heritage and abundance of vineyards and wineries. Initiate master development planning for each of the themed touring routes to:

–– Refine routes, as necessary, to connect to market ready travel motivators and attractions –– Establish a brand for the route that is connected to the Osoyoos tourism brand and story-telling framework –– Identify and design visitor amenity areas –– Develop visitor itineraries

8. Ensure the Town’s off-street trails and on-street multi-modal network connects with regional off-street trails and multi-modal corridors and destinations in the region, including:

–– KVR Trail Linkage at the north end of the Airport Trail near the Osoyoos Desert Centre –– Nk’MIP Resort –– Dewdney Trail –– Trail of the Okanagans –– Town to the proposed National Park

104 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions On-Street Multi-Modal Corridors

Actions:

9. New Class 2 facilities are proposed for:

–– Oleander Drive – Proposed Cross Sections Included in Appendix D –– 62 Avenue – Proposed Cross Sections Included in Appendix D –– Kingfisher Dr. –– 89 Street (with a small segment of 78 Avenue to connect to 87 Street) –– 87 Street – Proposed Cross Sections Included in Appendix D –– 74 Avenue –– 92 Avenue (with connection to Lions Park trail) –– 70 Avenue –– 68 Avenue –– Cottonwood Drive North of Cottonwood Park, and South of Main Street –– Golf Course Drive –– Fairwinds Drive

These facilities are recommended based on site plan and cross-sectional information provided to Stantec by the Town and True Engineering. Based on the information provided, these facilities are feasible to fit within existing pavement widths, requiring only significantly reduced infrastructure changes along the length of each corridor to accommodate the recommended facilities.

10. New shared mode facilities are recommended for four additional locations within Osoyoos as noted below. These recommendations are provided based on overall network continuity, but are subject to further study of engineering constraints such as road surface availability, underground and overhead utilities, vegetation, available right of way, etc. to determine the required infrastructure changes. These routes can be further addressed in future studies such as the Downtown Revitalization Plan.

–– Nighthawk Drive: Class 2 On-Street Facility –– Harbour Key Drive: Class 2 On-Street Facility –– A connection on the south side of Main Street connecting Solana Key Court to Lakeshore Drive (subject to coordination with MoTI): Class 1 On-Street Facility with modified (wider) vehicular lane widths. –– Main Street Downtown: Modified Class 1 On-Street Facility with modified (wider) vehicular lane widths, and permitting vehicular and bicycle parking.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 105 11. To reduce the highway barrier for active travel in Osoyoos, controlled crossings (types to be determined in consultation with BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure) are recommended at:

–– Highway 97/62 Avenue (Existing Crossing) –– Highway 97/74 Avenue –– Highway 97 near Royal Ann Court/92 Avenue –– Highway 3/Strawberry Creek Road –– Highway 3/Irrigation Canal Trail Crossing –– Highway 3 near Shopping Plaza with 7-11 –– Highway 3/89 Street (Existing Crossing) –– Highway 3/87 Street (Existing Crossing) –– Highway 3/74 Avenue –– Highway 3/68 Avenue –– Highway 3/Kingfisher Drive (Existing Crossing) –– Highway 3 near the east end of Bridge –– Highway 3/Beach Access near east end of Pioneer Walkway (Existing Crossing) –– Highway 3/Cottonwood Drive (Existing Crossing) –– Highway 3/Tamarack Drive

Figure 41 shows the proposed network plan of on-street multimodal facilities. With this network, no residence within the Town’s boundaries would be located further than 800 m from a multimodal corridor, and all major parks, facilities and amenities in town are connected through a seamless network. The network also interconnects to regional trails at key connections outside Town boundaries.

106 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions N

Figure 41 Proposed Network of On-street, Off-street and Regional Connections

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 107 8.2 ENHANCE THE SYSTEM–UPGRADES, AMENITIES & PROGRAMMING

8.2.1 Parks

The park quality and condition assessment that was completed in Section 5.1 showed which parks in the Town were below, meeting and exceeding expectations. While a number of the parks in our Town are either meeting or exceeding expectations, some, including Kinsmen Park and the West Bench Complex, are below expectations. Recognizing municipal budget constraints, not all parks in the Town can be upgraded, enhanced or maintained equally and therefore some parks may have to be prioritized over others.

As discussed in Section 5.1, the greater the diversity of our Town’s park amenities, the more likely it is to serve our residents’ diverse needs. The park needs assessment found that a large portion of the west, south, and northeastern reaches of our Town either have access to no park amenities or few amenities. These areas therefore lack the important amenities needed to support the diverse recreational needs of our community from active and unstructured recreation to more passive recreation activities including social gatherings in our parks. While many of our parks—ranging from Pioneer Walkway, Lions Park, and Goodman Park—contain a variety of park amenities, our parks planning carefully considers how park amenities can be more efficiently distributed throughout the Town to offer the diversity that our residents are looking for.

108 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions Actions:

Upgrades and Maintenance

12. Improve overall access to parks by ensuring that every residential parcel of land within the Town has access to a park with 400 metres.

13. Invest in improving existing parks that are ‘below expectations’; upgrade and maintain these parks to ensure they are meeting the needs of residents and visitors before new ones are developed.

13.1 West Bench Complex:

–– Complete construction of the BMX park with BMX Club including pump track, skills area and jump tracks for all bike skill levels. –– Install a small public washroom. –– Ball diamond requires turf maintenance and benches with shade trees. –– Improve dog off leash area including water source, benches with shade structure or trees, entry gates need accessibility improved. –– Basketball court is under used and should be converted to a multipurpose court with pickleball courts and basketball hoops (Proposed for Summer 2016).

13.2 Skate Park:

–– Increase trash clean up around skate park boundary. –– Upgrade landscaping on the south, east and west boundaries to include native drought tolerant tree and shrub plantings and/or xeriscaping, and low mowing requirements. 13.3 Jack Shaw Gardens:

–– Consider installing a gate at the entrance to the tunnel under the road to Legion Beach Park to prevent small children from running to the lake unsupervised. –– Improve accessibility from the parking lot to the washrooms and the spray park. Currently there are no ramps for wheel chair users. –– Consider more low maintenance native plantings/xeriscaping throughout this park to reduce maintenance costs.

13.4 Legion Beach:

–– Improve accessibility from the parking lot to the washrooms and the beach. Currently there are no ramps or paved pathways for wheel chair users. –– Upgrade and add more benches and picnic benches. –– Improve eastern entrance to park with a paved ramp (8% grade max) with rest areas as current gravel path is not accessible to all users and is quite steep and a fall hazard. Also crosswalk at this entrance leads to no sidewalk on north side of Kingfisher Dr. and is a safety hazard.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 109 13.5 Kinsmen Park:

–– Transform Kinsmen Park into an outdoor exercise park with adult exercise equipment and an all-weather walking path circuit. –– Plant additional shade trees throughout park.

14. Review the accessibility of parks; prepare a plan to improve the accessibility of existing and future parks. Incorporate park accessibility guidelines into future residential and commercial development projects.

15. North Cottonwood Park Safety Service Improvements:

–– General cleanup of the North Cottonwood Park area (0.4 acres) including the removal and disposal of all debris, refuse and abandoned building foundations; –– Installation of several picnic tables and garbage cans throughout the site; –– Installation of security fencing around the site (5 foot chain link fence with a pedestrian gate); –– Landscaping as required.

16. Gyro Park Retaining Wall Replacement – near White Sands Condos:

–– Replace an existing 37 m section of undermined retaining wall (near the beach adjacent to the White Sands condos) that runs from the Sailing Club to the Museum.

17. Develop a sustainable maintenance schedule and plan for each park to ensure adequate time for mowing, cleaning of washrooms and guidance on pruning and other plant management, as well as aeration of grass. Ensure adequate tools and equipment to meet established landscape maintenance standards.

18. Puncturevine, Sand Burr and Knappweed, all noxious weeds are found in a number of parks and open spaces. An invasive weed management plan should be developed and followed to address this issue.

19. Work with neighbourhoods and in particular, youth, to determine their needs for playgrounds and other parks amenities that are important to them.

20. Work closely with seniors to determine how each park type can best serve their needs.

21. Both existing and new parks require special equipment to serve children with disabilities.

110 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions Amenities:

22. Improve basic comfort amenities in all parks including washrooms, benches, wayfinding, signage, and picnic areas.

23. Improve the diversity and appearance of existing and future park amenities (e.g., more trees, lighting, natural areas, gathering areas, benches, water features etc.).

24. Plan and design park spaces for social and cultural gatherings (e.g., picnics and concerts) while providing park parking nearby (suitable for Public Plazas, Community and Neighbourhood Parks such as Gyro and Lions Parks).

25. Provide more recreational amenities to respond to the community’s need and desire for spontaneous recreation (e.g., exercise equipment in parks) in Community and Neighbourhood Parks such as Gyro and Lions Parks.

Guiding Principles from the SOCSP

The development of Keeping Nature in Our Future was guided by eight principles that address both conservation issues and management approaches .

1 . Protect large and small areas of habitat .

2 . Protect habitats characteristic of our region .

3 . Connect habitat areas .

4 . Protect a matrix of lands outside of core conservation areas and corridors .

5 . Maintain diversity of ecosystems, species, and genetics .

6 . Consider biodiversity from the regional land use planning and development context .

7 . Share responsibility .

8 . Practice the precautionary principle in decision-making .

In addition to the guiding principles above, the strategy encourages local governments to “build on the existing network of parks, protected areas and greenways to strengthen natural area conservation within a regional context ”.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 111 Programs and Services

26. Work with Destination Osoyoos to ensure that recreational activities, amenities and programs account for the needs and desires of Osoyoos’ visitors. For example, Osoyoos can work with Destination Osoyoos to ensure that its recreation services and programs are included within summer and winter visitor surveys.

27. Consistent with the Community Services Master Plan, continue to provide entry level physical skill development for regional lifestyle activities.

28. Consistent with the Community Services Master Plan, continue to pilot programs in locations where people naturally congregate (i.e., at the beach, park or areas where families gather).

29. Work with partners such as the Osoyoos Indian Band, the school district, historical societies and conservation organizations to develop and deliver a visitor experience programming strategy for the Towns parks and trails. The strategy should identify the ecological, First Nation and cultural educational programming opportunities in the Town. Content could focus on educating visitors about:

–– Desert ecosystems, habitats and species at risk –– Ecosystem processes –– Restoration initiatives –– First Nations history, cultural practices and stories –– Archaeological sites –– History of the Town

30. Work with partners to make visitor programming available through new and evolving technologies such as smart phones and web or App based programs and virtual reality.

8.2.2 Trails (Off-Street)

Trail upgrades required to the existing trail (off-street) network are relatively minimal compared to the on-street multi-modal corridors. Some of the major upgrades required include improving accessibility for all users, addressing safety issues, adding amenities, widening and paving the trail surface. Improvements to winter maintenance of trails based on the trail class will be important as more trails are upgraded and use increases.

The provision of trail amenities is a key, and sometimes overlooked element of trail system design. Developing and maintaining a comprehensive network of on and off road trail facilities does not automatically mean people will use the network. The network has to be promoted, users need to feel comfortable and safe in using it, and they should have access to adequate parking and end-of-trip facilities at strategic locations. This section outlines many of the trail amenities which should be considered for the various types of trail classifications.

112 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions Actions:

31a. Develop the Acacia Trail by adding additional gravel surface in certain locations (consistent Class 2 Off-Street Trail). Clear brush and scrub along the trail to the edges of the clear zone.

31b. Upgrade the Acacia Trail to a Class 1 trail with garbage receptacles and rest areas.

32. Remove vertical dips along the Lakeshore Road multi-use corridor (e.g., in front of Waltons) to enhance running surface.

33. Upgrade the Irrigation Canal Trail between Highway 3 and 62nd Avenue (a length of 1.1 km) to Trail Class 1 (to match the segment on 115th Street). The upgrade would include the following (as per costs estimates completed by True Engineering) —Proposed Fall 2016 completion:

–– 2.4 m wide paved surface trail –– Lighting consisting of the Town decorative street light standards with LED fixtures –– Pa ve 115 th Street parking area and the trail from 115th Street to Highway 3 enabling the users to access the tunnel to cross the highway and also providing a turnaround for mobility scooters.

34. Additional Irrigation Canal Trail projects proposed include:

–– Paving the trail from the existing area to Desert Rose, which would provide an unlighted walking and biking trail for residents and a paved link to the Strawberry Creek area. A second part to this project could be the visitor centre to the trail head north of Highway 3. –– A second option would be paving the 1.3 km portion of the trail east of the airport. –– Paving the route to Desert Rose and paving a portion of the trail from Highway 3 east of the airport.

35. Upgrade to accessible access at Irrigation Canal Trailhead at 62nd Avenue and 115th Street; remove narrow double fence entrance and replace with removable bollards.

36. The Irrigation Canal Trail: Install a small single stall unisex washroom at the southern trailhead near the West Bench Complex.

37. Upgrade gravel pathway between Cottonwood Drive and 45th Street to a multi-use Class 1 off-street greenway.

38. Upgrade to accessible access from Cottonwood Drive to Nk’MIP; replace boulders that block entrance with bollards.

39. Cottonwood Drive to Nk’MIP complete a Class 1 Off-Street Trail connection.

40. Construct a 3 m wide asphalt walkway parallel to the existing Pioneer Walkway. This will improve pedestrian access along the Pioneer Walkway by separating bike, scooter, and skateboard traffic from the pedestrian walkway itself.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 113 41. Upgrade the Pioneer Walkway lighting consisting of the Town decorative street light standards with LED fixtures.

42. Implement improvements to winter maintenance of trails based on the trail class identified in the parks and trails classification. Class 1 trails will be plowed repeatedly during a major snow event. Class 2 trails are plowed once the snow event is finished. When a sidewalk and a trail parallel or are in close proximity, only the sidewalk should be cleared, unless approved by the Town Manager. Additional resources and tools may be necessary to implement maintenance improvements due to the limitations of existing staff resources and machinery. Some trails may require hand-maintenance or new, smaller tools. Some trails also need to be upgraded prior to implementing improved winter maintenance.

43. Improve maintenance of trails which will minimize and/or avoid issues users are experiencing with puncture vine and overgrown trail corridors.

Amenities

44. Information kiosk with maps and notice board at all major trailhead access points are required for Lakeshore Drive, Pioneer, Gyro and Dividend Ridge pathways.

45. Rest areas are recommended along Class 1 and Class 2 trails with seating every 500 m on flat terrain not exceeding 15% and where possible, on long steep grades 15% or greater it is desirable to introduce relatively flat rest areas approximately every 100 m.

8.2.3 On-Street Multi-Modal Corridors

Actions:

Existing facilities proposed for upgrades are:

46. Cottonwood Drive to a Class 2 On-Street Multimodal Corridor; currently a Class 3 On- Street Multimodal Corridor.

47. 62 Avenue west of Highway 97; widen multi-use corridor to 3.3 m (See Appendix D).

48. Pebble Beach Drive (between 46 Avenue & Golf Course Drive); upgrade sidewalk to a multi-use corridor.

114 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions 8.2.4 Sidewalk Network

Actions:

49. Upgrade the existing unimproved walkway from Spartan Drive to the parking lot at Gyro Park. The upgrade would consist of a 1.5 m wide concrete walkway and 5 “flights” of stairs comprising 2 to 4 risers.

50a. Upgrade the existing gravel sidewalk to a 3 m wide asphalt walkway parallel to Main Street between Harbour Key Drive and Cottonwood Drive. This project is an important component of the Town’s plan to improve bike/pedestrian access between the Lakeshore and Downtown areas.

50b. Upgrade the existing gravel shoulder to a 1.5 m wide concrete sidewalk along the north side of Habour Key Drive between Highway 3 and Solana Key Walkway.

50c. Add 1.5 m wide concrete sidewalk to west side of Solana Key Court between Solana Key Walkway and Highway 3.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 115 8.3 KEEP NATURE IN OUR FUTURE

As identified earlier, our parks are part of a bigger ecological network and we have a regional responsibility to ensure our parks system contributes to protecting our local and regional biodiversity. We have opportunities to further our past efforts and will do so through the following actions.

Actions:

51. Continue to work with regional and provincial park managers and the South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Program to implement the South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Strategy.

52. Working with conservation partners, explore the opportunity to acquire and designate new Conservation Parks in areas of greatest conservation value, relative biodiversity and habitat connectivity, including:

52.1. Establish a new Conservation Park in the area immediately northwest of the Osoyoos Golf Course given the lands’ high ecological and conservation value.

52.2. Establish a conservation Park for the “Y” Park Site northwest of Lions Park. Habitat restoration works include removal of invasive species, trash and replant with native species. Minimal development for this park would include pathways, observation structures and a series of interpretive signs/kiosks depicting the historic railway uses of the site along with the current wetland habitat value.

52.3. Establish Pfingsttag Pond (in the Southeast Meadowlark Area) and its surrounds as a conservation park including protecting and enhancing its ecological values through careful design and limited public access.

53. Work with conservation partners to ensure that the expansion of trails and other recreational opportunities in areas of high and very high conservation values avoid, or mitigate, impacts to the area’s ecological values.

54. Conduct an ecological assessment of all parks that contain lands of conservation importance. Develop policies and plans for the management of ecological values in these parks.

55. Work with conservation partners to identify and prioritize areas for restoration within future Conservation Parks. Develop, and as feasible, implement restoration plans.

56. Actively manage recreational use (see Section 8.4) within parks to avoid or mitigate visitor impacts on ecological values.

57. Continue to support Parks Canada’s proposal to establish a new National Park.

58. Enhance opportunities for visitors to learn about our Town’s, and the region’s, biodiversity, ecosystem and ecosystem services through visitor education programs (e.g., interpretive signage, interpretive programming, online information).

116 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions 59. Provide opportunities for parks staff to learn about the ecological values in parks and appropriate management practices to sustain those values.

60. Increased signage and interpretive campaigns would increase awareness around the importance of riparian and natural areas.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 117 8.4 ACTIVELY MANAGE THE SYSTEM

Our parks and trails attract thousands of visitors each year. Providing safe and memorable visitor experiences is a clear mandate of our parks and trails program but this mandate is also balanced with the need to protect the plants, animals and ecosystems that we have within the Town. Use of our parks and trails can, at times, lead to undesirable environmental impacts, visitor conflicts and effects on the visitor experience. The community has expressed concern about rowdy behaviours, alcohol consumption, off-leash dogs and environmental damage. They were clear that visitor use of our parks and trails needs to be actively managed to ensure a quality visitor experience and minimal negative impacts to environmental values.

Visitor use is most effectively managed through a comprehensive visitor management program that consists of (see Figure 42):

• Effective engineering and design • Proactive educational programs • Timely and targeted enforcement in problem areas • Ongoing monitoring and evaluation

Good planning is based on good data and information. Data and information is the foundation on which future management decisions are made. Understanding visitation to and within our parks and trails is vital to a sound visitor management program. We clearly heard that we should better understand who is using our parks and trails, when, where, how and how often. In addition, tracking our current resourcing and budgets and projecting needs for future resourcing and budgets is essential to maintaining an effective level of service for our residents.

Potential biophysical impacts:

• Vegetation and habitat damage

• Wildlife harassment & encounters

• Erosion and soil compaction

• Water pollution

• Waste disposal

Potential visitor experience impacts:

• Crowding

• Conflict between users

• Aesthetics

118 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions Engineering & Design

Visitor Evaluation Management Education Framework

Enforcement

Figure 42 Visitor Management Framework

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 119 Actions

61. The Town as necessary will apply the full range of direct and indirect visitor management strategies to pro-actively avoid and/or manage environmental and social impacts in Town parks and trails. To the extent practical, attempt to apply indirect management strategies to resolve management issues first.

DIRECT STRATEGIES INDIRECT STRATEGIES • Rationing use based on carrying • Infrastructure design and/or alterations capacities • Visitor information & education • Activity restrictions/prohibitions programming through the Leave No • Site closures – temporary and/or Trace program permanent • ParkWatch/Steward Program • Enforcement officer presence • Enforcement

62. Where indirect management strategies are not effective in controlling visitor impacts, the Town will apply appropriate direct management strategies.

63. Design and implement a visitor monitoring/counting program for parks and trails using TrafX or other similar visitor counter tools. The purpose of the program is to identify trends in use, collect comparative data over the long-term, support and direct compliance efforts and to assist in measuring the success of future capital projects as they are implemented.

64. Work with partners such as Bylaw enforcement, RCMP, recreational organizations and others to implement strategic visitor education campaigns promoting responsible, safe and lawful use of parks and trails to address recurring compliance problems such as alcohol consumption and over-intoxication, off-leash use and failure to clean up after pets. The start of prime tourism months, start of the summer and long-weekends are priority periods for these efforts.

65. Adopt the Leave No Trace program and integrate the program’s educational materials into visitor information, signage and other communication tactics. Leave No Trace

66. Adopt or develop a Trail Etiquette Leave No Trace is a national non- program to clearly educate trail profit organization dedicated to users about respectful use of trails promoting and inspiring responsible and the yield hierarchy for the outdoor recreation through education, Town’s multi-use trails and other research and partnerships . Leave No trail use best practices. Trace builds awareness, appreciation and respect for our parks and natural areas . www.leavenotrace.ca

120 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions icycles

everyone yields to horses

67. Review the financial procedures and coding processes related to tracking parks and trails maintenance expenditures and revenue generation. Ensure expenditures and revenues are accurately tracked and can be easily analyzed by parks and trail facility.

68. Consider the implementation of a regular visitor survey to maintain an understanding of residents’ and visitors’ changing demands for and satisfaction with parks and trails services.

69. Maintain an up to date spatial inventory of parks and trails assets. Consider the motorcycles yield to acquisition or development and deployment of a GIS based mobile asset management program that is capable of tracking the supply of assets and servicing at each asset and its condition, characteristics, maintenance backlogs and maintenance reports.

8.4.1 Signage & Wayfinding

Effective signage and wayfinding systems are essential to providing memorable visitor experiences and effective trail and park management. They provide valuable information to visitors, allowing them to make informed decisions, enhance their experience and help them stay safe. However, having too many signs can detract from the visitor experience. Signage should be used sparingly and should be appropriate for the service level and setting of the park or trail. For example, signage in backcountry areas should be limited to the most essential notices, while signage in front-country areas should be concentrated in the parking areas, trail entrances and the access points and to interpret points of interest. During the park and trail assessment, it was noted that most signage currently provided in our parks and trails is regulatory in nature. We currently do not provide visitors wayfinding, maps/information kiosks or interpretive signs. Community members were clear that the current lack of wayfinding signage, maps and interpretive information is a priority to be addressed.

Sign Typology

A successful signage system, based on a standardized typology of signs, typefaces and graphics not only helps to ensure the successful communication of parks and trails information to our residents and visitors, it will also build on the Town’s unique identify and brand. The consistent use of the Town’s logo, colours and typefaces will increase visitor awareness of Osoyoos brand and the Town’s role in providing memorable visitor experiences.

At a minimum, all such signage:

• Must use simple, direct and clear language • Should consist of wording, symbols or a combination • Should be the only sign on a post where possible

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 121 Text for all trailhead/park entrance and wayfinding signage should have high visual contrast with the background in order to assist with visual recognition and should include solid characters and appropriate use of fonts.

The following signage typology will be applied in our parks and trails:

Recommended Location Precedent Image #1 Precedent Image #2

Park/Trailhead Near main entrance(s)/ Entrance parking/staging area(s) Signage/Kiosk

Trail Wayfinding Markers

At trailhead and all intersections

Regulatory/ Responsible Use Signage

Near main entrance/ parking lot

122 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions Recommended Location Precedent Image #1 Precedent Image #2 Informational Signage (Safety/Hazard/ Conservation)

Where there are specific hazards or conservation concerns to visitors

Interpretive Signage

Near main entrance, along trails at rest areas where unique natural and cultural heritage is present

Figure 43 Park and Trail Signage Typology

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 123 Trailhead and Park Entrance Signage

Trailhead and park entrance signs should be integrated at all major access points to managed trails and parks in order to orient users, communicate and teach trail and park etiquette, and provide cautionary information about safety concerns and hazards – ensuring that park and trail users understand and assume risks associated with their activities in the parks and along the trails. The signs should warn of major dangers (e.g., steep drop offs), postings regarding maintenance, and details outlining that users are responsible for their own safety and use the park and trails at their own risk. Also we recommend that the trailhead signs include a Universal Trail Assessment Process (UTAP) based description for each trail which helps users make a decision if the trail is appropriate for their ability before they attempt it.

Trail Wayfinding

Wayfinding signs should be used along trails in conjunction with trailhead maps to orient trail users and assist in route planning. These signs inform users that they are on a network trail, inform users how far they are from the next junction or destination, and illustrate the route of the trail or road from their point forward. Signage at trail intersections should be limited to signage regarding the level of difficulty of the trails, direction to the closest “exit” with distance noted, numbered markers to assist with map reading (i.e., ‘You Are Here’) and directions for emergency services. Typically these are 15x15 cm cedar posts with signs mounted at a height of 1.5 m with the trail name, directional arrow, Osoyoos logo and contact information.

Trailhead signage should include contact information, addresses for emergencies, code of conduct, applicable bylaws, orientation maps and QR codes linked to online maps and information . Standard symbols, as provided in this plan, should be used to indicate the level of trail difficulty . Other information such as that specified in the Universal Trail Assessment Process (UTAP) should also be included to provide information for users with mobility constraints .

124 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions Figure 44 Example of Trailhead and Wayfinding Signage

Regulatory/Responsible Use Signage

All park and trailhead entrance points will have signs noting allowable and prohibited activities. Examples of a regulatory sign are “pedestrians only” or “pets must be on leash at all times”. This information will be conveyed by the use of icons and the prohibited red slash. For parks, these signs will be installed on the entry kiosk and for trailheads, they will be installed on the kiosk if entry point is a major trailhead; otherwise, a 15x15 cm post will be used to mount the signs in a totem fashion.

Other signs may be needed in parks to relay information that is not included elsewhere such as park or trail hours, seasonal use information, restoration and ecologically sensitive areas, user etiquette, etc. Some of this information can be included in kiosks but other information, such as park hours, needs to be located in the area where the subject of the sign is.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 125 Some examples of Informational Signage (Safety, Hazard & Conservation) information signs includes: Informational signs inform users of hazards, safety • Hazards/risks precautions, and park or trail insight. They are used to notify users of important aspects of the park or trail to benefit their • Park boundary recreation experience.

• Park or trail hours Safety signs are used to alert visitors of possible dangerous conditions/hazards within the park or on the trail. Considerable • Seasonal use care must be taken to ensure the most effective placement • User etiquette of these signs. Any hazardous or unexpected obstacles, conditions, or natural landscape features must be assessed for • Restoration areas risk management to determine if their existence requires the installation of such signage.

Safety signage is divided into two categories: 1) Danger and 2) Caution.

Danger signs are red, display strong messages and are used in situations where the visitor should not proceed or must take a specific course of action.

Caution signs are yellow, alerting visitors to potential hazards and suggest the action to be taken. Safety signs must be concise and use universally recognized iconography wherever possible. Figure 45 Regulatory Sign at Interpretive Signage Cottonwood Park

Interpretive and educational signage could be integrated to provide users with information on the natural and cultural history of the parks and trails. In an effort to reduce “signage pollution”, or over-signing, of the parks and trails, this signage could be integrated at trailheads/park entrances, in tandem with wayfinding signage or sensitively incorporated at key viewpoints.

Developing smartphone apps and incorporating QR codes onto interpretive park and trail signage could allow users with smartphones to scan the code to link directly to more in-depth web based information on the park and trail system, or upcoming stewardship events. It could also allow users to upload information on park and trail issues (degradation, disrepair, illegal dumping, garbage), including their GPS location. For those without access to a smartphone a web address (URL) could be included on park entrance and trailhead kiosk signage.

Figure 46 Trailhead Sign Kiosk–Irrigation Canal Trailhead

126 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions Figure 47 Example of Interpretive Signage incorporated into a Wayfinding Sign Post

Actions:

70. Undertake the development of a signage manual to identify a compelling brand for the Town’s parks and trails and to ensure the consistent application of signage within parks and trails.

71. Enhance wayfinding signage within and between parks and trails to make use of our system as easy as possible.

72. Work with the tourism industry (Visitor Centre, Destination Osoyoos, bike rental shops, etc) to ensure tourists who rent bicycles or are encouraged to experience the Town’s trails and parks are provided with visitor friendly wayfinding help such as maps, apps or GPS.

73. Install trailhead kiosk signage with maps similar to the Irrigation Canal Trailhead at Lakeshore Dr., Pioneer and Gyro pathways.

74. Develop a parks and trails interpretation strategy to identify the strategic locations for interpretive signage and messaging in the Town’s parks and trails. Interpretive signage should be installed throughout the parks and trails system to interpret the region’s rich First Nations history, unique ecosystems and biodiversity and the Town’s history and people.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 127 8.5 SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT THE SYSTEM

In addition to physical improvements, our parks and trails system needs a brand and more effective marketing. Promotion and marketing play a vital role in enabling greater visitation, enjoyment and responsible use of our parks and trails. As a resort municipality, visitors demand timely information to help them plan their trips. Promotions and marketing are also essential to educating undeserved populations about the leisure opportunities available to them through the Town’s parks and trails system. Through the community engagement we were told that the Town had room to improve how we promote and market our parks and trails and how we provide park and trail users access to information.

Actions:

75. Work with partners such as Destination Osoyoos, Destination BC, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, the tourism industry and others to develop a unique brand for our parks and trails.

76. Work with partners such as Destination Osoyoos, Destination BC, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, the tourism industry and others to promote existing and future visitor experience itineraries, based on the Town’s parks and trails, to visitors and residents.

77. Work with partners such as the school district and local health authorities to develop and implement a community based social marketing strategy to encourage residents to increase their physical activity and connection with nature by visiting the Town’s parks and trails more often.

78. Work with partners to re-design the Osoyoos Parks, Trails and Facilities brochure and the Osoyoos Park, Recreation and Open Space Map (from the OCP) to supplement the current information with more compelling descriptions of the visitor experiences, more friendly maps and graphics that inspire excitement and visitation.

79. Work with partners to develop an interactive web or app based visitor experience planning tool that allows residents and visitors to identify parks and trails opportunities based on preferred activities, difficulty levels, distance and other criteria via their smartphones. This online tool should serve as a single source of information about visitor experiences, facilities, amenities, events and programs in our parks. The tool should also provide visitors with real-time interpretation and story-telling as well as location services to help them navigate our parks and trails.

128 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions 8.6 COLLABORATE

In today’s reality, achieving our future vision cannot be the sole responsibility of the Town or Town staff. It will take a team effort. Growing collaboration between Town departments and strengthening existing and, in some cases, developing new partnerships will be critical to our success. Going forward, we will enable, encourage and support our friends and partners who are interested in taking an active role in becoming stewards of our parks and trails, offering new amenities and/or programs or helping us manage and maintain our network.

Figure 48 Network of Parks & Trails Partners

Actions:

80. Create and implement an interdepartmental “Parks and Trails Leadership committee” of senior Town staff to discuss and resolve major issues related to capital projects, interface and boundary development, land acquisition, management, safety, capacity and resourcing, etc. The team should meet regularly (e.g., quarterly).

81. Encourage the development of “Friends Of” groups who can become active stewards of community and neighbourhood parks and trails through regular maintenance and clean-up days, minor capital improvements, monitoring and reporting and other tasks.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 129 82. Explore partnership opportunities with local businesses, the tourism industry and other organizations to become active stewards of our parks and trails through an Adopt-A- Park and Adopt-A-Trail program.

83. Encourage the development of Park and Trail Stewardship Teams who would participate in weekly or biweekly stewardship activities throughout the peak season (approximately May to September). Activities would be overseen by staff and trained volunteers and could include control of invasive species, garbage collection, monitoring, outreach, minor trail repairs and closures, and planting of native plants. Organize and deliver a regular Park and Trail Stewardship Meeting (annual) that brings together all parks and trails stewardship groups in the community to strengthen relationships, share ideas and promote learning.

84. As necessary, utilize Public Volunteer Park and Trail Events to bring together resources (i.e., staff/contractor expertise, equipment, large group of volunteers) over a short period of time (i.e., half a day, a weekend) in order to complete a more complicated project such as a trail build.

85. Develop and promote a centralized web page/calendar where individuals and organizations can learn about and sign up for volunteer opportunities.

86. Create a shared use agreement of school lands between the Town of Osoyoos and the Okanagan Similkameen School Board.

Adopt a Park – Adopt a Trail Program

These partnerships can occur through a formal agreement between the Town and organization with an interest in our parks and trails or giving back to the local community . A park and/or trail, or sections of them, could be “adopted” by an organization that act as a local steward . Activities could include:

• Public education park and trail ambassadors

• Monitoring

• Minor maintenance & clean up days (i e. ,. clearing garbage, ensuring signs are visible)

• Minor capital upgrades

The Town benefits from the volunteer labour and the organization benefits from the community profile they receive as well as the opportunity to care for a local park or trail that they use .

130 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions 8.7 SUSTAIN OUR CAPACITY

To achieve our vision, our parks and trails system needs to have the appropriate financial and staff resources and our staff need to be well trained and equipped to implement their work as efficiently and effectively as possible. As municipal budgets continue to tighten, it is essential that we find ways to generate new revenues while ensuring we are optimizing our existing budgets.

Actions:

87. The Town will strive to achieve an annual operational cost recovery rate of between 5% and 15%.

88. Establish more revenue generating projects within Iconic Town Park(s) that can generate revenues and help support the operational costs of those parks and others within the network.

89. Review the Town’s fees and charges process and, if deemed necessary, update to ensure the Town is charging appropriate fees for rentals in light of rising operational costs. Efforts should be made to ensure affordability of parks and trails rentals and programming for individuals and families who do not have the financial ability.

90. Where appropriate, explore co-locating third party vendor operations within parks where these operations will return a reasonable percentage of revenues generated.

91. As our parks and trails are a public benefit, the Town will work to formalize leases, including the collection of fair lease fees, with any groups or private enterprises that use parks and trails for profit (e.g., private enterprise fitness classes that charge participants and occur in a park).

92. Explore and pursue alternative funding sources such as private sector, developer, government and association/team sponsorship, naming rights, donations and contributions to support future outdoor recreation amenity development, upgrades and maintenance.

93. Undertake initiatives to educate residents, users and organizations about the operational and capital costs for maintaining the Town’s parks, trails and outdoor sports facility supply.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 131 132 Moving Forward… Strategies & Actions 9 0. FUTURE PARKS & TRAILS SYSTEM

The vision for Osoyoos’ future parks and trails system compiling actions noted throughout this document are reflected in the map on the following page.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 133 97 Street Link to Osoyoos Desert Centre, KVR Trail and Trail of the

Okanagans. Develop a Conservation Park with a focus on protecting native biodiversity Develop a Conservation Park for the and maintaining habitat and wildlife “Y” Park Site with habitat restoration works connectivity corridors with the Link to NK’MIP Resort Lions Park Walkway include removal of invasive species, trash Kruger Mountain Extension Area while and replant with native species. Minimal developing sustainable hiking, running development for this park would include: and mountain biking trails. Park amenities Highway 3 - Pathways,- Observation structures could include: - Interpretive signs/kiosks - Pump track - Mountain bike skills park Airport Trail Lions Develop a neighbourhood - Bike wash station Park park which could be a - Tra i l h e a d Airport Trail natural themed with - Day use area riparian plantings, - Parking interpretive programs, - Washrooms a nature play area, - Information/interpretive kiosks small washroom, seating, picnic area, beach access and trailhead. Gyro Gyro Park Walkway M Town Link to Kruger Mountain, a Park in Square Legend West Bench Trails and S tre proposed National Park et 97 Street Irrigation Cottonwood Roads Canal Trail Finch Park Park Cottonwood Drive Highway 3 Sidewalks Bike Lane 89 Street Highway 3 Kinsmen Class 1: Off-street Greenway Veterans Park Park Class 2: Off-street/Double Track 62 Jack Shaw Ave nu Class 3: On-street Multi-modal Corridor Gardens Pioneer Walkway Solana Key Walkway e

Proposed Sidewalk Connections Kingfisher Drive Skatepark

Proposed Class 1: Off-street Greenway Westbench Legion La kes Beach ho Complex re D Proposed Class 2: On-street Multi-modal Corridor r iv Goodman e Lakeshore Drive Pathway Proposed Cycling Tour Experience Route/Connection 62 Avenue Park

Regional Connections

Proposed Area for New Neighbourhood Park t e e r t

115 Street Street 115 115

Proposed Area for New Conservation Park Dividend Ridge Trail Acacia Trail

Link to Kruger Mountain, New Proposed Trailhead Locations West Bench Trails and proposed N ational Pa rk Desert Park

Trailhead/Access Locations

School Park

Existing Park 97 Street Link to Osoyoos Develop a neighbourhood Lake Regional Park park which could provide Golf Course amenities such as a playground, washroom, seating, picnic area, Osoyoos Municipal Boundary parking area, and trailhead.

Figure 49 Osoyoos’ Future Parks and Trails System 97 Street Link to Osoyoos Desert Centre, KVR Trail and Trail of the

Proposed Sidewalk Connections Kingfisher Drive Skatepark

Regional Connections

Proposed Area for New Neighbourhood Park t e e r t

115 Street Street 115 115

Proposed Area for New Conservation Park Dividend Ridge Trail Acacia Trail

Link to Kruger Mountain, New Proposed Trailhead Locations West Bench Trails and proposed N ational Pa rk Desert Park

Trailhead/Access Locations

School Park

The actions and recommendations in this report detail an approach to promoting, planning, designing, maintaining and managing the parks and trails system over the next 20 years. It is an ambitious program, including a broad range of recommendations—from those which should be applied through system wide changes and initiatives, to detailed recommendations in design and day to day practices.

The recommendations are organized into six categories, under two broad groupings.

The first comprises of actionable items that will require additional resources for implementation. These are prioritized as short, medium or long term. The second relates to protocol and approaches that should be adopted within the first year of the Parks and Trails Master Plan for application to all work undertaken on the parks and trails throughout the course of the Master Plan life. These are broken into two categories: ongoing policy and protocol, and ongoing planning and design directives.

Table 3 Prioritization of Recommendations

LEGEND In-progress/Completed Short Term Priority Actions (1-5 years)

Medium Term Priority Actions (5-10 years)

Long term Priority Actions (10-20 years)

Ongoing Policy/Protocol

Ongoing Planning and Design Directives

Completed

1.2 Develop Neighbourhood Park at the north end of Cottonwood Drive near the Nk’MIP Resort.

13.3 Jack Shaw Gardens Upgrades and Maintenance: Consider installing a gate at the entrance to the tunnel under the road to Legion Beach Park to prevent small children from running to the lake unsupervised.

15 North Cottonwood Park Safety Service Improvements: • General cleanup of the North Cottonwood Park area (0.4 acres) including the removal and disposal of all debris, refuse and abandoned building foundations • Installation of several picnic tables and garbage cans throughout the site • Installation of security fencing around the site (5 foot chain link fence with a pedestrian gate) • Landscaping as required

40 Construct a 3 m wide asphalt walkway parallel to the existing Pioneer Walkway. This will improve pedestrian access along the Pioneer Walkway by separating bike, scooter, and skateboard traffic from the pedestrian walkway itself.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 137 49 Upgrade the existing unimproved walkway from Spartan Drive to the parking lot at Gyro Park. The upgrade would consist of a 1.5 m wide concrete walkway and 5 “flights” of stairs comprising 2 to 4 risers.

50a Upgrade the existing gravel sidewalk to a 3 m wide asphalt walkway parallel to Main Street between Harbour Key Drive and Cottonwood Drive. This project is an important component of the Town’s plan to improve bike/pedestrian access between the Lakeshore and Downtown areas.

16 Gyro Park Retaining Wall Replacement – near White Sands Condos: o Replace an existing 37 m section of undermined retaining wall (near the beach adjacent to the White Sands condos) that runs from the Sailing Club to the Museum.

In-progress

13.1 West Bench Complex Upgrades and Maintenance: Basketball court is under used and should be converted to a multipurpose court with pickleball courts and basketball hoops (Proposed for Summer 2016).

33 Upgrade the Irrigation Canal Trail between Highway 3 and 62nd Avenue (a length of 1.1 km) to Class 1 Off-Street Trail (to match the segment on 115th Street). The upgrade would include the following (Proposed Fall 2016 completion): o 2.4 m wide paved surface trail o Lighting consisting of the Town decorative street light standards with LED fixtures o Pave 115th Street parking area and the trail from 115th Street to Highway 3 enabling the users to access the tunnel to cross the highway and also providing a turnaround for mobility scooters.

Short Term Priority Actions (1-5 years)

1.6 Conservation Park for the “Y” Park Site northwest of Lions Park. Habitat restoration works include removal of invasive species, trash and replant with native species.

1.7 Conservation Park for Pfingsttag Pond (in the Southeast Meadowlark Area) including protecting and enhancing its ecological values through careful design and limited public access (Note project development driven).

6 Conduct a mountain bike trail feasibility/impact study for the currently undeveloped open space between Strawberry Creek Drive and the Osoyoos Golf Course.

10 Conduct further study of engineering constraints such as road surface availability, underground and overhead utilities, vegetation, available right of way, etc. to determine the required infrastructure changes for the following proposed new shared mode facilities: Nighthawk Drive - Class 2 On-Street Facility; Harbour Key Drive - Class 2 On-Street Facility; Class 1 On-Street Facility on the south side of Main Street connecting Solana Key Court to Lakeshore Drive; Modified Class 1 On-Street Facility Main Street Downtown.

11 To reduce the highway barrier for active travel in Osoyoos, controlled crossings (types to be determined in consultation with BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure) are recommended at various Highway 97 & Highway 3 locations (see Chapter 8.2.3 for details).

74 Develop a park and trail interpretation strategy to identify the strategic locations for interpretive signage and messaging in the Town’s parks and trails. Interpretive signage should be installed throughout the parks and trails system to interpret the region’s rich First Nations history, unique ecosystems and biodiversity and the Town’s history and people.

13.2 Skate Park Upgrades and Maintenance: (1) Increase trash clean up around skate park boundary. (2) Upgrade landscaping on the south, east and west boundaries to include native drought tolerant tree and shrub plantings and/or xeriscaping, and low mowing requirements.

138 Implementation 13.3 Jack Shaw Gardens Upgrades and Maintenance: (1) Improve accessibility from the parking lot to the washrooms and the spray park. Currently there are no ramps for wheel chair users. (2) Consider more low maintenance native plantings/xeriscaping throughout this park to reduce maintenance costs.

13.4 Legion Beach Upgrades and Maintenance: (1) Improve accessibility from the parking lot to the washrooms and the beach. Currently there are no ramps or paved pathways for wheel chair users. (2) Upgrade and add more benches and picnic benches. (3) Improve eastern entrance to park with a paved ramp (8% grade max) with rest areas as current gravel path is not accessible to all users and is quite steep and a fall hazard. Also crosswalk at this entrance leads to no sidewalk on north side of Kingfisher Dr. and is a safety hazard.

13.5 Kinsmen Park Upgrades and Maintenance: (1) Transform Kinsmen Park into an outdoor exercise park with adult exercise equipment and an all-weather walking path circuit. (2) Plant additional shade trees throughout park.

31a Develop the Acacia Trail by adding additional gravel surface in certain locations (consistent Class 2 Off-Street Trail). Clear brush and scrub along the trail to the edges of the clear zone.

32 Remove vertical dips along the Lakeshore Road multi-use corridor (e.g., in front of Waltons) to enhance running surface.

34 Additional Irrigation Canal Trail projects proposed include: • Paving the trail from the existing area to Desert Rose, which would provide an unlighted walking and biking trail for residents and a paved link to the Strawberry Creek area. A second part to this project could be the visitor centre to the trail head north of Highway 3. • A second option would be paving the 1.3 km portion of the trail east of the airport. • Paving the route to Desert Rose and paving a portion of the trail from Highway 3 east of the airport.

35 Upgrade to accessible access at Irrigation Canal Trailhead at 62nd Avenue and 115th Street; remove narrow double fence entrance and replace with removable bollards.

38 Upgrade to accessible access from Cottonwood Drive to Nk’MIP; replace boulders that block entrance with bollards.

47 62 Avenue west of Highway 97; widen multi-use corridor to 3.3 m (See Appendix D).

73 Install trailhead kiosk signage with maps similar to the Irrigation Canal Trailhead at Lakeshore Dr., Pioneer and Gyro pathways.

37 Upgrade gravel pathway between Cottonwood Drive and 45th Street to a multi-use Class 1 off-street greenway.

1.5 Conservation Park in the area between the Osoyoos Golf Course and Strawberry Creek Road (South of Strawberry Creek Growth Area).

7 Create a series of signature themed touring trails/routes focused on the Town’s natural and cultural heritage and abundance of vineyards and wineries.

50b Upgrade the existing gravel shoulder to a 1.5 m wide concrete sidewalk along the north side of Habour Key Drive between Highway 3 and Solana Key Walkway.

50c Add 1.5 m wide concrete sidewalk to west side of Solana Key Court between Solana Key Walkway and Highway 3.

Medium Term Priority Actions (5-10 years)

1.3 Water Access/Linear Park northwest of Lacey Point maintain public access to the lake and shoreline with designated dog off-leash and dog swimming areas.

8 Ensure the Town’s off-street trails and on-street multi-modal network connects with regional off- street trails and multi-modal corridors and destinations in the region.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 139 9 New Class 2 On-Street facilities are proposed for: • Oleander Drive – Proposed Cross Sections Included in Appendix D • 62 Avenue – Proposed Cross Sections Included in Appendix D • Kingfisher Dr. • 89 Street (with a small segment of 78 Avenue to connect to 87 Street) • 87 Street – Proposed Cross Sections Included in Appendix D • 74 Avenue • 92 Avenue (with connection to Lions Park trail) • 70 Avenue • 68 Avenue • Cottonwood Drive North of Cottonwood Park, and South of Main Street • Golf Course Drive • Fairwinds Drive

31b Upgrade the Acacia Trail to a Class 1 Off-Street Trail with garbage receptacles and rest areas.

36 The Irrigation Canal Trail: Install a small single stall unisex washroom at the southern trailhead near the West Bench Complex.

39 Cottonwood Drive to Nk’MIP complete a Class 1 Off-Street Trail connection.

41 Upgrade the Pioneer Walkway lighting consisting of the Town decorative street light standards with LED fixtures.

44 Information kiosk with maps and notice board at all major trailhead access points are required for Lakeshore Drive, Pioneer, Gyro and Dividend Ridge pathways.

46 Cottonwood Drive to a Class 2 On-Street Multimodal Corridor; currently a Class 3 On-Street Multimodal Corridor.

48 Pebble Beach Drive (between 46 Avenue & Golf Course Drive); upgrade sidewalk to a multi‑use corridor.

1.1 Develop Neighbourhood Park near Fairwinds Drive and Olympic View Drive (Dividend Ridge Neighbourhood).

Long term Priority Actions (10-20 years)

13.1 West Bench Complex Upgrades and Maintenance: (1) Complete construction of the BMX park with BMX Club including pump track, skills area and jump tracks for all bike skill levels. (2) Install a small public washroom. (3) Ball diamond requires turf maintenance and benches with shade trees. (4) Improve dog off leash area including water source, benches with shade structure or trees, entry gates need accessibility improved.

Ongoing Policy/Protocol

5 Through the urban core of the Town, consider and support initiatives to implement “pop-up places” including parks, plazas, markets and art displays.

17 Develop a sustainable maintenance schedule and plan for each park to ensure adequate time for mowing, cleaning of washrooms and guidance on pruning and other plant management, as well as aeration of grass. Ensure adequate tools and equipment to meet established landscape maintenance standards.

18 Puncturevine, Sand Burr and Knappweed, all noxious weeds are found in a number of parks and open spaces. An invasive weed management plan should be developed and followed to address this issue.

140 Implementation 26 Work with Destination Osoyoos to ensure that recreational activities, amenities and programs account for the needs and desires of Osoyoos’ visitors. For example, Osoyoos can work with Destination Osoyoos to ensure that its recreation services and programs are included within summer and winter visitor surveys.

27 Consistent with the Community Services Master Plan, continue to provide entry level physical skill development for regional lifestyle activities.

28 Consistent with the Community Services Master Plan, continue to pilot programs in locations where people naturally congregate (i.e., at the beach, park or areas where families gather).

29 Work with partners such as the Osoyoos Indian Band, the school district, historical societies and conservation organizations to develop and deliver a visitor experience programming strategy for the Towns parks and trails. The strategy should identify the ecological, First Nation and cultural educational programming opportunities in the Town.

30 Work with partners to make visitor programming available through new and evolving technologies such as smart phones and web or App based programs and virtual reality.

42 Implement improvements to winter maintenance of trails based on the trail class identified in the parks and trails classification. Class 1 trails will be plowed repeatedly during a major snow event. Class 2 trails are plowed once the snow event is finished. When a sidewalk and a trail parallel or are in close proximity, only the sidewalk should be cleared, unless approved by the Town Manager.

51 Continue to work with regional and provincial park managers and the South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Program to implement the South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Strategy.

56 Actively manage recreational use (see Section 8.4) within parks to avoid or mitigate visitor impacts on ecological values.

57 Continue to support Parks Canada’s proposal to establish a new National Park.

58 Enhance opportunities for visitors to learn about our Town’s, and the region’s, biodiversity, ecosystem and ecosystem services through visitor education programs (e.g., interpretive signage, interpretive programming, online information).

59 Provide opportunities for parks staff to learn about the ecological values in parks and appropriate management practices to sustain those values.

61 The Town as necessary will apply the full range of direct and indirect visitor management strategies to pro-actively avoid and/or manage environmental and social impacts in Town parks and trails.

62 Where indirect management strategies are not effective in controlling visitor impacts, the Town will apply appropriate direct management strategies.

64 Work with partners such as Bylaw enforcement, RCMP, recreational organizations and others to implement strategic visitor education campaigns promoting responsible, safe and lawful use of parks and trails to address recurring compliance problems such as alcohol consumption and over-intoxication, off-leash use and failure to clean up after pets. The start of prime tourism months, start of the summer and long-weekends are priority periods for these efforts.

67 Review the financial procedures and coding processes related to tracking parks and trails maintenance expenditures and revenue generation. Ensure expenditures and revenues are accurately tracked and can be easily analyzed by parks and trail facility.

72 Work with the tourism industry (Visitor Centre, Destination Osoyoos, bike rental shops, etc.) to ensure tourists who rent bicycles or are encouraged to experience the Town’s trails and parks are provided with visitor friendly wayfinding help such as maps, apps or GPS.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 141 76 Work with partners such as Destination Osoyoos, Destination BC, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, the tourism industry and others to promote existing and future visitor experience itineraries, based on the Town’s parks and trails, to visitors and residents.

82 Explore partnership opportunities with local businesses, the tourism industry and other organizations to become active stewards of our parks and trails through an Adopt-A-Park and Adopt-A-Trail program.

83 Encourage the development of Park and Trail Stewardship Teams who would participate in weekly or biweekly stewardship activities throughout the peak season (approximately May to September).

84 As necessary, utilize Public Volunteer Park and Trail Events to bring together resources (i.e., staff/ contractor expertise, equipment, large group of volunteers) over a short period of time (i.e., half a day, a weekend) in order to complete a more complicated project such as a trail build.

87 The Town will strive to achieve an annual operational cost recovery rate of between 5% and 15%.

88 Establish more revenue generating projects within Iconic Town Park(s) that can generate revenues and help support the operational costs of those parks and others within the network.

89 Review the Town’s fees and charges process and, if deemed necessary, update to ensure the Town is charging appropriate fees for rentals in light of rising operational costs. Efforts should be made to ensure affordability of parks and trails rentals and programming for individuals and families who do not have the financial ability.

90 Where appropriate, explore co-locating third party vendor operations within parks where these operations will return a reasonable percentage of revenues generated.

91 As our parks and trails are a public benefit, the Town will work to formalize leases, including the collection of fair lease fees, with any groups or private enterprises that use parks and trails for profit (e.g., private enterprise fitness classes that charge participants and occur in a park).

92 Explore and pursue alternative funding sources such as private sector, developer, government and association/team sponsorship, naming rights, donations and contributions to support future outdoor recreation amenity development, upgrades and maintenance.

93 Undertake initiatives to educate residents, users and organizations about the operational and capital costs for maintaining the Town’s parks, trails and outdoor sports facility supply.

43 Improve maintenance of trails which will minimize and/or avoid issues users are experiencing with puncture vine and overgrown trail corridors.

70 Undertake the development of a signage manual to identify a compelling brand for the Town’s parks and trails and to ensure the consistent application of signage within parks and trails.

78 Work with partners to re-design the Osoyoos Parks, Trails and Facilities brochure and the Osoyoos Park, Recreation and Open Space Map (from the OCP) to supplement the current information with more compelling descriptions of the visitor experiences, more friendly maps and graphics that inspire excitement and visitation.

79 Work with partners to develop an interactive web or app based visitor experience planning tool that allows residents and visitors to identify parks and trails opportunities based on preferred activities, difficulty levels, distance and other criteria via their smartphones. This online tool should serve as a single source of information about visitor experiences, facilities, amenities, events and programs in our parks. The tool should also provide visitors with real-time interpretation and story-telling as well as location services to help them navigate our parks and trails.

142 Implementation 80 Create and implement an interdepartmental “Parks and Trails Leadership committee” of senior Town staff to discuss and resolve major issues related to capital projects, interface and boundary development, land acquisition, management, safety, capacity and resourcing, etc. The team should meet regularly (e.g., quarterly)

85 Develop and promote a centralized web page/calendar where individuals and organizations can learn about and sign up for volunteer opportunities.

75 Work with partners such as Destination Osoyoos, Destination BC, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, the tourism industry and others to develop a unique brand for our parks and trails.

77 Work with partners such as the school district and local health authorities to develop and implement a community based social marketing strategy to encourage residents to increase their physical activity and connection with nature by visiting the Town’s parks and trails more often.

81 Encourage the development of “Friends Of” groups who can become active stewards of community and neighbourhood parks and trails through regular maintenance and clean-up days, minor capital improvements, monitoring and reporting and other tasks.

63 Design and implement a visitor monitoring/counting program for parks and trails using TrafX or other similar visitor counter tools. The purpose of the program is to identify trends in use, collect comparative data over the long-term, support and direct compliance efforts and to assist in measuring the success of future capital projects as they are implemented.

65 Adopt the Leave No Trace program and integrate the program’s educational materials into visitor information, signage and other communication tactics.

66 Adopt or develop a Trail Etiquette program to clearly educate trail users about respectful use of trails and the yield hierarchy for the Town’s multi-use trails and other trail use best practices

69 Maintain an up to date spatial inventory of parks and trails assets. Consider the acquisition or development and deployment of a GIS based mobile asset management program that is capable of tracking the supply of assets and servicing at each asset and its condition, characteristics, maintenance backlogs and maintenance reports.

Ongoing Planning and Design Directives

1 Work with partners and the development community to assemble land and dedicate new parks in priority areas

2 Undertake the preparation of collaboratively developed master plans to provide design, development and management direction for all new parks.

3 Continue to develop Veterans, Gyro and Legion Parks into a seamlessly connected iconic waterfront park destination for all-seasons.

12 Improve overall access to parks by ensuring that every residential parcel of land within the Town has access to a park with 400 metres.

14 Review the accessibility of parks; prepare a plan to improve the accessibility of existing and future parks. Incorporate park accessibility guidelines into future residential and commercial development projects.

19 Work with neighbourhoods and in particular, youth, to determine their needs for playgrounds and other parks amenities that are important to them.

20 Work closely with seniors to determine how each park type can best serve their needs.

21 Both existing and new parks require special equipment to serve children with disabilities.

22 Improve basic comfort amenities in all parks including washrooms, benches, wayfinding, signage, and picnic areas.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 143 23 Improve the diversity and appearance of existing and future park amenities (e.g., more trees, lighting, natural areas, gathering areas, benches, water features etc.).

24 Plan and design park spaces for social and cultural gatherings (e.g., picnics and concerts) while providing park parking nearby (suitable for Public Plazas, Community and Neighbourhood Parks such as Gyro and Lions Parks).

25 Provide more recreational amenities to respond to the community’s need and desire for spontaneous recreation (e.g., exercise equipment in parks) in Community and Neighbourhood Parks such as Gyro and Lions Parks.

45 Rest areas are recommended along Class 1 and Class 2 trails with seating every 500 metres on flat terrain not exceeding 15% and where possible, on long steep grades 15% or greater it is desirable to introduce relatively flat rest areas approximately every 100 metres.

52 Working with conservation partners, explore the opportunity to acquire and designate new Conservation Parks in areas of greatest conservation value, relative biodiversity and habitat connectivity

53 Work with conservation partners to ensure that the expansion of trails and other recreational opportunities in areas of high and very high conservation values avoid, or mitigate, impacts to the area’s ecological values.

54 Conduct an ecological assessment of all parks that contain lands of conservation importance. Develop policies and plans for the management of ecological values in these parks.

55 Work with conservation partners to identify and prioritize areas for restoration within future Conservation Parks. Develop, and as feasible, implement restoration plans.

60 Increased signage and interpretive campaigns would increase awareness around the importance of riparian and natural areas.

68 Consider the implementation of a regular visitor survey to maintain an understanding of residents’ and visitors’ changing demands for and satisfaction with parks and trails services.

71 Enhance wayfinding signage within and between parks and trails to make use of our system as easy as possible.

144 Implementation 11 0. REFERENCES

1. Government of British Columbia. (2012). Trails Strategy for British Columbia. Retrieved August 25, 2015 from http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/documents/Trail-Strategy-for-BC_V6_Nov2012.pdf

2. City of Toronto. (2013). Natural Environment Trails Strategy.

3. Coen, S., Ross, N. (2006). Exploring the Material Basis for Health: Characteristics of parks in Montreal Neighbourhoods with Contrasting Health Outcomes. Health & Place, 12, 361-371.

4. Cohen, D., Ashwood, J.S., Scott, M., Overton, A., Evenson, K., Staten, L., Porter, D., McKenzie, T., Cattellier, D. (2006). Public Parks and Physical Activity Among Adolescent Girls. Pediatrics, 118(5), 1381-1389.

5. Kaczynski, A.T., Potwarka, L.R., Saeles, B.E. (2008). Association of Park Size, Distance, and Features with Physical Activity in Neighbourhood Parks. American Journal of Public Health, 98(8), 1451-1456.

6. White, M.P., Alcock, I., Wheeler., B.W., Depledge, M.H. (2013). Would You Be Happier Living in a Greener Urban Area? A Fixed Effects Analysis of Panel Data. Psychological Science.

7. San Francisco Recreation Open Space.

8. Government of British Columbia. (2012). Trails Strategy for British Columbia. Retrieved August 25, 2015 from http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/documents/Trail-Strategy-for-BC_V6_Nov2012. pdf

9. City of Toronto. (2013). Natural Environment Trails Strategy.

10. District of Sooke. (2009). Sooke Parks and Trails Master Plan

11. San Francisco Recreation Open Space.

12. District of Sooke. (2009). Sooke Parks and Trails Master Plan.

13. Cascade Environmental Resource Group Ltd. (2012). Regional District of Okanagan- Similkameen Regional Trails Master Plan.

14. Canadian Parks and Recreation Association. (2014). Pathways to Wellbeing: A National Framework for Recreation in Canada. Retrieved August 20, 2015 from http://www.cpra.ca/ main.php?action=cms.framework

15. Government of British Columbia. (2012). Trails Strategy for British Columbia. Retrieved August 25, 2015 from http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/documents/Trail-Strategy-for-BC_V6_Nov2012. pdf

16. BCRPA. (2015). What Trends Affect Recreation? Retrieved August 20, 2015 from http://www. bcrpa.bc.ca/about-bcrpa/what-trends-affect-recreation

17. Government of British Columbia. (2012). Trails Strategy for British Columbia. Retrieved August 25, 2015 from http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/documents/Trail-Strategy-for-BC_V6_Nov2012.pdf

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 145 18. BCRPA. (2007). A Strategic Plan for the Parks, Recreation and Culture Sector: Trends Affecting the Parks, Recreation and Culture Sector in Canada and British Columbia. Retrieved October 13, 2015 from http://www.bcrpa.bc.ca/about_bcrpa/documents/ TheWayForward/AppendixB-BCTrendsInQualityOfLife.pdf

19. Government of British Columbia. (2012). Trails Strategy for British Columbia. Retrieved August 25, 2015 from http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/documents/Trail-Strategy-for-BC_V6_Nov2012.pdf

20. Statistics Canada. 2013. Osoyoos, T, British Columbia (Code 5907005) (table). National Household Survey (NHS) Profile. 2011 Census. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 99-004-XWE. Ottawa. Released June 26, 2013.http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/nhs-enm/2011/dp-pd/prof/ index.cfm?Lang=E (accessed August 7, 2015).

21. Town of Osoyoos. (2014). Community Services Master Plan.

22. Statistics Canada. 2007. Osoyoos, British Columbia (Code5907005) (table). 2006 Community Profiles. 2006 Census. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 92-591-XWE. Ottawa. Released March 13, 2007. http://www12.statcan.ca/census-recensement/2006/dp-pd/prof/92-591/ index.cfm?Lang=E (accessed August 7, 2015).

23. Statistics Canada. 2013. Osoyoos, T, British Columbia (Code 5907005) (table). National Household Survey (NHS) Profile. 2011 Census. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 99-004-XWE. Ottawa. Released June 26, 2013.http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/nhs-enm/2011/dp-pd/prof/ index.cfm?Lang=E (accessed August 7, 2015).

24. Statistics Canada. 2013. British Columbia (Code 59) (table). National Household Survey (NHS) Profile. 2011 National Household Survey. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 99-004-XWE. Ottawa. Released September 11, 2013. http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/nhs-enm/2011/dp-pd/ prof/index.cfm?Lang=E (accessed November 26, 2015).

25. Town of Osoyoos. (2015). Tourism in Osoyoos. Retrieved October 1, 2015 from http://www. osoyoos.ca/content/tourism-osoyoos

26. Stats provided by Destination Osoyoos via email April 8, 2016 from Gail Scott.

27. Lang Research Inc. (2006). Travel Activities and Motivations Survey (TAMS) Hiking, Paddling & Climbing While on Trips. Retrieved October 1, 2015 from https://en-corporate.canada. travel/sites/default/files/pdf/Research/Product-knowledge/TAMS/Canadian%20Travellers%20 Outdoor%20Activity/CDN_Hiking_Climbing_Paddling_en.pdf

28. According to the NRPA this is derived from divided responses into median (middle 50 percent), lower-quartile (lowest 25 percent) and upper-quartile (highest 25 percent) divisions of similar size and density communities to Osoyoos. Full report can be found here: http://www.nrpa.org/uploadedFiles/PageBuilder_Proragis/Content/common_elelments/ Field-Report.pdf

29. Giles-Corti, B., Broomhall, M.H., Knuiman, M., Collins, C., Douglas, K., Ng, K., Lange, A., Donovan, R.J. (2006).Increasing walking: How important is distance to, attractiveness, and size of public open space? American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 28(2), 169-176.

146 References 30. SOSCP. (2014). Osoyoos-Primer. Retrieved January 13, 2016 from http://www.soscp.org/wp- content/uploads/2012/11/Osoyoos-Primer.pdf

31. SOSCP. (2014). Osoyoos-Primer. Retrieved January 13, 2016 from http://www.soscp.org/wp- content/uploads/2012/11/Osoyoos-Primer.pdf

32. NRPA’s 2015 Field Report, A Parks and Recreation National Database Analysis (2015). Retrieved December 2, 2015 from http://www.nrpa.org/uploadedFiles/PageBuilder_Proragis/ Content/common_elelments/Field-Report.pdf

33. Visit Melbourne. (2015). High Country. Retrieved December 19, 2015 from http://www. visitmelbourne.com/Regions/High-Country/Things-to-do/Touring-routes-and-itineraries

34. Canadian Parks and Recreation Association. (2014). Pathways to Wellbeing: A National Framework for Recreation in Canada. Retrieved August 20, 2015 from http://www.cpra.ca/ main.php?action=cms.framework

35. Government of British Columbia. (2012). Gaining the Edge: A Five-year Strategy for Tourism in British Columbia 2012-2016. Retrieved August 16, 2015 from http://www.jtst.gov.bc.ca/ tourismstrategy/documents/mjti_tourismstrategyreport_fnl.pdf

36. Government of British Columbia. (2012). Trails Strategy for British Columbia. Retrieved August 25, 2015 from http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/documents/Trail-Strategy-for-BC_V6_Nov2012. pdf

37. Regional District Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS). (2009). South Okanagan Regional Growth Strategy. Retrieved August 19, 2015 from http://www.rdosmaps.bc.ca/min_bylaws/ contract_reports/planning/Regionalgrowth/RGSBYLAW2421_ScheduleA_071008reread2nd_ forOct22BoardAgenda.pdf

38. Cascade Environmental Resource Group Ltd. (2012). Regional District of Okanagan- Similkameen Regional Trails Master Plan.

39. Regional District Okanagan-Similkameen. (2008). Osoyoos Rural Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2450, 2008. Retrieved October 1, 2015 from http://www.rdosmaps.bc.ca/min_ bylaws/bylaws/planning/consolidated/2450.pdf

40. Town of Osoyoos. (2007). Town of Osoyoos Official Community Plan 2007.

41. https://osoyoos.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=21617

42. Town of Osoyoos. (2014). Community Services Master Plan.

43. Giles-Corti, B., Broomhall, M.H., Knuiman, M., Collins, C., Douglas, K., Ng, K., Lange, A., Donovan, R.J. (2006).Increasing walking: How important is distance to, attractiveness, and size of public open space? American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 28(2), 169-176.

44. Warzecha, C., Manning, R., Lime, D., Freimund, W. (no date). Diversity in Outdoor Recreation: Planning and Managing a Spectrum of Visitor Opportunities in and Among Parks.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan 147 148 References Appendix A POLICY CONTEXT SUMMARY

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan A .1 A.1 NATIONAL & PROVINCIAL POLICY

A.1.1 Pathways to Well-Being

Osoyoos’ existing and future parks and trails have the potential to contribute to meeting the National Framework for Recreation’s ‘Renewed Vision’ for Canada, whose vision is a Canada where everyone is engaged in meaningful, accessible recreation experiences that foster wellbeing at the individual, community and environmental levels.34 Each level is summarized below:

• Individual wellbeing: Individual have high mental and physical wellbeing, are engaged and contributing members of their families and communities. • Community wellbeing: Communities are healthy, inclusive, welcoming, resilient and sustainable. • The wellbeing of places and spaces: natural and built environments are appreciated, nurtured and sustained.

The framework describes five goals and priorities for action under each goal. Each goal relates to Osoyoos’ parks and trails, both planned and existing. The goals include the following:

1. Foster active living through physical recreation.

2. Increase inclusion and access to recreation for populations that face constraints to participation.

3. Help people connect to nature through recreation.

4. Ensure the provision of supportive physical and social environments that encourage participation in recreation and build strong, caring communities.

5. Ensure the continued growth and sustainability of the recreation field.

The National Framework for Recreation in Canada provides important direction to the planning and design of Osoyoos’ parks and trails. The framework was closely considered in the design of the Master Plan’s priorities and recommendations.

A .2 Policy Context Summary A.1.2 Gaining the Edge: A Five-Year Strategy for Tourism in BC

Being a resort municipality, it is important for own Town to consider tourism strategies and direction at the provincial level. In 2012, BC released its five-year tourism strategy. Recognizing that tourism is one of BC’s leading economic sectors, the strategy aims to increase visitor volume, revenue, and employment. The target is to achieve sector revenue of $18 billion by 2016.35 The strategy will achieve its goal through four key areas:

1. Leadership through partnership and coordination

2. Focused marketing

3. World class visitor experiences

4. Removing barriers to growth

The strategy has direct implications for parks and trails throughout the province. To help provide world class visitor experiences, the strategy will market tourism uses of provincial infrastructure such as provincial parks, consistent with the focus on key products such as touring and outdoor adventure/eco-tourism. Over 80% of travellers from key international markets identified “visiting parks and protected areas” as a highlight of a visit to Canada, and national and provincial parks were one of the top three reasons for visiting British Columbia for key North American travellers” (p.25).35 Haynes Point Provincial Park, located within the RDOS, will directly benefit from this strategy.

To take full advantage of the tourism benefits of investments in public infrastructure, the strategy recommended the implementation of a trails strategy for the province. The provincial trails strategy, discussed below, will set out an action plan for developing and maintaining a sustainable, world-renowned network of recreation trails.

A.1.3 BC Provincial Trails Strategy

To complement our trails planning at the regional and local levels, the provincial trails strategy provides important direction for consideration. Released in 2012, and building off of the BC tourism strategy, it provides the framework, principles, and guidance necessary to develop a world class trails systems for BC.36 It recognizes that trails are integral to the landscape and enable meaningful connections between people and nature. The vision of the strategy is “a world-renowned, sustainable network of trails, with opportunities for all, which provide benefits for trails users, communities, and the province” (p.5).36

The strategy contains 22 actions across a number of categories including environmental stewardship, collaborative planning, effective management, etc.

A.2 REGIONAL & LOCAL POLICY

A.2.1 South Okanagan Regional Growth Strategy

At the regional level, one of our most important documents is the Regional Growth Strategy.37 Launched in 2004, the strategy provides a long-term commitment to manage growth in the South Okanagan of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS). The purpose of the

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan A .3 strategy is to guide RDOS in a more sustainable direction where its economy promotes economic diversification; its environment ensures the health of ecosystems; its governance is inclusive and accountable; a strong community identity is established; infrastructure is efficiently used; and its communities are culturally diverse, safe, and healthy. To achieve these goals, the strategy outlines a number of policies. A couple of policies pertain directly to parks and trails:

• Policy Ec2  Encourage and promote the retention of large rural holdings, open spaces, parks and viewscapes that contribute to the region’s rural ambiance. • Policy S2  Support the coordination of regional parks and recreation services and trail networks to improve accessibility of recreational opportunities. • Policy H2  Promote compact urban form.

Policy H2 “Promote compact urban form” has particular implications for parks and trails planning in Osoyoos. As our Town witnesses increased infill development, demands for urban parks and trails will only continue to grow. Therefore, our parks and trails planning must be fully integrated into planning for higher density infill development in the Town.

A.2.2 Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Regional Trails Master Plan

Planning for trails in Osoyoos cannot be done without considering the RDOS Regional Trails Master Plan (RTMP). Released in 2012, the RTMP provides direction, policies, priorities, standards and actions for the Regional District and its partners with respect to existing and potential future linear parks and trails and support of a regional trail network.38 A major goal of the plan is to identify and prioritize trail projects, particularly “those related to access to Crown land trail networks, community connection and major trail corridors; and to give the local government a strategic framework for financial and human resource allocation toward trail projects.”

The RTMP provides direction, priorities and actions over a ten year period (2012-2022) for regional linear parks and trails that support trail networks in the Regional District including: bike network strategies, ensuring adequate trail opportunities for all user groups, ensuring sustainable development of the trail network, and ensuring management of the trails occurs in a way that ensures recreation use and tourism growth in a sustainable way.38

A.2.3 Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Osoyoos Rural Official Community Plan

The purpose of this plan is to ensure that decisions regarding the use and development of property within the Regional District’s Electoral Area ‘A’ The BC Trails Strategy is intended are made with regard to land capabilities and to serve as the hub of a wheel constraints, growth trends, the interrelationship of connecting the broad range land uses, and the aspirations of the people, for the benefit of the community.39 The OCP contains three of organizations and initiatives main goals (social, economic, and environment) that have historically worked that provide specific policy direction to enable the independently, drawing them Town to achieve sustainable planning. together in a shared vision to effectively and consistently Recognizing the importance of parks to the Town’s develop and manage a world recreation and natural environment, Section class BC trails network .

A 4. Policy Context Summary Twelve of the OCP contains a number of objectives to support parks and trails development. Significant among them is the following objective:

[T]o provide local parks, trails, and other outdoor recreation opportunities in the locations and in sufficient quantity to be available and accessible, where possible, to all members of the community.

Among the various park policies outlined in the OCP, one is to “support the creation and extension of a connected network of trails and recreation corridors to access community parks, recreation areas, public open space and amenities.” Section 14 of the OCP (Transportation) also recognizes the importance of trails; specifically, the OCP sets out Schedule ‘C’ Road and Trail Network Plan for current roads and trails proposed for the area (see Figure A.1).

While the OCP does not provide detailed information about the design, location, and provision of parks and trails in Osoyoos, it does serve as an important background document to this Parks and Trails Master Plan.

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This is Schedule ‘C’ (Road and Trail Network Plan) as referenced in the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen’s Road and Trail Network Pl a n Osoyoos Rural Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2450, 2008. PLOT DATE: November 2008 SCALE: 1:15,000 Schedule C – Osoyoos Rural Official Comm unity Plan µ General Manager of Bylaw No. 2450, 2008 Chair Administration Services

Figure A 1. Schedule C Map of Road and Trails Network

A 6. Policy Context Summary

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This is Schedule ‘C’ (Road and Trail Network Plan) as referenced in the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen’s Road and Trail Network PlanPla n Osoyoos Rural Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2450, 2008. PLOT DATE: November 2008 SCALE: 1:15,000 Schedule C – Osoyoos Rural Official CommuCommunityn i t y PPlan l a n µ General ManagerManager of Bylaw No. 2450, 2008 Chair Administration Services

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan A 7. A.2.4 Osoyoos Official Community Plan

The Osoyoos OCP was adopted in 2007 with the purpose of achieving five broad goals: 1) provide good government and foster the social, economic, and environmental wellbeing of the community (consistent with the RDOS Rural OCP); 2) provide direction on land use planning; 3) provide guidance on the orderly and efficient phasing of land uses, servicing, and public/private investments; 4) provide a policy framework for processing development applications to achieve desired results and 5) support provincial interests and regional initiatives for growth and resource management.40 At the time of development, a Parks and Trails Master Plan was not in place to provide parks and trails guidance to the OCP.

Under the OCP’s social goal of creating safe, culturally diverse, and healthy communities, it will “develop a Parks, Trails, and Alternative Transportation Plan, including with community-regional linkages, to promote community wellness, increase our attractiveness as a resort community, and reduce vehicle dependency” (p.28).40

A.2.5 See Osoyoos Succeed: Integrated Community Sustainability Plan

The purpose of this plan is to develop a long term vision that takes Osoyoos on a path to excel as a community by being able to meet current and future population needs in a socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable manner.41 Priorities identified in the plan include protecting its environment, ensuring economic viability, and enriching community life. A number of strategic action items are identified in this document including actions for upgrading and expanding select parks to cater to youth and senior populations along with expanding and promoting hiking and biking trails. Strategic actions within this plan will be further addressed through the implementation of the Parks and Trails Master Plan.

A.2.6 Town of Osoyoos Community Services Master Plan

The Town’s Community Services Master Plan was originally adopted in 1998 to highlight priorities such as a community wide trail system, recreation opportunities for youth and improvements to playgrounds and restrooms. In 2014, a new Community Services Master Plan was adopted42 to identify, among other things:

• Improvements to existing recreational facilities, parks, open spaces and trails, and • Future locations of parks, open spaces and trails.

The plan sets forth a visionary strategy for the Osoyoos Community Services Department including its expanded mandate to include social development, environmental education, environmental enhancement initiatives and service to the seasonal tourist community. The vision of the plan is as follows:

Osoyoos Community Services exist to facilitate the provision of high quality, accessible and affordable indoor and outdoor recreation and environmental programming and facilities to residents and visitors.

A .8 Policy Context Summary Among its principles, it aims to enhance accessibility by ensuring that parks and indoor recreation facilities are physically accessible and located in central locations, inclusive to all, regardless of age, skill level, financial ability or degree of physical mobility. While the plan provides an analysis of Osoyoos’ parks and trails supply, it does not contain any guidance on how and where the Town can invest in the acquisition and development of an integrated system of parks and trails. However, the recommendations and strategies for both parks and trails within this Plan were considered in the implementation of the Parks and Trails Master Plan.

A.3 REFERENCES

The Osoyoos Community Services Master Plan found that the town is challenged to secure sufficient numbers of children in appropriate age groupings and, as a result, recreation programs are frequently cancelled or run with a wider range of development levels .

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan A .9 A .10 Policy Context Summary Appendix B PARK QUALITY AND CONDITION ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan B .1 The park quality and condition assessment was completed to evaluate the park quality and condition of select parks in Osoyoos. During the field assessment, 15 parks were visited and assigned a score (from 0–3) that best represented the condition of the park. The scores corresponded to the following:

0 = the particular component does not exist;

1 = the component is below expectations;

2 = the component meets expectations;

3 = the component exceeds expectations.

Each score was based on a series of criteria, presented in Table B-1 below.

Table B 1. Park Quality + Condition Criteria

Criteria Theme Criteria Definition

Intended Purpose An overall assessment and quantification of how well the Park Intended park is able to achieve its management intent as defined Purpose by the park class is able to deliver its intended function.

Condition The extent to which the park requires maintenance and upgrades to satisfy public expectations.

Location & Access The extent that the park is used based on its location. Parks that are in higher density residential and commercial areas with good connectivity and access to transportation might yield higher use, for example. Park Condition Naturalness & Low The extent to which ecological and low impact designs Impact Design have been incorporated into the construction and operations of the park (e.g., irrigation).

Accessibility/ The extent to which the park serves persons with mobility or Inclusivity physical constraints. For instance, is the park accessible to persons on wheelchairs, senior populations, or persons with other physical limitations?

Comfort The extent to which comfort amenities exist to support and enhance the park users while visiting (e.g., washrooms, benches, picnic areas).

Convenience The extent to which amenities exist that enhance the park users’ experience by offering convenience for the user Visitor (e.g., BBQ grills, bike racks, parking). Experience Elements to Extend The extent to which amenities extend the use of the park Use beyond day lights hours.

Design/Ambiance The quality of design of the park and the nature of the setting in which the park is situated including its sense of safety.

B .2 Park Quality and Condition Assessment Methodology Criteria Theme Criteria Definition

Community From the perspective of a community resident, this criterion Significance measures the extent to which the park has unique features (e.g., community wide events) that attract visitors from throughout the community.

Neighbourhood From the perspective of a neighbourhood resident, this Attraction Significance criterion measures how well the park facilitates short and Capability frequent visits and the park’s overall degree of obtrusion to the neighbourhood (e.g., noise, light).

Regional From the perspective of a resident living outside of the Significance Town, this criterion measures the extent to which the park has unique features (e.g., facilities for community wide events) that attract visitors from outside of the community.

Capacity The ability of the park to accommodate a range of Capacity visitation intensities while serving its intended function and avoiding overcrowding.

Ownership The park is owned by the local government and the public Ownership has the control to access the park without permission, but in accordance with local bylaws.

Weighting for each criteria was determined using professional judgement and by drawing on research. For example, criteria such as park condition and visitor experience are more important for predicting park use. Distance, proximity and easy access to parks have been shown to be a determinant of park use.43 Research has also found that the quality in outdoor recreation is equated with provision of a diverse spectrum of recreation opportunities.44 As a result, both park condition and visitor experience received a weight of 30% each. Other criteria including park intended purpose, attraction capability, capacity, and ownership received lower weighting at 10% each as they were judged to be less important determinants of park use.

Once the weighting was established, each park was evaluated using the following equation:

[(Park Intended Purpose Type * weight) + (Park Condition * weight) + (Visitor Experience * weight) + (Attraction Capability * weight) + (Capacity * weight)] + (Ownership * weight)] = Park Quality and Condition Score.

Where:

• Park Intended Purpose is the Intended Purpose score that was assigned for the park • Park Condition is the summation of scores for Condition, Location & Access, Naturalness & Low Impact Design, and Accessibility/Inclusivity • Visitor Experience is the summation of scores for Comfort, Convenience, Elements to Extend Use, and Design/Ambiance • Attraction Capability is the summation of scores for Neighbourhood Significance, Community Significance, and Regional Significance • Capacity is the Capacity score that was assigned for the park • Ownership is the score from the Ownership criteria

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan B .3 The intended purpose of the park influences expectations of the services or the quality available at the park. Therefore, it was important that the calculations reflected the management intent of the park. To do so, a minimum threshold score was developed to reflect the importance of each criterion to the respective park purpose. For example, a conservation focused park is not, and should not, be expected to provide the same level of comfort and convenience amenities as an active recreation park. In order to determine if a park was below, meeting, or exceeding expectations, a minimum threshold score was developed to reflect the importance of each criterion to the respective park typology. This was determined by using three categories that best describe the intent of Osoyoos’ parks: Active Recreation, Passive Recreation, and Conservation, as shown in Table B.2.

B .4 Park Quality and Condition Assessment Methodology Table B .2 Park Intent/Criteria Matrix

Park Intent

Criteria Theme Active Passive Conservation (corresponding weight) Criteria Recreation Recreation

Park Intended Purpose Intended Purpose 2 2 2 (10%)

Park Condition (30%) Condition 2 2 1

Location & Access 2 2 2

Naturalness & Low Impact 2 1 2 Design

Accessibility/Inclusivity 2 2 1

Visitor Experience (30%) Comfort 2 2 1

Convenience 2 2 1

Elements to Extend Use 2 1 1

Design/Ambiance 2 1 1

Attraction Capability Neighbourhood 1 1 1 (10%) Significance

Community Significance 1 1 2

Regional Significance 1 1 1

Capacity (10%) Capacity 2 1 1

Ownership (10%) Ownership 2 2 2

Total Score 25 21 19

Minimum Threshold Score (weighted)* 57 47 39

NOTE: the scores in the table correspond to the following: 3 – This criterion defines this type of park or open space, and/or is critical to how this type functions 2 – This criteria exists in this type of park or open space, but is not a defining characteristic 1 – This criterion is not important in defining this type of park or open space *The minimum threshold score is the minimum score that the park needs to achieve to “meet expectations”

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan B .5 As shown in Table B.2 above, a park that is classified as “Active Recreation” has a higher minimum threshold score because these parks are expected to perform higher on the criteria due to their purpose. To calculate minimum threshold score, the score values were inputted into the park quality and condition equation. These minimum threshold final scores were used to create the class breaks for each park purpose presented below.

Total Score

To determine whether a park was below expectations, meeting expectations, or exceeding expectations, the scores were compared with the minimum threshold scores presented in Table B.2. The minimum threshold scores were used to construct the standard for “meets expectations”. Once this standard was created for each park purpose, professional judgment was used to create the standards for “below” and “meets” expectations. These standards (class breaks) are presented in Table B.3 below.

Table B .3 Score Classes by Park Intent

Park Intent Standard Active Recreation Passive Recreation Conservation Exceeds 67 > 57 > 49 > Meets 57–67 47–57 39–49 Below < 57 < 47 < 39

B .6 Park Quality and Condition Assessment Methodology Appendix C TRAIL QUALITY AND CONDITION ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan C .1 The trail quality and condition assessment was completed to evaluate the trail quality and condition of select trails in Osoyoos. During the field assessment, nine trails were visited and assigned a score (from 0–3) that best represented the condition of the trail based on its classification. The scores corresponded to the following:

0 = the particular component does not exist; 1 = the component is below expectations; 2 = the component meets expectations; 3 = the component exceeds expectations.

Each score was based on a series of criteria, presented in Table C.1\ below.

Table C 1. Trail Quality + Condition Criteria

Criteria Theme Criteria Definition

Intended Purpose An overall assessment and quantification of how well Trail Intended the trail is able to achieve its management intent as Purpose defined by the trail class is able to deliver its intended function.

Condition The extent to which the trail requires maintenance and upgrades to satisfy public expectations.

Location & Access The extent that the trail is used based on its location. Trails that are in higher density residential and commercial areas with good connectivity and access to transportation might yield higher use, for example.

Trail Condition Naturalness & Low The extent to which ecological and low impact Impact Design designs have been incorporated into the construction and operations of the trail (e.g., irrigation).

Accessibility/ The extent to which the trail serves persons with Inclusivity mobility or physical constraints. For instance, is the trail accessible to persons on wheelchairs, senior populations, or persons with other physical limitations?

Comfort The extent to which comfort amenities exist to support and enhance the trail users while visiting (e.g., washrooms, benches, picnic areas).

Convenience The extent to which amenities exist that enhance the Visitor Experience trail users’ experience by offering convenience for the user (e.g., BBQ grills, bike racks, parking).

Design/Ambiance The quality of design of the trail and the nature of the setting in which the park is situated including its sense of safety.

C 2. Trail Quality and Condition Assessment Methodology Criteria Theme Criteria Definition

Community From the perspective of a community resident, this Significance criterion measures the extent to which the trail has unique features (e.g., community wide events) that attract visitors from throughout the community.

Neighbourhood From the perspective of a neighbourhood resident, Significance this criterion measures how well the trail facilitates Attraction short and frequent visits and the trail’s overall degree Capability of obtrusion to the neighbourhood (e.g., noise, light).

Regional Significance From the perspective of a resident living outside of the Town, this criterion measures the extent to which the trail has unique features (e.g., facilities for community wide events such as bike races or running events) that attract visitors from outside of the community.

Capacity The ability of the trail to accommodate a range of Capacity visitation intensities while serving its intended function and avoiding overcrowding.

Ownership The trail is owned by the local government and the Ownership public has the control to access the trail without permission, but in accordance with local bylaws.

The intended purpose of the trail influences expectations of the services or the quality available at the trail. Therefore, it was important that the calculations reflected the management intent of the trail. To do so, a minimum threshold score was developed to reflect the importance of each criterion to the respective trail purpose. For example, a single track mountain bike focused trail is not, and should not, be expected to provide the same level of comfort and convenience amenities as a Greenway/Urban Trail. In order to determine if a trail was below, meeting, or exceeding expectations, a minimum threshold score was developed to reflect the importance of each criterion to the respective trail classification. This was determined by using the following three trail classification we developed for Osoyoos’ trails: Class 1 – Greenway/ Urban Trail, Class 2 – Double Track, Class 2 & 3 Single Track Natural Surface and Mountain Bike Trails as shown in Table C.2 below.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan C .3 Table C .2 Trail Intent/Criteria Matrix

Trail Classification

Criteria Theme Criteria Class 1 – Class 2 – Double Class 3 & 4 – Greenway/ Track Single Track Urban Trail Natural Surface & Mtn. Bike Trails

Trail Intended Intended Purpose 2 2 2 Purpose

Trail Condition Condition 2 2 1

Location & Access 2 2 2

Naturalness & Low 2 1 2 Impact Design

Accessibility / 2 2 1 Inclusivity

Visitor Comfort 2 1 1 Experience Convenience 2 1 1

Elements to Extend 2 1 1 Use

Design/Ambiance 2 1 1

Attraction Neighbourhood 1 2 1 Capability Significance

Community 2 1 2 Significance

Regional Significance 1 1 1

Capacity Capacity 2 1 1

Ownership Ownership 2 2 2

Minimum Threshold Score* 26 20 19

NOTE: the scores in the table correspond to the following: 3 – This criterion defines this type of trail, and/or is critical to how this type functions 2 – This criteria exists in this type of trail, but is not a defining characteristic 1 – This criterion is not important in defining this type of trail *The minimum threshold score is the minimum score that the trail needs to achieve to “meet expectations”

C 4. Trail Quality and Condition Assessment Methodology As shown in Table C.2 above, a trail that is classified as “Greenway/Urban Trail” has a higher minimum threshold score because these trails are expected to perform higher on the criteria due to their purpose. To calculate minimum threshold score, the score values were inputted into the trail quality and condition equation. These minimum threshold final scores were used to create the class breaks for each trail purpose presented below.

Total Score

To determine whether a trail was below expectations, meeting expectations, or exceeding expectations, the scores were compared with the minimum threshold scores presented in Table C.2. The minimum threshold scores were used to construct the standard for “meets expectations”. Once this standard was created for each trail purpose, professional judgment was used to create the standards for “below” and “meets” expectations. These standards (class breaks) are presented in Table C.3 below.

Table C .3 Score Classes by Trail Classification

Standard Trail Classification

Class 1 - Greenway/Urban Class 2 - Double Track Class 3 & 4 - Single Track Trail Natural Surface and Mountain Bike Trails

Exceeds 36 > 32 > 29 >

Meets 26–36 22–32 19–29

Below < 26 < 20 < 19

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan C .5 C 6. Trail Quality and Condition Assessment Methodology Appendix D ON-STREET MULTI MODAL CORRIDOR PROPOSED CROSS SECTIONS

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan D .1 E N W UTILITY POLE TO BE TO 2.4m EXISTING REMOVED REMOVED SIDEWALK SIDEWALK m ASPHALT EXPANSION PARKING LANE PARKING 2.4 (SURFACE VARIES), VARIES), (SURFACE CURB AND GUTTER CURB 3.35m VEHICLE LANE PROPOSED ROLL ROLL PROPOSED m 10 3.35m VEHICLE LANE EXISTING PAVEMENT EXISTING DELINEATOR POST DELINEATOR m 1.65 0.15M TRACK POSSIBLE m TWO WAY CYCLE CYCLE TWO WAY OFFSET WHERE 1.65 SOLID WHITE LINE DESIRABLE TO EXPAND EXPAND DESIRABLE TO EXISTING O/H EXISTING ELECTRICAL SERVICE EXISTING EXISTING SIDEWALK SIDEWALK VARIES) VARIES) EXISTING EXISTING (SURFACE (SURFACE (SURFACE BOULEVARD BOULEVARD

D 2. On-StreetMulti Modal Corridor Proposed Cross Sections th STREET PROPOSED CROSS SECTION - WITHIN EXISTING PAVING WIDTH PAVING SECTION - WITHIN EXISTING CROSS PROPOSED th STREET 87 N W S ASPHALT EXPANSION 3.3m (ASPHALT) CYCLE SPACE CYCLE SHARED WALK / SHARED WALK BARRIER LOW PROFILE PROFILE LOW m 0.7 3.35m VEHICLE LANE EXISTING PAVEMENT EXISTING 3.35m VEHICLE LANE

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan D .3 62 AVENUE PROPOSED CROSS - SECTION CROSS PROPOSED 62 AVENUE 97 OF HIGHWAY WEST EXISTING EXISTING SIDEWALK SIDEWALK TRACK m 1.65m TWO WAY CYCLE CYCLE TWO WAY 1.5 m 10 3.35m m VEHICLE LANE SOLID WHITE LINE 0.15 WHREE EXPAND POSSIBLE DELINIEATOR DELINIEATOR POST EXISTING PAVEMENT EXISTING 3.35M VEHICLE LANE EXISTING EXISTING SIDEWALK SIDEWALK EXISTING SECTION EXISTING NOTES: 89 REQUIRED AT ENGINEERING WORK FURTHER CONNECT THE TWO INTERSECTION TO / 62 AVE. ST. SAFELY. TRACKS CYCLE REQUIRED FOR WITH BC MOTI CONSULTATION CONTROL CROSSING 97 HIGHWAY PROPOSED SECTION PROPOSED

D 4. On-StreetMulti Modal Corridor Proposed Cross Sections 62 AVENUE PROPOSED CROSS SECTION CROSS PROPOSED 62 AVENUE WITH URBAN SECTION PAVEMENT WITHIN EXISTING N W

CURB AND GUTTER AND CURB

EXISTING SIDEWALK, SIDEWALK, EXISTING

CURB AND GUTTER AND CURB EXISTING SIDEWALK, SIDEWALK, EXISTING 3.35m VEHICLE LANE 9.0m 3.35m EXISTING PAVEMENT EXISTING EXTENSION VEHICLE LANE DELINEATOR POST DELINEATOR m 0.6 m 3.0 TRACK TWO WAY CYCLE CYCLE TWO WAY OR FLUSH CONCRETE OR FLUSH m ASPHALT EXTENSION PERMANENT MARKINGS 1.3 EXISTING CURB EXISTING BE REMOVED TO EXISTING BOULEVARD EXISTING m CONCRETE AND GUTTER) CURB (FLUSH OR CURB (FLUSH STANDARD CURB STANDARD 0.35 NOTES: BE TO BOULEVARD IN EXISTING PARKING OR IDEALLY PARKING, PARALLEL TO CONVERTED REQUIRE EXTENSION MAY ASPHALT REMOVED. IN SOME LIMITED INSTALLATION WALL RETAINING AREAS EXISTING SECTION EXISTING Osoyoos Parks and SECTION PROPOSED Trails Master Plan D .5 N W

CURB AND GUTTER AND CURB EXISTING SIDEWALK, SIDEWALK, EXISTING

EXISTING SIDEWALK, CURB AND GUTTER POLES WHERE THEY ENCROACH INTO THE INTO POLES WHERE THEY ENCROACH TRACK CYCLE BE TO DETAILS OR BACKSLOPING. WALLS DETERMINED DURING PRELIM ENGINEERING. 3.35m THE UTILITY MOVE TO A THIRD OPTION EXISTS NOTES: 1. 2. REQUIRE RETAINING MAY BOULEVARD VEHICLE LANE 8.5 - 9.0m 3.35m EXISTING PAVEMENT EXISTING VEHICLE LANE m DELINEATOR POST DELINEATOR m 0.6 PERMANENT MARKINGS CONCRETE OR FLUSH DELINEATOR POST DELINEATOR 0.6 m m MIN MIN 1.8 0.3 OFFSET m 1 DIRECTION CYCLE TRACK CYCLE 3.15 TRACK TWO WAY CYCLE CYCLE TWO WAY m ASPHALT m MIN m 1.9 CONCRETE 0.3 MIN 1.8 EXTENSION (MIN) m 1 DIRECTION CYCLE TRACK CYCLE 0.9 BUFFER VEGETATED VEGETATED m CYCLE TRACK CYCLE 0.15 CONCRETE OPTION 1 m MIN UTILITY POLE WITIN CURB (FLUSH) CURB (FLUSH) 0.6 OPTION 2 BOULEVARD EXISTING SECTION EXISTING SECTION WHERE PROPOESED SECTION PROPOESED th STREET & MAGNOLIA TO LOBELIA N. LEG LOBELIA TO & MAGNOLIA th STREET PROPOSED SECTION PROPOSED UTILITY POLE EXISTS WINTIN CYCLE TRACK WINTIN CYCLE

D 6. On-StreetMulti Modal Corridor Proposed Cross Sections OLEANDER PROPOSED CROSS-SECTION OLEANDER PROPOSED 89 TO PRIMROSE N W

CURB AND GUTTER AND CURB CURB AND GUTTER AND CURB

EXISTING SIDEWALK, SIDEWALK, EXISTING EXISTING SIDEWALK, SIDEWALK, EXISTING 3.35m VEHICLE LANE 3.35m VEHICLE LANE NOTES: DRIVING LANES SHALL BE SPEED LIMIT FOR 40km/h (DESIGN AND POSTED) DELINEATOR POST DELINEATOR m 3.0 PAVEMENT PAVEMENT TRACK MARKINGS OR m ASPHALT TWO WAY CYCLE CYCLE TWO WAY EXPANSION FLUSH CONCRETE FLUSH 2.5 EXISTING SECTION EXISTING PROPOSED SECTION PROPOSED

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan D 7. OLEANDER PROPOSED CROSS-SECTION OLEANDER PROPOSED CLASSIFICATION (ASOUMES OLEAANDER IS A LOCAL ACACIAN TO LOBELIA PRIVATE INTERFACE PRIVATE PRIVATE INTERFACE PRIVATE 8m m WITH PARKING WITH PARKING NO PARKING 6 NO PARKING EXISTING PAVEMENT PAVEMENT EXISTING EXISTING EXISTING PAVEMENT PARKING PRIVATE INTERFACE PRIVATE PRIVATE INTERFACE PRIVATE VEHICULAR TRAFFIC TO POSTED DESIGN SPEED OF 20km/h POSTED VEHICULAR TRAFFIC TO ALSO SIGNAGE OLEANDER DRIVE REQUIRED. APPROPRIATE SHARED ENVIRONMENT. REQUIRED FOR CALM REQUIRED TO TRAFFIC CALMING INSTALLATIONS 2. @ CRT ACACIA SIDE TO WEST FROM CROSSING PEDESTRIAN NOTES: 1.

D 8. On-StreetMulti Modal Corridor Proposed Cross Sections ACACIA CRT. PROPOSED CROSS SECTION CROSS PROPOSED CRT. ACACIA OF VEHICULAR ACCESS TERMINATION OLEANDER TO NECESSARY m CURB AND 1.5 STREETSCAPE AS STREETSCAPE (PAVEMENT) 3.9m TWO WAY 3.9m TWO WAY PEDESTRIAN AND PEDESTRIAN CYCLING PLUS PASSING PLUS CYCLING NECESSARY m CURB AND 1.5 STREETSCAPE AS STREETSCAPE INTERMEDIATE / NOVICE & RECREATION CYCLISTS CYCLISTS & RECREATION / NOVICE INTERMEDIATE 30km/h MAX SPEED DESIGNED FOR NOTES: 1. 2. / ADVANCED PEDESTRIANS, USERS INCLUDE; PRIMARY PATHWAY FROM ACACIA CRT. TO HAYES POINT HAYES TO CRT. ACACIA FROM PATHWAY

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan D 9.

Appendix E PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT DETAILS

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E .1 E .2 Public Engagement Details E.1 LET’S TALK PARKS + TRAILS CHARRETTE SESSION FINDINGS

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E .3 Parks + Trails Parks

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan Let’s Talk Charrette Session Findings for: Prepared Town of Osoyoos 2015 17, November

E .4 Public Engagement Details and ercises toercises theengage participants in (listed in order of importancevotedby participants): introduce the Parks and Trails Master Planning Project Project Planning Master Trails and Parks the introduce ss, and generate ideas to inform the development of the plan. plan. the of development the toinform ideas generate and ss, g of the following Parks and Trails topicsOsoyoos: Parks and Trails in the following g of r – agriculture) (tied as #1); #1); as r – agriculture) (tied rks + Trails Charrette” is to Charrette” is + Trails rks and smaller group breakout sessions and ex sessions breakout and smaller group about Osoyoos the Parks and Trails System? memorable Key themes that emerged for the most memorable elements elements memorable most the for emerged that themes Key RESULTS INTRODUCTION WHAT IS MEMORABLE IS WHAT

Current strengths of the parks strengths Current and trails system; to be addressed; that need Issues Ideasa future for outcomes; and vision to; connected to be that need network transportation active / trails destinations community Key and by the plan; to be addressed Barriers Prioritiesthe beto included in plan. • 1a. Walking along lakeshoretrails (tied as #1); wate – (desert landscape Unique 1b.

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Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E .5 s y Desert, Lake, Mountain Landscapes Work-life balance Mild year round weather Quality of life Active living lifestyle Time down slows “Osoyoos Time” touristsWinter (800-900 snowbirds a year) Restaurants/overnight sta • • • • • • • • What is the Osoyoos Experience? ehicle and trail separation) separation) trail and ehicle der streetsfor bike lanes (v rea; “connections withpast” ; order of importance voted by by voted order of importance most need to be addressed addressed be to most need ails system even more memorable? memorable? more even system ails Streetbarrier 400 people at the Haynes Point Campground and they need a safe way to walk/bike into into walk/bike to way a safe need they and Campground Point Haynes the at people 400 town Identifying hiking/walking trails that are more difficult difficult more thattrails are hiking/walking Identifying Safe biking lanes biking lanes Safe unsafe is areas rural in Biking th

- - Connectivity (seamless) (seamless) - Connectivity - 45 - - - Connectivity (Sidewalks and trails linked to create loops – loops to create linked trails and (Sidewalks Connectivity corridors) not justlinear

1. 2c. Mountain bike trails bike 2c. Mountain 2a. Wayfinding/ organizedsignage informationmaps infrastructure Cycling 2b. wi - WHAT MOST NEEDS TO CHANGE 3a. Pioneer Walkway (view of lake/a #3) as (tied access.) easy feature”; “central greeting”; and “meeting 3b. Views (tied as #3); and 4. Hiking/climbing; parks. at5. Dog swimming beaches Key themes that emerged (listed in participants with dots): most needs to change / what issues change / most needs to

•

3. Hard surface trails surface Hard 3. fitness to park outdoor full 4. Revamp Kinsmen Park a

PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.2 What Parks and Tr in order tomake Osoyoos’

E .6 Public Engagement Details dia to online engagement to walk to and bike walk (encourage walkability) were discussed as a group and brainstormed on the discussed as a group and brainstormed were students through social me students social through

survey, MindMixer). survey, MindMixer). for the next 20 years next for the future vision Tourism for trails and parks to encourage people to encourage trails and parks for Tourism to offer has Osoyoos what advertising job a better to do Need

- - voted but on, (Not identifiedimportant) as living Active Culture/history Accessibleto all ages and abilities

s of the preferred the preferred of s 1. 2. 3. tools (StanMap, online (StanMap, tools We need to consider new park acquisition park acquisition new toconsider We need the Osoyoos Experience” “Enhancing Addressingtofor dogs and areas dogs usethetrails park and trails on opportunities riding horseback Including fencing) snake shrubs, (lighting, issues safety Addressing Showcase waterfront Gyropark – Park taxisfromWaterto totouristshaveMany and want Lakeshore Drive a vehicle might not Downtown. walk/biketo get around. maybe but park BMX and park skate courts, tennis there are Currently – teenagers for activities Need alike. tourists for and youth trails bike mountain more promote and develop youth in to – high engage plan school invite Need Trailhead parking parking Trailhead

......

FUTURE VISION VISION FUTURE

6a. Update present trails brochure brochure trails PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results present 2015November 17, Update 6a. points access trail at vehicles of 5. Parking OTHER ISSUES 6b. MOTI needsto coexist withTown 2.3 characteristic General individual level:

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 7. from now. The key topics that came tothat light came topics The key from now. ouring communities)to neighb ouring ils linked ks and trails 10 years ks and (2.2), (2.2), pointing to the importance of the following: trails to the parks their future parks and trails system to be fully accessible to envision the future of par future the envision Comprehensive and integrated forcommunity the development Economic Showcase environment natural Connectivity of trails within Town Town trails within of Connectivity (Tra up the Valley trails of Connectivity Enhanced mountain biking trails trails biking mountain Enhanced trailssystem wayfinding throughout and Signage, parks Comprehensivemap showing existing and suggestedtrails Better appreciated and known Relative ease of year-round maintenance waterfront,Continuation etc. Park, of existingefforts: Veteran’s Healthy community community Healthy Safe Well maintained Flexible Interconnected system of Better accessibility Better accessibility Better lighting More all-weather surfaces trails Better hiking tourism Recreation disabilities Park equipment with en for childr local history Focus on our More “loop” trails 3-season usage usage 3-season

4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 2. 7. 8. 9. 10. 15. 11. 12. 13. 14. 16. 17. 18. 4. 5. 6. 1. 3. “Osoyoos Stakeholders would like “Osoyoos Stakeholders would all age groups and abilities, include clear wayfinding signage, encourage economic areas” rural and urban between connections seamless and development PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, Individuals were prompted to included many items discussed in the previous session previous session the in many items discussed included

E 8. Public Engagement Details has a unique

Aboriginal culture, historyAboriginal culture, and be should that species/habitats through interpretive promoted and trails the parks signage in system. Osoyoos

rtant outcomes of this parks and trails rtant of this parks and outcomes

(where appropriate), washrooms, surfaces, signage signage surfaces, washrooms, appropriate), (where und, benches, and water fountains. water and benches, und,

each of these statements as being impo being as statements these of each Uniqueness of species/habitats (interpretive signage) of (interpretive species/habitats Uniqueness Can emphasize the importance of the lake the importance Can emphasize None noted noted None None noted noted None Funding is available recently upgraded Washrooms waterInflatable park Branding None noted noted None Aboriginal component/culture/history Place names Place

• • • • • • • • • • • All group members strongly agree with this statement this with agree strongly members group All Strengths and Opportunities: All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All Group members agree and strongly agree with this statement statement this agree with strongly and agree members Group Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and Strengths and Opportunities: Strengths and Opportunities:

Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and

...... Clear wayfinding throughout Parks and Trails. throughout Parks and Clear wayfinding Trails and parks should be accessible to all (ages and abilities) and be cost-effective (system wide). wide). (system cost-effective and be and abilities) (ages to all Trails and parks should be accessible Amenities upgrade to existing parks and trails Amenities upgrade message), playgro (needs consistent

1. 2. 3. DESIRED OUTCOMES DESIRED

master plan. plan. master PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.4 Each group. larger the to back to then reported and groups in discussed and reviewed were outcomes desired following The agreed and/or strongly withgroup

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 9.

s Provincial Park (Haynes Point) Trail Point) (Haynes Park s Provincial ẁ i ẁ

Opportunities to connect Pioneer Walkway to Lakeshore Trail to Lakeshore Pioneer Walkway to connect Opportunities Lack of connectivity between Harbour Keyand Lakeshore Drive We have businesses to support recreation tourism trails in the two the to link RDOS priority is low tothe Road 22 oldLinking KVR (concern plan) master Lakeshore, (i.e. exists provision little/no where “now” (proactive) land Acquire Dividend Ridge) opportunities park Linear future) the in expensive more be (will but necessary Expensive,

None noted noted None Cost maintenance of Cottonwood to NK’MIP Cottonwood Jasmine Drive to s Drive Jasmine Economic development development Economic We are already a tourism destination are already a tourism destination We Road 22 Lakeshore Fairwinds Dr. to West Bench Trail Fairwinds Dr. to Bench West

is alreadytourism a destination,let’s buildthatto on promote outdoor recreation • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All

All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All statement this with agree strongly members group All Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and Strengths and Opportunities: Strengths and Opportunities: Weaknesses: Concerns and Strengths and Opportunities: Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and

...... Trail connectivity between urban and rural areas. Trail connectivity between urban and Support tourism through improved park and trail infrastructure. park Support tourism through improved park use. lands for future of Increase protection “Osoyoos tourism such as mountain biking.” as mountain such tourism

5. 6. 4.

PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17,

E 10. Public Engagement Details

laws (safety, number of officers). number of officers). (safety, laws What beaches arespecifically dog beaches?

o A lot of money spent during busy season on bylaw problem areas A lot problem busy season on bylaw of money spent during Visibility much)(not with dogs Inconsistency Important Important Include sidewalk connections Include Existingin place bylaw Important Important Include sidewalk connections Include Requires “trade-off” decisions Additional as needed RCMP Requires “trade-off” decisions CPTED/more ‘safety’ focus help resolve would this parks and trails master plan: master plan: trails and this parks

• • • • • • • • • • • • All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All Group members are neutral or disagree with this statement thisstatement with or disagree neutral are members Group

Strengths and Opportunities: Strengths and Opportunities: Strengths and Opportunities: Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and Concerns and Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Concerns and

...... Maintain quality of trail and park infrastructure. and park infrastructure. Maintain quality of trail Maintain quality of trail and park infrastructure. and park infrastructure. Maintain quality of trail

7. 1. Enforcement of park and trail by Enforcement of park 1. 8. PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, The following outcome reviewed and discussed in groups was the only one that individuals were either neutral or disagreed disagreed or neutral either were that individuals one the only was groups in discussed and reviewed outcome following The of being an importantwith as outcome

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 11. sidents sidents which was rated as the number one priority in the in one priority the number as rated was which ts; the majority of these are waterfront parks and walkways. and walkways. parks waterfront of these are majority the ts; w itutilized is not only by tourists/visitors but by local re focused on missing connections/accessibility issues within the focusedmissing connections/accessibility issues within on importance importance of connectivity section of the workshop. the workshop. section of ich again points to the Haynes Point (swiws) Boat Launch BoatPoint Launch Haynes (swiws) Jack Shaw Gardens West Bench Complex Lions Park Park Lions Gyro Park Legion Beach DesertPark Park Kinsmen

• • • • • • • • KEY DESTINATIONS AND BARRIERS MAPPING EXERCISE KEY DESTINATIONS KEY BARRIERS

as well. as well. PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.5 Workshop participantswere giventhe opportunityto map key destinations and barriers withinthe Town of Osoyoos and the exercises. these from findings the key are The following region. surrounding 2.5.1 The following weretopthe key destinationsmapped by participan This again identifiesthe importancelakefrontof parklandho and 2.5.2 Key barriersidentified during thisexercise were predominantly trail/sidewalk network wh “What most needs to change” “What most needs earlier

E 12. Public Engagement Details St. th St due to narrow double fence entrance fence entrance St due tonarrow double th and 115 nd . to NK’MIP: Boulders blockentrance Ave to Lakeshore Dr. (Through Haynes Point/Swiws) Point/Swiws) Haynes Dr. (Through to Lakeshore Ave nd Creek Road and Golf Creek CourseRoad Dr. St. – Narrow Road – Narrow Road St. ngs needed along Highway 3 3 Highway along needed ngs th Street being redone Street redone being th to 85 to th

Ave. between 89 between Ave. th No sidewalk or bike lane on east Highway 3 No sidewalk or bike lane Pathway Lakeshore and between Pioneer Missing connection Walkway Pathway Dr. to Lakeshore Dr. from Cottonwood Missing connection on 45 No sidewalk or bike lane No access to waterfront northwest of Lacey Point Point Lacey of northwest waterfront to access No crossi highway More/improved 62 at Trailhead Canal Irrigation at accessibility Limited Dr. Key Harbour along access beach Inaccessible 32 to connect New road and bridge Dr from Cottonwood access No accessible defined poorly are Town to Resort NK’MIP Trail from 45 and Dr. Cottonwood between maintenance and upgrading Signage, Centre Cultural Desert NK’MIP trails near Existing walking connectingExisting trails Strawberry Point Lacey of northwest waterfront to access No 74

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, LOCAL ISSUE AREAS

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 13.

COTTON- 3

STREET. NARROW ROAD.

3 BEACH ACCESS

NO SIDEWALK OR BIKE LANE ON 45th

SIGNAGE, UPGRADING, & MAINTENANCE BETWEEN WOOD DR. & 45th ST. 4

ON HWY 3 NO SIDE WALK OR BIKE LANE TOWN

Source:Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, EarthstarGeographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, AEX, Getmapping, USGS,swisstopo,Aerogrid, and IGN, the IGP, UserGIS Community

FROM THE NK’MIP RESORT TO NEED TO BETTER DEFINE TRAILS LAKESHORE CONNECTIONS SHORE & EXTEND COTTONWOOD TO EXTEND PIONEER WALKWAY TO LAKE-

BOAT LAUNCH

EXISTING WALKING TRAILS BRIDGE AND NEW ROAD COTTONWOOD TO NK’MIP MAKING ACCESSIBILITY DIFFICULT BOLDERS PUT AT PATH ENTRANCE FUTURE PARK DEVELOPMENT FUTURE PASSIVE PARK SECURE AND IMPROVED BEACH ACCESS INACCESSIBLE BEACH ACCESS. NEED TO TRAIL

IMPROVEMENTS TO ACACIA

9 BEACH ACCESS

4 7 HIGHWAY CROSSING NEEDED

& 89TH ST

DEVELOP ON-ROAD BIKE LANE TO

00 1 DOWNTOWN ALONG OLEANDER DR. 74th AVE FROM 89th TO 85th STREET BEING REDONE

1 1

ALONG WATERFRONT

PUBLIC ACCESS NEEDED

TO ACCESS. 115TH ST) DOUBLE FENCING MAKING BIK- ENTRANCE OF CANAL TRAIL (62nd AVE. & ING, WHEELCHAIR OR STROLLER DIFFICULT

1 1 1 Municipal Boundary CREEK RD. & GOLF COURSE DR. TRAILS CONNECTING STRAWBERRY 0.5 Kilometers Beach Access Boat Launch Points of Interest OSOYOOS BEACH ACCESS POINT KEY DESTINATION AREAS ACCESS OPPORTUNITIES WALKING TRAILS INACCESSIBLE BEACH ACCESS BARRIERS KEY BARRIER COMMENTS KEY DESTINATION COMMENTS 0.25 LEGEND 0 Trails On-Street Bike Lane Sidewalk Existing Road Network Proposed Road KEY BARRIERS AND DESTINATIONS MAP RECREATION & ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION MAP

E 14. Public Engagement Details

oos to proposed (Kruger Mountain)National Park (Kruger tooos proposed

ed (Kruger Mountain) National Park Mountain) National ed (Kruger

untain (near Canada/USA border) Canada/USA untain (near Ave. th

trailfor access canal Trail linkage - Use KVR Highway atHighway crossing needed Okanagan Rd. Campsite Lakehead near needed system trail to Connection Trailheadparking lot off 146 area the in trails of knowledge better and Resort to NK’MIP access Improve Trail Dewdney with Connectivity Connecting pedestrian and bike trails from Osoy Protectpropos areas within conservation Unique species SE Kruger of Mo

• • • • • • • • • PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, AREAS ISSUE REGIONAL

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 15. Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, swisstopo,Earthstar the GISandGeographics, CommunityUserCNES/Airbus Aerogrid,Getmapping,DS, AEX, IGN, USDA, IGP, USGS, 3 AREA NEEDED

PUBLIC ACCESS TO NK’MIP RESORT & BETTER KNOWLDEGE OF TRAILS IN THE

3 OF DEWDNEY TRAIL

EXPLORE CONNECTIVITY

1 97 3 HIGHWAY CROSSING NEEDED UNIQUE SPECIES OFF 146th AVE. TRAIL HEAD PARKING LOT CONNECT TO TOWN TRAIL SYSTEM AREAS AS APPROPRIATE PROTECT CONSERVATION ACCESS FOR TRAIL KVR TRAIL LINKAGE. CANAL 3 (SEE KRUGER MT. TRAIL STUDY) Municipal Boundary Indian Reserve TO POTENTIAL FUTURE NATIONAL PARK PEDESTRIAN & BICYCLE TRAILS CONNECTING 1.5 Parks & OpenSpaces Provincial Park | Regional Park Kilometers OSOYOOS CONTEXT MAP BEACH ACCESS POINT KEY DESTINATION AREAS ACCESS OPPORTUNITIES WALKING TRAILS INACCESSIBLE BEACH ACCESS BARRIERS KEY BARRIER COMMENTS KEY DESTINATION COMMENTS 0.75 0 LEGEND Trail Highway Collector Road KEY BARRIERS AND DESTINATIONS. REGIONAL CONTEXT MAP

E 16. Public Engagement Details identified to help movewith forward

key issue areas we heard withthe r the DRAFT Master Plan Document. Document. Master Plan r the DRAFT workshop themes OPPORTUNITIESPRIORITIES AND

PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.6 The following matricesthe compile 2.6.1 LOCAL KEY ISSUE AREAS compiling an implementation plan fo

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 17.

PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.6.2 REGIONAL KEY ISSUE AREAS

E 18. Public Engagement Details In use within the Town the Town within use They have been been have They . Charrette tion users that use the the parks trails use that and tionusers discussion about the possible (1) possible new lake based (inflatable) (1) would be important to make this venture successful, it it successful, venture this make to important be would and pathways needs further discussion. discussion. further needs and pathways discuss its importance to this Parks and Trails Master Plan. Master and Trails this Parks to its importance discuss (underutilized property) and supporting the local farmers’ farmers’ local the supporting and property) (underutilized use improved water access points. The concept of introducing introducing of The concept points. access water use improved eir homes. However there was was there However eir homes. is not currently encouraged in local community parks and not a high parks and in local community is not currently encouraged Motorized Recreation – Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) (OHV) Vehicles – Off Highway Recreation Motorized

a good locationa good withthe exception itsof distanceeasilyDowntown is not from (4) ’s recreation programing and other recrea other and programing recreation ’s lanes – paved – gravel – gravel – paved lanes eholders held a neutral position on a on position held a neutral eholders rs, electric bikes) on Town trails electric bikes) on Town rs, seems to be adequate at this time; there was concern about trying to take back these these back take to trying about concern was there time; this at adequate to be seems : Sign-in clipboard attrailheadSign-in sheet comment feedback with opportunities and general park history, educational First Nations Ratelevel difficulty of – beginner to advanced – includingtime/distance on signage etc. bears, snakes, hazards, Signs noting Trail hierarchy - bike

. . . . . key themes (2) Water Access . However finding the right. location waterfront suitable PARK / TRAIL SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING WAYFINDING AND SIGNAGE / TRAIL PARK SYSTEM CLASSIFICATION AND HIERARCHY TRAIL

o o

encouragement of production of local produce on vacantencouragement of local of production produce on lots marketwould be an assettothe community. the Town boundaries is not appropriate given motorized other of The use area. Bench the West use is OHV allowing currently limits the Town near area only The system. scoote mobility carts, vehicles (golf prioritythmost yards toas at in have garden residents (3) Community Gardens / Food Production in Parks Parks in Production / Food Gardens (3) Community summary it was found that attending stakthat attending was found summary it Waterfront Park couldthat Park be was suggested Cottonwood walkable. Public PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.6.3 OTHER POTENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES to an additional total)topic potential(four was given Each group 2.6.4 GROUP SUMMARY OF PRIORITY TOPICS the to “Wrap-Up” a as discussed were that topics away take priority the are following The into categorized areas as the adjacent land owners have been using them for a long time along with increased water increased timehave long a along for potential them with owners using pollution been the adjacent land if areas as could areas rural However, provided. points access more are

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 19. ns from the 2014 Community Services Master Plan Plan Master Services Community 2014 the from ns igns noting hazards, snakes, bears, etc.) bears, snakes, igns noting hazards, ES FOR RESIDENTS AND TOURISTS AND TOURISTS ES FOR RESIDENTS Road 22 connection See various barriers to connectivity noted in matrices 2.6.1 and 2.6.2 and 2.6.2 2.6.1 matrices noted in to barriers See various connectivity Build on currentparks and trails recommendatioand event) an it (make opportunity economic – Bench on West hiking end High Connections between elements of safetynear highways Other forms of active transportation Maintainingincrease parks and numberoverall of park cycle(life costs) costly to Parks maintain/upgrade sustainable: Safetytrails/ of well parks – maintained (s Upgrade existing parks and trails trails and parks existing Upgrade paving) upgrades (lighting, Park design universal – for all people Accessibility families) for (safety trails use Mixed prioritized projects sized” “bite Phased Apply for grantfunding assets Acquire park (land) Active/passive parks Active/passive parks

...... CONNECTED TRAIL SYSTEM SYSTEM TRAIL CONNECTED ACTIVITI INCREASED RECREATIONAL MOTI COLLABORATION WITH PARK SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE ACCESSIBILITY OF PARKS/TRAILS PARKS/TRAILS OF ACCESSIBILITY ACQUISITION PARK/TRAIL

o o o o o o PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17,

E 20. Public Engagement Details key key is workshop, StanMap, Onlineworkshop, Surveyis MindMixer and will d wayfinding standardsd wayfinding including: Trailhead signage Wayfinding Wayfinding with classification system identified (difficulty rating) and signage educational Interpretive Matrix showingtrail type, difficulty, width, surface, etc. typical sections cross Standard design guidelines with

o o o o o Develop recommendations for signage an signage for recommendations Develop Developtrail design guidelines and a classification system: A synthesis of identifiedto barriers connectivityth from A gap analysiswill beGISto completed in identifyother any areas already not identifiedthroughthe public process. Actionspriorities and will be identified for each barrierto connectivity. be completed. be completed.

• • • • • THE DIRECTION WEDIRECTION THE HEADINGARE PARK / TRAIL SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING TRAIL HIERARCHY AND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM CONNECTED TRAIL SYSTEM identified in the workshop:

PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.7 the of some to accomplish steps developing include document Plan Master the DRAFT prepare we as steps The next themes 2.7.1 2.7.2 2.7.3

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 21.

CAN data will be used to understand understand to used be will data CAN ones are developed. developed. are ones

able “bite sized” projects in order of priority “bite and able into park and trail design and maintenance program. maintenance design and trail park and into r maintenancebefore new be analyzed in the following areas: areas: the following in analyzed be nds research in conjunction with Stat in conjunction nds research taking part in throughout the region. region. the throughout in part taking Activities while on a trip Destination attributes Market expectations Market segments

o o o o Analysis of tourismAnalysis of traveler and dema currently are tourists activities what will and demands segments market Tourism Continuetobuild relationship MOTI. with Master Plan. the of DRAFT Vision Prepare Plan with Master develop reason MOTI and Discuss DRAFT CPTED) as (such strategies prevention crime Incorporate drops. steep bears and as snakes, hazards such Signs noting prioritytrailsshould be a fo and Existing parks available funding.

• • • • • • • • INCREASED RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR RESIDENTS AND TOURISTS COLLABORATION WITH MOTI PARK SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE

PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.7.4 2.7.5 2.7.6

E 22. Public Engagement Details ble trail system. A primary fety and liability concerns. rict of North Okanagan Accessibility Okanagan rict of North ppropriate) as planning, restoration rategically incorporated into the implementation plan plan the implementation into incorporated rategically lity as well as reduce sa well as reduce as lity a safe, healthy and sustaina a safe, gn Guide, Alberta 2008, Accessibility for Accessibility Ontarians 2008, Alberta with Guide, gn ery fiveto yearsconfirm compliance the relevantwith ugh staff,ugh stakeholders and public engagementprocess. ve accessibility issues with an implementation plan to plan an implementation issues with ve accessibility anning and maintenance of parks and trails new and before of parks maintenance and anning to acquire new parkland and trail easements will be be will easements trail and parkland new acquire to guidelinesthe such Regional as Dist levels will ramp up each year (as levels yeara will ramp up each (as udeassessments regular and promptattentionto issuesmaintenance identified. Disabilities 2005, Act AmericanswithDisabilities Act as(ADA) applicableto trail and park management. which can add to the parks and trails system’s sustainabiparks and tothe add which can The maintenance program should incl program should The maintenance theFunding Operating for Budgetessential is to ensuring focus will be on increasing staff resourcesthepl for onesto arethe added system. Staffing new areas. to expand activities and maintenance Identify and prioritize parks and trails thatha currently areas. problem these address An accessibility audit should be at completed least ev accessibilitydesign guidelines below). (noted design Reference relevant accessibility Barrier-Free Desi 2011, Guide with Disabilities for Persons trailof newAcquisitionwill easements parkland and be st withtimethe on frames based priorities identified thro A rangepotential of alternativestrategies funding

• • • • • • • ACCESSIBILITY OF PARKS/TRAILS PARK/TRAIL ACQUISITION

PLAN MASTER TRAILS AND OSOYOOS PARKS Results 2015November 17, 2.7.7 2.7.8

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 23. d in order to make Osoyoos’ d in order to make Osoyoos’ most needto be addresse (listed in order of importancevoted by participants): a; “connections with past”; “meeting & greeting”; “central feature”; feature”; “central “meeting greeting”; past”; & with “connections a; ter – agriculture) (tied as #1) #1) as (tied agriculture) – ter about the Osoyoos Parks and Trails System. System. Parks and Trails the Osoyoos memorable about most needs to change / what issues change most needs to

is 8505 – 68 Avenue, Osoyoos, BC – 68 Avenue, is 8505 (45 mins):

1a. Walking along lakeshoretrails (tied as #1) wa – (desert landscape 1b. Unique easy access.) 3b. Views 4. Hiking/climbing Parks at5. Dog swimming beaches 3a. Pioneer Walkway (view of lake/are mins) (45 Participants asked to identify what is most Each participant identified theirthoughts on individual sticky notes. elements memorable most the for emerged that themes Key

•

• • Participants asked to identify what memorable. system even more Parks and Trails Each participant identified theirthoughts on individual sticky notes:

• •

APPENDIX – “What We Heard” – RAW DATA Master Plan Parks and Trails Osoyoos Stakeholder Charrette / Workshop Centre Community Sonora Location: October 14, 2015 pm – 4:30 am 9:30 What is Memorable 1A: SESSION 1c. Social (mixmeet) & family – – appreciation (of ourarea) (tied as #1) community the of health the to 1B: SESSION contributes it How 2.

E 24. Public Engagement Details udents through social media to online engagement tools through tools tomedia social online udents engagement lsyouth for tourists and alike. e local lifestyle (for tourists) (for tourists) lifestyle e local have been donewell an outdoor fitness an outdoor area Parking Parking Establishinga better MOTI relationship trails Adding more hard surface Addressing dogs and areasthedogs to for use park & trails Identifying trails hiking/walking that aremore difficult Develop mountain biking trailstourist for attraction trailson riding opportunities Including horseback Seamlessconnectivity Addressing safety snake shrubs, issues fencing) (lighting, as Park Kinsmen Revamping Showcase waterfrontGyro Park – park taxisWater Many to from Lakeshore Drive Downtown. walk/bike to want and vehicle a have not might tourists to get around. trails: the as well as assets park on to focus Need and playgrounds Washrooms Parks. the Town throughout tennis are there Currently – teenagers for activities Need skate park and BMX but maybe develop courts, trai bike mountain more and promote st school high – invite plan in youth engage to Need MindMixer). survey, online (StanMap, trailsTourismencourageto walkability) for people & parks (encourage towalk & bike 45th Street barrier 400 peopleatthe Haynes PointCampground andthey need a safe way to walk/bike into Town trails separated vehicle/bike Need Safe biking lanes is unsafe Biking in rural areas to need consider new park acquisition We everything for map one Need th living guide to a local Need Needtoa better advertising job do what Osoyoos has to offer Experience” Osoyoos the “Enhancing

o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 25.

mostto beneed addressed in order(listed of “TheOsoyoos Experience” and what withthe group, that create loops - notjust create linear corridors) (vehicle & trail separation) separation) trail & Wider streetsfor bike lanes (vehicle (Different for the tourist vs. the local) most needs to change / what issues to change / most needs

Identifying hiking/walking trails that are more difficult difficult more thattrails are hiking/walking Identifying Town into walk/bike to way safe a need they and Campground Point Haynes the at people 400 Safe biking lanes biking lanes Safe unsafe is areas rural in Biking (Two groups – 1. Passers Through & 2. Destination & 2. Visitors): Passers Through 1. groups – (Two

- - - - - Connectivity (seamless) (seamless) - Connectivity - 45thbarrier Street

Connectivity (Sidewalks & trails linked to trails linked & (Sidewalks Connectivity

LOCAL: 1. 2b. Cycling Infrastructure2b. Cycling - 2c. Mountain bike trails bike 2c. Mountain 2a. Wayfinding Signage / Organized information maps maps information / Organized Signage Wayfinding 2a. Restaurants / overnightRestaurants stays snowbirds/year) -900 tourist (800 Winter Trails are flat atlevel lakemore but difficult ones the higher in surrounding mountains which givesvariety a of tofor all from trail choose totypes ability experiences Difficult) (Easy Weather is perfect for year round use of trails by Regional District150 grantwas won Canada for trails program Time slows down Landscape Mountain lifeWork balance Weather Quality of life lifestyle living Active TOURIST TOURIST Desert Lake

...... What is the Osoyoos Experience? What is the

Facilitators asked participantsto delvethe into specifics of meant for them: o

importance voted by participants with Dots): with by participants voted importance that themes Key emerged for what

• 3. Hard surface trails surface Hard 3. fitness to park outdoor full 4. Revamp Kinsmen Park a points access trail at vehicles of 5. Parking

E 26. Public Engagement Details to walk & bike (encourage walkability) walkability) (encourage to & bike walk

rvey, MindMixer). Tourism for trails & parks to encourage people to encourage trails & parks for Tourism to offer has Osoyoos what advertising job a better to do Need

- - voted but on, (Not identifiedimportant) as Addressingfor dogs and areasdogs to use the park trails& riding horseback Including opportunities on trails (lighting, issues safety Addressing fencing) snake shrubs, Showcase waterfront Gyropark – Park taxisWater to from Lakeshore not might tourists Many Downtown. have a vehicleand wantto walk/bike to get around. – for teenagers activities Need courts, tennis are there Currently butmaybe park BMX and Skate Park developmore and promote mountain bike trails for youth and alike. tourists – in invite youth plan to engage Need social through students school high tomedia toolsonline engagement su online (StanMap, park new toconsider We need acquisition the Osoyoos Experience” “Enhancing Trailhead parking parking Trailhead

......

6a. Update present trails brochure brochure trails present Update 6a. OTHER ISSUES 6b. MOTI needsto coexist withTown

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 27.

(all groups): groups): (all for the next 20 years for years the 20 next ouring communities)to neighb ouring ils linked trails to the parks e preferred future vision vision future e preferred s for residents and visitors”for residentss and Accessible to all ages and abilities abilities and to all ages Accessible Comprehensiveand integrated Economic developmentfor the community Showcase natural environment Town trails within of Connectivity (Tra up the Valley trails of Connectivity trails biking mountain Enhanced trailssystem wayfinding throughout and Signage, parks Comprehensivemap showing existing and suggestedtrails & appreciated Better known Relative ease of year-round maintenance 3-season usage usage 3-season Active living Culture/history Healthy community community Healthy Safe maintained Well Interconnected system of Better accessibility Better lighting More all-weather surfaces trails Better hiking More “loop” trails Flexible tourism Recreation disabilities Park equipment with en for childr

4. 5. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 2. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 1. 3. (45 mins): (10 min as whole group refine DRAFT vision): vision): DRAFT group refine as whole min (10 mins): (45 General characteristicsof thGeneral 10 years from now: trails and of parks Envisioned future

• •

Visioning integrated/connected and affordable accessible, quality, high of a variety to provide exist Trails and Parks “Osoyoos outdoor opportunitie recreation

• • SESSION 2: Thinking about the Future - Future Vision and Desired Outcomes Outcomes Desired and - Future Vision Future the about 2: Thinking SESSION

E 28. Public Engagement Details

(2 assigned per group)

re appropriate), washrooms, surfaces, signage (needs surfaces, signage re appropriate), washrooms,

trails system be working toachieve?

What beaches are specifically dog beaches? specifically are What beaches

o Uniqueness of species/habitats (interpretive signage) of species/habitats Uniqueness A lot ofmoney spent duringbusy season on bylawproblem areas CPTED/ more ‘safety’ focus would help resolve would help focus ‘safety’ CPTED/ more Visibility (not much) (not Visibility Can emphasize the importance the lake of importance the Can emphasize None noted Inconsistency with dogs Inconsistency None noted Existing bylaw inplace Branding None noted Additional as needed RCMP Aboriginal component/culture/history Aboriginal names Place

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • statement this with agree strongly members group All All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All Strengths & Opportunities: Group members are neutral or disagree with this statement thisstatement with or disagree neutral are members Group Concerns & Weaknesses: Concerns & Weaknesses: Strengths & Opportunities: Strengths & Opportunities:

Concerns & Weaknesses:

...... Continuation of existing efforts: Veteran’s Park, waterfront,Continuation etc. Park, of existingefforts: Veteran’s Trails. throughout Parks and Clear wayfinding Trails and parks should be accessible to all (ages and abilities) and be cost-effective (system wide). wide). (system cost-effective and be and abilities) (ages to all Trails and parks should be accessible Enforcement of park and trail bylaws (safety, number of officers). officers). of number (safety, bylaws trail and park of Enforcement to existing parks and trails (Whe Amenities upgrade water fountains. consistent message), playground, benches, and Focus on our local history local history Focus on our

17. 18. 1. 4. 2. 3. (45 mins) – What should the parks and and the parks should – mins) What (45 Draft outcomestatements discussed and revisedby each group

• Outcomes

•

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 29.

s Provincial Trail Point) Park (Haynes ẁ i ẁ

Acquire land “now” (proactive) where little/no provision exists (i.e. Lakeshore, Dividend Dividend Lakeshore, (i.e. exists provision little/no where “now” (proactive) land Acquire Ridge) opportunities park Linear Opportunities to connect Pioneer Walkway to Lakeshore Trail to Lakeshore Walkway Pioneer to connect Opportunities Key Drive Harbour & Lakeshore between Lack of connectivity tourism recreation to support businesses We have master trails the in two the link to priority RDOS low is (concern 22 Road to KVR old the Linking plan) Cottonwood to NK’MIP Cottonwood Funding is available available is Funding Washrooms upgraded recently Washrooms upgraded recently Inflatable water park park water Inflatable Jasminto Drive s Economic development development Economic We are already a tourism destination tourism destination a We are already None noted Cost of maintenance Road 22 Lakeshore Fairwinds Dr. to West Bench Trail to Bench West Dr. Fairwinds

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Group members agree and strongly agree with this statement statement this agree with strongly and agree members Group All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All Concerns & Weaknesses: All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All statement this with agree strongly members group All Strengths & Opportunities: Strengths & Opportunities: Strengths & Opportunities: Concerns & Weaknesses: Strengths & Opportunities:

Concerns & Weaknesses: Concerns & Weaknesses:

7. 6. 5.

E 30. Public Engagement Details

(90 mins) mins) (90 Expensive, but necessary (will be more expensive in the future) the in expensive more be (will necessary but Expensive, Important Include sidewalk connections sidewalk Include Requires “trade-off” decisions decisions “trade-off” Requires

• • • • All group members strongly agree with this statement statement this with agree strongly members group All Strengths & Opportunities: Concerns & Weaknesses:

. . . Maintain quality of trail and park infrastructure. and park infrastructure. Maintain quality of trail Park Lions Gyro Park Legion Beach BoatPoint Launch Haynes (swiws) Jack Shaw Gardens West Bench Complex DesertPark Park Kinsmen

• • • • • • • • 8.

SESSION 3: Key Destinations, Barriers & Priorities - - Priorities & Barriers Destinations, Key 3: SESSION mins) Destinations (10 1) Key

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 31. St. th St due to narrow double fence entrance fence entrance St due tonarrow double th and 115 nd . to NK’MIP: Boulders blockentrance Ave to Lakeshore Dr. (Through Haynes Point/Swiws) Point/Swiws) Haynes Dr. (Through to Lakeshore Ave nd Creek Road and Golf Creek CourseRoad Dr. St. – Narrow Road – Narrow Road St. ngs needed along Highway 3 3 Highway along needed ngs th Street being redone Street redone being th to 85 to th Ave. between 89 between Ave. th Inaccessible beach access along Harbour Key Dr. Key Dr. Harbour along access beach Inaccessible 32 to connect New road and bridge on east Highway 3 No sidewalk or bike lane Pathway Lakeshore and between Pioneer Missing connection Walkway Pathway to Dr. Dr. Lakeshore Missing connection from Cottonwood on 45 No sidewalk or bike lane Dr from Cottonwood access No accessible defined poorly are Town to Resort NK’MIP Trail from 45 and Dr. Cottonwood between maintenance and upgrading Signage, No access to waterfront northwest of Lacey Point Point Lacey of northwest waterfront to access No crossi highway More/improved 62 at Trailhead Canal Irrigation at accessibility Limited Centre Cultural Desert NK’MIP trails near Existing walking connectingExisting trails Strawberry Point Lacey of northwest waterfront to access No 74

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 2) Key Barriers (10 mins) mins) (10 Barriers Key 2) LOCAL ISSUE AREAS

E 32. Public Engagement Details : is is far away fromfar nota very downtown is and away (1 assigned to each group) (1 assigned to

untain (near Canada/USA border) Canada/USA untain (near Ave.

th Maybe possible near Cottonwood Park (however th (however Park possible near Cottonwood Maybe walkable distance?) distance?) walkable position Neutral Enough forEnough now

• • Other potential opportunities opportunities potential Other • (70 mins) (70

Potential New Lake Based (Inflatable) Waterfront Park Based (Inflatable) Waterfront Potential New Lake • Water Access

2. 1.

REGIONAL ISSUE AREAS AREAS ISSUE REGIONAL trailfor access canal Trail linkage - Use KVR Highway atHighway crossing needed Okanagan Lakehead near needed system trail to Connection Rd. Campsite Trailheadparking lot off 146 of better knowledge and to NK’MIP Resort access Improve the area in trails Trail Dewdney with Connectivity trails toConnectingand bike pedestrian from Osoyoos Mountain) National Park proposed (Kruger Protect proposed areas withinconservation (Kruger Mountain) National Park Unique species SE Kruger of Mo

• • • • • • • • • 3) Opportunities & Priorities 3) Opportunities &

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 33.

ve yards to in attheirgarden homes

raming and other recreation users recreation raming and other ns from the 2014 Community Services Master Plan Plan Master Services Community 2014 the from ns (listed in orderto of importancethe group)

igns noting hazards, snakes, bears, etc.) bears, snakes, igns noting hazards, Concern existed about trying to take back these areas as the adjacent land owners have have owners land adjacent the as areas these back take to trying about existed Concern for time. them a long using been

o Existing access taken over by private owners owners private by taken over Existing access Boat pollution isa concern if morepointsaccess are provided Not in as mostha demand high people property)? (underutilized lots vacant grown on to be produce local Encourage markets farmers’ support of Encourage Not encouraged in local community currently parks community local in encouraged Not Rural access could be increased increased could be Rural access Maybe in future

• • • • • Small Town footprint not suitable for ATV/dirt bikes bikes for ATV/dirt suitable not footprint Town Small West Bench only area near Town that limits allows OHV use Use of other motorizedvehicles carts,(golf mobility scooters,electric bikes)Town on trails and pathways discussion. needs further • Just doesn’tfit withTown’s prog • •

Community Gardens Production / in Parks Food

• Motorized Recreation – Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) (OHV) Vehicles – Off Highway Motorized Recreation • • •

4. 3. High end hiking on West Bench – economic opportunity (make it an event) event) an it (make opportunity economic – Bench on West hiking end High Build on currentparks and trails recommendatioand Maintainingincrease parks and numberoverallparks of cycle(life costs) assets Acquire park (land) Trail hierarchy lanes(bike –paved – gravel; ratelevel of difficulty– beginner to advanced – includingtime/distance on signage) opportunities educational history, park general and First Nations paving) upgrades (lighting, Park families) for (safety trails use Mixed design universal – for all people Accessibility Safetytrails/ of well parks – maintained (s Other forms of active transportation Signage and wayfinding Connections between elements of safetynear highways Road 22 connection

4. 14. 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 8. 10. 11. 12. 13. 9. 1. FINAL WRAP-UP – Group Summary of Priority Topics Priority Topics of Summary – Group FINAL WRAP-UP

E 34. Public Engagement Details Upgrade existing parks and trails trails and parks existing Upgrade costly to maintain/upgrade Parks sustainable: clipboard attrailheadSign-in sheet comment feedback with Apply for grantfunding parks Active/passive prioritized projects sized” “bite Phased

15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 35. E 36. Public Engagement Details E.2 STAGE 1 – STANMAP RESULTS MAPPED

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 37. E 38. Public Engagement Details Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan E 39. E 40. Public Engagement Details Appendix F PARKS CLASSIFICATION TABLE

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan F .1 Wayfinding washrooms Basic cans Trash Off-leash area Action sport facilities art Public classroomOutdoor structures Shade • • • • • • • • Benches Tables Picnic Trails Interpretive signage Interpretive center Boat launch (non- motorized) Swimming (natural) To conserveTo provincially, regionally locally and/or significant native habitats protect species at risk and maintain ecosystem processes. Enhance continue and/or the supply of ecosystem services the to community. DependentAny. on environmental values and purpose of the site. tourists wide, Town Regional, Limited the to minimum necessary facilitate to and manage visitor use. • • • • • • • On-street or on-site for parks that attract higher visitation. Yes water control, erosion protection, flood plants, native sequestration, carbon connectivity, habitat habitat, Wildlife infrastructure stormwater green filtration, Limited none to Class Conservation 1: Parks Purpose Size Attraction Intended Built Environment Developed Percent Amenities (desired) Amenities (optional) Parking Values Environmental Natural Area Services Ecosystem Generation Revenue

F .2 Parks Classification Table Community centre Community classroomOutdoor Action sport facilities Spray park shower Outdoor Interpretive signage signage Wayfinding cans Trash structures Shade Lighting • • • • • • • • • • fabricated playground) ‑ fabricated Natural area Natural fitness Outdoor Off-leash area facilities Indoor recreation centre Cultural Food trucks & vendors & trucks Food Outdoor BBQ area/fire pits Improved paths play for Pathways playground/ (natural area Play pre art Public performers Street • • • • • • • • • • • • Water access Water Swimming (pool or natural) Outdoor sport fields/courts Concessions garden Community Benches tables Picnic Washrooms amenities recreation Active Passive play area Designed landscape space performance Outdoor Concessions On-site May contain undeveloped natural areas, habitats for species at risk, lake shore, wetlands and other sensitive environments • • • • • To serveTo as a leisure destination and for Town regional residents and visitors. Provide diverse spontaneous and programmed recreational opportunities. May conserve important habitats and provide for functioning ecosystem processes. Typically greater than hectares 12 tourists wide, Town Regional, 50 – 100% • • • • • • • • Wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, native plants, flood protection, erosion control, water filtration, green green filtration, water control, erosion protection, flood plants, native sequestration, carbon habitat, Wildlife infrastructure stormwater Significant. Revenues generatedto cover operational costs of park and supplement operational costsfor other parks in the network. Parking Values Environmental Natural Area Services Ecosystem Amenities (optional) Class Parks 2: Town Purpose Size Attraction Intended Built Environment Developed Percent Amenities (desired) Revenue Generation Revenue

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan F .3 Play area (natural playground/ (natural area Play playground) pre-fabricated signage Wayfinding cans Trash Spray park shower Outdoor art Public performers Street Interpretive signage structures Shade Lighting • • • • • • • • • • Passive play area Designed landscape Improved paths play for Pathways garden Community area Natural fitness Outdoor Off-leash area centre Community classroomOutdoor sport facilities Action • • • • • • • • • • • Benches tables Picnic Washrooms amenities recreation Active access Water Swimming (pool or natural) Outdoor sport fields/courts space performance Outdoor Concessions vendors & trucks Food pits BBQ area/fire Outdoor To provideTo for the spontaneous and, a lesser to extent, programmed recreational needs of multiple neighbourhoods. May also conserve locally important habitats and provide for functioning ecosystem processes. Typically 2 hectares or larger residents neighbourhood Multiple adjacent 25 – 100% • • • • • • • • • • • On-site or on-street butMay, is unlikely, contain to undeveloped natural areas, habitats for species at risk, lake shore, wetlands and environments sensitive other Wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, native plants, flood protection, erosion control, water filtration, green green filtration, water control, erosion protection, flood plants, native sequestration, carbon habitat, Wildlife infrastructure stormwater Limited. May cover partial operational costs via rental fees. Class 3: Community Parks Community 3: Class Purpose Size Attraction Intended Built Environment Developed Percent Amenities (desired) Amenities (optional) Parking Values Environmental Natural Areas Services Ecosystem Revenue Generation Revenue

F .4 Parks Classification Table Pathways for play for Pathways playground) playground/pre-fabricated (natural area Play signage Wayfinding cans Trash Interpretive signage fitness Outdoor Off-leash area structures Shade Washrooms • • • • • • • • • Benches tables Picnic Passive play area Designed landscape Improved paths access Water Swimming (natural) Outdoor sport fields/courts garden Community area Natural To provideTo for the spontaneous recreational needs of the surrounding neighbourhood. Typically 0.5 – 2 ha Neighbourhood 30 – 100% • • • • • • • • • • On-street Unlikely none to Few Limited none to Class 4: Neighbourhood Parks Purpose Size Attraction Intended Built Environment Developed Percent Amenities (desired) Amenities (optional) Parking Values Environmental Natural Area Services Ecosystem Generation Revenue

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan F 5. Plaza space art Public performers Street Interpretive signage structures Shade Playgrounds • • • • • • Benches Designed Landscape Improved paths Lighting tables Picnic performance Outdoor space Concessions vendors & trucks Food Fire pits To provideTo residents and visitors respite from busier urban environments, places for children interpretation. play, places to heritage cultural and rest, to experiences visitor enhance to vendors and performers for space Typically – 1 ha between 0.1 tourists wide, Town Regional, Neighbourhood, 100% • • • • • • • • • Off-site Limited none to plantings native infrastructure, stormwater green include May Limited. May cover partial operational costs via rental fees. Class Public 5: Plazas/Pocket Parks Purpose Size Attraction Intended Built Environment Developed Percent Amenities (desired) Amenities (optional) Parking Values Environmental Natural Area Services Ecosystem Generation Revenue

F 6. Parks Classification Table Stand-alone parks that are designed for a particular use such as BMX parks, mountain bike skills parks, specialty skate gardens. parks or Industry best practices should be used guide to the design parameters. Necessary meet to the intended use. 70–100% purpose intended on Dependent purpose intended on Dependent purpose intended on Dependent Limited none to filtration, water control, erosion protection, flood plants, native sequestration, carbon habitat, wildlife include May infrastructure stormwater green purpose. intended on Dependent Class Special 6: Purpose Parks Purpose Size Built Environment Developed Percent Amenities (desired) Amenities (optional) Parking Values Environmental Natural Percent Services Ecosystem Generation Revenue

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan F 7. Off-leash area Lighting Launch Boat Wayfinding signage Wayfinding cans Trash • • • • • Natural area Natural Interpretive signage Dock Improved paths Designed landscape • • • • • Washrooms tables Picnic amenities recreation Active Water access Water access Stair Benches On-street and/or On-site May contain undeveloped natural areas, habitats for species at risk, lake shore, wetlands and other sensitive environments • • • Providing public access ocean, to river or lake frontage. Secondary uses include natural area protection and viewing opportunities ha Typically between 0.1–1 tourists wide, Town Regional, Neighbourhood, 50–100% • • • Wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, native plants, flood protection, erosion control, water filtration, green green filtration, water control, erosion protection, flood plants, native sequestration, carbon habitat, Wildlife infrastructure stormwater Limited none to 44 Parking Values Environmental Natural Area Services Ecosystem Amenities (optional) Class Water Access/Linear 7: Parks Purpose Size Attraction Intended Built Environment Developed Percent Amenities (desired) Revenue Generation Revenue Master Plan. *This classification system was adapted from the Seattle Parks Classification Policy and modified from the Osoyoos Community Services Services Community Osoyoos the from and modified Policy Classification Parks Seattle the from adapted was system classification *This

F 8. Parks Classification Table

Osoyoos Parks and Trails Master Plan September 2016