580 Parks and Recreation PlanCITY OF YELM
RESOLUTION NUMBER 580
PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN
WHEREAS, the City's Parks and Recreation Plan was last adopted in 2008 and needs to be
updated; and
WHEREAS, the Yelm Parks Advisory Board has reviewed and updated the Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Yelm Planning Commission provided opportunity for public input through
public meetings, and a public hearing; and
WHEREAS, the Parks Advisory Board and the Planning Commission have completed
review and modification of the Plan and have forwarded the Plan to the City Council for
adoption;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Yelm that the 2017
Parks and Recreation Plan attached to this resolution as Exhibit A is hereby adopted.
APPROVED this 25th day July, 2017
J Foster, May r
ATTEST:
Lori Mossman, City Clerk
EXHIBIT A
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2017 Parks and Recreation Plan
Acknowledgements
Elected Officials
JW Foster, Mayor
EJ Curry, Councilmember
Molly Carmody, Councilmember
Jennifer Littlefield, Councilmember
Tracey Wood, Councilmember
Tad Stillwell, Councilmember
Joe DePinto, Councilmember
Russ Hendrickson, Councilmember
City Staff
Yelm Parks Advisory Committee
Cecelia Jenkins, Chair
Anne Wahrmund
Ben Delora
Beth Harris
Sandi Hanson
Peggi Reese
Dana Spivey, Executive Assistant
Grant Beck, Community Development Director
Tami Merriman, Associate Planner
Special Thanks
Yelm Citizens
Yelm Planning Commission
Adopted by the Yelm City Council
July 25, 2017
Ordinance No. 580
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................................1
Why the Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan is important..............................................................................1
WhatProblems Exist...................................................................................................................................1
Vision for Yelm Parks and Recreation Network..........................................................................................2
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Mission....................................................................................................2
Descriptionof the Process..........................................................................................................................3
BACKGROUND..........................................................................................................................................4
FACILITIES AND PROGRAM INVENTORY...................................................................................................5
Landand Facilities......................................................................................................................................5
Parks...........................................................................................................................................................5
Trails...........................................................................................................................................................8
IndoorFacilities.........................................................................................................................................10
Thurston County Parks — Southeast..........................................................................................................10
Schools......................................................................................................................................................10
Other Recreational Facilities - Private......................................................................................................15
Events, Recreation Programs & Services..................................................................................................15
YelmCommunity Center...........................................................................................................................16
OpenSpace...............................................................................................................................................16
Parkand Recreation Budgets...................................................................................................................16
ParksMaintenance...................................................................................................................................17
Levelof Service.........................................................................................................................................19
NEEDS ASSESSMENT...............................................................................................................................23
StatisticalSources.....................................................................................................................................23
City of Yelm Parks Survey 2008.................................................................................................................23
Yelm Home and Garden Show data gathering 2015................................................................................24
Current Participation and Demand...........................................................................................................24
ParkLand — Including Trails......................................................................................................................24
ActiveFacilities.........................................................................................................................................24
PassiveFacilities.......................................................................................................................................25
Projected Needs and Priorities..................................................................................................................26
Park Land — City of Yelm and Surrounding Urban Growth Area (UGA)....................................................26
Level of Service Measures Projections based on Population....................................................................26
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page ii
Securityin Parks........................................................................................................................................28
PARK AND TRAIL DEVELOPMENT OPTIONS............................................................................................
29
ParkClassification Models........................................................................................................................29
MiniParks.................................................................................................................................................29
NeighborhoodParks.................................................................................................................................31
CommunityParks......................................................................................................................................32
SpecialUse Parks......................................................................................................................................
33
Trails& Pathways.....................................................................................................................................34
FISCALANALYSIS.......................................................................................................................................36
Options for Public and Private Open Space and Parks Responsibility.......................................................36
OwnershipOpportunity............................................................................................................................37
Applicable Regulations and Commitments...............................................................................................37
Other Recommended Mitigation Measures.............................................................................................37
Funding Source Options (See Appendix B. for a more full description of these sources) .........................37
General Funding Strategies......................................................................................................................39
City of Yelm Parks Survey 2008.................................................................................................................40
Opportunities and action plan to meet demand......................................................................................44
Parks, Recreation and Trail Facilities........................................................................................................44
GeneralActions.........................................................................................................................................46
ParkNeeds................................................................................................................................................47
APPENDIX A — Yelm Prairie Trail Line (REGIONAL TRAILS PLAN EXCERPT) .............................................. 48
APPENDIX B — Funding Source Options.................................................................................................. 50
APPENDIX C — Complete Results Of The 2008 Parks Survey.................................................................... 56
APPENDIX D — RESULTS OF 2015 HOME AND GARDEN SHOW COMMENTS............................................67
List of Tables
Table 1. City of Yelm parks — existing and in -process facilities (2016) ......................................................6
Table 2. Yelm Community Schools — existing and in -process facilities (2016) ........................................11
Table 3. Yelm Community Schools — recreation facilities used by community sports groups (2016)......12
Table 4. Yelm Community Schools, City parks & trails — existing recreation facilities (2016) ................. 13
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page iii
Table S. City of Yelm Parks expense budget summary: 2015/2016........................................................17
Table 6. City of Yelm parks — maintenance requirements......................................................................17
Table 7. City of Yelm level of service measure Keys...............................................................................19
Table 8. City of Yelm existing Tier 1 level of service points.................................................................... 20
Table 9. LOS measures - South East Quadrant...................................................................................... 20
Table 10. LOS measures - North East Quadrant.................................................................................... 21
Table 11. LOS measures - South West Quadrant................................................................................... 21
Table 12. LOS measures - North West Quadrant................................................................................... 21
Table 13. TOTAL LOS measures by City Quadrant..................................................................................21
Table 14. City of Yelm — youth league sports groups participation levels and needs (2016) ................... 25
Table 15. City of Yelm/UGA park land acquisition estimates (park only): 2015-2040 ............................ 26
Table 16. City of Yelm/UGA parks and facilities requirements by LOS Points: 2015 — 2040 ................... 27
Table 17. City of Yelm and UGA area — projected recreation facility minimum needs ........................... 27
Table 18. Capital development projections, by park classification.........................................................36
List of Figures
Figure1: City of Yelm Parks.....................................................................................................................7
Figure2. City of Yelm Trails.....................................................................................................................9
Figure 3. Yelm Schools, Parks and Trails................................................................................................14
Figure4. City Quadrants........................................................................................................................ 22
Figure 5. Mini Park / Pocket Park — Conceptual Site Plan A................................................................... 30
Figure 6. Neighborhood Park — Conceptual Site Plan A.......................................................................... 32
Figure 7. Special Use Park — Conceptual Site Plan A............................................................................... 34
Figure8. Shared Use Path...................................................................................................................... 35
Yelm Community Parks and Recreation Survey......................................................................................64
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page ii
INTRODUCTION
Why the Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan is important
Building a Sustainable Community. Park and recreation facilities are being recognized as more
important than ever to the sustainability of a community. Yelm adopted sustainability as a
guiding principle for their Comprehensive Plan updates in 2007 and 2016 noting:
"A sustainable community thoughtfully provides for the needs of its residents
with efficiency and stewardship for the future. Consider how today's decisions
will affect the quality of life of a sustainable community and meet the needs of
current citizens without jeopardizing the quality of life or needs of future
generations. The goal is to establish ways of living that can be sustained
indefinitely."
Recognizing the value of parks and recreation facilities for the overall health and well-being
of citizens. The provision of safe, accessible recreation facilities for all ages has become more
of a priority than ever before with recognition of regular exercise to the health of individuals in
the community. Demographic changes are occurring with growth in the percentage of the
population reaching their sixties. This presents a challenge to communities who must continue
to focus on the needs of youth but in addition, must provide for the needs of community
members of all ages. Consequently, planning for anticipated needs, and providing and
maintaining recreation facilities becomes a challenge as communities continue to grow and the
cost of facility development and maintenance continues to rise.
This plan is intended to:
1) Identify existing and planned recreation facilities based on the needs identified,
2) Determine priorities, and
3) Establish an action plan in order to begin to work toward the future described.
The Parks and Recreation Plan covers the Yelm parks service area including the City of Yelm
with its Master Planned Communities and the unincorporated Yelm Urban Growth Area.
What Problems Exist
Meeting the needs of a growing and diverse population. Today, the on-going growth and
aging of the local population continue to have an effect on the ability of the City of Yelm to
provide an appropriate level of recreational facilities and services. Despite meeting some of the
goals set forth in the Capital Improvement Plan, the City still faces the challenge of providing
adequate services for its growing number of residents. The impacts are being felt most by
organized sports groups that use the new Longmire Community Park facilities as well as
depend on existing Yelm Community Schools facilities (putting additional stress on those
facilities), private facilities (which are limited in the City), or travel to venues outside the Yelm
area (creating additional impacts on schedules and on traffic).
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 1
Other challenges include:
- Maximizing the use of existing facilities through cooperation and coordination
- Determining the type and amount of additional parks and open space facilities that are
needed now and that will be needed over time based on population projections
- Identifying maintenance cost and determining how these will be sustained over time
- Exploring financing options, determining funding sources and establishing priorities based
on the agreed upon levels of service.
Vision for Yelm Parks and Recreation Network
The City of Yelm park and recreation network will sustain the physical and mental wellbeing of
citizens as the area continues to grow by providing:
• Safe places for active and passive recreation for all ages
• Community gathering places for entertainment, education, art and culture
• Green spaces to share and enjoy with friends and family
• Opportunities for finding peace and serenity in shared spaces
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Mission
The City of Yelm will work with public and private partners as the area grows, to fund, develop,
maintain and operate a park and recreation network that will meet the needs of citizens of all
ages, within the Yelm community, and contribute to the regional park, recreation and trail
network.
The Yelm Park and Recreation Network will include:
• Safe and accessible parks with play areas and picnic areas, community gathering areas
and nature walk spaces
• Trail networks that link sidewalks, and on and off street bicycle lanes and walking routes
• Outdoor and indoor sports and community recreation facilities that will provide
opportunities for learning new skills, exercise, and activities for all ages that respond to
the interests of as many citizens as possible
The existing Yelm Park and Recreation Network will be enhanced, making efficient use of
existing facilities while identifying additions that will be needed as growth occurs. The existing
network will continue to support:
• Youth and adult sport activity
• Community needs for gatherings and events
The Yelm Park and Recreation Network will expand over time in order to:
• Add opportunity for all neighborhoods to have a gathering or play space within walking
distance of homes, or linkages via sidewalks, and paths that encourage bicycling and
walking,
• Meet the demands of a more diverse population, increasingly aware of the importance
of exercise and activity for the mental and physical wellbeing of young and old
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 2
• Continue to accommodate youth and adult sport activity needs, building new facilities in
cooperation with schools and other public and private partners
• Respond to concerns for sustainability by providing park and recreation facilities and
open spaces within the Yelm community
• Consider adding a community recreation center and swimming pool
• Plan for a park and recreation department or district and a director and staff
• Accommodate regional and state user needs for special events
Description of the Process
This Draft Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan evolved from past parks plans completed in 1987,
1999 and 2008. This 2017 draft is based on updates to the 2008 plan with recommendations
from the Yelm Parks Advisory Committee, and extensive work by a subcommittee of the parks
advisory committee and the planning commission. Data used in the preparation and review of
the plan includes:
• Population projections to 2040 for Yelm and its Urban Growth Area as updated in 2015
• Input from public, private and community groups during the 2016 Comprehensive Plan
update,
• Surveys completed in 1999,again in 2008 and public feedback collected during the 2015
Yelm Home and Garden Show,
• Review and outreach to all Yelm citizens and public and private organizations by the
Parks Advisory Committee (including an open house)
• Review by the Planning Commission which includes work sessions, public hearing and
recommendation for adoption to the Yelm City Council
• Review by the Yelm City Council including work sessions, public hearing and adoption
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 3
BACKGROUND
Over the last 30+ years (1986-2016), the needs and demands for varied leisure time activities
have increased significantly throughout Thurston County and, particularly, in the City of Yelm.
The 1987 Park Plan expressed the needs and goals of the community. In its 1999 Parks &
Recreation Plan, the City determined that the needs and demands for recreation facilities far
exceeded what was available in the area at the time. In its 2008 Parks & Recreation Plan, the
City determined that it had the appropriate amount of land to meet the National Recreation &
Park Association Standards, however still lacking recreation facilities. The response was to
develop a six-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), to set goals and objectives, define needs
and implement an action plan for providing a greater level of parks and recreation services.
Specific goals included:
• upgrades to existing park and recreation facilities,
• redesign of City Park, including the Community Center and Skate Board Park,
• upgrades to Longmire Community Park, and
• a new Community Park with an indoor recreation facility (with location and funding yet
to be determined).
This document updates and enhances elements of the City of Yelm 2008 Parks & Recreation
Plan, identifies new goals, establishes new Level of Service standards and measurements and
identifies new opportunities for park, recreation facilities, athletic fields, open space and trails
to meet our increasing population demands. This update includes:
• a program inventory of land, facilities, and recreation services,
• determination of level of service standards and measures;
• needs assessment, including current needs and demands, and projected needs and
priorities based on citizen survey responses and level of service;
• parks and trails classifications and options
• current budgets, and maintenance requirements,
• possible funding sources
• an action plan
This information will be used by City decision makers to determine park, recreation, and open
space requirements to be developed over time, and as the update of the Parks/Open Space
Section of the Yelm Comprehensive Plan.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 4
FACILITIES AND PROGRAM INVENTORY
The following identifies existing land, facilities, recreation programs, level of service, and
current improvement activities for parks and recreation facilities within the City of Yelm.
Land and Facilities
Parks
There are currently four parks — totaling 25.23 acres — all of which are developed with the
exception of additional amenities. Two of these parks (Cochrane Memorial Park and Yelm City
Park) have facilities that provide a range of features for mostly passive recreational use (e.g.,
picnic shelters and tables, barbeque grills, trails, seating areas, performance stage, playground,
water features, information kiosk, restrooms); some active recreational use (e.g., open play
areas, new Community Center patio area); and other recreational opportunities (e.g.,
Community Center building with kitchen facilities, vendor stalls, veterans' memorial sites).
The third facility — Longmire Community Park — is an active recreation facility, with most of the
work completed in March 2008. The park includes three Little League regulation -size baseball
fields, one soccer/football field, a paved parking lot of 135+ spaces, and accent landscaping
around the parking lot. Restrooms are in place to serve the needs of park users. Picnic areas
and a trail system are planned potentially to be phased -in over the next several years.
The fourth facility - Yelm Skate Board Park - was completed in 2016. Located on 1st Avenue
across from Yelm City Park, this facility is an active recreation facility for school age children to
adults.
In addition to its function as a facility for passive recreation, Cochrane Memorial Park serves as
a water reclamation facility for the City of Yelm. Through an extensive treatment process,
wastewater generated by the City is converted to water clean enough for specific reuse
applications, enabling the City to conserve water resources. Four of the nearly eight park acres
are comprised of wet cells that filter reuse water prior to its reentry into local aquifers.
Yelm City Park is located in the center of town — in a space roughly the size of one city block —
and serves as the signature downtown park. Because of its central proximity and existing
features favorable to community -oriented activities, many special events are held throughout
the year at this facility. Yelm City Park includes the Community Center facility available for
public and private events with 4,934 square feet, capacity of up to 250 and a fully equipped
commercial kitchen.
The following table describes existing parks currently in use or under development for
recreational purposes in the City of Yelm.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 5
Table 1. City of Yelm
Cochrane Memorial Park 7.88 79 Water reclamation facility (cells, ponds and water channels),
(developed) trails, picnic shelter and picnic areas, barbeque grills, seating
areas, fishing pond, wildlife observation areas, waterfall
feature, fountain, wood observation deck, open space, paved
parking lot (20 spaces), portable toilet, landscaping
Note: restrooms to be added at future date
Longmire Community Park 13.37 201
Open space, paved parking lot (130+ spaces), landscaping,
(developed)
three Little League -sized baseball fields, one football/soccer
field, restrooms, snack facility and playground equipment
Note: trails, picnic shelter and picnic tables added at a future
date
Yelm City Park 3.73 37
Picnic shelter, picnic tables, barbeque grill, covered vendor
(developed)
stalls, Community Center with commercial kitchen facility,
indoor and outdoor restrooms, open play areas, playground,
covered concrete surface multi-purpose area, covered concrete
Yelm Community Center 50
surface performance stage, seating areas, commemorative
stone plaques, flag pole, gravel parking lot (40+ spaces),
accessibility paved parking lot (23 spaces), perimeter
landscaping
Note: Redesign and include adjacent property, and add PA
system, and expanded play equipment.
Trails —Yelm and UGA 36 180
5.29 miles of paved trail within Yelm and its Urban Growth
(developed)
Area (UGA) for bicycle and pedestrian use with linkages to the
Yelm to Tenino Trail network and to the rest of the existing and
planned Thurston Regional Trail network. The Prairie Line Trail
includes a trailhead park with picnic tables, restrooms, parking
lot (20 spaces) and landscaping. Currently approximately 58
miles of paved trail in the Thurston region could expand to as
much as 145 miles of trail over time.
Note: This includes the portion of the Yelm to Tenino trail and
completed SR 510 Alt trails within Yelm and its UGA. Acreage
includes all land within the 100 ft. rail corridor right-of-way —
except for the portion from Rhoton Rd. to Canal St. that will be
shared trail and rail. For this portion only the 14 ft. improved
trail area is counted as park space.
Yelm Skate Park .25 25
Skate park includes several levels of skate obstacles, lighting,
picnic area and connection to the Yelm to Tenino Trail.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 6
Figure 1: City of Yelm Parks
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 7
Trails
In 2007 the Thurston Regional Trails Plan was adopted. This detailed plan builds on past rail
corridor preservation and regional bicycle plans. It will guide future trail planning for the
Thurston Region with the goal of completing a region -wide off-street trail network that will
serve the region's resident and visitor transportation and recreation needs.
Yelm-Tenino Trail: This Thurston County trail, approximately 14.5 miles in length, extends east -
west between Yelm, Rainier and Tenino, serving as a regional connector. Completed in late
2004, the trail complements a regional trails system that intersects with the 22 -mile long
Chehalis -Western Trail, and provides a major link to the Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater area. The
trail includes a 10 -foot wide, paved surface for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non -motorized
vehicle uses. The Yelm trailhead originates near City Hall, and includes parking, benches and an
information kiosk. Though the trail and trailhead are owned and managed by Thurston County,
the trailhead is maintained mostly by the City of Yelm Public Works Department.
Yelm Prairie Trail Line: The City of Yelm purchased a segment of the Yelm Prairie Line Railroad
from Burlington Northern Railroad Company in 1998 with the help of transportation grant
funds. Yelm owns the railroad right-of-way (ROW) and its underlying property from State Route
510 northeast to the Town of Roy in Pierce County (approx. 5 miles). As a condition of
acquiring this ROW with grant funds, the Federal Highways Administration required that a
shared -use trail must be built along the length this corridor — from Rhoton Rd. on the south
end. City of Yelm land use plans support future land use activities targeted to customers
requiring rail shipping services, since active rail service could be restored to this corridor in the
future. The City of Yelm may be the first in the region to not only provide a shared -use trail
that connects to another county, but could also have a joint shared -use trail with active rail
service. This trail improves travel for bicycle and pedestrian traffic by providing an off street
uninterrupted route through the center of Yelm with connections to the Yelm-Tenino Trail
Corridor.
The City -owned rail corridor with the Prairie Line Trail - within Yelm city limits - approximately
1.5 miles long, extends in a northeasterly direction from the Yelm-Tenino Trail trailhead behind
City Hall, through the heart of downtown, along NP Rd. SE to its endpoint at the existing
Centralia Power Canal. A trailhead for the Yelm Prairie Line Trail includes parking, picnic tables,
a kiosk and restrooms.
Extension of the Yelm Prairie Line Trail to the town of Roy will require a region -wide effort to
finance, plan, design, and build this trail corridor — including the City of Yelm, Roy and Thurston
and Pierce counties.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 8
Figure 2. City of Yelm Trails.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 9
Indoor Facilities
The City of Yelm does not own or operate any indoor recreation facilities at this time. The only
indoor recreational facilities in the community are within local schools (listed in Table 2 below).
Thurston County Parks — Southeast
Thurston County is currently developing Deschutes Falls Park, a hilly 167 -acre property located
approximately 15 miles southeast of downtown Yelm, off Bald Hills Road SE. Purchased in part
as a nature preserve retreat, the site will feature mostly passive recreation facilities (e.g., trails,
seating, picnic areas, wildlife observation, overlooks). The County is in negotiation to purchase
an adjacent 12 -acre parcel for possible development of informal open play areas and
playgrounds. The park is not yet open to the public.
Schools
The school district currently serves more than 5,500 students in ten separate facilities: six
elementary schools (Fort Stevens, Lackamas, McKenna, Mill Pond, Prairie and Southworth), two
middle schools (Ridgeline and Yelm), one high school (Yelm HS) and one supportive education
facility (Yelm Extension School). With the passage of a City construction bond in 2003,
Lackamas Elementary School opened in 2005 and Ridgeline Middle School opened in the fall of
2006. Expansions were recently completed at McKenna Elementary and Yelm High School, with
follow-up site construction continuing at the High School.
Due to a significant shortage of City recreational facilities and fields, Yelm Community Schools
serve as the primary venue for Yelm area community sports organizations. Typically, a limited
number of school facility fields are available at any given time, with priority always given to
school programs. Some facilities have even greater limitations (for example, only making
available practice areas — not playing fields — for use by community sports groups). Sports
organizations reserve available space with the School District, and subsequently arrange their
schedules with other local sports groups to meet their needs. Due to the limitations of school
facilities, some sports organizations are required to travel outside of the Yelm area (e.g., to
Lacey and Olympia) to find available field space.
The following table describes existing school recreation facilities, most of which currently serve
the needs of local community sports organizations.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 10
Table 2. Yelm Community Schools — existing and in -process facilities (2016).
Fort Stevens Elementary School Two Little League size baseball fields, one open play field (used for soccer),
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 11
one dirt surface walking track, one playground with multiple play apparatus
and swing sets, one full-sized gymnasium with vinyl composition tile (VCT)
flooring.
Lackamas Elementary School
One open play field (used for PE classes and soccer practice), one covered
asphalt surface play area, one playground with play apparatus, one swing
set, one half -sized gymnasium with wood flooring
McKenna Elementary School
One playground with play apparatus, one separate swing set (to be
relocated to playground), one full-sized gymnasium (no bleachers) with
Mondo (soft rubber) flooring.
Note: one Little League baseball field to be added at future date.
Mill Pond Elementary School
Two fast pitch softball fields (to be shared with Ridgeline Middle School
users), one playground with multiple play apparatus, one asphalt surface
basketball court area with four hoops, one full-sized gymnasium (no
bleachers) with rubberized flooring.
Prairie Elementary School
One large play field (used for football and soccer), one 4 to 5 -ft wide asphalt
surface walking track, two fast pitch softball fields, one open play field (used
for young age -group soccer), two playgrounds (both with play apparatus and
one with swings), one covered asphalt surface play area, one asphalt surface
basketball court area with two hoops, one full-sized gym with wood flooring.
Southworth Elementary School
One open play field (used for young age -group soccer), one baseball field
(non -regulation size), one playground with multiple play apparatus and
swing sets, one asphalt surface play court, one covered asphalt surface play
area, one full-sized gymnasium with rubberized flooring (no bleachers).
Ridgeline Middle School
One full-sized main gymnasium with wood flooring, and one full-sized
gymnasium (no bleachers) with Mondo flooring, sharing of two fast pitch
softball fields with Mill Pond Elementary School (see above), one weight
room. Sports fields including football/soccer field, one baseball, one
softball, one fast -pitch field, and a running track.
Yelm Middle School
Two fast pitch softball fields, one open play field (used for soccer), one
soccer field surrounded by an engineered surface running track, four asphalt
surface basketball courts with six hoops (at three out of four courts), one
football field, one baseball field, one full-sized gymnasium with wood
flooring, one weight room.
Yelm High School
One combination football/soccer stadium with bleachers and lighting, one
rubber surface running track in stadium, one fast pitch softball field, one
varsity baseball field, one open play field (used for football practice), one
junior varsity soccer field, one 'events' field (used for soccer or football and
for field events such as javelin throw and shot put), six asphalt surface tennis
courts, two full-sized gymnasiums with wood flooring, one weight room.
Yelm Extension School
No recreation facilities on-site.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 11
Community sports groups also use certain non -recreational spaces creatively to help meet their
athletic needs. For example, a grassy open space inside the paved bus loop at Southworth
Elementary School is used as a practice area for soccer and t -ball, as well as a playing field for
U-5 (early age group) soccer games.
The following table describes user groups, limiting factors and other uses of recreation facilities
and spaces at Yelm Community Schools.
Table 3. Yelm Community Schools — recreation facilities used by community sports groups
Fort Stevens Baseball, soccer Availability of fields and gym Dirt track used for exercise;
Elementary practice, walking, space; one field not lined or field used for soccer practice,
School indoor basketball and irrigated. sometimes for baseball.
other activities
Lackamas
Soccer practice
Small site with little space
Open field used occasionally
Elementary
available for organized sports;
for soccer practice only (no
School
gym use for school only; field
games).
not lined for games or irrigated.
McKenna
Indoor basketball and
Availability of gym space;
Elementary
other activities
baseball field not yet built.
School
Mill Pond
Soccer, softball
Availability; softball fields
Bus parking lot used for
Elementary
shared with adjacent middle
special events (e.g. pit stop
School
school.
for Seattle -to -Portland Bike
Tour).
Prairie
Football, soccer,
Availability of fields and gym
Large field used for both
Elementary
softball, walking/
space.
youth football and soccer
School
running, basketball
games.
Southworth
Baseball, soccer,
Fields not lined for games or
Grassy area inside bus loop
Elementary
t -ball
irrigated.
used for youth age soccer and
School
t -ball; bus loop used for
charity walking events.
Ridgeline Middle
Indoor basketball and
Availability of gym space and
Sports fields including:
School
other activities
weight room; softball fields
football/soccer field, one
shared with adjacent
baseball, one softball, one
elementary school;
fastpitch field, and a running
track
Yelm Middle
Baseball, football,
Availability of fields, gym space
All fields used extensively by
School
soccer, softball
and weight room: football and
community groups.
baseball fields closed Nov to
Mar.
Yelm High
Football, soccer,
Availability of fields, gym space
Stadium field used for semi -
School
softball, track, indoor
and weight room; several
pro football (South Sound
basketball and other
facilities strictly for school use
Shockers) and regional events
activities
only or closed to community
(sports jamborees); track
Nov to Apr.
used for charitable events.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 12
Table 4 identifies public recreational City of Yelm facilities, city/county trail system and Yelm
Community Schools facilities available for use in the Yelm area.
Table 4. Yelm Community Schools, City parks & trails — existing recreation facilities (2016).
SchoolFacility
Barbeque Grill 0 5 5
Baseball Field, Little League or Other
5
3
8
Basketball Court, Outdoor
6
1
7
Bench/Seating
0
13
13
Covered Play Area
2
0
2
Football Field, Youth
1
0
1
Football/Soccer Field, Illuminated
1
1
2
Gymnasium
8
0
8
Information Kiosk
0
2
2
Kitchen/Concessions Facility
0
2
2
Open Play Field
6
2
8
Parking, Accessible
Yes, amount varies
5
5
Parking, Standard
Yes
240+
240+
Performance Stage
0
1
1
Picnic Shelter w/ Tables
0
1
1
Picnic Tables, Individual
0
15
15
Playground
8
2
10
Restroom/Portable Toilet
0
5
5
Running Track
2
0
2
Running Track, Illuminated
1
0
1
Soccer Field, High School Age
2
0
2
Soccer Field, Youth Age
2
0
2
Softball Field
7
0
7
Skate Court
0
1
1
Tennis Court
6
0
6
Vendor Stall
0
16
16
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 13
Figure 3. Yelm Schools, Parks and Trails
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 14
Other Recreational Facilities - Private
Baseball (Little League): One baseball field An important facility used by community sports
groups in the City of Yelm is Sam Brewer Field, a Little League -sized baseball field on the
American Legion Nisqually Valley Veterans Building property (SE corner of Grove Road SE and
103rd Avenue SE).
Baseball: One partially improved field. Another facility used by the Nisqually Basin Little
League is a makeshift ball field located at the Deschutes Grange (SW corner of Vail Road SE and
143rd Avenue SE). This facility was used for games by 7-8 year age groups in 2006, however
due to lack of information, this field may no longer be in use.
Camping: One Camp and Conference Center. Located to southeast of downtown Yelm is the
non-profit Cascades Camp and Conference Center, a private summer horse camp and retreat
center on more than 500 acres, open on a seasonal basis for public use.
Golf: One 18 -hole Golf Course. Just west of the center of town is the Tahoma Terra Golf &
Country Club. The 75 -acre site includes an 18 -hole regulation, par 72 course, 6,007 yards in
length. The Cascade Mini Golf facility is located near the center of the City, on one-half acre of
land. Both facilities are privately -owned and open to the general public on a seasonal basis.
Gymnastics/Fitness: One gymnastics facility; one small gym. Several privately -owned fitness
facilities open to the public are found in downtown Yelm. Yelm Community Services UCBO near
downtown has a small gymnasium available to the public on a limited basis.
Other: Bowling. Prairie Lanes of Yelm is a small, privately -owned bowling alley in downtown
Yelm, available for public use.
Events, Recreation Programs & Services
The primary recreation service provider for activities taking place on City park property is the
Parks Advisory Committee, a seven -member volunteer group created to advise the Yelm City
Council on matters related to City parks. Recreation activities offered by the City, or which
generally take place in Yelm City parks, are described as follows:
• Wounded Warrior - United Methodist Church Car show (September)
• Christmas in the Park (December)
• Circus event (every two years)
• Nisqually Basin Little League (t -ball, spring)
• Badminton Jamboree (September)
• Flag Day Celebration (June 14)
• Prairie Days (June)
• Yelm Rotary Prairie Stampede 5K (June)
• Prairie Street Rod Association Car Show (August)
• Yelm Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt (March or April)
A number of non-profit and for-profit organizations also provide recreation services to the
citizens of Yelm and residents of surrounding communities. Some of these organizations serve
a specific age group; others serve all segments of the population. Most of these organizations
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 15
have space needs that currently can only be accommodated at Yelm Community Schools
facilities. The following is representative of private recreation service providers.
• Black Hills Football Club
• Nisqually Basin Cal Ripken League (subsidiary of Babe Ruth League)
• Nisqually Basin Little League
• Prairie Soccer Club (subsidiary of Thurston County Youth Soccer)
• South Puget Sound Youth Softball Association
• South Sound Baseball
• Thurston County Fast Pitch Association
• Thurston County Youth Football League
• YMCA Basketball League (Yelm)
• Yelm Lions Club
• Yelm Rotary Club
Each of these recreation providers contributes to the numerous activities that comprise the
recreational resources available to the citizens of Yelm. It is important to recognize that these
private organizations depend on public facilities such as parks, schools or other publicly -owned
venues for facilitating their recreation activities. Of any public venue, it is the recreation
facilities of the Yelm Community Schools that these organizations rely on most (or exclusively,
in some cases) for recreation resources.
Yelm Community Center
Situated in Yelm City Park, this 4,934 square foot facility seats 250 and is used both for
community events and available to the public for rent. The Center includes a large event room
that can be portioned, a commercial kitchen, lobby, outdoor terrace and paved parking. It is
an ideal location for banquets, weddings, receptions, conferences, and other gatherings. City
staff is available to provide assistance including set up. Audiovisual equipment and wireless
internet is available.
Open Space
All park land could be considered "open space" but for this plan — as identified on the Park and
Recreation Plan map - open space is public or private land set aside during development review
or identified and preserved by the City. The City requires a percentage of open space to be set
aside during development review (usually 5%). These open space areas can provide corridors
between natural areas and urban land uses. In some cases these can preserve unique
environmental features or areas and increase public use and access where possible and
appropriate. The City has also designated "critical areas" for protection. Critical areas include
wetlands, areas with recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water, fish and wildlife
habitat conservation areas, frequently flooded areas, and geologically hazardous areas. See
Map 4 for Yelm Parks and Open spaces Map at the end of this plan document.
Park and Recreation Budgets
As there is no Parks and Recreation Department in the City of Yelm at the present time,
administration of park planning, park maintenance and facility improvements are performed by
the Public Works Department. The Department's budget activity for parks is structured along
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 16
functional lines of salaries/wages, personnel benefits, supplies, services/other charges and
maintenance. In addition, capital outlay budgeting for Parks and Recreation in 2006 included
$150,000 to complete development of sports facilities in Longmire Park.
The following table lists actual City of Yelm parks costs for 2015 and proposed expenditures for
2016. With the opening of Longmire Park additional equipment has been needed to tend to
the athletic fields; therefore, future maintenance budgets reflect this increase.
Table 5.
:2015/2016.
Salaries/Wages $165,037 $195,526
Personnel Benefits $70,855 $94,320
Supplies $9,393 $15,100
Services/Other Charges $35,682 $30,650
Maintenance $35,916 $65,100
Parks Maintenance
As there is no Parks and Recreation Department in the City of Yelm at the present time,
maintenance of City parks is managed by the Public Works Department. Currently, there are
three full-time employees responsible for maintenance of all City of Yelm Park facilities. One
employee provides daily maintenance at Cochrane Memorial Park, with hours varying on a
seasonal basis. Labor hours required at Yelm City Park vary by season and by extent of use
(e.g., set-up and clean-up requirements for special events). The addition of the Yelm
Community Center, Yelm Skate Park and Longmire Community Park athletic complex have
significantly increased the requirements for park facility management and maintenance,
straining the capacity of the City staff to address all facility management and maintenance
requirements.
The following table lists maintenance requirements for City Parks and trailheads, (not detailed
below are the management and maintenance requirements for the new Yelm Community
Center).
Table 6. City of Yelm parks — maintenance requirements
Activity
Frequency
Aerator Maintenance
twice per year
Clean Tables and Grills
once per week
Garbage Removal
daily
Graffiti/Vandalism Repair
as necessary
Litter Pick -Up (including in ponds)
2-3 days per week
Mowing (seasonal)
daily
Mulch replacement (including mixing and hauling)
once per year
Parking Lot Maintenance
weekly
Pruning (seasonal)
monthly
Trail Maintenance and Repair
monthly, or as necessary
Weeding, including wet cells (seasonal)
weekly
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 17
Activity
Frequency
YELM CITY PARK
Activity
Frequency
Building Maintenance
monthly, or as necessary
Clean Tables and Grills
once per week
Garbage Removal
daily
Graffiti/Vandalism Repair
as necessary
Litter Pick -Up
2-3 days per week
Mowing (seasonal)
daily
Parking Lot Maintenance
monthly
Playground Equipment Maintenance & Check
daily, with written report
Pressure Washing (concrete surfaces)
monthly, or as necessary
Pruning (seasonal)
annually
Restrooms Maintenance
twice daily
Weeding
bi-monthly
Activity
Frequency
Garbage Removal
daily
Graffiti/Vandalism Repair
as necessary
Irrigation Maintenance and Repair
weekly
Kiosk Maintenance
weekly
Litter Pick -Up
as necessary
Mowing (seasonal)
weekly
Parking Lot Maintenance
monthly
LONGMIRE COMMUNITY
Activity -
Frequency
Aeration (sports fields only)
every 6 weeks
Fertilization (sports fields only)
every 6 weeks
Garbage Removal
daily
Graffiti/Vandalism Repair
as necessary
Irrigation Maintenance and Repair
weekly
Litter Pick -Up
daily
Mowing (seasonal)
4 days per week, peak season
Mulch replacement (including mixing and hauling)
once per year
Parking Lot Maintenance
weekly
Pruning (seasonal)
twice per year
Top Dressing (sports field only)
every 6 weeks
Turf Management (seasonal)
4 days per week, peak season
Garbage Removal
daily
Graffiti/Vandalism Repair
as necessary
Irrigation Maintenance and Repair
monthly
Kiosk Maintenance
weekly
Litter Pick -Up
as necessary
Vegetation Maintenance
weekly
Parking Lot Maintenance
monthly
yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 18
Level of Service
Level of service standards (LOS) for the 2008 plan was based on the National Recreation &
Parks Association (NRPA) measures of acres of parkland per a fixed number of residents, within
a specified jurisdiction or service area. A sub -committee of the Yelm Parks Advisory Committee
worked with city staff in 2016 to propose a set of Level of Service measures based on
recommendations and experiences of park/recreation professionals and park management in
multiple municipalities. The 2008 LOS measures were based on an acreage to population ratio
of from 6.25 to 10.5 acres of developed parkland open space for every 1,000 residents. The
new LOS measures take into account a number of considerations for planning in the future:
• Acres per capita = park acreage per 1,000 population
• Facilities per capita, identifying facilities as Tier 1 = City owned and Tier 2 = Public
accessible but not city owned; schools, HOA parks, YMCA, other open space.
• Classification of parks and facilities as centralized facilities: community facilities and
community -wide athletic fields/recreational facilities, versus decentralized facilities:
neighborhood parks, neighborhood play/athletic fields and pocket parks.
• Access distance to facility or park measured by quadrant in the municipality.
The new LOS measures use a point system which in addition to park acreage covers
considerations of community public facilities, community athletic fields & recreational facilities,
specialty parks, neighborhood parks, open space and multi -use trails. These park and
recreation lands and facilities are viewed by their distribution across the quadrants of the city
and UGA. The point system key is detailed in the following Table:
Table 7. City of Yelm level of service measure Keys.
Open space/picnic areas
10 points per acre
Community facility
50 points
Community park
10 points per acre
Community Recreation facility
50 points
Special use park - Community Athletic fields
15 points per acre
Neighborhood parks
10 points per acre
Special use park (i.e. Skate Park, Splash Park,
Swimming Pool)
100 points per acre
Sports field/school
10 points per acre
Mini park or Pocket park
10 points per acre
Multi -use Trails
5 points per acre
TOTAL POINTS per POPULATION requirement
60 points of Tier 1 per 1,000 population
The 2015 population for the City of Yelm and its surrounding Urban Growth Area (UGA) was
9,590 residents (8,170 within the City limits; 1,420 within the UGA). At the time of this writing,
the City of Yelm owned a total of 25.23 acres dedicated to parks, all of those acres developed
for park use with plans for the addition of amenities in the future such as bathrooms, play
equipment, and park furnishings. In addition, there are 6.19 miles of paved trail in Yelm and its
UGA . The portion of trail from Rhoton Rd. to the Yelm City limit line share right-of-way (ROW)
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 19
with the rail line. Acreage in Table 8. below includes the entire ROW acreage where the trail
does not share ROW with rail. Only the portion actually used for trail (10 ft. trail plus 2 ft. on
each side of trail) is included in the acreage figures.
Using the new Yelm LOS standards of 60 points per 1,000 residents, the current level of service
for the City of Yelm and surrounding UGA population would need to be at least 575 points for
the population level of 9,590. The current LOS measures fall short of the 2015 requirements at
572 points for all Tier 1 (city owned) community facilities, parkland and trail corridor open
space (see Table 8, below), however the City has received grant funds to install a spray park at
Yelm City Park, to be completed by the end of 2018. The spray park will add approximately 25
LOS points as a Special Use Park Facility. With the completion of this facility, the City will
exceed the 2015 requirements of 575 points. The projected population growth will rapidly
move the LOS measures to fall below the required level as discuss in the next section.
Table 8. City of Yelm existine Tier 1 level of service points.
Yelm Community Center
Community facility
50 points
Yelm City Park
Community park
3.73
37 points
Cochrane Memorial Park
Community park
7.88
79 points
Longmire Community Park
Special use park -
community athletic fields
13.37
201 points
Yelm Skate Park
Special use park
0.25
25 points
Trails — Yelm & UGA
Multi -use Trails
36
180 points
Total Parks, Facilities and
Trails
Target LOS of 60 points per
1,000 population @ 9,590
population level = 575
points
61.23 acres
572 points per
9,590 pop. (short
target LOS)
A more complete picture of the current level of service of parks, athletic fields, facilities and
trails for Yelm and UGA is revealed in the LOS measures by Quadrant of the city, including both
Tier 1 (city owned) and Tier 2 facilities and sports fields. The following Tables provide the Level
of Service by the 4 quadrants of the city:
Table 9. LOS measures - South East Quadrant.
Yelm Community Center
Community facility
50 points
1
Yelm City Park
Community park
3.73
37 points
1
Cochrane Memorial Park
Community park
7.88
79 points
1
Ridgeline Middle School
Sports fields/school
15
150 points
2
Mill Pond School
Sports fields/school
15
150 points
2
Prairie Elementary
Sports fields/school
15
150 points
2
TOTAL Tier 1
11.61
166 points
1
TOTAL Tier 2
45
450 points
2
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 20
Table 10. LOS measures - North East Quadrant.
Classification Acreage
Points
American Legion
Sports field/school
2.5
25 points 2
Fort Stevens
Sports field/school
23
230 points 2
Longmire Community
Park
Special use park -
community athletic fields
13.37
201 points 1
TOTAL Tier 1
13.37
201 points 1
TOTAL Tier 2
25.5
255 points 2
Table 11. LOS measures - South West Quadrant.
Acreage
Golf Course Open space 75
PointsClassification
750 points 2
Yelm High School
Sports field/school
36
360 points 2
Southworth Elementary
Sports field/school
10
100 points 2
Tahoma Terra Park
Open space/picnic area
1
10 points 2
Yelm Skate Park
Special use park
0.25
25 points 1
TOTAL Tier 1
0.25
25 points 1
TOTAL Tier 2
127
1,220 points 2
Table 12. LOS measures - North West Quadrant.
Acreage
PointsClassification
Cascade Mini Golf
Special use park
0.5
50 points 2
Yelm Middle School
Sports field/school
15
150 points 2
Cherry Meadows
Neighborhood park
1.1
11 points 2
TOTAL Tier 1
0
0 points 1
TOTAL Tier 2
16.6
211 points 2
Viewing the LOS measures by Quadrant helps our understanding that the current distribution of
city owned parks and facilities are much less available in the North West Quadrant and
somewhat less in the South West Quadrant.
Table 13. TOTAL LOS measures by City Quadrant.
Quadrant
PointsAcreage Acreage Points
SE 11.61
166 points
45
450 points
NE 13.37
201 points
25.5
255 points
SW 0.25
25 points
127
1,220 points
NW 0
0 points
16.6
211 points
Trails — 36
Yelm & UGA
180 points
0
0 points
TOTAL 61.23
572 points
63.1
1,726 points
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 21
Figure 4. City Quadrants
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1 inch = 1.500 feet
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t
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Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 22
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-
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Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 22
NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Meeting public needs for parks, trails and recreation services is largely influenced by
community values, availability of funds, priorities, and administrative capacity for maintaining
healthy parks and recreation facilities. The identification, measurement and projection of
recreation demand are the key factors for establishing recreation policy and determining
allocations of funding for acquisition of needed park land and development of recreation
facilities.
Statistical Sources
In 2008, a community Parks and Recreation survey was conducted in Yelm and the surrounding
area, followed by public meetings, to help identify demand and needs for additional public
recreation facilities in the City.
Progress has been made since 2008 to address public concerns for needed recreational
facilities. Walking trails have been added at Cochrane Memorial Park, and four new athletic
fields plus bathroom and snack facilities have been completed at Longmire Community Park.
The public comments received by the City for the Environmental Impact Statement Scope of
Work for the Thurston Highlands Master Planned Community (May 2006) highlight specific
interests in or concerns about potential parks and recreation facilities/open space that would
be an asset to the greater Yelm community. These include:
• Desire to see protection of native plant communities, tree groves and vegetative
buffers,
• Development of ball fields, swimming pool(s), community center, parks,
bike/pedestrian trails, water features and gardens.
City of Yelm Parks Survey 2008
Parks surveys were distributed in City water bills in March 2008. A strong response by citizens
identified the following summary preferences. (Complete results of the survey are included in
Appendix C.)
Results show a strong preference for:
• Setting aside or acquiring land for a special use park
• Building connected trails, bicycle routes and sidewalks
• Placing restrooms in all parks
Response to preferences specific to:
• Indoor facilities showed a very strong desire for a swimming pool, followed by a youth
center, and then basketball and aerobic facilities
• Outdoor facilities responses showed strong support for walking trails/bicycle
paths/sidewalk connections, followed by support for more playgrounds, and then picnic
areas
A question about athletic field needs showed a preference for baseball fields, followed by
soccer fields and then football, and outdoor basketball.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 23
Yelm Home and Garden Show data gathering 2015
Input for the Yelm Comprehensive Plan update was gathered from attendees at the 2015 Yelm
Home and Garden Show. The feedback and comments were compiled and categorized by
subject. Many comments were specific to parks and recreation desires. Complete list of
gathered comments are included in Appendix D.
Feedback from the Yelm Home and Garden Show were consistent with the response
preferences from the 2008 survey specific to:
• A strong desire for indoor youth recreation facilities and a swimming pool
• Strong support for more walking trails/bicycle paths/pedestrian walkways/sidewalks as
well as more playgrounds for families with smaller children.
Current Participation and Demand
Park Land — Including Trails
The current developed and useable parkland available for recreation activities in the City of
Yelm is 25.23 acres in four separate park locations, which amounts to 2.7 acres per 1,000
population and 336 point level of service (based on the City of Yelm and UGA 2015 population
of 9,590). With trail area added this jumps to 6.44 acres/1000 population and 572 points level
of service. The combination of parks and trails means the existing level of 6.44 acres/1000
residents and 572 points falls short of the 2015 requirements. With the addition of a spray park
in 2018 the City will exceed 2015 LOS requirement.
An example of variable specific community needs is illustrated in Table 14 and Table 17. These
show that due to the volume of participation in team sports in the Yelm area — even with four
new facilities completed in 2008 — there are additional sport facility and athletic field needs.
Active Facilities
Among Yelm community sports groups the highest demand for recreation facilities is outdoor
athletic fields (baseball, football, soccer and softball). Longmire Community Park (completed
March 2008) adds three Little League -sized baseball fields and one soccer/football field for
public use. Currently, the demand for these facilities is met primarily through use of fields at
local public schools and, secondarily, through use of two privately owned fields (for baseball).
Indoor athletic activity (youth basketball) currently meets the needs of the program through
use of Yelm Community Schools gymnasiums, and does not experience any challenges with
scheduling space for games or practices. Adequate outdoor basketball facilities, however, are
limited on school grounds, and exist at only one City park (half court at Yelm City Park). Use of
gymnasiums for basketball activity is thus dependent on whether schools are open for use by
the public.
Frequency or limitation of use of these facilities by community sports groups is influenced by a
number of important factors:
• Number of participants in each community sports organization
• Number and size of facilities
• Condition and/or availability of facilities
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 24
• Level of use of recreation facilities by a particular school/private entity (i.e. priority
user)
• Game/practice schedule and length of season for each activity
• Convenience of location.
The following is a list of Yelm community youth league sports groups participation levels, and
estimated facilities required to meet recreational needs.
Table 14.
Baseball 6 yrs -14 yrs 700-800 Mar -Aug 4 min.
Basketball
6 yrs -15 yrs
100-110
Dec -Feb
2-3
Football
5/6 yrs -10 yrs
300+/-
Aug -Oct
3-4
Soccer
4 yrs -19 yrs
600+/-
Apr -Oct
5 (can have two half fields)
Softball
8 yrs -16 yrs
75+/-
Mar -Jun
2
Common challenges among groups participating in outdoor recreation activities on athletic
fields accentuate the demand for more of these types of facilities. These challenges include:
• Overlapping of common use of fields between different sports groups (e.g., soccer and
football overlapping Aug -Oct, or baseball and softball competing for the same fields
Mar -Jun)
• Overlapping of different leagues within a certain sports group (e.g., Little League and
Cal Ripken League competing for use of the same baseball fields)
• Condition of facilities reducing effectiveness of play (e.g., tearing up of field surface by
football teams, subsequently unsuitable for soccer games or other football games)
• Lack of availability of facilities for team practices once season begins (i.e., fields
occupied more often for games)
• Individual select teams (not part of any league) competing for game and practice space
• Inability of specific sports groups to host major events such as tournaments (lost
opportunity for exposure, fundraising)
• Certain school fields closed to community groups and/or field use taken up by school
team schedules for practices and games (i.e., community groups' schedules squeezed
by priority users).
Passive Facilities
As indicated in the survey results, as well as by frequent inquiries made at the Yelm Chamber of
Commerce and with the Yelm Parks Advisory Committee, a strong interest appears to exist for
both passive and indoor recreation facilities. Following is a list of these facilities:
• Playgrounds (two playgrounds currently exists in City parks — at Yelm City Park and at
Longmire Community Park)
• Trails (found at one park — Cochrane Memorial Park — and at the trailhead of the Yelm-
Tenino Trail plus the Yelm Prairie Line trail — 1.1 mile extension from SR 510 to Canal
Rd. plus provisions for easily accessible connections with the future Alt 510 Yelm Loop
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 25
non -motorized facilities with trails; perimeter trail planned for Longmire Community
Park)
• Indoor youth recreation facility with organized activities for school age youth of Yelm
and the surrounding area (closest facility is on the Nisqually Reservation specifically for
tribal use, approximately 10 miles to the west).
• Swimming pool (closest facility is at the YMCA Briggs Community Branch, approximately
15 miles to the west)
• Community center completed in late 2015 to accommodate all age groups (closest
facility is located in Olympia, approximately 20 miles to the west).
Projected Needs and Priorities
Park Land — City of Yelm and Surrounding Urban Growth Area (UGA)
As described previously, National Recreation & Park Association standards broadly recommend
at least 6.25 acres of parkland for every 1,000 residents. The new LOS measures for Yelm city
and UGA community facilities and parks are set at 60 points for every 1,000 residents. Yelm is
currently short of meeting its LOS standards with 572 points (60.12/1000 residents) using the
2015 population (9,590) for the City of Yelm and its surrounding UGA.
The following table indicates parkland requirements and LOS points measures for the present
population (2015 level) and for projected populations for the City and its Urban Growth Area.
Table 15. shows the amount of park land that would have been secured for development within
the time frames indicated if Yelm had remained with only the acres per 1,000 population
measures. Acres required or developed for each timeframe beyond 2015 assume the City has
achieved its acquisition/development objective for the previous time period using 6.25
acres/1000 population.
Table 15.
2015 9,590 61 60 0
2020 14,050 61 88 27 (by 2020)
2025
18,600
88
116
28 (by 2025)
2030
22,460
116
140
24 (by 2030)
2035
26,290
140
164
24 (by 2035)
2040 30,770 164 192 28 (by 2040)
Total Acres to • • Acquired or Developed by 20406.25/1000:
Level of Service Measures Projections based on Population
Using the City of Yelm Level of Service measures for parks and recreational facilities the
minimum standards of 60 points for every 1,000 residents, the following table indicates
additional parks and facilities requirements based on population projections through the year
2040.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 26
Table 16.
Year
2015
City of Yelm/UGA parks and facilities requirements by LOS Points: 2015 — 2040.
-
LOS points tobe
•.. .. .
Pop
LOS points LOS points needed or Developed
9,590 572 575 3
2020
14,050
575
843
271 (by 2020)
2025
18,600
843
1,116
273 (by 2025)
2030
22,460
1,116
1,348
232 (by 2030)
2035
26,290
1,348
1,577
229 (by 2035)
2040
30,770
1,577
1,846
269 (by 2040)
Total LOS points to be Acquired
or Developed by 2040 using
60 points per 1000:
1,164 LOS points
City
School#
A substantial amount of land would need to be set aside for park and/or recreation facility
development for the City of Yelm and UGA through 2040. Careful planning would be required
to address resident needs; active versus passive recreational use of land; access to/from park
site(s); aesthetics; and budgeting for maintenance, repairs and potential upgrades to any
facility.
Table 17. City of Yelm and UGA area — projected recreation facility minimum needs.
2040
2015
2020
2025
2030
2035
•..
Fac
of
City
School#
Baseball
2
3
5
3
4
4
5
6
(1 per 5,000)
Basketball
2
1
6
3
4
4
5
6
(1 per 5,000)
Football
1
1
2
1
2
2
3
3
(1 per 10,000)
Picnic Shelter
5
1
0
7
9
it
13
15
(1 per 2,000)
Playground
6
2
8
14
18
22
26
31
(1 per 1,000)
Soccer
1
1
4
1
2
2
3
3
(1 per 10,000)
Softball
2
0
7
3
4
4
5
6
(1 per 5,000)
Tennis
5
0
6
7
9
11
13
15
(1 per 2,000)
Trail, Bike — 8ft
2 mi.
5 mi.
7 mi.
9 mi.
10 mi.
12 mi.
(1 mile per 2,600)
Trail, Walking — 4ft
5 mi.
1 mi.
7
9 mi.
11
13 mi.
15 mi.
(1 mile per 2,000)
Volleyball
2
8+
3
4
4
5
6
(1 per 5,000)
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 27
Security in Parks
Both active and passive park facilities should be safe and secure spaces for visitors. This will
occur through a variety of means.
1) Parks will be designed to be as safe and secure as possible with appropriate landscaping
and amenity design that allows easy surveillance from street edges and surrounding
properties.
2) Parks will be located and designed in ways that encourage adjacent property
surveillance. This is sometimes called "community policing" and refers to the natural
surveillance that can occur with activity adjacent to park edges such as residential or
office/commercial areas. Residents or visitors to the adjacent areas will provide "eyes
on the park" and can help to keep park areas safe from vandalism and crime.
3) Police surveillance can help keep park areas safe and vandal free. Parks designed for
easy law enforcement surveillance — and equipment such as surveillance cameras where
possible, will be important. However, it should be acknowledged that police
surveillance adds to the cost of maintaining a safe and secure parks system.
Consequently, as much safety and security should be built into the design of parks,
development encouraged adjacent to parks, and increases in police surveillance cost expected
as the park system expands.
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 28
PARK AND TRAIL DEVELOPMENT OPTIONS
Park Classification Models
The intent of park and recreation classifications is to aid in making acquisition and design
decisions for park sites. Facilities and the organization of recreation space, which is responsive
to public needs, creates quality recreational experiences and facilities that can be effectively
maintained.
Park classifications are based on standards that aid in making design decisions when
considering property size. The following are classifications used that can adequately respond to
various recreation needs and available space of the City of Yelm and UGA.
• Mini or Pocket Parks
• Neighborhood Parks
• Community Parks
• Special Use Parks
• Trails and Pathways
Each classification has certain site design and physical development guidelines and is described
in the following text. Several factors must be considered in connection with park classification
and planning decisions. These include:
• Determination of specific needs in neighborhood service areas or community settings.
• Relationship of need, design criteria, service capability and suitability of a specific site
to support the defined recreation service need.
• Probability of school/park interrelationship in terms of school site development and
facility use for public recreation purposes.
• Probability of creating public/private partnerships for special use parks or in
combination with a traditional public neighborhood or community park.
• Operational, maintenance and program service requirements for the population to be
served by a particular park unit that is being considered.
Park classifications establish several essential elements for parkland requirements based on
population ratios and the types of recreational uses and services to be provided. These
elements include a) orientation, b) function and c) space, design and service areas. A particular
park may be oriented to the needs of a single local neighborhood, a service area, or the
community. The physical improvements in a park should respond to the preferences or needs
of residents who will use the park. The amount of park land, design and location within a
service area, is also influenced by accessibility and amenities to be provided.
Park classifications for the City of Yelm are described below. Conceptual site plans for each type
of park follow the narrative descriptions.
Mini Parks
• Summary Definition: A play lot or playground that provides space for parental -
supervised recreation of toddlers and young children within a neighborhood, or as part
of larger neighborhood park (see Figures 2).
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 29
• Size Objective: 2500 sq. ft. to 1.5 acres.
• Service Area Objectives: Generally within a neighborhood of a one-half mile radius or
population of 2,000 to 3,000; however, playgrounds may be included in parks that serve
a larger population or service area.
• Location Objectives: Located in protected areas with separation from street traffic, yet
in areas with high visibility; serving local neighborhoods and adjoining schools, libraries
or police and fire facilities.
• Orientation: Small geographic areas, sub -neighborhood or neighborhoods, when
combined with a larger park unit; serves youth in ages ranging from toddlers to 12
years, with adult supervision.
• Function: Provides outdoor play experiences for the young, under parental supervision;
generates neighborhood communication by offering a neighborhood meeting space,
provides opportunity for diversion from work and/or home chores; and promotes
neighborhood solidarity.
• Space, Design and Service Area: Size of play lot or playground may range from as small
as 2,500 square feet to 1.5 acres; amenities are generally sand play areas, play
apparatus, play equipment and other special child -oriented features; service radius in
terms of distance from population served is limited to less than one-quarter mile.
Note: Mini parks are also called "pocket parks" and generally serve the same purpose as noted above. These
may be planned to serve a specific number of homes for each pocket park.
Figure S. Mini Park/ Pocket Park —Conceptual Site Plan A.
RESIDENTIAL
NEIGHBORHOOD STREET
Source: Robert W. Droll, Landscape Architect, PS.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 30
Neighborhood Parks
• Summary Definition: A neighborhood park by size, program and location provides
space and recreation activities for the immediate neighborhood in which it is located; it
is considered an extension of neighborhood residents' "out -of -yard" and outdoor use
area (see Figures 3).
• Size Objective: Minimum 2 acres to 5 acres.
• Service Area Objectives: Generally a one mile radius, but actually defined by collector
street patterns, which form the limits of the neighborhood or recreation service area;
population served may range from 2,000 to 5,000.
• Location Objectives: Centrally located for equitable pedestrian access within a
definable neighborhood service area; adjacent to an elementary school, middle school,
high school, fire station or library, if possible.
• Orientation: Serves all age groups with an emphasis on youth and families in
neighborhood settings.
• Program Objectives: Compatible with the neighborhood setting and park site
constraints; generally including the following elements (which may be determined with
public input as to use and activities):
a. 10 to 20 parking spaces
b. restrooms
c. tot lot/ children's play area
d. family event/group picnic facility
e. informal family picnic area with benches and tables
f. unstructured turf grass play area/play or practice field for children, young adults
and families
g. sports facilities — compatible with neighborhood setting and park site
constraints.
• Function: Provides a combination of active recreation and passive activities, both
outdoor and indoor facilities (if possible), and special features as required or needed.
• Space, Design and Service Area: A minimum size of 2 to 5 acres, with amenities that
include sports facilities, picnic areas, cultural activities, arts and crafts, and individual
passive activities; service radius in terms of distance from population served may vary
depending on development pattern, zoning and densities in the respective
neighborhoods being served.
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 31
Figure 6. Neighborhood Park — Conceptual Site Plan A.
PRIVATE I PUBLIC
NEIGHBORHOOD STREET
Source: Robert W. Droll, Landscape Architect, PS.
Community Parks
SEATING AREA
WITH TRELLIS
PICNIC SHELTER
AND BARBWUE
NEIGHSORNOOD
CENTER
OUTDOOR PATIO
• Summary Definition: A community park serves a more broad purpose than
neighborhood park. Focus is on a meeting community based recreation needs, and a
community gathering space that serves the purposes of a traditional town square,
including special event space for small or large groups.
• Size Objective: Minimum 2.5 — 8 acres. Actual size is determined by functions to be
served and anticipated. Needs of the community as the population continues to grow.
• Service Area Objective: Community or area -wide, determined by the type of events or
activities that occur
• Location Objective: City center, core area or some other activity center such as adjacent
to — or part of - a mixed use center.
• Orientation: Serves all age groups and a broad spectrum of community interests by
providing space for special events such as fairs, festivals, entertainment, educational,
cultural or artistic activities
• Program Objectives: Compatible with city center or activity center settings with
supportive infrastructure for the type of events anticipated including active and passive
activity functions (i.e. skate court as well as covered and uncovered picnic areas and
stage) park equipment and furnishings including such items as barbeque grills, vendor
stalls, kitchen facilities, tables and benches, lighting, children's play equipment,
restroom, public address system, seating areas, informational kiosks, parking and
sidewalk connections that seamlessly connect to adjacent city center or activity center.
• Function: Active and passive activity, meeting and event space and community
gathering space for fairs, festivals, educational, cultural and artistic activities
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 32
• Space: Plan for accommodating needs of today as well as anticipated future needs
based on projected population growth and anticipated community event needs
appropriate for a city, or community activity center park.
Special Use Parks
• Summary Definition: A special use park is often considered a revenue -generating
enterprise created to satisfy the demand for a particular sport, recreational event or
special event; special use parks may include publicly -developed and administered
facilities operated by the private sector with local agency participation (see Figures 4).
• Size Objective: Actual size is determined by market demand and special uses, or
recreation programs being facilitated to serve market and program production needs.
• Service Area Objectives: Community or area -wide, determined by the type or
recreation, special events or use activity being facilitated.
• Location Objectives: Determined by the property opportunity, service area and size
objectives.
• Orientation: Provides special event attractions and activities to all age groups within a
given market/user area for which the special use park is focused.
• Program Objectives: Special use parks require facility programming that is market-
driven and based on community planning objectives for establishing public/private
partnerships for recreation; examples of special use facilities may include:
a. water play park
b. amphitheater
c. festival/farmers' market
d. community or regional sports complex
e. family fitness/entertainment center
f. skateboard/in-line hockey park/dog park
g. indoor youth recreation facility.
• Function: special events, fairs, festivals, expositions, symposiums, sports, community
gatherings, ethnic/cultural celebrations, plays and numerous other activities that draw
spectator and participants to a specific location.
• Space, Design and Service Area: The minimum size for special parks varies depending
on the intent of use and programming; accommodates major parking space, audiences,
performance areas and multi -use areas; serves populations within a 1 -hour+ drive zone.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 33
Figure 7. Special Use Park — Conceptual Site Plan A.
[OPEN PLAZA
EX*081T HALL OR
TEMPORARY
STRUCTURE
�y eK r rt..,�ilsr a...
a n:.
Source: Robert W. Droll, Landscape Architect, PS.
Trails & Pathways
Trails and pathways vary in purpose, design and use depending on the location of the trails and
its linkage to other use areas or destinations.
• Users: The typical users are pedestrians and bicyclists; other users of trails or bike lanes
and walkways in urban areas include in-line skaters, skate boarders, people in
wheelchairs and others who may have specialized trail or pathway needs. In more rural
areas trails may be used for equestrian recreation as well. A major distinction between
users is: those who use trails and pathways as commuters, compared to recreational
users.
• Accessibility: Multi -use trail systems are designed to be accessible to a predetermined
class of users. Access points to and from neighborhoods via the trails or from
connecting sidewalks, to parks, civic centers and roadways are important elements in
trail access and design.
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 34
Figure 8. Shared Use Path
Shared -Use Path 112
,I
graded 2 tt graded
10 toot mYtlmum xiAh recanmmAeA -�-
area
(8 b 14 kN'� area
Source: Bicycle Facilities, Chapter 1020. 2006. Washington State Department of Transportation
Design Manual (with slight modification).
Types of Trails: Bicycle trails have a set of classifications that determine use and design
considerations such as hard surfaces, widths, signage, and lane configurations:
• Class I Trail (Shared -Use Path): Regional trail facility with exclusive rights -of -ways for
the principal use of pedestrians and human -powered wheeled vehicles; typically
physically separated from roads and streets and have their own physical corridor of use.
• Class II Trail (Bicycle Lane, One Side): A two-way striped bike lane on one side of the
road within the paved area of the road for the preferential use of bicyclist. Lane widths
vary from 5 feet to 8 feet.
• Class IIA Trail (Bicycle Lane, Both Sides): A one-way striped bike lane on both sides of
the road with the direction of travel being the same as the motorist. Lane width should
be 5 feet minimum.
• Class III Trail (Shared Roadway): Occur on public rights-of-way and share the roadway
with motorized vehicles. Bike routes are established along routes not served by bike
paths or bike lanes. Bike routes are established by placing bike route signage along the
public street/highway
• Class IV Trail (Pedestrian): A natural pedestrian trail is a 4- to 6 -foot wide, unpaved trail
(boardwalk, crushed rock, wood chips, bar mulch, etc.), designed for low use/low
impact in natural areas.
Equestrian Trails: Often are constructed outside City limits and outside of existing rights-of-way
and may require easement acquisition and private landowner cooperation. An equestrian trail
system, if designed, should accommodate property owners raising and stabling horses on the
perimeter the City. Horses should not be permitted in developed parks. However, access
points to parks with hitching facilities including horse -trailer parking and trailheads may be
possible as part of the design and planning of facilities. Implementation of an equestrian trail
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 35
system may require right-of-way acquisition by fee -simple purchase or through granting access
or easements on private property.
FISCAL ANALYSIS
The following table identifies the estimated costs of park and recreation facilities, by park
classification, as well as estimates of annual maintenance costs. This table should be used only
as a guide in determining costs for each facility. Cost estimates are difficult to determine until a
facility is construction ready. Rising real estate prices, double digit inflation in the cost of
asphalt recently and multiple variables associated with site design and park or trail amenity
make it difficult to predict the actual development cost. For example, basic cost estimates for
an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible, one mile linear asphalt trail 10 ft. wide with
access control devices cost $750,000 in 2007 dollars (as reported in the 2007 Thurston Regional
Trails Plan).
Table 18. Capital development
rk classification.
Mini Parks $70,000 - $125,000 $6,000 - $8,000
Neighborhood Parks
$95,000 - $140,000
$8 - $12
Community Park
$150,000 - $200,000
$10,000 - $15,000
Special Use Parks (e.g. Regional Sports
Complex)
$150,000 - $220,000
$15,000
Trails & Pathways
$20 - $40 per LF
Varies, depending on type of trail
PARK AMENITY COSTS
Restrooms - $35,000 per stall
Picnic Shelter - $75,000
Table (ADA) - $650
Cement pad for tables - $2,500
Bench - $500
Cement pad for a bench - $1200
Barbeque - $175
Trash receptacle - $350
Drinking fountain - $1400
Playground (including construction,
drainage, safety surface, equipment) -
$50,000 - $60,000
Parking stall - $3,500 per stall
Options for Public and Private Open Space and Parks Responsibility
A network of parks will continue to be important to quality of life and sustainability as Yelm
continues to grow. Opportunities for cooperation will need to be identified in order to meet
park development and maintenance demand. Planning for specific types of park spaces as part
of new development plans can complement the existing City inventory of parks and open
space. In addition, creative operation, maintenance and ownership agreements between a
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 36
jurisdiction and other parties may offer the community efficient provision of parks and
recreation spaces that contribute to a sustainable community.
Ownership Opportunity
A master planned community park or neighborhood park could be deeded to the City of Yelm
for City ownership and maintenance. Mini parks could be owned and maintained by the
homeowners' association. Special use park spaces like a Regional Sports Complex could also be
deeded to the City, with a joint public/private partnership for operations. A new City of Yelm
Parks and Recreation organization could coordinate use of the athletic fields, parking and
outdoor amenities (like landscaping). Commercial recreation facilities (like a YMCA, batting
cages, or anything for-profit) would remain private enterprise. Agreements with schools for
sharing maintenance, maintenance equipment, and other joint use or operations could keep all
publicly supported sports fields operating at their highest capacity for the least cost.
Mini parks would be incorporated as an open space requirement of the neighborhood or
subdivision that the park will serve. Most likely, the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions
(CC&Rs) of each neighborhood development would impose measures to maintain mini parks, as
well as to minimize the impacts of park construction, upgrades or repairs on existing homes and
residents within the neighborhood that the park would serve.
Shared -Use Path Trails would be linked to the Alt 510 loop non -motorized pathways , part of
the state highway system. In addition, non -motorized trails and pedestrian trails would
connect to proposed Nisqually River Water Trail and river access points under public/private
ownership.
Wetlands and wetland buffers preserved in various locations of the City of Yelm including the
master planned community would provide additional passive open space for specific
neighborhoods, or in certain areas along the perimeter of the site.
Applicable Regulations and Commitments
The City of Yelm will determine alternatives for the financial support of new park construction,
as well as maintenance and upgrades to existing parks and recreation facilities. Short and long
term priorities will be included in the City Capital Facilities Plan.
Other Recommended Mitigation Measures
The City of Yelm intends to maintain close coordination between development approvals for lot
applications and the amount of park land needed as identified in the Yelm Parks and Recreation
Plan.
Funding Source Options (See Appendix B. for a more full description of these sources)
A. Local Funding Options
Local agencies can fund park, open space and trail projects through a variety of measures.
Some funding measures are available to local governments but have not been enacted or
implemented in the Thurston Region.
1. Existing Local Options
a. General Funds
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 37
b. Special Revenue
c. General Obligation Bonds
d. Councilmanic Bonds
e. Local Improvement Districts (LID)
f. Environmental Impact Mitigation
g. Growth Impact Fee
h. Inter -Local Agreement
i. User Fees and Charges
2. Local Options Not Currently Enacted
All but d. are enabled by state law, but not enacted in the Thurston Region:
a. Commercial Parking Tax, RCW 82.80.030
b. Motor Vehicle License Fee, RCW 82.80.020
c. Transportation Benefit District, RCW 36.73
d. Additional REET (Real Estate Excise Tax)
B. Federal and State Funding Options
1. Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP): Provides funds for acquisition
and development of conservation and recreation lands. This grant program is
administered through Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).
a. The Habitat Conservation Account
b. Outdoor Recreation Account
c. Youth Athletic Facility (YAF) Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
(RCO).
2. Thurston Regional Surface Transportation Program (STP), Federal Highways
Administration
3. Transportation Enhancements (TE) Program, Federal Highway Administration
4. The Safe Routes to School Program, Washington State Department of Transportation
and Federal Highways Administration
5. Small City Sidewalk Program, Washington Transportation Improvement Board (TIB):
6. Washington State Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program, Washington State
Department of Transportation
7. Grade Safety Grant program, Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
(WUTC)
8. Public Work Trust Funds administered by the State of Washington, Department of
Community, Trade and Economic Development
C. Private Revenue Options
1. Special use agreements
2. Public/Private Service Contracts
3. Public/Private Concessions
4. Public/Private Joint Development Ventures
5. Self -Help Land Leases
6. Self-help Contract Agreements
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 38
General Funding Strategies.
Funding sources should generally be matched to specific needs to avoid duplication and take
advantage of each fund's specific possibilities. Consider the following examples.
Program services: Fees and charges could be used to finance program services to the
maximum extent possible and practical to provide cost/benefit equities and efficiencies.
General funds could be used to cover shortages where fees cannot be readily collected, as
in most special events, or where fees may not be easily raised to cover all operating costs
for programs the City deems to have special social benefits to the city.
Facility operation, maintenance, and minor construction: General funds could be used to
pay operation and maintenance costs for facilities and activities that cannot be financed
with fees and charges or financed with other funding methods. General funds are flexible
and can be adjusted to meet annual programming variations or priorities.
Where appropriate, maintenance and operation funds for facilities that are impacted by
urban growth area users should be reimbursed or provided by the city and school district
subject to the pending resolution of an inter -local agreement on planning and services.
The funds collected from the excise tax on real estate sales (REET) could be used to finance
minor construction improvements to existing properties. The money could also be used to
help purchase sites when opportunities arise that cannot await other, less flexible funding
methods. Like general funds, the money collected from excise taxes are flexible and can be
adjusted to meet annual programming needs or sudden changes in priorities or
opportunities.
Recreation facility development: Recreation facilities such as athletic fields in particular,
are important to the City programs but may satisfy relatively small proportions of the
population compared with park and trail facilities. Bonds, levies, and other fixed forms of
financing could be used to pay for the development of parks, trails and other facilities that
residents assign high priorities (see survey priorities below). Recreational facilities with low
to moderate priorities should be financed with general funds, excise tax revenues, and
other more flexible sources of financing.
The city could investigate possibilities for implementing a wide range of joint recreational
facility developments with the county and school district. The goal of any joint venture
agreement would be to better match costs/benefits with users, avoid duplication, save cost,
increase service, and allow each agency to make the best use of funds.
Parks, natural areas and trail development: Parks and trails benefit the largest percentage
of the population and will probably be easier to obtain voted bond or property tax levy
issues than for more specialized uses. General obligation bond or special property tax levy
packages could finance high priority park, conservancies and trail acquisition and
development proposals. When necessary and appropriate, Councilmanic bonds could be
used to purchase sites when opportunities require fast action, or to match possible State of
Washington Interagency (RCO) state or federal grants for park and trail developments.
Special development: Some proposed projects represent unique facilities that may not be
easily financed with conventional funding methods. The City could explore the
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 39
opportunities that may be available for the development and funding of joint public/private
facilities with private property owners or developer. Joint ventures could save costs, reduce
annual program requirements and provide city residents services and facilities not available
otherwise.
Growth impact fee mitigation: Continued residential development in the city and its urban
growth area stress existing facilities and services. Environmental and growth impact fees
mitigation measures should be investigated in accordance with the Washington State
Growth Management Act (GMA) as a means of preserving unique sites and of requiring land
developers to help finance facility development offsetting project impacts.
City of Yelm Parks Survey 2008
Parks surveys were distributed in City water bills in March 2008. A strong response by citizens
in the 2008 Survey was consistent with feedback from the 2015 Home and Garden Show data
collection. In both 2008 and 2015 the following summary preferences were identified.
(Complete results of the 2008 survey are included in Appendix C.)
Results show a strong preference for:
• Setting aside or acquiring land for a special use park
• Building connected trails, bicycle routes and sidewalks
• Placing restrooms in all parks
Response to preferences specific to:
• Indoor facilities showed a very strong desire for a swimming pool, followed by a youth
center, and then basketball and aerobics facilities
• Outdoor facilities responses showed strong support for walking trails/bicycle
paths/sidewalk connections, followed by support for more playgrounds, and then picnic
areas
A question about athletic field needs showed a preference for baseball fields, followed by
soccer fields and then football, and outdoor basketball.
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 40
Plan Priorities
Other
$224.50
Build connected
trails, bicycle routes
and sidewalks
$321.06
Set aside or acquire
land for a special use
park
$397.16
NW Yelm
Neighborhood Park NW Yelm
(develop park)Neighborhood Park
$58.91 (acquire land for a
park)
$65.91
Restrooms
at all Parks
$314.91
isketball
)utdoor)
>61.77
)ther Athletic fields
$33.91
Yelm City Park
(expand by acquiring
Yelm City Park some adjacent land)
(Redesign and add $96.41
kitchen, add PA
system and expand
play area)
$126.91
Note: Participants were asked to help determine plan priorities by spending/distributing
$10 based on their priorities. Numbers represent the total dollar amount survey
respondents spent on each choice.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 41
Activity/Facility - Indoor
Other
82
wimming Pool
580
Survey participants were asked to rate the importance of each
potential indoor recreation facility. Numbers represent the total
survey responses when:
Not Important = 0
Somwhat Important = 1
Important = 2
Very Important = 3
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 42
Outdoor Recreation
Walking Trails/
Bicycle Paths/
Sidewalk Other
Connections 36
322
Soccer
274
{ 3Y round ..,
314
Survey participants were asked to rate the importance of each
potential outdoor recreation facility. Numbers represent the total
survey responses when:
Not Important = 0
Somwhat Important = 1
Important= 2
Very Important = 3
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 43
Opportunities and action plan to meet demand
This park plan consists of two types of project goals:
• To further develop, upgrade or add amenities to existing park facilities and plans,
• To develop new facilities.
Though both these goals are equally important, they are very different. The list below, along
with the table following, documents the existing park facilities and plans for improvements to
them. In addition, proposed new facilities and actions plans are identified to guide further
development of Yelm's Park and Recreation programs and plan park maintenance requirements
to meet community demand.
Parks, Recreation and Trail Facilities
As noted in the preceding sections, Yelm currently has four developed parks and a community
center. Yelm is continuing involvement in the Thurston Regional Trails Plan program.
Development of the trail corridor within the City of Yelm was completed in 2009 using State
transportation grant funds and local funds. The park sites, and potential projects to meet
demand are listed below.
Yelm City Park: The following improvements have been identified as needed to address
demand. As soon as possible:
• Continue to look for opportunities to expand this community park over time
• Redesign the park walkways, modernize and expand play equipment,
Include new special use park — spray park (see below).Yelm Community Center: The following
improvements have been identified as needed to address demand. As soon as possible:
• Address need for City staff position to manage the Yelm Community Center. This staff
position would manage the rental of the facility, assure inspections were completed
promptly following facility rental, promote the use and rental of the facility in the
community, and assure facility maintenance/repairs were tracked and addressed.
Cochrane Park: Add restroom facility to this completed water reclamation facility and passive
park space.
Longmire Community Park: Add additional parking, walking/running trails, picnic shelter, and
picnic tables.
Neighborhood Park/s: Especially areas not served by parks such as the Northwest quadrant.
Planning and land acquisition as needed to meet demand —then funding identified, final design,
construction and maintenance plan identified.
Community Recreation Center & Community Park: Explore future development of a new Yelm
Parks and Recreation organization to manage and coordinate youth recreational programs on
athletic fields and provide youth recreation at a proposed indoor youth recreational facility.
Investigate the potential of Yelm Parks and Recreation organization to be based on a
recreational district model. Planning and land acquisition as needed to meet demands for an
indoor recreational facility — then funding identified, final design, construction and
maintenance plan identified. Add a Community Park adjacent to the proposed indoor
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 44
recreational facility. Look to locate this additional community park in the Northwest quadrant
of the city. Propose that the new community park to include 3 full sized soccer fields, a fenced
off -leash dog park, multi -use trails, picnic areas, restroom facilities and playground equipment
for younger children.
Yelm Community Services Indoor Recreation Facility: Seek ways for the City to coordinate
with Yelm Community Services to open the YCS indoor recreation facility for broader
community adult and youth recreational program use.
Expanded Athletic Fields/Courts: Planning and land acquisition as needed to address demand -
then funding identified, final design, construction and maintenance plan identified (see
proposed new Community Park above).
Skate Board Park: Add additional picnic tables and restroom facilities (as discussed below at
the Yelm-Tenino Trailhead.)
Special Use Parks: Develop grassy area behind current Yelm City Hall as a special use park
connecting current Yelm-Tenino Trailhead (part of Thurston County Rails to Trails network) and
Skate Board park; to include picnic tables, historic/informational kiosks and public restrooms
available for Skate Board park and Trail users.
Complete the planned spray park in Yelm City Park.
Add a city off -leash dog park as a portion of a proposed new Community Park or as a separate
park facility, depending on best location.
Bike Trails and Walking Routes:
• Expand and improve bike trails (in accordance with adopted plans, see map).
• Complete sidewalk network to encourage walking and link to recreation facilities.
• Add bench seating, picnic tables and covered shelters as feasible.
Recommend to the WSDOT that the future SR 510 Yelm Loop non -motorized facilities be
designed to connect with existing and proposed segments of the Yelm Trail network.Rails to
Trails: As noted in the Thurston Regional Trails Plan 2007 and the 2040 Thurston County
Regional Transportation Plan regarding the Yelm Prairie Line Trail:
• Evaluate the existing railroad bridge structure across the Nisqually River for possible
trail use. If this bridge is being considered for future rail service, an alternative trail
crossing should be evaluated in this trail's planning process. In addition, any future
reactivation of rail service along this corridor will require that a fence or some type of
barrier be constructed to separate the trail facility from the operational railroad tracks.
Work with the Nisqually River Council to investigate the possible linkage of the Yelm
Prairie Line Trail to the proposed Nisqually River Water Trail. The City has not secured
funding for the design or construction phases of this proposed segment from Yelm City
limits (Canal Rd.) to the Thurston County boundary at the Nisqually River.
• Work with Thurston County and Pierce County to acquire the resources needed to
develop public trails adjacent to the rail line (in accordance with adopted cooperative
Thurston Regional Trails Plan 2007 and the 2040 Thurston County Regional
Transportation Plan) eventually linking the Yelm Prairie Line Trail to Pierce County and
the town of Roy.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 45
General Actions
Table 19. Summary Action Plan
ITEM ACTION
Athletic Fields Acquire additional lands for athletic field sites to ensure that sufficient land is
available as school facility access becomes increasingly limited with the
continued growth in population.
Neighborhood Park Acquire property in areas not served by parks, such as the Northwest quadrant
of the City or in other areas as necessary to fill park needs. Complete design
and development plans, acquire funding and develop.
Longmire Community Park Add parking, trails, picnic shelter and picnic tables
Acquire additional land for expanded parking capacity
Community Park - Yelm City Redesign Yelm City Park to include adjacent acquired lands spray park and new
Park walkways, add identified amenities (and expanded play equipment).
Yelm Community Center
Community Recreation
Center & adjacent new
Community park
Address need for on-going Community Center manager on City staff.
Explore future development of a Yelm Parks and Recreation organization,
funded via a recreational district model to plan, construct and manage an
indoor youth recreation facility and youth recreational programs. Adjacent to
the new facility add a new community park with full sized soccer fields, picnic
areas, trails and playground equipment for younger children.
Cochrane Memorial Park
Add restroom facility
Special Use Parks
Plan, acquire or set aside land for identified special use park activities with
focus on Yelm-Tenino Trailhead Park. Complete the planned spray park. Add
an off -leash dog park. Plan for funding, development, and maintenance of
special use park facilities.
Funding
Establish long-term, stable, funding sources for acquisition, development,
maintenance and management of all park and recreation facilities.
Explore future development of new Yelm Parks and Recreation organization,
funded based on a district model.
Maintenance
Provide for continued maintenance of all current and future facilities at a
required level.
Multiple Use Designs
Restructure the process of designing public facilities to ensure multiple uses of
sites whenever possible.
Open Space and Parks
Require open space within the City along with fees to fund park and recreation
Facility Development Fee
facility development in or near current and future residential developments.
Ordinances
Schools
Work toward agreements for joint facility use and equipment use with the
Yelm Community School District.
Public/Private Partnerships
Investigate and form self-supporting or revenue producing projects that
provide a public service and compliment any private investment.
Regional Activities
Support regional activities to complete a network of trails as described in the
Thurston Regional Trails Plan program, and support additional county park
expansion programs.
Trails/Sidewalks/Bicycle
Connect current trails, Alt 510 Loop non -motorized pathway and major city
Lanes
parks via Yelm trails network.
Provide additional pedestrian, bicycle and bridle trails as well as pedestrian
connections via sidewalks and bicycle lanes,
Integration of Areas
Integrate critical areas, storm water areas, wastewater reuse/recycling areas
and open spaces obtained through the City's open space program into a
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 46
unified open space program for public use and enjoyment, environmental
protection, habitat restoration/enhancement.
Park Needs
Parks and recreational opportunities are important for the health and well-being of the
community and an integral part of making Yelm a livable community. The Opportunities and
Action Plan to Meet Demand section identifies general needs for parks within the planning
horizon as well as an action plan for the maintenance, enhancement, and expansion of Yelm
park facilities.
The City staff is currently preparing the ADA transition plan for all City Public facilities to include
parks. Projects for ADA compliance and upgrades will be detailed and prioritized in that Capital
Project list with funding associated. For more details on the ADA projects, please reference the
2017 City of Yelm ADA Transition Plan.
The City will implement over time the projects listed in the Opportunities and Action Plan. The
annual budget process of the Mayor and Yelm City Council, will prioritize the projects listed in
the Opportunities and Action Plan on an annual basis. Funding opportunities or property
availability may cause priorities to shift to take advantage of these opportunities.
The City should seek to identify stable funding sources to pursue acquisition and development
of facilities listed in the Opportunity and Action Plan as well as stable funding sources for the
maintenance of parks facilities.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 47
APPENDIX A — Yelm Prairie Trail Line (REGIONAL TRAILS PLAN EXCERPT)
Note: The following is an excerpt from the 2007 Thurston Regional Trails Plan; updated in
Thurston County 2040 Regional Transportation Plan
Yelm Prairie Line Trail
Length: 4.8 miles total (1.3 miles paved, 3.5 miles proposed)
Type of Facility: Shared -use Trail
Lead Agency: City of Yelm
Partners: Thurston County, Pierce County, Washington State Department of Transportation
(WSDOT)
Description: The City of Yelm purchased a segment of the Yelm Prairie Line Railroad from
Burlington Northern Railroad Company in 1998 with Federal Surface Transportation Program
(STP) grant funds. Yelm owns the railroad right-of-way (ROW) fee simple. This purchase
acquired the railroad ROW and its underlying property from State Route 510 northeast to the
Town of Roy in Pierce County. As a condition of acquiring this ROW with STP funds, the Federal
Highways Administration required that a shared -use trail must be built along the length this
corridor. The City of Yelm's Comprehensive Plan identifies the Yelm Prairie Line Trail as a class
1 shared -use trail facility from State Route 510 to the Town of Roy. City of Yelm land use plans
support future land use activities that support customers requiring rail shipping services, and
active rail service could be restored to this corridor in the future. The City of Yelm may be the
first in the region to not only provide a shared -use trail that connects to another county, but
could also have a joint shared -use trail with active rail service. This trail will improve travel for
bicycle and pedestrian traffic by providing an off street uninterrupted route through the center
of Yelm and expand the greater Yelm-Tenino Trail Corridor.
Connections and Destinations: City center of Yelm, Town of Roy, City of Yelm and
unincorporated Thurston County residential communities, Yelm City Park, Yelm to Tenino Trail
Cost Estimates: Total estimated $10,281,000 (Project B8 of 2040 Thurston County
Transportation Plan)
Conditions and Recommendations:
(Recommendations are in bold)
Extend Yelm Prairie Line Trail 3.5 miles from Canal Road to Roy (vicinity 288th Street S).
Construct a shared -use Class 1 trail on existing city owned rail corridor right-of-way. Phase I,
extending from East Yelm Avenue to Canal Road is complete. Subsequent phases will extend
the trail to the rail terminus at Roy, resulting in this region's first inter -regional trail, and first
shared -used corridor. The 3.5 mile segment of the proposed Yelm Prairie Line Trail extends
beyond Yelm city limits and will require a region -wide effort to finance, plan, and design and
build this trail corridor. A partnership including City of Yelm, Town of Roy, and Thurston and
Pierce counties is essential to effectively evaluate this trail's development strategy. The City of
Yelm should evaluate the existing railroad bridge structure across the Nisqually River for
possible trail use. If this bridge is being considered for future rail service, an alternative trail
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 48
crossing should be evaluated in this trail's planning process. In addition, any future
reactivation of rail service along this corridor will require that a fence or some type of barrier be
constructed to separate the trail facility from the operational railroad tracks. The City has not
secured funding for the design or construction phases of this proposed segment.
A future SR 510 Yelm Loop Alternate and 510/507 Loop — South Section are planned around the
edge of Yelm city limits to detour through traffic off of Yelm Avenue. WSDOT is the lead agency
on this State Highway Project. Plans for this future planned facility include 8 foot wide non -
motorized pathways on both sides of the road to serve non -motorized travel in each direction.
One mile of this is complete, with pathways on both sides. Although these pathways will be
separated from the motor vehicle lanes by a vegetated swale, these paths are not technically
shared -use trails, however they will likely function as such. WSDOT should include design
provisions to connect the future Yelm Loop Bypass non -motorized facilities with the existing
and proposed segments of the Yelm Prairie Line Trail and the Yelm to Tenino Trail. This plan
proposes connecting the Yelm Loop Bypass non -motorized facilities with trails to adjacent parks
and trail networks.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 49
APPENDIX B — Funding Source Options
Local Funding Options.
Local agencies can fund park, open space and trail projects through a variety of measures.
Some funding measures are available to local governments but have not been enacted or
implemented in the Thurston Region.
1. Existing Local Options
a. General Funds: Derived from property taxes, sales tax, licenses and permits,
intergovernmental revenues including state and federal grants, service charges and fees, fines
and forfeitures, and other miscellaneous revenues. Park, recreation and open space facilities
and programs are funded primarily from general fund accounts.
b. Special Revenues: Derived from state and local option taxes dedicated to specific
expenditure purposes, such as the motor vehicle tax, motor excise tax, real estate excise tax,
motel and hotel tax. Some special revenues may be used to finance limited capital facilities,
such as roads or parks, where the local option allows, such as the local real estate excise tax
(REET — see RCW 18.46.010) which gives city governments the option of adding up to two
0.0025% increments to the real estate excise tax for the sole purpose of financing local capital
improvement projects.
A private utility tax could be assessed for parks, but requires 50% voter approval. This could
supply a stable funding source that would increase as utility costs increase for additions, funds
could be used to pay off bonds and debt incurred from them overtime.
c. General Obligation Bonds: Must be approved by at least 60% of resident voters during an
election which has a turnout of at least 40% of those who voted in the last state general
election. The bond may be repaid from a special levy, which is not governed by the 1.0%
statutory limitation on the property tax growth rate.
Total indebtedness as a percent of the assessed valuation that may be incurred by limited and
unlimited general obligation bonds together however may not exceed:
2.5% - provided that indebtedness in excess of 1.5% is for general purposes,
5.0% - provided that indebtedness in excess of 2.5% is for utilities, and
7.5% - provided that indebtedness in excess of 5.0% is for parks and open space
development.
d. Councilmanic Bonds: May be issued without voter approval by the Council for any facility
development purpose. The total amount of all outstanding non -voted general obligation debt
may not exceed 1.5% of the assessed valuation of all city property.
e. Local Improvement Districts (LID): Assessments on property specially benefited by
improvements to pay for all or any part of the improvements. Must be approved by both the
local government and benefited property owners. RCW 35.43
f. Environmental Impact Mitigation: City and county policies can require developers within
the county or on lands that may eventually annex to adjacent cities, to provide suitably
designed and located open spaces, woodland preserves, trail systems, tot lots, playground, and
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 50
other park or recreation facilities. Facilities may include major components of the park or
recreational system that may be affected by the project location or development. The city and
county may also consider requiring developers provide acceptable long-term methods of
managing and financing maintenance requirements. Attractive management systems could
include:
Ownership by a private organization — like a tennis, swimming or golf club, who assumes
responsibility for all maintenance responsibilities and assess property owners' annual costs
Ownership by homeowners or common property owners association who may contract
maintenance responsibilities and assess property owner's annual costs, or
Dedication of property to an adjacent city or school district who assumes maintenance
responsibilities using local city or school funds.
The city and county should not accept title and maintenance responsibility unless the land or
facility will be a legitimate park or recreation or open space element that may be supported
using public financing. The city or county may be contracted by any of the other agencies to
provide or oversee a maintenance contract on the owner's behalf provided all city or county
costs are reimbursed by an approved method of local financing.
g. Growth Impact Fees: A park impact fee (approved as part of the State Growth Management
Act (GMA). An impact fee may be applied to all proposed residential developments within the
City as a means of maintaining existing park, recreation, and open space levels -of- service (LOS)
as identified by the City. A city ordinance would estimate the impact each development project
has on park, recreation, and open space facilities within the projects local service zone and
makes provisions for setting aside the resources, including land or money, necessary to offset
the project's local or neighborhood community or regional facility impacts.
The dollar value of the project's park, recreation, and open space impact can be offset by the
project developer in an amount equal to the combined facility acquisition and development
costs that the city would incur to maintain the same existing level -of -service.
A developer may be allowed to choose any combination of land or cash mitigation measures
including credit for any park or recreation facilities to be included within the project
development. The city ordinance should consider the following when determining the types of
mitigation measures or development credits to be made available to the developer. Will the
facility:
be available to the public,
have a designated owner — responsible for continuing operation and maintenance (the owner
may be a common property owner's association, school district or other agency), and
correspond to and not exceed or vary from the types of park, recreation, and open space
facilities that are being impacted (a developer could provide but should not be able to take full
credit value for facilities for which there is no shortage, impact or local interest).
h. Inter -Local Agreements: The city could work with the county to determine an equitable
means whereby growth mitigation park impact fees can be collected for residential
development occurring within the urban growth area outside of existing city limits, but within
the area the city eventually expects to annex. The city and county could also work with the
school districts to determine to what extent the county could cooperatively finance shared or
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 51
common facility improvements. Such improvements could use co -located school and park
sites, commonly improved and scheduled fields and facilities, and the sharing of park and
school growth impact fees — among other options.
It is to the county's advantage that the county will assist the city and school district with the
development, maintenance and/or operation of common facilities since these facilities serve
residents of the county. In return, the county, city and school district must determine some
equitable means whereby the city and school district perform or reimburse each other for some
of the added facility maintenance and operational impacts that users create on each agency's
facilities.
L User Fees and Charges: The city could charge user fees and use the proceeds to purchase
land, develop, operate, and maintain facilities where all costs are reimbursed by the revenue
obtained. User fees could be used to provide facilities for park and recreation activities whose
profit margins are too low to sustain commercial operations or whose benefiting user group
may extend beyond city boundaries (such as a golf course).
The market determines which facility's revenues equal costs, and helps determine which
programs the city would provide on a direct costs/benefit basis. Some programs designed for
youth and family activities may never generate fees large enough to finance full costs and will
require the City Council to determine to what extent the public benefits merit the subsidized
fee revenues.
2. Local Options Not Currently Enacted
All but d. are enabled by state law, but not enacted in the Thurston Region:
a. Commercial Parking Tax, RCW 82.80.030
b. Motor Vehicle License Fee, RCW 82.80.020
c. Transportation Benefit District, RCW 36.73
d. Additional REET — the state legislature is considering authorizing cities to adopt a 3�d
Real Estate Excise percentage to dedicate exclusively to park, recreation , and open space.
REET funds may not be used to finance operation and maintenance requirements.
Federal and State Funding Options
1. Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP): Provides funds for acquisition and
development of conservation and recreation lands. This grant program is administered through
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).
The Habitat Conservation Account of the WWRP program provides funds to acquire critical
habitat, natural areas, and urban wildlife categories.
The Outdoor Recreation Account of the WWRP program provides funds for local parks, state
parks, trails and water access categories.
Youth Athletic Facility (YAF) — Grants to cities, counties, and qualified nonprofit
organizations for the improvement and maintenance of existing - and the development of
new - athletic facilities. Administered by the Community Outdoor Athletic Fields Advisory
Council (COAFAC) of the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 52
2. Thurston Regional Surface Transportation Program (STP), Federal Highways
Administration: Funds may be used for construction of non -motorized transportation facilities
like shared -use trails, sidewalks and bicycle lanes among other things. Available to local
government and nontraditional transportation partners. A local match between 13.5% and
40% is required.
3. Transportation Enhancements (TE) Program, Federal Highway Administration: Competitive
funding for 12 categories of projects related to surface transportation, including pedestrian and
bicycle infrastructure and safety programs, scenic and historic highway programs, landscaping
and scenic beautification, historic preservation and environmental mitigation. Investments
benefit communities through rehabilitation of historic facilities related to transportation,
renovated streetscapes, rail -trails and other transportation trails. Applications — and
recommendations to the state — made through the Thurston Regional Planning Council as part
of the regional transportation program.
4. The Safe Routes to School Program, Washington State Department of Transportation and
Federal Highways Administration: Can fund bicycle and pedestrian safety projects that create
safer routes to school.
S. Small City Sidewalk Program, Washington Transportation Improvement Board (TIB):
Established by the State to provide funding for pedestrian projects. Available to small city and
urban agencies and provides funding for sidewalk projects related to transportation, but not
trails. It could be used to finance construction of sidewalks that connect to trails. The project
must be on or related to a TIB Small City Arterial. Cities with populations over 500 require a
five percent match.
6. Washington State Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program, Washington State Department
of Transportation: Aids public agencies in funding their cost-effective projects that improve
pedestrian and bicycle safety through engineering, education and enforcement. Projects may
include engineering improvements, education programs and enforcement efforts that improve
safety for non -motorized transportation users.
7. Grade Safety Grant program, Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC):
Money from the Grade Crossing Protective Fund (GCPF) to reduce accident frequency and
severity at both public and private railroad crossings and to reduce pedestrian trespassing and
frequency of trespass -related deaths and injuries along railroad rights-of-way. Any public,
private, or nonprofit entity may submit an application to the commission for GCPF monies.
Examples of projects include fencing or other physical barriers that prevent trespassing on
railroad rights-of-way, pedestrian warning devices, channeling devices, media or public
relations campaigns, and enforcement -related activities. Grants may cover up to $20,000 of a
selected project's costs without a cost-share/match requirement.
8. Public Work Trust Funds: Funds used for the repayment of all or a portion of the principal
of - or interest on - obligations issued by local governments to finance public works projects
including planning, acquisition, construction, repair, reconstruction, replacement,
rehabilitation, or improvement of streets and roads, bridges, water systems, or storm and
sanitary sewage systems. Also used for planning that may include the compilation of biological,
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 53
hydrological, or other data on a county, drainage basin, or region necessary to develop a base
of information for a capital facility plan project.
Private Revenue Options
1. Special use agreements: Special property agreements can often be used instead of property
purchases to secure public use rights for land or property at no cost or a nominal fee,
particularly where the possible public use is of benefit to the private landowner. Some forms of
special use agreements can provide favorable tax benefits if the use agreement can be shown
to have an assigned value.
The city could expand the use agreement concept to include complete development,
operations or maintenance responsibilities. Package lease agreements will usually provide
more effectively maintained facilities than possible where the city must staff specialized small
work crews.
Sometimes package lease agreements covering use and maintenance aspects may be the only
way of resolving an equitable agreement with the private ownership. This may include trails on
utility corridors where the ownership may prefer to control development and maintenance
activities, and the city may prefer to avoid any implied responsibility or liability for the utility
worthiness which the city's maintenance of a trail system could imply.
2. Public/Private Service Contracts: A public/private services contract can be used to contract
out operation and maintenance of a facility for a fixed fee. Service contracts can:
be very efficient where the activities are small, scattered in location, seasonal, expert or
experimental;
be relatively easy to initiate or terminate if area demand fails to provide sufficient use or
revenue to justify continued operation;
be flexible and can include agreements with the county, school district or local user groups
who can or would be interested in sustaining the activity on a subsidized or sweat -equity
basis in exchange for the facility.
3. Public/Private Concessions: City could lease a portion of a site or facility to a private party
in exchange for a fixed fee or a percentage of gross receipts. The private operator assumes
operation and maintenance responsibilities and costs in exchange for a profit.
The city may save considerable money on concessions where the activities are specialized,
seasonal, experimental or unproven. Concessions can be easily initiated, provide direct user
benefit/cost reimbursements and relieve the city of a capital risk should market or user interest
fail to materialize to breakeven levels. Concessionaires could operate a wide variety of park
and recreational facilities or be as simple as a food vendor in a park or facility. The presence of
food vendors or some other concessionaire can also provide some surveillance at the park or
facility adding to safety and security of the area.
4. Public/Private Joint Development Ventures: The city can enter into an agreement with a
private or public developer to jointly own or lease land for an extended period of time. The
purpose of the venture would be to allow the development, operation, and maintenance of a
major recreational facility or activity in exchange for a fixed lease cost or a percentage of gross
receipts.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 54
The developer assumes development, operation, and maintenance responsibilities, costs, and
all market risks in exchange for a market opportunity providing a profitable return not
otherwise available. The city realizes the development of a facility not realized otherwise in
exchange for a low minimum capital return and no or very little capital risk.
Joint development agreements represent an ultimate benefit/cost resolution that may provide
public revenue that the city could use for other development opportunities. Examples include
the possible joint development on city lands of such facilities as swimming pools, water parks,
and golf courses.
S. Self -Help Land Leases: Where an activity is so specialized in appeal - or a service area so
broad in scope - that it cannot be equitably financed using general public funds. Specialized
user groups could be provided options for developing or maintaining facilities in ways that
account for equitable public cost reimbursements. Examples include the use of land leases
where the city may lease land at low or no cost where a user group or club assumes
responsibility for the development, operation, and maintenance of the facility. The club could
provide volunteer help or use club finances to develop, operate and maintain the facility as a
means of meeting user benefit/cost objectives.
Land lease agreements could accommodate organized athletics like soccer, baseball, football,
and softball.
6. Self-help Contract Agreements: The city can purchase land, develop, operate and maintain
a specialized facility under a negotiated contract agreement where a special interest group
agrees to defray all costs in addition to - or in lieu of - a user fee as a means of meeting user
benefit/cost objectives. The agreements can be quite flexible and could contract the city, the
user group, another public agency or a private operator to be developer/operator.
Contract agreements could accommodate a range of more expansive special purpose facility
developments including high quality athletic competition facilities for league organizations.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 55
APPENDIX C — Complete Results Of The 2008 Parks Survey
Plan Priorities
Other
$224.50
Build connected
trails, bicycle routes
and sidewalks
$321.06
Set aside or acquire
land for a special use
park
$397.16
NW Yelm --'vM1111111
Neighborhood Park NW Yelm
(develop park)Neighborhood Park
$58.91 (acquire land for a
park)
$65.91
Basketball
(Outdoor)
$61.77
Yelm City Park
(expand by acquiring
Yelm City Park some adjacent land)
(Redesign and add $96.41
kitchen, add PA
system and expand
play area)
$126.91
Athletic Fields
$33.91
Note: Participants were asked to help determine plan priorities by spending/distributing
$10 based on their priorities. Numbers represent the total dollar amount survey
respondents spent on each choice.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 56
Activity/Facility - Indoor
Other
82
Aer�ohie
,
Basketball
t� zs
Swim ming Pool
Sao
Survey participants were asked to rate the importance of each
potential indoor recreation facility. Numbers represent the total
survey responses when:
Not Important= 0
Somwhat Important = 1
Important = 2
Very Important = 3
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 57
Outdoor Recreation
Walking Trails/
Bicycle Paths/
Sidewalk Other
rnnnPrtinnc 36
322
Survey participants were asked to rate the importance of each
potential outdoor recreation facility. Numbers represent the total
survey responses when;
Not Important = 0
Sornwhat Important = 1
Important = 2
Very Important = 3
Velm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 58
Respondents by ages within each household
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 59
Comments/Ideas
• A multi -use rec center with easy access to the major residential areas - connected by
trails would be optimal.
• A pool would be a great thing for the City of Yelm, and also an indoor soccer field.
• All development should be designed so that any large trees are left undisturbed; bicycle
racks (to lock bikes to) should be included in park facilities and sidewalks along main
street.
• An outdoor community pool/water park would make Yelm PERFECT for families!!
• As a mother of a toddler I feel we really need more for toddlers to do in the area (such
as classes like Gymboree or art). Yelm City Park playground could also use an update
with more toddler/baby friendly activities (baby swings, small play structure/slide).
More sidewalks are also important to me. I can't walk anywhere from my house without
having to walk in the street. A covered playground would also be a good idea since it
rains so much here.
• As much as I questioned the skate park, I feel it's been a great idea.
• Being the mother of a physically disabled child, I am always frustrated by the lack of
accessibility in and around the parks. The disabled children in this community deserve
to play too.
• Community Parks and Recreation are located too randomly all over town. We need a
community center easily accessed & located to help community fully utilize what Yelm
has to offer.
• Development of a YMCA facility or youth recreation center is most important for ages 8-
18.
• Enough police in park area to control all drug & alcohol use/physical abuse on all
children.
• For years the city has need an indoor pool. Children are sent to Lacey/Oly for lessons.
Could be a win win situation for the city and for the Yelm citizens
0 1 feel a family activity center would be great in Yelm, aka YMCA. Includes pool, racket
ball, basketball, exercise. Thank you!
• 1 find it hard to believe that we don't have a swimming pool here.
• 1 have an article at home - in Yakima - showing a proposal to build a life sized statue of
James Longmire
• 1 really believe Yelm needs swimming pool
• 1 think a pool would be a good addition to Yelm. Before they moved to Yelm my
grandchildren went to the grade school across from one of the Lacey High Schools. They
got swim classes at the HS as part of their curriculum starting early in school. I think this
is very important, as well as having the pool for leisure activities and high school swim
team. This is a great idea asking citizens for input and I hope you do listen and pay
attention to the to the responses. Thank you.
• 1 think it is great that we are going to have things for the youth to do. Indoor facilities
for seniors need to be thought about i.e.. Exercise, swimming pool, hot tubs, etc.
• 1 understand that there is limited area, however having a toddler & young child area
right next to a skateboard park is ridiculous. I constant leave so my child does not have
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 60
to listen to the language, smoking, drugs & other things going on. Plus they tear up the
small kids swings, etc. NOT a comfortable place to bring a 2-3 year old!
• 1 would like a swimming pool built in the Yelm area.
• 1 would like to see a bicycle trail connect all parks. Also I would like to have an indoor
pool facility. Longmire Park is great!
• I would like to see a YMCA type of facility built in the area.
• I'm thrilled with Yelm Parks. Dog parks are very important because there are none in the
Thurston/Pierce County area. Dog owners are responsible for "doggie doo" and only a
fenced area & a rough trail is all that would be needed.
• Instead of 3 ball diamonds at Longmire, they should have one made a basketball court.
Pick-up basketball games are popular with youths. Notice how many baskets in
driveways throughout Yelm?
• It would be great to have a park in the area where that new loop is coming. That will
make us for all the traffic that will come with that loop - a sort of "balancing out". That
new park can be created with lots of community involvement (schools, etc) - get as
many involved as possible.
• Keep almost grown-ups out of mischief. An Olympic size pool and walking court, racket
court, exercise facilities keep young and old healthy - Helen Lee
• Keep the kids in mind. There is not much now for them to do in Yelm. A little change
goes a long way.
• Longmire Park is very nicely planned. It's a beautiful and user-friendly park. Keep up
the good work!!
• Love the new park!
• Make Yelm a place where everyone can get around without a car easily. That means
safe bike and walking routes and places to lock up a parked bike.
• More advanced notice about activities in the city so newcomers can plan swimming
pool! Swimming pool!
• Moved here from suburbs of Minneapolis, MN. They had a wonderful set up for families
& active people. Bike trails & sidewalks all over town. Wonderful playgrounds in every
neighborhood plus all over their towns. I think the brush should be kept cut short on
the bike trail. I don't feel safe riding on it. Anyone could be jumped in all the secluded
areas.
• Need more for kids
• Need to have more publicity so that everyone knows where to go for recreation and/or
parks.
• Newer toys for children, more than one location.
• Our kids need some kind of youth center/ community center, YMCA activities etc.
• Parking needs to also be improved. It is a great park. Perhaps you could redesign, move
skateboard area away from the main park. Perhaps you could redesign, move the
skateboard area away from the main park. It is a problem when holding events there.
Have another area for skateboarders & basketball. Add picnic tables and playground
equipment for younger children.
• Parks should all have bathrooms, should not be included in additions. It is a basic
necessity. You shouldn't build one if you cannot provide this.
• Play structures for different age groups
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 61
• Please bring an indoor pool to YelmH
• Please put an indoor heated pool in. There isn't one reasonably close for swimming
lessons.
• Please, please, PLEASE - move the skate park at Yelm City Park AWAY from the
playgroundM Often, there is foul language and cigarette smoke filtering over when I
take my toddler to play on the equipment. Yuck!
• Sidewalks are needed throughout Yelm residential areas.
• Something for elderly.
• Spend money wisely for all to get good out of the cost. Longmire Park looks very good.
• Suggestion: Contact local scout office to see if you can get some boy scouts to improve
recreation facilities in Yelm for their Eagle project. Once could build a par course on a
trail - at strategic points have exercise equipment (ie beam, pull up bar, long jump). OR
have a community service day when everyone comes and helps build the park.
• Summer Camps for Youth
• Swimming pool & recreation center would be nice.
• Swimming pool is a must. Do you want our kids to keep dying because they don't know
how to swim. Children must know how to swim with all the rivers and lakes in this area.
• Swimming pool please!
• Thank you for giving the residents of Yelm an opportunity to make Yelm a better place.
• Thank you for giving us a chance to participate in making Yelm a better community as it
grows
• Thank you for this survey. I hope to see more recreational activities in Yelm
• Thanks!
• To convert the old QFC building into a youth activity center.
• Try to make a specific area for very little children away from older children/young adults
so they aren't around swearing, smoking and adult like conversation!
• We could use a YMCA for families and kids. The town would benefit greatly.
• We definitely need more activities for teens.
• We have small children and are very involved in sports. We would like to see more for
them. Also, a swimming pool would be awesome.
• We love the addition of Longmire Park. Thank you. This community is in major need of a
pool with instruction for kids.
• We need a swimming pool in YelmH
• We need a YMCA. Thank you.
• We need an area for families to go (covered) well maintained with a lot of activities. A
YMCA type facility (QFC building is available)
• We need more rec areas for the teens. Yelm needs a family rec center with a pool.
Something similar to a YMCA.
• We want a swimming pool more than anything!
• We're new to Yelm and not familiar with parks. If you now have 0 restrooms, you need
to at least have port potties.
• While parks are a great addition to any town, city, Lacey, Olympia, Tacoma, and Seattle
have had numerous documented issues with gangs, violence, and drugs in those very
same parks. What can be done to ensure patron safety at any and all hours?
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 62
0 Would be great if we had a YMCA with indoor pool
0 Would like to see an indoor recreation complex or even a local facility like boys and girls
club.
• Would love an off -leash dog park with watering area, poop -scooping supplies, even
some big tires or other obstacles for dogs to play on.
• Yelm City Park is used for so many wonderful activities for the public. It would be great
to see it grow!
• Yelm City Park needs an extreme makeover!
• Yelm definitely needs a parks & recreation program. Sports camps for little kids,
swimming, classes for family members etc. Thanks
• Yelm desperately needs an indoor facility with a pool, basketball courts, and a youth
center to keep our kids off the street and give them something to do!
0 Yelm needs a rec facility such as a YMCA. We need a place with a pool! Such a facility
would provide family entertainment and great exercise.
• Yelm needs a youth/community center. A place for all members of the community to
learn, play, exercise, and meet.
• Yelm needs has always need a swimming pool. (rent it to the school)
• Yelm needs more youth group activities for the young kids, and a daycare center for
parents who work nights or weekends.
• Yelm really needs an indoor pool & indoor recreation like racquetball courts. Also a
good size playground.
• You guys are awesome! We love Longmire Park and we love that new recreation areas
could soon be in the works. Thanks for getting our feedback!
• Youth programs help keep kids out of trouble and build a sense of community. I ran
youth groups for years. Give them an objective and they will achieve it.
• Being a mom of two toddler age kids I would love to see some play structures made for
young kids at parks
0 1 love the idea of having more recreation for families in Yelm.
• 1 think the #1 priority in having things like these is the safety of the people who would
like to use them. The safer the people feel the more they will be used and maintained. I
hope that the time to include safety will be involved in these programs.
• Any facilities need a supervisor. The few times I have taken children to playgrounds next
skateboard area language was bad we had to leave. Shouldn't attempt any above
unless we have money or means to cover some without having to raise taxes or bonds
etc. Have auctions or fundraisers.
0 1 think Yelm could really use a YMCA with a pool. Currently people are having to
commute to Olympia or Tacoma and I think would really make a difference in
community.
0 We have enough baseball/softball fields we need more soccer fields.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 63
Community Development Department
P.O. Box 479
Yelm, WA 98597
Yelm Community Parks and Recreation Survey
The City of Yelm is updating the Parks and Recreation Plan for the community. The plan will
identify the short and long term goals for improving and adding to the Yelm park and recreation
system. This survey will help identify short and long term priorities and is essential information
for the City as it applies for grants and identifies other funding sources to achieve plan goals.
group:
1. Please indicate the number of males and females in your household in each age
Age Male Female
0-9
10-18
19-34
35-49
50-64
65+
2. Indoor Recreation — Please indicate the importance of each potential indoor recreation
activity/facility.
Activity/Facility - Indoor
Not
important
Somewhat
important
Important
Very
important
Aerobics
Basketball
Swimming pool
Youth center
Other (please identify)
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 64
3. Outdoor Recreation — Please indicate the importance of each potential outdoor recreation
activity/facility.
Activity/Facility - Outdoor
Not
important
Somewhat
important
Important
Very
important
Baseball/Softball
b. football fields
$
Soccer
$
d. basketball (outdoor)
$
Playgrounds
e. other (specify)
$
Picnic areas
2.
Restrooms at all parks
$
3.
Walking trails/bicycle
paths/sidewalk connections
$
4.
Yelm City Park — expand by acquiring some adjacent land
$
Other (Please identify)
$
6.
Northwest Yelm Neighborhood Park — acquire land for a park
$
4. This question will help determine plan priorities. Pretend that you have $10 to spend.
Next to each spending proposal below, write in a dollar amount. Put a "0" if you don't want
to spend anything on the item. Put $10 if you want to spend everything on one item. You can
spread the money around any way you want... spend the most money on those things you think
are the highest priorities. Spend all $10, but don't spend any more than $10. This question is
just about Yelm parks and recreation. It does not include programs and facilities offered by
Yelm Schools or County Parks.
1.
Athletic Fields
$
a. soccer fields
$
b. football fields
$
c. baseball fields
$
d. basketball (outdoor)
$
e. other (specify)
$
2.
Restrooms at all parks
$
3.
Longmire Park — add trails, picnic shelter and picnic tables
$
4.
Yelm City Park — expand by acquiring some adjacent land
$
5. Yelm City Park — Redesign and add kitchen, add PA system and expand
play area
$
6.
Northwest Yelm Neighborhood Park — acquire land for a park
$
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 65
Community Development Department
Yelm, WA 98597
Yelm Community Parks and Recreation Survey
The City of Yelm is updating the Parks and Recreation Plan for the community. The plan will
identify the short and long term goals for improving and adding to the Yelm park and recreation
system. This survey will help identify short and long term priorities and is essential information
for the City as it applies for grants and identifies other funding sources to achieve plan goals.
group:
1. Please indicate the number of males and females in your household in each age
Age Male Female
0-9
10-18
19-34
35-49
50-64
65+
2. Indoor Recreation — Please indicate the importance of each potential indoor recreation
activity/facility.
Activity/Facility - Indoor
Not
important
Somewhat
important
Important
Very
important
Aerobics
Basketball
Swimming pool
Youth center
Other (please identify)
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 64
3. Outdoor Recreation — Please indicate the importance of each potential outdoor recreation
activity/facility.
Activity/Facility - Outdoor
Not
important
Somewhat
important
Important
Very
important
Baseball/Softball
b. football fields
$
Soccer
$
d. basketball (outdoor)
$
Playgrounds
e. other (specify)
$
Picnic areas
2.
Restrooms at all parks
$
3.
Walking trails/bicycle
paths/sidewalk connections
$
4.
Yelm City Park — expand by acquiring some adjacent land
$
Other (Please identify)
$
6.
Northwest Yelm Neighborhood Park — acquire land for a park
$
4. This question will help determine plan priorities. Pretend that you have $10 to spend.
Next to each spending proposal below, write in a dollar amount. Put a "0" if you don't want
to spend anything on the item. Put $10 if you want to spend everything on one item. You can
spread the money around any way you want... spend the most money on those things you think
are the highest priorities. Spend all $10, but don't spend any more than $10. This question is
just about Yelm parks and recreation. It does not include programs and facilities offered by
Yelm Schools or County Parks.
1.
Athletic Fields
$
a. soccer fields
$
b. football fields
$
c. baseball fields
$
d. basketball (outdoor)
$
e. other (specify)
$
2.
Restrooms at all parks
$
3.
Longmire Park — add trails, picnic shelter and picnic tables
$
4.
Yelm City Park — expand by acquiring some adjacent land
$
S. Yelm City Park — Redesign and add kitchen, add PA system and expand
play area
$
6.
Northwest Yelm Neighborhood Park — acquire land for a park
$
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 65
7. Northwest Yelm Neighborhood Park — develop park
$
8. Set aside or acquire land for a special use park (activities could include
indoor and outdoor sports and recreation facilities or complex)
$
9. Build connected trails, bicycle routes and sidewalks
$
10. Other (please identify)
$
5. Please share other comments/ideas related to Yelm park and recreation facilities and
programs.
Please return this survey by April 15`h
1. If you received this survey in your water bill please return in the envelope with your
water bill payment.
2. Others filling out this survey should return it to Yelm City Hall, 105 Yelm Ave. W or
mail to City of Yelm, PO Box 479, Yelm, WA 98597, or FAX to (360) 458-3144.
If you have any questions please call Tami Merriman (360) 458-8496.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 66
APPENDIX D — RESULTS OF 2015 HOME AND GARDEN SHOW COMMENTS
• City Parks and Rec Department that coordinates and runs youth athletics as our current
athletics is run through Lacey organizations (Ditto, and skate park - large).
• Regulations for dog owners to have insurance and penalties for not keeping on leash in
parks.
• Yelm Community Pool (Ditto), Ice Skating Rink, Bird Atrium.
• We are interested in having a pool in Yelm and I am willing to work on a committee or
other entity to help.
• Community Pool. YMCA — There is nothing for kids to do in Yelm.
• Bike Park (Ditto).
• Community Pool (7 others).
• Youth Club.
• Why no mushroom club?
• Support a Father Daughter Dance.
• Covered recreation - basketball/gym.
• I miss the street dance at Prairie Days.
• Have a recreation center.
• More recreational opportunities and facilities for children of all ages. Playgrounds.
• Swimming pool, Basketball, rec hall —things to provide recreation for kids.
• We would like to have outdoor cover areas like the ones at the park now.
• Music/Dance for the community.
• Start fundraiser for Community Pool.
• Create an engaging Parks and Recreation Dept to provide activities for both adults and
youth.
• Yelm is largely a Living and Commuter Community, so why no Parks and Recreation
Program lead by City.
• Better parade (this one — not hip).
• Scotch Broom Festival and benefit of Scotch Broom.
• Rain garden behind motel — Sustainable permaculture gardens/on vacant lots.
• Community garden, please (Yes. Ditto, using local artists donations as well. I second
this).
• Visitor Center.
• Bring people to Yelm from surrounding areas for recreation.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 67
APPENDIX E — RESULTS OF 2017 HOME AND GARDEN SHOW AND OPEN HOUSE COMMENTS
• Please include toddler/infant swings in planning the new expanded play equipment in
Yelm City Park and play equipment in other new proposed neighborhood parks.
• Deign of the new spray park in Yelm City Park would be better if located close to the
new expanded play equipment. This is in consideration of Yelm families with multiple
children to look after in the park. Locating the water feature/spray park on the other
side of the community center from the new expanded play equipment will create a
difficulty for parents/grandparents with multiple children, trying to keep them all within
sight and close proximity.
It would be wonderful and so much more consistent with Yelm to have a running 'creek'
water feature as part of the design of the new spray park. There is a water feature such
as this in front of the Childrens' Museum in Olympia. Don't know if this could be added
to or replace a portion of the spray park at this stage of design, but this concrete 'creek'
and smooth rock shallow running water feature might be easier to manage and
maintain as well.
Continue the trail network proposals, especially the Prairie Line Trail across the
Nisqually River to Roy.
The Woodland Trail Greenway Association provides a grant opportunity to provide trail
kiosk maps and trail mile markers for trails in our county.
The Woodland Trail Greenway Association offered guidance of the associations
experience assisting Yelm as they move forward on trail plans.
Yelm Parks and Recreation Plan Page 68