murrieta parks and recreation master plan

8/9/2019 Murrieta Parks and Recreation Master Plan

1/181


2/181


3/181

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

City Counci lGary Thomasian, MayorKelly A. Bennett, Mayor Pro-TemRick Gibbs, CouncilmemberDoug McAllister, CouncilmemberLane Randon, Councilmember

Community Services CommissionEd Wadell, ChairElaine Holman, Vice ChairCathy Bearse, CommissionerThomas Courbat, CommissionerFrank Priore, Commissioner

City ManagerRick Dudley

City Staff TeamJim Holston, Assistant City Manager/Director of Community ServicesDebbie Tharp, Community Services ManagerBob Kast, Parks Maintenance SuperintendentLea Kolek, Management AnalystColby Diuguid, Recreation SupervisorJeri Copeland, Recreation Supervisor

ConsultantsRobert J. Mueting, AIA, ASLA, Lead Consultant, RJM Design Group, Inc.James Dockstader, Landscape Architect

Stacia Mancini, Programs Analyst/Consultant Pam Wooldridge, Telephone Survey Consultant, Research Network Ltd.Christine Coman, Economic Consultant, Coman Consulting


4/181

Murrieta Parks and Recreation Master Plan

Table of Contents

i

EXECUTIV E SUMMAR Y

Section One: INTRODUCTION1.1 Purpose of the Master Plan .............................................. 1-21.2 Approach and Document Organization ............................... 1-3

1.3 ContextPhysical Setting .............................................................. 1-7History .......................................................................... 1-9Current Land Use .......................................................... 1-10Summary of Demographic Context .................................. 1-12Recreation Trends ......................................................... 1-13

1.4 Relationship to Other Documents .................................... 1-14

Section Tw o: EXISTIN G RECREATION R ESOURCES2.1 Park Definition ................................................................ 2-12.2 New Parks Since 1999 Master Plan .................................... 2-2

2.3 City Park Types .............................................................. 2-32.4 Existing City Recreation Facilities ...................................... 2-62.5 Joint Use School Facilities .............................................. 2-102.6 Parks and Recreation Facilities Adjacent to the City ........... 2-122.7 Private and Commercial Recreation Facilities ..................... 2-132.8 Opportunity Sites .......................................................... 2-15

Section Three: RECREATION FACILI TY NEEDS ASSESSMENT3.1 Community Outreach ...................................................... 3-33.2 Community-Wide Telephone Survey ................................ 3-133.3 Recreation Demand and Needs Analysis ........................... 3-153.4 Service Area Analysis .................................................... 3-203.5 Acreage Analysis .......................................................... 3-243.6 Program Analysis .......................................................... 3-303.7 Trends and Implications ................................................. 3-313.8 Facility Needs Summary and Prioritization ........................ 3-31

Section Four: RECREATION P ROGRAMS4.1 Recreation Benefits ......................................................... 4-14.2 Existing Recreation Programs ........................................... 4-24.3 Programs Needs Assessment ............................................ 4-64.4 Program Recommendations ............................................ 4-154.5 Program Recommendations Summary.............................. 4-23


5/181

Murrieta Parks and Recreation Master Plan

Table of Contents

ii

Section Five: RECREATION FACI LITY RECOMMENDATION S 5.1 Overall Concept .............................................................. 5-25.2 Key Issues

Aquatics / Swimming Pools .............................................. 5-4Multi-Use Trail System ..................................................... 5-7

Sports Facilities ............................................................ 5-15Community Centers ...................................................... 5-29Off-Leash Dog Areas ..................................................... 5-30Gymnasiums/Indoor Basketball Courts ............................. 5-35Parkland Acreage .......................................................... 5-35

5.3 Summary of Recommendations for Current Facility Needs .. 5-365.4 Summary of Recommendations at Existing Parks ............... 5-405.5 Summary of Recommendations in Joint Use Schools .......... 5-415.6 Summary of Recommendations in Opportunity Sites .......... 5-42

Section Six: FUNDING/ IM PLEMENTATION 6.1 Funding Sources ............................................................. 6-26.2 Potential Funding Sources by Facility Type .......................... 6-96.3 Capital Costs for Proposed Recommendations ................... 6-166.4 Summary of Costs and Funding Sources ........................... 6-21


6/181

Murrieta Parks and Recreation Master PlanExecutive Summary

Executive Summary

ES-1

Executive Summary

W h a t i s t h e M a s t e r Pl a n ?

The purpose of the Master Plan is to provide arealistic guide for the creative, orderlydevelopment and management of recreationfacilities and programs for the City, now and intothe future.

The Parks and Recreation Master Plan (MasterPlan) is based on the guiding principle thatrecreation facilities, programs, trails, and openspace are important resources within the City of Murrieta.

W h y a r e Pa r k s a n d Re cr e a t i o n I m p o r t a n t ?

Across the nation, organizations such as theCalifornia Park and Recreation Society describe themany important ways recreation facilities andprogramming can help in creating healthy lifestylesand livable communities, including:

Strengthen community identity and sense of place;

Protect important places (environmentally,historically, aesthetically);

Foster human development and education; Support economic activity; Increase cultural unity; Promote health and wellness through physical

activity; Provide civic and social meeting places; Strengthen families; and Increase vitality and distinctiveness of individual

neighborhoods.

The benefits of recreation facilities and programsare crucially important in the quest to sustain theCitys vision:

M u r r i e t a : W h e r e I t A l l Co m e s To g e t h e r

P ark s a n d Rec r e a t i on f ac i l i t i e s a n d s e r v i ce s

a r e v i t a l ly i m p o r t a n t i n h e l p i n g c r e a t e a n d e n c o u r a g e h e a l t h y

l i f e s t y l e s an d l i v a b l e c o m m u n i t i e s


7/181


Executive Summary

ES-2

The 1994 General Plan envisioned a future inharmony with the environment with an emphasison economic opportunity and community healthand welfare.

W h a t w a s t h e M a s t e r P l a n Pr o c e ss ? The Master Plan document is organized intosections that mirror the process:

Section One: Introduction. This sectionsummarizes the Master Plan purpose, process,demographic context, and related documents.

Section Two: Existing Recreation Resources. Understanding existing conditions in thecommunity is an essential step in the Master Planprocess. Section Two provides an inventory of parks and recreation facilities within andsurrounding the City limits.

Section Three: Recreation Facility NeedsAssessment. Section Three provides a detailedassessment of the recreation facility needs of theMurrieta community. Data from the communitywas obtained to develop an understanding of thedemand for variety of facilities. Both qualitativeand quantitative information sources are discussed.

The assessment utilizes the following needsidentification tools:

Community Outreach (three workshops, a staff focus group, a community stakeholder focusgroup, sports organization survey)

Citywide Telephone Survey Recreation Demand and Needs Analysis (a

statistically valid needs calculation) Service Area Analysis

Acreage Analysis Program Needs Analysis Trends and Implications Report


8/181


Executive Summary

ES-3

Section Four: Recreation Programs. SectionFour provides an inventory of City recreationprograms and services and a discussion of otherrecreation programs and services open to thepublic through private and non-profit providers.Using similar needs identification tools andprioritization processes as outlined in Section Three(for facilities), program needs are discussed andprioritized. Recommendations are provided thataddress identified programming needs.

Section Five: Recreation FacilityRecommendations . Section Five providesrecommendations with respect to existing andproposed parks, unimproved parkland, as well as

joint use and collaborative or partneringopportunities.

Section Six: Funding & Implementation .Sources for funding capital costs are identified, andcurrent funding strategies are briefly discussed.Capital costs are assigned to the proposedrecommendations discussed in Section Five andsuggested funding sources are identified to assistthe City in implementing the proposed Master Planrecommendations.

Existing RecreationResources

W hat Recrea t ion Fac i l i t i e s Ex i s t in M u r r i e t a ?

Within Murrieta unique and diverse recreationopportunities are available in City facilities:

One (1) City-Wide Park, Los Alamos Hills SportsPark, totaling 45 acres.

Seven (7) Community Parks totaling more than95 acres.

Ten (10) Neighborhood Parks totaling over 72acres.


9/181


Executive Summary

ES-4

Twenty-one (21) Neighborhood Play Areastotaling over 35 acres.

Two (2) Special Use Parks. Seven (7) Nature Parks, totaling more than 27

acres of parkland and 244 acres of open space. Twenty-eight (28) parks added since 1999.

In addition, there are private recreation facilities,facilities outside the City, and schools that allcontribute to the recreation opportunities forMurrieta residents. The City has an establishedJoint Use Agreement with the school district thatallows the City to utilize some of the schoolcampus facilities.

An accurate quantification and evaluation of existing resources is the foundation of the needsassessment effort of Section Three of the MasterPlan.

A r e t h e r e u n d e v e l o p ed s i t e s i n M u r r i e t a t h a t r e p r e se n t f u t u r e p u b l i c p ar k o p p o r t u n i t i e s ?

There are several sites identified that could becomerecreation facilities:

Six (6) planned and designed Parks. Three (3) planned but not yet designed areas,

including Phases 2 and 3 of Los Alamos HillsSports Park.

Three (3) city-owned sites that have recentlybeen discussed as recreation facilities, not yetplanned.

Two (2) sites that have been discussed asacquisition targets.


10/181


Executive Summary

ES-5

Facility NeedsAssessment

A diverse set of needs assessment tools providesboth qualitative and quantitative information thatleads to an understanding of recreation needs inMurrieta.

Co m m u n i t y O u t r e a c h : W h a t d o Re s id e n t s say abou t Recrea t ion Needs?

Information was gathered from residents andstakeholders through a variety of methods.

Community Workshop #1: According to theworkshop participants, the best features of theparks and recreation facilities in Murrieta are:

They are clean and maintained Locations and size Multi-use facilities Open spaces and trails

The most important improvements that theworkshop participants would make to Murrietasparks and recreation facilities are:

Growth/Overdevelopment Traffic (need better public transit) Loss of hillsides/ridgelines

All of the workshop participants created thefollowing vision statement for Parks & Recreation inMurrieta in the year 2018:

Premiere recreation programs that offerintegrated, environmentally responsible, andfamily-oriented activities for everyone in thecommunity.

T h e be st f e a t u r e s o f M u r r i e t a s p a r k s a r e t h a t t h e y a r e c l e an ,

w e l l - m a i n t a i n e d ,a n d m u l t i - u se


11/181


Executive Summary

ES-6

During the workshop, participants were asked tocomplete a questionnaire soliciting their input onthe Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master PlanUpdate. Findings include:

Tennis Courts, Skate Parks and BMX facilitieswere reported as the facilities that are used themost often.

The park most frequently visited is Los AlamosSports Park.

The most frequent response was the need for aBMX only park and a lighted tennis complex.Also mentioned was upgrading or expanding theMurrieta skate park.

Community Workshop #2: Sports user groupswere invited to discuss park issues. The top sportfacility needs in Murrieta are:

An Indoor Multi-Use Facility for indoor sports,gymnastics, and dances.

Lighted Soccer Fields Lighted Softball / Baseball Fields BMX Facility Swimming Pool Frisbee Golf Course

Some opportunities to meet current and future

sports facility needs are: Public/Private partnerships (investors,

commercial donations, professional sportsteams)

Develop vacant land (developer land, land onwest side of town, Los Alamos Hills Sports Parkland) Grants

The most important improvements the workshopparticipants would make to Murrietas park andrecreation network are:

Add lighting on sports fields/courts Provide parking at parks Supervision


12/181


Executive Summary

ES-7

Staff Focus Group: Staff members participated inthe focus group meeting and provided diverse andwide-ranging input, summarized in Section 3.1.Participants expressed their Vision for parks,recreation facilities, open space, and recreationservices in 2018:

Parks, facilities, and programs to serveeveryone

Parks and facilities distributed throughout thecommunity

When asked what was one recreation facility staff would most like to see added in Murrieta to meetthe needs of the community the top responseswere:

A community center with a gymnasium An aquatic facility/pool complex

Community Stakeholder Focus Group: Adiscussion and consensus building session wasconducted with members of local organizations andcommunity leaders. The most important recreationissues include:

Lack of lighted sports fields Lack of community center/multi-use indoor

facility

When asked how can parks, recreation facilities,open space, and recreation services for communityresidents improve, responses included:

Provide more specialty facilities

Participants expressed their Vision for parks,recreation facilities, open space, and recreationservices in 2018:

Appropriate, well maintained, clean, and safepark facilities

Serve all ages and the whole community Connected trails throughout the City Green Technology


13/181


Executive Summary

ES-8

When asked what was one recreation facility theywould most like to see added in Murrieta to meetthe needs of the community the top responseswere:

Aquatic center Connected trails

When asked what needs to be done to accomplishthe improvements the consensus responsesincluded:

Funding Clear vision Leadership

Community Workshop #3: Attendeesparticipated in a needs prioritization and consensusprocess. Top recreation facility needs are:

Dog Park Trail Network Indoor Multi-Use Facility

Sports Organization Survey: Seven (7) sportsorganizations responded to a questionnairedesigned to gather information about participation,needs, and facilities used. This information is used

in demands and needs analysis. More qualitativedescriptions of issues are also included, such as theneed for more support elements (storage,restrooms, lighted fields) and in some cases morefields.

Co m m u n i t y - W i d e Te l e p h o n e Su r v e y

A total of 300 interviews were completed,contacted through use of a random digit dialsample. The purpose was to provide a statisticallyvalid basis for determining how residentsparticipate in recreation activities. Highlightsinclude:

Forty percent (40%) of households are frequentusers of park and recreation facilities (utilizingfacilities at least three times per month)


14/181


Executive Summary

ES-9

California Oaks Sports Park was reported as themost-often used facility by the highestpercentage of households

Walking/Jogging/Running, Picnicking, going to aDog Park, Bicycling, Use of Play Equipment, andSwimming in Public Pools were the mostpopular activities over the last year

The vast majority (98%) of the populationindicated that maintenance is important in theirdecision to choose a recreation site

Nearly all respondents (97%) indicated somelevel of positive satisfaction with maintenanceof parks and recreation facilities

The top three active recreation needs desired byMurrieta residents are Trails, Dog Park, andIndoor Swimming Pool. One in six (16%)indicated their household members have nonew recreation facility needs.

A key element of the telephone survey is actualrecreation activity information that generatesparticipation rates in each of fourteen (14)recreational activities analyzed in Section 3.3,Recreation and Demand and Needs Analysis.

How Many F ie lds , Cour t s , Poo l s, and o th e r Recrea t ion E lem ent s Does Mur r ie t a Need N o w a n d i n t h e Fu t u r e ?

Recreation demand is evaluated based on actualparticipation rates as determined via the telephonesurvey with Murrieta residents. Demand for eachrecreation element type (i.e. soccer field) is thencompared to supply to generate a need for thatelement. Of the activities surveyed, significantcurrent (2008) deficits are indicated for:

Adult softball (1 field) Baseball (9 fields)

Soccer Fields (13 fields) Indoor Basketball (3 courts) Picnic Tables Swimming Pool (1 rec pool) Tennis Courts (28 courts) Indoor Basketball Courts (1 court)


15/181


Executive Summary

ES-10

Walking/Jogging Paths Bicycling Paths Skateboard Park (1 area) Dog Parks (3 areas)

These deficits will increase over time as thepopulation grows, unless additional facilities areprovided.

A r e N e i g h b o r h o o d Pa r k s Co n v e n i e n t l y a n d A p p r o p r i at e l y D i st r i b u t e d t h r o u g h o u t t h e Ci ty?

In addition to providing appropriate quantities andtypes of recreation facilities, the City strives toprovide them in useful and appropriate locations.Service Area Analysis was conducted with respectto neighborhood recreation, to sports facilities, andto community centers.

Neighborhood Parks. One-half (.5) mile isapproximately a 20-minute walk for most people.It is generally considered a significant threshold indistance, beyond which some segments of thepopulation will tend to decline walkingopportunities.

Most residences should be within one-half mile, aconvenient walkable distance for most people, of aneighborhood park or other park that may satisfycommon recreation needs. This .5 mile radiusaround parks and recreational facilities is definedas a service area. Service area analysisdemonstrates that seven (7) residential areas areoutside of the established .5 mile service radius of a park.

Two (2) areas within the "Y' between the 15 and215

One (1) area east of 215, north of Los Alamos One (1) area west of 15, south of Calle del Oso One (1) area west of the 15, between Los

Alamos Rd. and Hawthorn St.

T h er e a r e s e v e n ( 7 )r e s i d en t i a l a r e a s t h a t a r e

n o t w i t h i n c o n v en i e n t w a l k i n g d i st a n c e t o a

p a r k


16/181


Executive Summary

ES-11

One (1) area north of Hayes and Hawthorne One (1) area east of Margarita

Acreage Ana lys i s : I s There Suff i c i en t Pa r k l a n d A c r e a g e i n M u r r i e t a ? H o w m u c h

p a r k l a n d w i l l b e n e e d ed i n t h e f u t u r e ? The Citys General Plan establishes a parklandacreage goal of 5 acres per 1000 residents. Usingthis goal, a current deficit of 34 acres exists. Afuture deficit of 133 acres will occur if no newparkland is added and the City continues to growas anticipated. These are not significant shortages.

A r e t h e r e r e c r ea t i o n p r o g r a m n e e d s t h a t r e q u i r e a d d i t i o n a l r e c r e a t i o n f a c i l i t i e s?

Some of the program recommendations (SectionFour) have implications for facilities, since manyprograms require facilities for operation. Facilitiesor improvements needed to address program needsinclude:

Baseball Fields Community centers that: provide support for

youth experiences in a variety of programs,including non-sports activities; address theneeds of multi-generational families; provideindoor and outdoor spaces for supervised freeplay; allow for expanded youth programs andservices, including teen dances; strengthen theexisting youth employment program; promotementoring and volunteer programs; expandphysical fitness opportunities, and; decentralizeservices and programs for older adults.

Event Park Fitness Center Softball Field (lighted) Special Needs Facilities Swim facilities/Aquatic Center

These program needs are included in the ProgramNeeds Summary Matrix in Section 3.7.


17/181


Executive Summary

ES-12

W h a t d o s t u d i e s o f o v e r a l l r e cr e a t i o n a n d s o ci a l t r e n d s t e l l u s a b o u t n e e d s i n M u r r i e t a ?

A complete copy of the trends report is found in the

Appendix. The report reviews current literatureand studies on social and recreational trends anddiscusses the potential impact on the City of Murrieta. Needs pertaining to recreation facilitiesinclude:

Intergenerational facilities that address needs of all of the Citys population regardless of age.

Facilities that support programs, and providepositive, safe, and secure recreationalalternatives.

Facilities that support programs and activities,promote personal connections, and allow thecommunity to highlight and share their diversebackgrounds.

Neighborhood parks that allow for increasedcommunity connectedness.

Facilities, such as neighborhood parks, thatconveniently support healthy lifestyles.

Facilities that support increased multi-culturalfamily arts events.

Facilities in which children can experience andappreciate nature and open space.

These facility needs are included in the NeedsSummary Matrix at the end of Section Three.

W h a t A r e t h e To p Pr i o r i t y N e e d s?

Combining all needs identification tools, Exhibit3.6-1 Facility Needs Summary indicates whichrecreation elements are needed in Murrieta. Toppriority needs include: Baseball Fields

Bike Trails Community Center Dog Park Gymnasium Soccer Fields Softball Fields Swimming Pool Walk/Jog/Run Trails


18/181


Executive Summary

ES-13

Recreation P rograms andServices

Toward its vision of Murrieta: Where It All ComesTogether, the City of Murrieta provides a widerange of recreation, social, and cultural programsand events.

W h a t P r o g r a m s a n d Se r v i c e s A r e N e e d e d ?

A variety of needs assessment tools were utilizedto determine what additional programs andservices are needed in Murrieta. Workshops,questionnaires, interviews, and a City-widetelephone survey provided qualitative andquantitative information that helped establish topprogram needs, including:

Aerobics/Spinning/Fitness Classes After School Programs Baseball/Softball Programs Cooking Classes Health and Wellness Programs Hobbies/Self Improvement/Career Development Music/Concerts Nature Education Programs

Senior Programs Special Needs Programs Swimming Lessons/Aquatics Classes

Based on qualitative and quantitative data collectedduring the Master Plan process and the review andanalysis of current programs, there are nosignificant gaps in programming. Staff hasresponded well to meeting the program interests of the community. However, it is timely to reviewprograms offerings; eliminate any duplication,focus on core program, and strengthen existingprogram offerings to respond to changingdemographics and recreation preferences. Detailedrecommendations are provided to address thesetop needs plus others identified in the process.


19/181


Executive Summary

ES-14

Recreation FacilityRecommendations

Based on the needs assessment process and onprevious strategic plan processes, a set of keyissues has been identified and addressed in detailin the Section Five. The Key Issues include:

Provision of quantities of swimming poolsappropriate to the current and future population.

Development of an effective, connected, multi-use trail system for walking, jogging, hiking,biking, and equestrian uses.

Provision of quantities of sports facilitiesappropriate to the current and future population,

to include:o Baseball fieldso Soccer Fieldso Softball Fieldso Tennis Courts

Provision of community centers in appropriatelocations.

Addition of at least two (2) off leash dog areas,distributed in the City.

Provision of gymnasiums in appropriate locations. Provision of parkland acreage quantities

consistent with the City standard of 5 acres per1,000, with appropriate distribution.

W h a t O v e r a l l St r a t e g i e s ar e Re co m m e n d e d t o A d d r e s s I d e n t i f i e d Needs?

Satisfaction of identified needs does not appear tobe an overly daunting task; the City has effectivelypursued park and recreation facility additions andcurrently plans for more park improvements.Continued parks and recreation facility planningand development will be needed to satisfy currentand future needs. It is intended that the Citypursue satisfaction of recreation facility needsusing the following key strategies andimprovements:


20/181


Executive Summary

ES-15

Satisfaction of significant sports field needsshould be pursued in new partnership sites, bynew land acquisition, and increased joint use of school sites.

A significant aquatic center on City propertyshould be pursued.

Additionally, existing and future totlots/playgrounds can be enhanced with theaddition of spray play elements, geographicallydistributed throughout the City.

A centrally located new community center shouldbe pursued in future phases of Los Alamos HillsSports Park.

Increased trail connectivity and opportunitiesshould be emphasized, focusing on corridors andlinks to adjacent natural open space, parks,schools, and commercial areas.

Neighborhood Parks should be within reasonablewalking distance of most homes.

Design and use of opportunity sites should bepursued in order to meet recreation needs andgoals (parkland acreage and recreation elementquantities).

New residential development should be plannedto include park and recreation facilities thatadequately serve the planned population andcomplements and enhances the City park systemas a whole.

W hat Spec i f i c P ro jec t s Shou ld be Pursued?

Section Five makes very detailed suggestions forimprovements to existing facilities, including:

Potential new aquatic elements at Los AlamosHills Sports Park or at California Oaks SportsPark.

Additional ballfields (or conversion of practicefields to game fields) at some joint use schoolsand at existing parks.

Conversion of some existing soccer fields toartificial turf, allowing for increased use.

Increased joint use of high school tennis courts.


21/181


Executive Summary

ES-16

A new 4-court tennis complex at Los AlamosHills Sports Park (Phase 2).

Consideration of new community centerbuildings at California Oaks Sports Park, LosAlamos Hills Sports Park, Second Street Park,and/or Golden Cities Park.

Consideration of off-leash dog areas in existingparks.

Renovation or expansion of playgrounds/tot lotsin twelve (12) existing parks.

Addition of shaded picnic areas in severalexisting parks.

Addition of spray play elements in three (3)existing parks.

There are also suggestions for new facilities suchas:

A new sports facility in partnership with the Cityof Temecula.

Acquistion of Water District Property. Neighborhood parks in underserved areas. Future Vineyards Park. Consideration of off-leash dog areas in some of

the new opportunity sites.

If these recommendations in existing and proposedfacilities are implemented the City will be able to

meet identified needs.

W h a t a r e t h e co st s f o r i m p l e m e n t a t i o n ?

Section Six describes approximate anticipatedproject costs and identifies potential fundingsources.

Implementation costs for recommendations atexisting parks could total $10,350,000.

Implementation costs for recommendation atproposed planned and designed recreationfacilities could total $17,738,000.

Anticipated costs for recommendations atproposed facilities which are planned but notyet designed could total $9,905,000.

Implementation costs for recommendations atunplanned proposed facilities could total$1,200,000.


22/181

Murrieta Parks and Recreation Master PlanIntroduction

Introduction

1-1

Section One

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update(Master Plan) is based on the guiding principle thatparks, recreation facilities, programs, trails, andopen space are important resources within the Cityof Murrieta. Across the nation, organizations suchas the California Park and Recreation Societydescribe the many important ways recreationfacilities and programming can help in creatinghealthy lifestyles and livable communities,including:

Strengthen community identity and sense of place

Protect important places (environmentally,historically, aesthetically)

Foster human development and education Support economic activity Increase cultural unity Promote health and wellness through

physical activity Provide civic and social meeting places

Strengthen families Increase vitality and quality of individual

neighborhoods

A park or a recreation facility means differentthings to different people. To some residents,parks are active sports fields; others have imagesof passive open spaces where one can walk, rest,and enjoy nature. Still others may envision parksas places for community gatherings and events.Indeed, parks and recreation facilities are used forall of these purposes and more. A diverse, vitalrecreation system is therefore necessary insustaining Murrietas visionary course:

Section One Highlights:

The Master Plan is animplementation toolproviding strategiesfor addressing theGeneral Plans goalsand policies.

The purpose of theMaster Plan is to

provide a realisticguide for thecreative, orderlydevelopment andmanagement of recreation facilitiesand programs for theCity.

Demographiccharacteristics suchas age, presence of children, ethnicity,and income have arelationship torecreation patternsand program needs.

In addition to theGeneral Plan, thereare a number of otherexisting documentsand plans that relateto the Master Plan.


23/181


Introduction

1-2

M u r r i et a : W h e r e I t Al l Co m e s To g e t h e r

The 1994 General Plan envisioned a future inharmony with the environment with an emphasis

on economic opportunity and community healthand welfare.

Key questions discussed in this Master Planinclude: What parks, recreational facilities, andprograms does Murrieta have? Who uses Murrietaparks, facilities, and programs? What role doparks, facilities, open space, and recreationprograms have in the lives of residents? Whattypes of parks, facilities, and programs does theMurrieta need and which are the most important?

What changes should be made to existing parksand facilities? Where will new parks, facilities, andprograms be placed and how will they be fundedand maintained?

1.1 P urpose of the Master Plan

The purpose of this Master Plan is to provide arealistic guide for the creative, orderlydevelopment and management of parks, recreationfacilities and programs for the City, now and into

the future. The Master Plan is an implementationtool of the General Plan, providing strategies foraddressing the General Plans vision, as well asgoals and policies based on current analysis andcommunity input.

Over the years, the City of Murrieta has activelyundertaken a variety of planning efforts pertainingto individual Park Master Plans, Land Use studies,and Specific Plans. The Master Plan builds onmany of these previous planning efforts and

obtains new community input that has resulted inproviding an up-to-date understanding of currentand future recreation needs and opportunitiesspecific to Murrieta.


24/181


Introduction

1-3

This report is intended to be a flexible document,presenting findings and recommendations that willbe evaluated, validated, and/or modifiedperiodically as the City responds to unforeseenopportunities and constraints as well as changes inresidents needs and demands. It is anticipatedthat Master Plan recommendations will beconsidered on an annual basis in the context of other City priorities, through incorporation into theCity budget, so that recreation projects can beginthe process of implementation.

There is a strong connection between open spaceand recreation in Murrieta. Natural open space isalso strongly connected to community identity inmany ways, including as reinforcement of theareas western or early days heritage. The CitysGeneral Plan addresses open spacecomprehensively, including open space for non-recreation purposes. This Master Plan addressesopen space from a recreation standpoint.

This report updates the Parks and RecreationMaster Plan and Financing Strategy adopted by theCity Council in 1999.

1.2 Approach and Document

OrganizationThe Master Plan document is organized into thefollowing sections:

Section One: I ntroduction

This section summarizes the Master Plans purposeand process. The current demographiccomposition of Murrieta and implications forrecreation trends is briefly outlined. A list of

related documents that were reviewed as part of the Master Plan is identified.


25/181


Introduction

1-4

Section Tw o: Existing RecreationResources

Understanding the existing conditions in thecommunity is an essential step in the Master Plan

process. Section Two provides an inventory of Cityparks and recreation facilities as well as otherrecreation facilities open to the public and includesdiscussion of public school facilities, privaterecreation facilities, and a listing of other publicly-owned lands (opportunity sites) within andsurrounding the City limits.

Section Three: Recreation Facility NeedsAssessment

Section Three provides a detailed assessment of the recreation facility needs of the Murrietacommunity. Data from the community wasobtained to develop an understanding of thedemand for a variety of facilities. Both qualitativeand quantitative information sources are discussed.The assessment utilizes the following needsidentification tools:

C o m m u n i t y O u t r e a c h : Information gatheredfrom the community through a series of workshops, focus groups, stakeholder interviews,workshop participant questionnaires, and a sportsorganization survey

C o m m u n i t y - Wi d e Te l e p h o n e S u r v e y : Thephone survey provides current, statistically validinformation specific to Murrieta that gives detailedinformation for the types of recreation facilitiesmost often utilized by Murrieta residents. A total of 300 randomly selected, geographically distributedhouseholds in and adjacent to the City of Murrietawere interviewed.

R e c r e a t i o n D e m a n d a n d N e e d s A n a l y s i s : Anevaluation of selected current and future facilityneeds was developed using results from thetelephone survey, sports organization survey,facility inventory, and relevant demographicprojections


26/181


Introduction

1-5

S e r v i c e A r e a A n a l y s i s : An evaluation of howparks and recreation facilities are distributedthroughout residential areas in Murrieta

A c r e a g e A n a l y s i s : An evaluation of parklandacreage needs in the City based on establishedstandards and on identified need for specificrecreation facilities such as sports fields or courts

P r o g r a m N e e d s A n a l y s i s : Evaluation of recreation program needs (Section Four) thatgenerates facility needs.

Tr e n d s a n d I m p l i c at i o n s Re p o r t : A review of current literature and studies on state and national,social and recreational trends and patterns, anddiscussion of potential impacts on recreation in theCity of Murrieta.

Section Four: Recreation P rograms

Section Four provides an inventory of Cityrecreation programs and services and a discussionof other recreation programs and services open tothe public through private and non-profit providers.Using similar needs identification tools andprioritization processes as those outlined in detailin Section Three (for facilities), program needs are

discussed and prioritized. Recommendations areprovided that address identified programmingneeds.

Section Five: Recreation FacilityRecommendations

Section Five provides recommendations withrespect to existing and proposed parks,unimproved parkland, and joint use andcollaborative or partnering opportunities.Recommendations are intended to address therecreation facility and program needs identified inSections Three and Four and are the result of existing inventory, analysis of demand, communityinput, and consideration of established goals andpolicies.


27/181


Introduction

1-6

Section Six: Funding and I mplementation

Sources for funding capital costs are identified, andcurrent funding strategies are briefly discussed.Capital costs are assigned to the proposed

recommendations discussed in Section Five andsuggested funding sources are identified to assistthe City in implementing the proposed Master Planrecommendations.

Appendix ( separate document)

The Appendix contains many of the full originalreports (trends analysis, demand and needsanalysis, etc.) summarized in the Master Plan.

1.3 ContextThe Citys General Plan, first adopted in 1994following the Citys incorporation in 1991,established a vision for the City that is well on itsway to fulfillment. The prideful 1994 General Planenvisioned a future in harmony with theenvironment with an emphasis on economicopportunity and community health and welfare.

Today, Murrieta is a unique City recognized for itsopen space, history and heritage, diverse housingoptions, low crime rates, distinguished schools,neighborhood orientation, and economic vitality.The desirability of the area, coupled with theposition of the City near other population centers,has resulted in rapid growth and development overthe last decade, spurring renewed planning efforts.

The planning area for this Master Plan is consistentwith City boundaries (See Exhibit 1.3-1 Land Use).Current City boundaries are different from thoseshown in the General Plan and the 1999 Parks and

Recreation Master Plan, due to annexation efforts.Note, the Sphere of Influence area is not part of this current Master Plan.


28/181


Introduction

1-7

P hysical Setting

Murrieta is a picturesque community of approximately 100,173 1 persons located insouthwestern Riverside County within the Murrieta

Valley.Within Murrieta, several significant natural andman-made features help shape neighborhoods andprovide both opportunities and constraints withrespect to parks, recreation, circulation, andcommunity life. These include:

The Santa Ana Mountains and Santa RosaPlateau, in the west

Murrieta Creek and tributaries, runningprimarily north/south along the westernedge of the City

A number of east/west creeks and drainages The historic Los Alamos Corridor Prominent ridgelines, including the

distinctive Hogbacks Interstate Freeways 15 and 215 Canyons

Varied topography and open space provide manywalking, hiking, equestrian, and cyclingopportunities and contribute strongly to community

identity and is a reminder of Murrietas heritage.

1 State of California, Department of Finance estimate.


29/181


Introduction

1-8

Exhibit 1.3-1 City of Murrieta Zoning Map from General P lan (amendedFebruary 1, 2005)


30/181


Introduction

1-9

History

The Murrieta Valley has a very interesting and richcultural history that paints a picture of change overthousands of years and which includes NativeAmerican settlers, Spanish ranchos, railroadexpansion, farming, international recognition fornatural hot springs, and land booms.

Extensive preserved open space in and aroundMurrieta is a reminder of the early days in theValley. Not only are there areas of specialhistorical significance, but the ridgelines, drainagecourses, and view sheds recall the landscape asseen by Native Americans and early Euro-Americanvisitors. There have been many significant eventsthat have shaped the physical and economicevolution of the area 2 including:

Sometime after 1500, the PayomikKowichum peoples settled near the area thatwould become Old Town Murrietta, naming itAvaxat.

In the early 1800s, Avaxat became a reststop along the Sonoran Trail and later in thecentury a stagecoach stop, known asAlamos, for American and European settlers.

The San Luis Rey and San Juan Capistrano

Missions claimed the territory and used theland for cattle. The entire Murrieta area was divided among

three land grants: Rancho Temecula, SanJacinto Rancho, and Rancho Santa Rosa.

Esequial Murrieta, a Spaniard, purchased52,000 acres of land from the ranchos in1873. His brother, Juan, took control of theproperty and brought a large flock of 100,000 sheep to the ranch.

A railroad depot was built in 1883, whichspurred agricultural growth and increasedsettlement. The Temecula Land and WaterCompany purchased Murrietas ranch in1884 and commenced surveying andsubdivision. A land boom ensued.

2 1994 General Plan


31/181


Introduction

1-10

Murrieta Hot Springs became popular withvisitors from Los Angeles and San Diego.

The area became agriculturally productive,producing hay, grains, fruits and nuts,grapes, olives, poultry, livestock, alfalfa,oats, wheat, and barley.

Fritz Guenther developed a popular resort atthe hot springs.

The railroad line closed in 1935, ending theland boom.

During the 1960s the Murrieta area gained areputation for breeding racehorses.

Freeway enhancements in the 1980s madeaccess from metropolitan areas easier.

Murrieta, with a population of almost24,000, incorporated on July 1, 1991 andapproved its first General Plan in 1994.

Fortunately, much evidence of this rich heritageremains in Murrieta in the form of preservedhistoric buildings and structures.

Current Land Use

The following summary is excerpted from the CitysLand Use Element. The City of Murrieta's GeneralPlan Area includes both the incorporated CityLimits and the Sphere of Influence. The total Plan

Area is 26,938 acres (42.09 square miles), with theCity limits totaling 18,274 acres (28.55 squaremiles) and the Sphere of Influence 8,667 acres(13.54 square miles). The Murrieta Plan Area isdiverse, ranging from subdivision tract housing inthe core of the City, to open, undeveloped lands inthe Sphere of Influence.


32/181


Introduction

1-11

We s t o f I - 1 5 . The lands located west of Interstate 15 (I-15) are the most diverse in thePlan Area. This area includes historic resources, amajor watercourse, rural and single-family tracthomes, and the majority of the City's industrialland. In the central portion of this area is anchoredby the historic downtown. North and west of Historic Murrieta are residential tracts (HistoricMurrieta). These tracts are developing near theMurrieta Valley High School. Most of the newhomes are, or will be part of the ongoingdevelopment of the Copper Canyon and VineyardSpecific Plans.

B e t w e e n I - 1 5 a n d I - 2 1 5 . The lands locatedbetween the two interstates represents thecommercial core of the City. The California Oaksand Rancho Las Brisas Specific Plans are built-outand the California Oaks Road commercial corridor isnearly complete. Two remaining specific plans,Greer Ranch and Murrieta Oaks have yet tocommence with development. The City's futurecentral business district, the Golden Triangle, islocated south of Los Alamos Road to Murrieta HotSprings Road, and is envisioned as being a highintensity node, whereby commercial, institutionaland higher densities and residential activities takeplace. Finally, the regional commercial focus of the

City is located south of Murrieta Hot Springs Road,at the confluence of I-15 and I-215. Approved as amajor regional entertainment facility, this area isanticipated to provide social and economic benefitsto Murrieta residents.

Ea st o f I - 1 5 . The lands east of Interstate 215consists of single-family tract developments, largelot estates, and open lands. This area also includesa special policy district, The Los Alamos Corridor,that is envisioned to retain the rural lifestyle of Murrieta. The Sphere of Influence area is generallyopen lands, except along Winchester Road, in theHunter Road vicinity, where single-family tractdevelopment is occurring.


33/181


34/181


Introduction

1-13

It is expected that Murrieta will experience a slowlyincreasing ethnic diversity. Household sizes shouldremain stable and the percentage of children under18 years of age could decline somewhat.Household income levels are above average andare expected to remain so in the future.

Recreational Trends Analysisand I mplications

The Recreational Trends Analysis and Implicationsfor the City of Murrieta reviews studies on stateand national social and recreational trends andpatterns and discusses the potential impact for theCity. These overall trends provide valuable contextwithin which specific Murrieta needs (see Section

Three) can be considered. Findings include: Growing ethnic and cultural diversity will result

in different recreation preferences. Events andprograms in public facilities can help buildcommunity

The baby boomer group will double in size by2020, will have different facility expectations,and will have increased interest in recreationcompared to previous senior groups.Intergenerational facilities and activities will beimportant.

Recreation will continue to be a way for fastgrowing communities to address issues relatedto youth social development and communityconnectedness.

Recreation facilities and program offerings cancontinue to play and important role inembracing technology for youth, boomers, andolder adults

Outdoor recreation will continue to play animportant role in Murrieta residents enjoymentof activities. City and nearby recreation

facilities represent significant opportunity toaddress outdoor recreation needs. Fitness and obesity are increasingly important

issues that should continue to be addressed byfacility and program offerings.

Scarcity of time is a factor in evaluatingeffectiveness of program and facility offerings


35/181


Introduction

1-14

An interest in the arts remains high in the stategenerally and can be addressed in facilities andin programming

A growing body of research suggests thataccess to and understanding of the naturalworld, especially for children, improves physicaland psychological health

1.4 Relationship to OtherDocumentsAs described previously, the Master Plan is drawndirectly from the comprehensive set of objectivesand policies within the approved General Plan. Inaddition to the General Plan, there are a number of other existing documents and plans that relate tothe Master Plan and influence its direction. Each of these documents and plans are briefly discussedbelow, along with a description of its relationship tothe Master Plan.

The City of Murrieta General Plan

Each City in California is required by State law toadopt a comprehensive, long-term General Plan forits own physical development. The General Planconsists of mandatory and discretionary elementsincluding land use, housing, circulation,

conservation and open space, safety, noise, airquality, and economic development. CaliforniaState law requires that the day-to-day decisions of a City should follow logically from, and beconsistent with, the General Plan. The MurrietaParks and Recreation Master Plan is a planning toolthat provides a coordinated program of recreationalfacility development and management carrying outthe goals and policies of the General Plan. Theprimary park and recreation goal, from whichnumerous General Plan objectives and policies arederived, is to:

Pr o v i d e o p e n s p a c e s o f s u f f i c i e n t q u a l i t y a n d q u a n t i t y t o s er v e b o t h t h e a ct i v e a n d p a s si v e

r e c r e a t i o n a l n e e d s o f t h e co m m u n i t y


36/181


Introduction

1-15

The current adopted version of the General Planwas created in 1994. Some elements, such as theLand Use Element and Housing Element, wereupdated more recently.

Murrieta City Trails Map

The City has published a comprehensive trailsbrochure that describes and maps 15 multi-usetrails within the City. Trail etiquette, safety tips,exercise ideas, and a description of the trailsdocent program are also included. On the map,trails are shown in relation to existing park andrecreation facilities.

Parks and Recreation Master Planand Financing Strategy

The City of Murrieta Parks and Recreation MasterPlan and Financing Strategy was approved in 1999to provide guidance for organized and structureddevelopment and renovation of the Citys parks,recreation facilities, trails, open space andprograms. The 1999 Master Plan providedinformation with respect to existing facilities,demographics, citizen participation, demandanalysis, needs assessment, policies, goals,funding, and implementation.

This current Master Plan updates the 1999document.

Specific Plans

According to the Citys Land Use Element, SpecificPlans have been widely utilized in Murrieta toestablish development parameters for large landareas. Specific plans may include open spaceand/or recreation elements that will play arecreation role in the City. Currently, the City of

Murrieta has eight (8) active specific plans:

Copper Canyon Golden City Greer Ranch Murrieta Highlands


37/181


Introduction

1-16

Murrieta Oaks The Vineyard Historic Murrieta SP 275

The Land Use Element illustrates the location andcurrently approved build-out for each specific plan.The specific plan is an implementing tool of theGeneral Plan that establishes site-specificdevelopment regulations. All specific plans mustconform to the General Plan, as they are essentiallyzoning documents for their respective land areas.

Healthy Murrieta

Healthy Murrieta is a movement initiated by theCity to improve community health and consists of programs, informational packets, and events aimedat providing opportunities to improve the health of Murrieta residents. Among other suggestions,Healthy Murrieta links community health torecreation and facilities and provides several toolsto increase recreational activity, walking, andexercise.

The California Childrens Outdoor Bill of Rights

The Childrens Outdoor Bill of Rights, offered by theCalifornia Roundtable on Recreation, Parks, andTourism, lists fundamental experiences every childwould benefit from experiencing before enteringhigh school. The recommendations address recentconcerns about youth detachment from outdooractivities, lack of physical exercise, and increasedhealth risks. The State of California and the StatePark and Recreation Commission are among theagencies and organizations that have endorsed or


38/181


Introduction

1-17

adopted the document 3 . Every child should havethe opportunity to:

Discover Californias Past Splash in the water Play in a safe place Camp under the stars Explore nature Learn to swim Play on a team Follow a trail Catch a fish Celebrate their heritage

In Murrieta or nearby, there are manyopportunities to experience the activities on thelist.

3 http://www.calroundtable.org/cobor.htm


39/181


40/181

Murrieta Parks and Recreation Master PlanExisting Recreation Resources

Existing Recreation Resources

2-1

Section Tw o

2.0 EXISTING

RECREATION

RESOURCES This portion of the Master Plan provides anoverview of existing parks, recreation facilities andopportunity areas in and around Murrieta. Anunderstanding of existing resources is essentialprior to beginning the needs evaluation process.

A diverse combination of City-wide parks,community parks, neighborhood parks,neighborhood play areas, special use facilities,nature parks, joint use school facilities, and nearbyregional parks and open space provideopportunities for a myriad of community andpersonal activities for recreation, education, health,and cultural enrichment.

2.1 Par k Definition

For purposes of this Master Plan report, a multi-purpose definition of park is desirable that relatesto the needs analysis tools used in Section Three:

Pu b l i c P ar k o r P a r k L an d : Anoutdoor area owned by a public entitygenerally available for public passiveand/or active recreation usage and

containing access or recreationimprovements. Parks are usually

located in a Parks and Recreation (P & R) Zone as identified in the City's

Zoning Map.

Section Tw oHighlights:

The City has added 28parks since the 1999Master Plan.

This Master Plan hastwo new park types;nature parks andneighborhood playareas.

The City has over 465acres of parklandlocated in 48 parksand recreationfacilities.

There are 9 joint useschool campuses.

There are 14 new

opportunity sites fornew parks andrecreation facilities.


41/181



2-2

Areas not generally considered as "parkland"include: street medians and parkways; naturalpreserved or conserved open space areas withoutaccess; unimproved land zoned for uses other thanrecreation; and flood zones. This Master Plan

report will use the term park and recreationfacility interchangeably and, consistent with theMunicipal Code, the terms refer to all six City parktypes described in section 2.3.

2.2 New Parks and RecreationFacilities Since Previous MasterPlan

Since 1999, when the previous Master Plan was

adopted, the City has aggressively pursued and/orfacilitated design and implementation of asignificant number of recreation facility projects.The following is a list of public facilities added tothe park and recreation system between 1999 and2008:

Antelope Hills Park Bear Valley Park Blackmore Ranch Park Calle Cipres Park

Calle Estancia Park Carson Park Cole Canyon Park Copper Canyon Park Creekside Village Green Park Echo Canyon Park Falcons View Park Hunt Park Los Alamos Hill Sports Park Mapleton Park Mira Mosa Park Monte Vista Park Northstar Park Oak Mesa Park Oak Terrace Park Oak Tree Park Palomar Park


42/181



2-3

Rosewood Park Shady Maple Park Springbrook Park Sycamore Park Sykes Ranch Park Town Square Park Vintage Reserve Park

These facilities represent an addition of over 402gross acres to the park system. In addition,approximately fourteen (14.5) miles of public trailshas been acquired and/or developed for recreationopportunities.

2.3 City Park Types

Parks can be classified by type based primarily ontheir size, function and character. Thecategorization of parks is important inunderstanding city-wide acreage needs and incommunicating what type of parks are needed inthe future. This master plan, based on theprevious 1999 Master Plan, will utilize the followingcategories:

City-Wide P arks (Over 50 acres of Parkland)

City-Wide parks serve larger communitypopulations and provide recreation facilities or openspace in significant numbers or sizes. Los AlamosHills Sports Park is currently the only City-WidePark.

Community Parks (up to 50 acres of Parkland)

Community Parks can provide a broad range of both passive and active recreational opportunities,but their primary purpose is to provide activerecreational opportunities for use by a larger

segment of the population than neighborhoodparks. Community Parks are generally consideredto serve several neighborhoods within a two-mileradius. If a Community Park is located within aresidential area it can also serve a neighborhoodpark function and, therefore, is included in the service area analysis for Neighborhood Parks.


43/181



2-4

Recreation centers are important features in somecommunity parks. These are building facilities thatmay contain features such as gymnasiums, multi-purpose rooms, classrooms, and offices forrecreation staff. Other facilities often found at

Community Parks might include sports fields,sports courts, amphitheatres, and group picnicareas. Large special events such as concerts andfestivals might also be held in larger CommunityParks.

There are seven (7) Community Parks in Murrieta:Alta Murrieta Sports Park, California Oaks SportsPark, Copper Canyon Park, Glen Arbor Park, HuntPark, Mira Mosa Park, and Pond Park.

Neighborhood Parks (up to 15 acres of Parkland)

Neighborhood Parks are intended to serve Cityresidents who live in close proximity; however theyalso contribute to the overall park system availableto the entire community. Ideally, everyone in theCity would live within convenient walking distance(typically one-half mile) of a Neighborhood Park.This is defined as the service radius or servicearea of a neighborhood park.

Neighborhood Parks should address daily recreation

needs of the surrounding neighborhood; features of neighborhood parks might include playgrounds,multi-purpose open turf areas, practice sportsfields, picnic tables and/or picnic shelters, walkingpaths, attractive landscaping, and recreationfeatures such as basketball courts. A size of five(5) acres or more is considered appropriate toserve a neighborhood of approximately 5,000within its service area.


44/181



2-5

Neighborhood Play Area (up to 5 acres of Parkland)

Neighborhood Play Areas are intended to serve Cityresidents who live in close proximity; however they

also contribute to the overall park system availableto the entire community. Ideally, everyone in theCity would live within convenient walking distance(typically one-half mile) of a Neighborhood Park orNeighborhood Play Area. Neighborhood Play Areasare included in the service radius analysis of Section Three.

Neighborhood Play Areas should address dailyrecreation needs of the surrounding neighborhood;features of neighborhood parks might includeplaygrounds, vista points, multi-purpose open turf areas, picnic tables and/or picnic shelters, walkingpaths, attractive landscaping, and recreationfeatures such as basketball courts.

Special Use Facilities

Special Use Facilities generally possess a uniquecharacter or function focused on a single type of activity. An equestrian facility, Frisbee golf course,BMX course, museum, vista points, or communitybuildings (without an associated park) might be

considered Special Use Facilities. Special UseFacilities arent usually included in the service areaanalysis for neighborhood parks. The 1999 MasterPlan included joint use school sites under theSpecial Use Facility category.

Nature Parks

Nature Parks are those in which most of the park isundeveloped, and the undeveloped portions containvegetation, topography, or features which areimportant to retain in their natural states. Physicalpublic access to natural areas via trails should beencouraged where feasible and appropriate.


45/181



2-6

For the purposes of defining this park type, natural refers to vegetation and land formsindigenous to the area; turf, irrigatedmanufactured slopes, detention basins, weedydisturbed areas, and areas landscaped with

ornamental vegetation would be considered part of the developed portion of a Nature Park.

Nature Park is a new category of park facility thatwas previously included under Special UseFacilities.

2.4 Existing City Recrea tionFacilities

Unique and diverse recreational opportunities areavailable throughout Murrieta in City facilities. Onecan find natural open spaces, trails, communitybuildings, streams, sports courts and fields, afishing pond, horseshoe pits, swimming pool,passive areas, playgrounds, an equestrian stagingarea, a skate park, and much more. As a City thathas grown primarily over the past few decades,newer areas of Murrieta have benefited fromplanning efforts that reflect relatively currentthinking about neighborhood identity,neighborhood parks, and developer participation in

recreation facility implementation. This has led toan effective system of diverse parks, stronglyassociated with adjacent residential areas andimportant to overall community identity. This isone of the many strengths of the community,although some neighborhood park gaps remain inolder areas. Additional neighborhood parks areplanned as part of future residential areas.Another strength of the park system is the natureparks and trails that take advantage of open spaceand natural areas of the community.


46/181


2-7

Exhibit 2.4-1: Location of Existing Parks and Recreation Facilities


47/181


2-8

This page is intentionally left blank


48/181



2-9

Exhibi t 2.4-2: Curren t Facilit y In ventory


49/181



2-10

Exhibit 2.4-1 is a map showing the location of eachexisting park and Exhibit 2.4-2 is a matrix thatdescribes size and features of existing public parksand recreation facilities within the City of Murrieta.More than 290 acres of public parkland and nature

parks are found in these forty-eight (48) Cityfacilities, not including joint use facilities.

It is worthwhile noting items of special interest :

Fourteen (14) parks have trails or trailconnections to open space areas

California Oaks Sports Park is the most usedpark in the City as reported by the highestnumber of households (32%) polled in acommunity-wide telephone survey.

The vast majority (97%) of residents are verysatisfied or somewhat satisfied withmaintenance of existing recreation facilities andprograms in Murrieta.

The City hosts major community events atCalifornia Oaks Sports Park.

The oldest park in Murrieta is Hunt Park, built in1979.

Copper Canyon Park was originally namedJoaquin Ranch.

Alta Murrieta Sports Park had the first lightedfield in 1989.

2.5 Joint Use School Facilities

In almost every Murrieta neighborhood, schoolfacilities play an important role in family life androutine. In a sense, they are civic gathering placesand important resources in the community. Withinthe Murrieta Valley Unified School District, thereare nine (9) public school campuses, these jointuse school locations and names are identified onExhibit 2.4-1. A tenth, the new Antelope Valley

Elementary School, will be added in 2009. Manycampuses have outdoor play areas and sportsfields that are used by the City, by sportsorganizations, and by Murrieta residents.


50/181



2-11

The City has an established Joint Use Agreementwith these 9 schools that allows the City to utilizeschool campuses, and that allows the School Districtto use City facilities. Current joint use includes:

Some schools serve as parks after 4:00 pm onweekdays and after 8 am on weekends.

Shivela Middle School uses fields at CaliforniaOaks Sports Park.

Cole Canyon Elementary School uses CopperCanyon Park.

Murrieta Elementary School uses the adjoiningCity park, Murrieta Elementary School Park.

Through the City, Murrieta Youth Soccer Leagueplays games at Tovashal Elementary, Rail RanchElementary, and Shivela Middle School

Additionally, sports organizations such as the footballleague utilize school facilities for games andpractices and contract directly through the District,not the City. Football games are played at the twohigh schools. This use is included in the demand andneeds analysis of Section Three.

There is one new school planned for 2009; a newhigh school on Monroe and Los Alamos.

Joint Use Agreements between the City and school

districts describe general responsibilities and benefitsof each party regarding the use of both City anddistrict facilities. The Agreement and State law allowthe school district and the City to cooperate witheach other for the purposes of improving facilitiesand for organizing, promoting, and conductingrecreation and education programs for children andadults. Currently, the City and the District are eachresponsible for the regular maintenance and repairor their respective properties and facilities.


51/181


52/181



2-13

Lake Skinner, operated by the Metropolitan WaterDistrict of Southern California, offers camping,equestrian, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking, andswimming opportunities.

The Santa Rosa Plateau, a beautiful andecologically significant area of more than 6,900acres, is directly adjacent to Murrieta andrepresents a significant recreation opportunity.The Santa Rosa Plateau is cooperatively owned andmanaged by several agencies and organizationsincluding the Nature Conservancy, the RiversideCounty Regional Park and Open Space District, theCalifornia Department of Fish and Game, the USFish and Wildlife Service, and the MetropolitanWater District of Southern California.

Diamond Valley Lake is located in Hemet and isalso operated by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Metropolitan's Diamond ValleyLake and Lake Skinner are a delicate balancebetween fun and function. While they each provideSouthern California residents exciting boating andfishing opportunities, they are, first and foremost,vital drinking water reservoirs. The water stored inthe two reservoirs is enough to serve almost a half million Southern California families for a year.That's why Metropolitan keeps a close eye on any

activity on the lakes and in their respectivewatersheds.

2.7 Pr ivate and CommercialRecreation Facilities

Non-public facilities play a large role in meeting therecreational needs of the residents of Murrieta.The array of programs and facilities they provide issubstantial. Some programs are offered throughthe City, others are not. The network of private

facilities within the City is made up of businesses,churches, clubs, private schools, homeownerAssociations, organizations, and golf courses.


53/181



2-14

This Master Plan Update does not provide adetailed inventory of private and commercialfacilities since the City neither controls, maintains,ensures availability, nor programs them. Theserecreation resources are therefore not credited

toward satisfaction of the Citys acreage or facilitygoals for public parks. However, as they do fill arecreation role, these facilities may individually beable to address certain specific identified needs inthe City of Murrieta.

Private Recreation Facilities

There are three homeowners association parks inMurrieta; Vintage Knoll Park, Greer Ranch Park,and Picket Fences Park. Bear Creek GatedCommunity and Warm Springs Gated Communityalso contain private recreation facilities. Thesefacilities often include pools, tennis courts,recreation rooms, or basketball courts.

Commercial Recreation Facilities

Several commercial operations providerecreational, sports, or exercise opportunities inand around Murrieta. These resources are notcredited toward the Citys acreage or facilityquantity goals.

Bear Creek Golf Course (Course and clubhouseare private, members only)

Brunswick Cal Oaks Bowl Colony Golf Course (public) Mulligan Family Fun Center Murrieta Valley Golf Range The SCGA Golf Course (open to the public) Sportsland, Inc (roller hockey rink) Temecula Creek Golf Course


54/181



2-15

2.8 Opportunity Sites

Throughout this Master Plan process numerous sites havebeen evaluated for the potential to provide recreationalopportunities in the community. Several opportunitysites are currently planned as developer-built parks.Many are unplanned vacant park sites, and some arecurrently utilized for other purposes but may becomeavailable for recreational use in the future.

There are three (3) categories of opportunity sitesindicated:

Planned (Designed and Not Designed): Thesesites are planned to be parks and have been designedbut not yet built, or they are planned but a facility

design has not yet been approved. Unplanned: These sites are potential publicrecreation facilities that would require negotiation,dedication, or planning revisions to secure their use asparks.

Acquisition Sites: These sites are potential publicrecreation facilities that would require acquisition.

Recommendations with respect to these opportunity sitesare described in Section Five. Locations are shown onExhibit 2.8-1.


55/181


56/181

Exhibit 2.8-1: Opportunity Sites


57/181

This page is intentionally left blank


58/181

Murrieta Parks and Recreation Master PlanRecreation Facility Needs Assessment

Facility Needs Assessment

3-1

Section Three

3.0 RECREATION

FACILITY NEEDS

ASSESSMENT

The purpose of the recreation facility needsassessment process is to identify the current andfuture recreation facility needs within Murrieta, toidentify recreation demand that is unmet, and tosuggest the relative priority of each identified need.Needs were identified and prioritized by engagingthe community in a series of community outreachforums and other needs identification tools listedbelow. The process involved gathering bothqualitative input (e.g. workshops and focus groups)and quantitative input (e.g. telephone survey,sports organization survey, facility demandanalysis). Qualitative input is the voice of thecommunity; and quantitative input is statisticallyvalid information. Using only qualitative feedbackas a basis for the number, type, and location of recreation facilities ignores the fact that such

feedback may not be representative of the entirecommunity and also may not quantify facility needsbeyond more. Each needs identification tool andeach bit of information gathered is a piece of therecreation puzzle leading to a more thoroughunderstanding of the community. All of the pieces,taken together, provide an overall picture of recreation facility needs specific to Murrieta nowand in the future.

The following methods and processes (needs

identification tools) were utilized in the facilityneeds assessment and will be addressed in thissection:

Section ThreeHighlights:

Twelve (12) differentneeds identificationtools were used toidentify the Citysrecreation facility andprogram needs.

Community outreachincluded 3 publicworkshops and acommunity-widetelephone survey.

Seven (7) organizedsports groups filledout questionnairesregarding usage andneeds.

The City currently hasa parkland acreagedeficit of 215 acres.

Sports fields, tenniscourts, swimmingpools, gymnasiums,skate park, off leashdog areas, and trailsare some of theidentified needs inMurrieta..


59/181



3-2

Community Outreach: Information was gatheredfrom Murrieta residents and stakeholders through avariety of methods including: a series of three (3)community workshops, a staff focus group, acommunity stakeholders focus group, and a sports

organization survey.

Community-Wide Telephone Survey: Thetelephone survey reveals current, statistically validinformation specific to Murrieta that revealsdetailed information on the types of recreationfacilities and programs most often utilized byMurrieta residents. A total of 300 randomlyselected, geographically distributed telephoneinterviews were completed with the adult head of the household.

Recreation Facility Demand and NeedsAnalysis: Quantitative evaluation of Murrietafacility needs based on actual participation andfacility usage collected from the statistically validtelephone survey, facility inventory, relevantdemographics, and sports organization survey.

Service Area Analysis: Evaluation of where parksand recreation facilities are distributed throughoutresidential areas in Murrieta.

Acreage Analysis: Evaluation of parkland acreageneeds in Murrieta based on a goal of 5 acres perthousand residents, identified recreation needs,and available supply.

Program Needs Analysis: Evaluation of recreation program needs (see Section Four) thatgenerates facility needs.

Trends Analysis: Evaluation of societal trends andassociated recreation implications.


60/181


61/181



3-4

Community W orkshop #1 CommunityCharacteristics and I ssues

The first community workshop was held onFebruary 12, 2008. Forty-six (46) residents

attended the workshop. The purpose of Workshop#1 was to identify what the residents of Murrietalike about the Citys parks and recreationprograms, and identify what could be improved.Workshop participants also came up with a future

vision for the Parks and Recreation Department.

According to the workshop participants, the bestfeatures of the parks and recreation facilities inMurrieta are:

They are clean and maintained Locations and size

Multi-use facilities Open spaces and trails

The most important improvements that theworkshop participants would make to Murrietasparks and recreation facilities are:

Growth/Overdevelopment Traffic (need better public transit) Loss of hillsides/ridgelines

All of the workshop participants created thefollowing vision statement for Parks & Recreation inMurrieta in the year 2018:

Premiere recreation programs thatoffer integrated, environmentallyresponsible, and family-orientedactivities for everyone in thecommunity.


62/181



3-5

Workshop ParticipantQuestionnaire

During the community workshop on February 12,2008 workshop participants were asked to

complete a questionnaire soliciting their input onParks and Recreation. There were (46) workshopparticipants and (43) completed the questionnaire.The following is a brief summary of theirresponses. A complete summary can be found inthe Appendix document. Percentages werecalculated from the total number of responses foreach individual question .

Tennis Courts, Skate Parks and BMX facilities werereported as the facilities that are used the mostoften. The park most frequently visited is LosAlamos Sports Park. The most frequent responsewas the need for a BMX only park and a lightedtennis complex. Also mentioned was upgrading orexpanding the Murrieta skate park.

Community Workshop#2 Sports Facilities

The second community workshop was held onThursday, February 21, 2008. Forty-Five (45)sports group representatives and residentsattended this workshop. This workshop identifiedthe best and worst sports facilities in Murrieta, themost important sports facility needs, and helped toidentify opportunities to address those needs.

According to the workshop participants the bestsports facilities in Murrieta are:

California Oaks Sports Park due to the multi-use amenities available (swimming, skatepark, tennis & basketball), lighted fields, and

the special events area.


63/181



3-6

Los Alamos Hills Sports Park due to themulti-use amenities available (running trackand horse trails), lighted fields, anddiversity.

Alta Murrieta Sports Park due to the multi-

use amenities, well maintained, and safe.

The workshop participants stated that the worstsports facilities in Murrieta are:

Mountain Pride Park due to no restrooms, noparking, and bad design.

California Oaks Sports Park due to poormaintenance, unsafe parking, and skate parkis unsupervised. [Note: The City has sinceimplemented a safety program that includes

supervised hours at the skate park.] Rancho Acacia Park due to no restrooms,and sloped fields.

The top sport facility needs in Murrieta are:

An Indoor Multi-Use Facility for indoorsports, gymnastics, and dances.

Lighted Soccer Fields Lighted Softball / Baseball Fields BMX Facility Swimming Pool Frisbee Golf Course

Some opportunities to meet current and futuresports facility needs are:

Public/Private partnerships (investors,commercial donations, professional sportsteams)

Develop vacant land (developer land, land onwest side of town, Los Alamos Hills SportsPark land)

Grants


64/181



3-7

The most important improvements theworkshop participants would make toMurrietas park and recreation network are:

Add lighting on sports fields/courts

Provide parking at parks Supervision

Staff Focus Group

A discussion session with City staff members washeld on November 29, 2007.

When asked what are the Parks, Recreation, andCommunity Services Departments greateststrengths and assets in meeting the needs of residents, the most common responses included:

Community Events Park Maintenance

Consensus responses indicate that the mostimportant recreation issues include:

Lack of specialty facilities such as a dogpark, Frisbee golf course, teen center, andwater recreation.

Graffiti and vandalism in parks; cost of maintenance and repairs; challenge torespond/repair within 24 hours

The greatest constraints/challenges in meeting theneeds of residents are:

Lack of land available Lack of money/funding

Participants expressed their Vision for parks,recreation facilities, open space, and recreation

services in 2018: Parks, facilities, and programs to serve

everyone Parks and facilities distributed throughout

the community


65/181



3-8

When asked what was one recreation facility staff would most like to see added in Murrieta to meetthe needs of the community the top responseswere:

A community center with a gymnasium An aquatic facility/pool complex

When asked what needs to be done to accomplishthese improvements the consensus responsesincluded:

Money/Funding (grants, taxes, fundraising,sponsorships, assessments, bonds)

Community and Council support Set goals and priorities

Community Stakeholders Focus Group

A discussion session with members of localorganizations and community leaders was held onNovember 29, 2007.

Consensus responses indicate that the mostimportant recreation issues include:

Lack of lighted sports fields Lack of community center/multi-use indoor

facility

When asked how can parks, recreation facilities,open space, and recreation services for communityresidents improve, responses included:

Provide more specialty facilities

Participants expressed their Vision for parks,recreation facilities, open space, and recreationservices in 2018:


66/181

Murrieta