DULUTH
DULUTH
parks and Recreation
Master Plan
parks and Recreation Master Plan
CHAPTER 4
park and recreation plan
... the path to 2030
.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND
OBJECTIVES
The Duluth Park and Recreation Master Plan’s subtitle - The Path
to 2030 represents a path to follow to realize the potential of the
Duluth parks and recreation system. Much of the plan recom-
mendations revolve around connections - not only connecting
the community physically with paths and trails, but strengthening
connections socially, economically and environmentally.
The Master Plan recommendations focus on seven basic prin-
ciples for the Duluth parks and recreation system (parks, trails,
park buildings, recreation programs, operations and mainte-
nance) that will help build Duluth as a more connected com-
munity. These principles and the associated objectives are based
on community and stakeholder input, current plans such as the
Duluth Comprehensive Plan, and a detailed evaluation of the
(40)
tremendous opportunities and the pressing challenges facing
parks and recreation in Duluth.
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Principle 1
Provide Safe, Clean, Fun and Beautiful Parks
A fundamental municipal role is to provide parks that are safe,
clean and user friendly. Due to budget constraints the conditions
of some Duluth parks are not meeting residents expectations.
Maintenance and renovation of park infrastructure is of funda-
mental importance to user safety and satisfaction and to maximize
the benefits of the public investment in facilities.
Objective 1
» Increase the level of upkeep and improve the frequency of
mowing and trash collection in parks. Improve access to
bathrooms. Formalize maintenance expectations and expand
outreach to volunteer groups for maintenance.
Objective 2
» Emphasize quality over quantity in recreation centers. Fewer,
but better recreation center buildings are needed. Replace
non-viable buildings with lower maintenance recreation
amenities. Make the remaining recreation centers viable
and relevant places and assure that public schools function (41)
as public recreation centers. Also see Indoor Recreation
under Principle G below.
Objective 3
» For park facilities, favor maintenance and reconstruction
of existing infrastructure over infrastructure expansion.
Prepare an asset management plan identifying priority
renovation needs, schedules and funding for replacement
and improvements.
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Ensure Adequate and Stable Funding
Appropriate funding and re-investment is needed to realize the
benefits of the park system and to assure resident satisfaction.
This includes maximizing the efficiency of the park and recre-
ation system to help reduce operating and management costs.
Objective 1
» Ensure stable and adequate funding to meet system goals.
Restore funding for system upkeep and for modest expan-
sion to meet community expectations/needs.
Objective 2
» Diversify funding sources. Potential sources include creation
of a park entity with its own taxing authority; a City park
authority, park, trail and open space dedication require-
ments; State Legacy funding; Coastal grants; DNR grants;
local foundation grants; direct donations/gifts from users;
bequeaths from benefactors; etc.
Objective 3
(42) » Make the recreation system more sustainable by reducing
operating costs through a revised system of community rec-
reation centers and prioritizing system investment through
an asset management plan. Continue to create efficiencies in
the delivery of services and facilities, through partnerships,
volunteers and sustainable practices. This includes evaluat-
ing life-cycle cost when making facility decisions.
Principle 2
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Principle 3
Build Partnerships
Duluth has an involved community of organizations, groups and
individuals who support parks and recreation. Maximizing the
benefits of their efforts is a key to a successful park and recreation
system. City resources are needed to fully utilize partner and
volunteer efforts.
Objective 1
» Empower volunteers through an intentional, consistent effort
to recruit, coordinate and recognize their efforts.
Objective 2
» Continue to build effective partnerships that foster system
goals.
Objective 3
» Enhance access to information and increase communications
with groups, schools, businesses and residents.
Objective 4
» Expand promotion of Duluth parks for tourism, quality of (43)
life and economic development.
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Principle 4
Ensure Equitable Access
Duluth has an extensive system of parks and recreation facili-
ties that serve most residents well. However, there are gaps in
the location of high quality parks and indoor recreation and
some residents lack access to parks and recreation programs.
Objective 1
» Partner with the School District and non-profits to fill rec-
reation program gaps - Address socio-economic barriers
as well as gaps in youth and senior program offerings and
delivery.
Objective 2
» Insure equitable access to parks and recreation facilities by
working to meet level of services standards in undeserved
areas. Fill the recreation facility gap in the central part of the
City and the gaps in park service coverage in the northwest
part of the City.
(44) Objective 3
» Assure reasonable access to high quality parks and recreation
facilities in all areas of the City. This will entail improving
existing parks in areas without premier signature facilities
(such as west Duluth) and enhancing access to community
scale indoor recreation (gyms/pools/recreation program
space).
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Connect the Community
Duluth has many trails, but lacks a connected trail network.
Facilities and safe and pleasant routes for bicycle riding are
lacking. Trails are the most popular recreation facility and
warrant continued City investment.
Objective 1
» Work to make Duluth known as the premier trail city in the
Midwest. Realize the potential of existing trails, stream cor-
ridors and Skyline Parkway with new connections, pedestrian
and bicycling enhancements, trailheads and trail way-finding
signage. Create an interconnected multi-use trail network
and an interconnected hiking/walking trail network. Im-
prove trail conditions by enhanced maintenance, making
trails more durable and management of trail use. Maximize
the benefits of trail groups and volunteers. Make trails easier
to find, use and follow.
Objective 2
» Connect the Lakewalk to the Munger Trail and complete the (45)
Lakewalk connection east to Gitchi Gammi Park.
Objective 3
» Make the City bicycle friendly by creating “complete streets”
(streets that function well for all users not just vehicles) and
adding bike lanes and sharrows (shared marked bike lanes).
Have a goal of Duluth becoming certified by the League of
American Bicyclists as a Bicycle Friendly Community (na-
Principle 5
tional designation).
Objective 4
» Skyline Parkway is under-utilized. It has the potential to be
a true parkway connecting the community and providing
recreation for walkers, runners and bicyclists as well as driv-
ers. Enhance the continuity of Skyline Parkway and make it
safe and friendly for bicyclists and pedestrians.
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Connect with Nature
Duluth is defined by its natural resources and scenic views.
Nature is an amenity that attracts residents and visitors to the
Principle 6
City. Continuing to enhance access to nature will improve liv-
ability and attract residents, businesses and visitors.
Objective 1
Emphas
» Emphasize management and improvement of access to exist-
natural
ing natu resource-oriented parks for outdoor recreation
(hiking
(hiking, biking, cross country skiing, horseback riding, bird-
roc
ing, rock climbing, boating, snowmobiling, etc.) Enhance
recreation opportunities along and on the St. Louis River.
recreat
utilize the potential of existing park lands such as
Fully u
Magney
Magney-Snively, Fond du Lac, Enger, etc
Objective 2
Preserv
» Preserve and protect priority natural areas such as stream
corrido
corridors, the lake front, the St. Louis River and significant
woodlands and hillside areas.
woodla
(46)
Objective 3
w
» Work with the County to coordinate the preservation of the
tax-forfeited lands identified as high priorities for recreation
tax-forf
natu
or natural resource protection (based on the Mayor’s Task
for
Force fo Recommending the Re-Use and Development of
La
City Land and Protection of Parcels of Public Significance
study).
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Continue to Meet Evolving Recreation Needs
The City of Duluth and its partners do a good job providing a
diverse range of recreation opportunities, but there are some
facilities that need improvement. Efforts should focus on cre-
ating a high quality indoor recreation system, better facilities
and management of off-leash dog use, improving athletic fields
and continuing to provide quality ice skating.
Objective 1
» Indoor recreation – Gymnasiums and indoor recreation
spaces are key elements of a balanced recreation system,
especially in a winter city like Duluth. Create a viable and
efficient system of indoor community recreation facilities
emphasizing quality over quantity. Partner with the School
District to assure that all schools are community recreation
places. Supplement school sites, as needed, with City rec-
reation centers or partnership facilities to assure reasonable
access across the community to indoor recreation. Seek
opportunities for multi-use community recreation places, (47)
where feasible, by blending parks, schools, libraries and
private enterprises. Evaluate the cost-benefit of enhancing
Washington Center to meet community indoor recreation
Principle 7
needs.
Objective 2
» Athletic fields – Plan for projected multi-use turf field needs
(soccer, Lacrosse, rugby, etc.). Improve the durability and use
of existing high use turf fields through the addition of irriga-
tion and lighting. Evaluate the need for additional City fields
based on shared use of proposed new school fields. Study
the viability and future use of Wade Stadium and determine
a strategic plan for use of the property.
Objective 3
» Manage off-leash dog use – Establish off leash dog park
operating criteria to minimize City maintenance needs and
provide a sustainable facility. Add additional off leash dog
parks to serve the east and central parts of the City. Improve
compliance with leash laws in other parks and trails.
Objective 4
» Outdoor ice skating – Continue to assist community and user
groups to provide ice skating sites. Provide a high quality
community skating rink at Bayfront Park.
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
PLAN ELEMENTS AND STRATEGIES neighborhood parks (as reflected in the 2009 Duluth Parks and
Recreation Survey). In the short-term, the public should be made
Parks – Key Factors
aware of the tiered maintenance program through signage and
Duluth has an excellent supply and distribution of parks. Over
web information. In the long term, funding and staff resources
90+% of Duluth’s population is located with ½ mile of an exist-
should be increased to be sufficient to bring the maintenance
ing park. Park quality ranges from exceptional – (Lakewalk,
level of parks up to an acceptable level of quality and to allow
Bayfront, Chester Bowl, etc.) to dismal - (Observation, Riverside
deteriorated facilities to be removed and/or replaced.
Park Community Center, Morley Heights, etc.). Access to quality
parks varies across the City. In general, the higher quality signa- Due to uncertainty with the 2010 city budgets and the Youth
ture parks (Chester Bowl, Hartley, Lester/Amity, Kitchi Gammi Employment Services (YES) program, staff are presenting three
and Lakewalk, etc.) are located east of downtown. The western scenarios of services Buildings and Grounds may provide for the
portion of Duluth has large areas of natural park land (Fond du parks using a 3-tier system of maintenance. These three scenarios
Lac, Magney-Snively and parts of Spirit Mountain Recreation are varied based on YES program staff availability for 2010,
Area), but lacks convenient access to a signature community Sentence to Serve availability for 2010, regular staffing levels in
park. Chambers Grove is one of the few quality community Buildings and Grounds, and ability to hire seasonal workers.
parks in the west part of the City. The lack of access to quality
parks and recreation facilities in the central part of the City is a There is a need for more access to gymnasiums for indoor recre-
particular concern due to the lower mobility of many residents ation. New and remodeled Duluth Schools can help fill the indoor
(48) in this area. Areas of lower mobility have higher concentrations recreation gap by providing additional public access to schools
of seniors, youth under 16, and households without cars. Not all and school gyms. Community use of schools is a fundamental
In general, Duluth does not need people can drive to parks or recreation facilities located across element of the School District’s Long Range Facility Plan. The
more parks*. Duluth’s needs to town. In addition, walk or bike access to many of Duluth parks City and School District should continue to work together to as-
is difficult due to terrain and road patterns. sure the best community use of schools and parks. A master Joint
increase the quality and condition
Powers agreement between the School District and City should
of some parks and better connect A primary issue influencing the current quality of Duluth’s parks
define the overall cooperative approach to community use and
people to parks via trails, signage, is reduced operating and capital budgets. Budget and staff re-
shared use and staffing of facilities to maximize the benefits of the
park maps, web information, etc. ductions resulted in reduced maintenance and deferred park public facilities to the community. Detailed use agreements for
improvements. In a 2008 comparison of six of the larger cities in each school site and associated parks should document access,
Minnesota, Duluth had the lowest spending on park maintenance maintenance, staffing and programming details.
and forestry operations of any of the six cities, yet had one of the
largest park systems. When funding and adequate staff resources are available, the
tiered maintenance program should be revised to increase park
In response to budget issues, Duluth implemented a tiered maintenance and equipment replacement in neighborhood
maintenance program where some parks are well maintained and parks.
other parks receive minimal maintenance. Generally, the high use
parks such as Lakewalk, Bayfront, Canal Park, Wade/Wheeler,
and others are priority facilities and are well maintained. Under
the three tiered maintenance program maintenance occurs less * There is a gap in park coverage in northwest Duluth, some County tax forfeited
lands currently used for parks and trails should become part of the City park
frequently in neighborhood parks and on trails which resulted
system and additional park land will be needed as residential growth occurs, but
in poor condition parks and resident’s low satisfaction rating of the existing park lands can meet Duluth’s current needs.
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Parks - Policy Recommendations » Work with the School District to make sure that City parks
» Formalize and publicize the tiered maintenance policy in the near school sites also serve school recreation needs.
Maintenance Tiers
parks and on the City web site to raise community awareness
» Preserve and protect priority natural areas such as stream
and expectations. Tier 1 - Premier Maintenance:
corridors, the lake front, the St. Louis River and significant
» Expand outreach to volunteer groups for maintenance and woodlands and hillside areas. Secure land along the natural » Amenities/materials/landscaping
improvements. Work to expand the Adopt a Park/Adopt a areas with restrictive covenants, transfer of tax forfeit parcels will reflect a priority on aesthetics
Trail program. Continue Clean and Green Week. Note: this to the city ownership, and require developers to protect lands and experience and higher on-
action is related to obtaining a new volunteer/agreement along these corridors. Have a higher level of protection for going maintenance/life-cycle
coordinator position and additional seasonal staff to guide trout streams. costs are acceptable.
volunteer efforts. » City will perform most of the
» Work with the County to coordinate the preservation of the
» As resources allow, increase the level of upkeep and improve tax-forfeited lands currently used for recreation and lands maintenance though volunteers
the frequency of mowing and trash collection in parks. identified as high priorities for recreation or natural resource may be used for special projects
Improve access to bathrooms with portable toilets and over protection. or select tasks.
time add restrooms in high use parks. Tier 2 - Standard Maintenance:
» Evaluate the need for additional City fields based on shared
» For park facilities, favor maintenance and reconstruction of use of proposed new school fields. Plan for projected multi-
» S ome higher maintenance
existing infrastructure over infrastructure expansion. use turf field needs (soccer, Lacrosse, football, rugby, etc.) by
amenities will still be present,
reserving flat land for future turf field development.
though on-going maintenance
» Prepare an asset management plan identifying priority
renovation needs and funding for replacement and improve- » Improve the durability and use of existing high use turf fields needs will be considered a (49)
through the addition of irrigation and lighting. priority when adding/replacing
ments. Note this will occur in the Action Plan section of the
amenities. Landscaping can
Master Plan.
» Study the viability and future use of Wade Stadium/fields and require a moderate amount of
» Insure equitable access to quality parks and recreation determine a strategic plan for use of the property. Include upkeep and gardens/planters may
facilities by working to meet level of services standards in the potential to enhance the pedestrian connection between be present in select locations.
underserved areas such as: Wheeler Athletic Complex and Wade Stadium fields. » City will preform maintenance
in conjunction with an Adopt-A-
» West Duluth - Enhance existing parks such as Chamber’s » Add additional off leash dog parks to serve the east and
Park program or other volunteer
central parts of the City.
Grove and connect and enhance access to Magney-Snively group.
and Fond du Lac to create premier signature parks in the
Tier 3 - Limited Maintenance:
west Duluth area. Continue to enhance recreation op-
portunities along and on the St. Louis River. » Amenities are replaced/added
with goal of minimal on-going
» Fill the gap in park service coverage in the northwest part maintenance needs and life-cycle
of the City, through dedication of park land as new devel- costs (materials as well as types of
amenities). Landscaping is low
opment occurs in the area and development of the new
maintenance and mowed areas
neighborhood park.
are limited.
» Improve safety, attractiveness and use of park in the central » Adopt-A-Park program, or other
volunteers are utilized for basic
part of the City. Prepare an park master plans for Duluth
routine maintenance such as trash
Central Park (at Central Hillside/Washington Center) and
pick and landscape maintenance
Observation Park. whenever feasible.
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Recreation Centers Duluth Schools would complement the City Recreation Hubs.
Duluth currently has 22 recreation center buildings that vary in Schools with the potential to be excellent community center and
quality and performance from closed, deteriorating structures to recreation places are:
newer, well used buildings . Many buildings are not handicapped
» East Middle School
accessible and are not very functional for today’s community and
recreation needs. Buildings are one of the most costly elements of » West Middle School
the park and recreation system as they require cleaning, utilities,
security, upkeep and repair. The focus of the recreation build- » Lester Park/Rockridge Elementary School
ings needs to be on quality not quantity. That means that some » Congdon Park Elementary School
deteriorated building need to be removed, some buildings need
to be upgraded and public school buildings need to function as » Grant/Nettleton Elementary School
community centers. The restructuring, consolidation and im-
» Homecroft Elementary School
provement of District 709 school buildings offers an opportunity
to use schools as community gathering and recreation places as » Lowell Elementary School
promised in the Long Range Facilities Plan. The following recom-
mendations are designed to create a cost effective system of high » Laura MacArthur Elementary School
quality recreation centers to serve the community in an equitable
» Stowe Elementary School
(50) manner. There will be fewer centers resulting in lower capital and
operating costs. Those lower costs allow for reinvestment in the » Historic Old Central High School
remaining centers. Increased community access to schools will
Some secondary city-owned recreation centers would be allowed
be a huge benefit of the school restructuring and improvement.
to be operated by community or recreation groups when those
Recreation Center Approach groups can cover all the operating costs and maintenance of the
The to creating better recreation centers and reducing operat- buildings. A use agreement would be required for use of the
ing costs is to create five primary recreation center hubs located building. The City would not do maintenance or capital improve-
across the city. The hubs would be high quality facilities offering ments on those buildings. Some secondary recreation buildings
access to meeting rooms, restrooms, and recreation program are in such deteriorated condition that they should be removed
space. Proposed recreation center hub site are: and replaced with other appropriate park features, such as a picnic
shelter, native landscaping, turf play space, restrooms, etc.
» Morgan Park Recreation Center/School Complex
» Wade Stadium/Wheeler Fields/Western Middle School
Complex
» Central Hillside/Washington Center Complex
» Duluth Heights Recreation Center
» Lake Park Athletic Field Complex
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Lake Park
Complex
LEGEND
Recreation Center Hub
Recreation Center Hub
with Outdoor Athletic Field
Complex
Duluth Heights
Recreation Center Primary Recreation Center
Secondary Recreation Center
Middle School to Partner With
Elementary School to Partner
With
Central Hillside /
* All Secondary Recreation Centers may
Washington Complex
(51)
be subject to partnering, re-purposing,
or removal.
Wade Stadium/Wheeler Fields/Western
Middle School Complex
Morgan Park Recreation Center/
School Complex
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Recreation Center Policy Recommendations Examples of recreation sites owned by the City and operated by
» Emphasize quality over quantity in recreation centers by others are:
having fewer, but better recreation center buildings. Replace
» Spirit Mountain Recreation Area
non-viable buildings with lower maintenance recreation
amenities such as picnic shelters, restrooms, natural plant- » Lake Superior Zoo
ings, open turf play space, etc. Make the remaining recreation » Enger and Lester Golf Courses
centers viable and relevant places and assure that public » Hartley Nature Center
schools function as public recreation centers.
» Hawk Ridge
» Use Memorial Park/Laura MacArthur Elementary School » Indian Point Campground
as a model for joint use of schools and park sites and for » Longview Tennis Center
school-city collaboration on facilities and staffing.
» Heritage Sports Center
» Continue to seek opportunities for multi-use community
recreation places, where feasible, by blending parks, schools,
City owned and operated specialty recreation facilities are:
libraries and private enterprises.
» Wade Stadium
» Evaluate enhancing Washington Center to meet community
indoor recreation needs. Options include: Adding a second » Lakewalk
gymnasium. Convert the existing old pool space to com- » Bayfront Park
(52) munity meeting space. Closing Lake Avenue between West » Wade Stadium
3rd Street and West 4th Street to create park and green space
» DEC Amsoil Ice Arena
connection to a renovated Central Hillside Park (creating a
new Central Park for Duluth).
In addition, private and college recreation facilities, such as ice
» Make energy and weatherization improvements and handi-
capped access improvements to the hub recreation build- arenas, gymnasiums, nature centers, and health clubs, compli-
ings. ment city facilities. Examples of these facilities include:
» Privately owned and operated? MARS Lakeview Arena
Specialty Recreation Facilities
» List other arenas
Duluth has a number of unique parks and places that offer spe-
cialized recreation. These facilities attract visitors from beyond » Bagley Nature Center
Duluth’s borders as well as Duluth residents. Many of these facili-
ties are operated by separate entities on land owned by the City All of these facilities perform an important function for Duluth
of Duluth and under a management agreement with the City. A and the region attracting visitors while providing specialized
few specialty recreation facilities are City owned and operated. recreation for residents. The facilities on City land operate
under management and operational agreements with the City
and several have their own master plans, which guide future
Emphasize quality over quantity
development.
in recreation centers by having
fewer, but better recreation center
buildings.
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
RECREATION FACILITIES APPROACH
County Hwy 4
Lake Park Recreation
Center - New
Martin Road d
lv
County Hwy 13
B
Howard Gnesen Road
on
Jean Duluth Road
d
Homecroft Elementary
e
ng
d Av
Calv Co
ary R
Woodlan
oad
Woodland Community
Rice Lake Road
61
Recreation Center
State Hwy 194
Glenwood St
Lester Park/Rockridge
Haines Road
M
ill
er Elementary
Tr
un
Midway Road
k
Hw
y
Portman Community Recreation Center
W Arrowhead Road East Middle School
Ric
Stebner Road
ad
53
eL
Ro
N Arlington Ave
W College St
n
ake
do
St
Congdon Park Elementary
n
Duluth Heights
r
Lo
rio
R
oa d
pe
Community Lowell
Su
Maple Grove Road Recreation Center Chester Bowl Community Recreation Center
Elementary
wy
E
Pk
St
Lower Chester Community Recreation Center
oad
h
e
9t
lin
E Central Ent
Haines Road
R
E
rance
Decker Road
Grant Community Recreation Center
ky
Trinity
ES
St
h
4t
Central Hillside Community Recreation Center Grant/Nettleton Elementary
E
Washington Community Recreation Center Hillside Sport Court Community Recreation Center
53
Lavaque Road
St
Piedmont Elementary Observation Community
(53)
d
2n
Recreation Center
W
Morris Thomas Road
Pi
ed
m
LEGEND
Piedmont Community on
tA
Recreation Center v Public Schools
e
Lincoln Park Community Lake Superior
Recreation Center Middle School
Getc
Western Harrison Community
Middle School Recreation Center
hell
Elementary School
Roa
Carlton St Lafayette Community Community Recreation Centers
d
Recreation Center
535 Primary Recreation Center
e
Av
Highland St
Merritt Community
d
Secondary Recreation Center
n
ra
Laura MacAurthor Recreation Center
G
Elementary Parks
Cody St
Memorial Community
S Boundary Ave
Recreation Center Colleges and Universities
Irving Community
Existing Residential Areas (2004)
Recreation Center
City of Duluth
Norton Park Community 1 0.5 0 1 Miles
35 Recreation Center
Criteria for Recreation Center Facility Approach
Riverside Community
Recreation Center
» Quality and Condition of Recreation Center Buildings
Morgan Park Community
» Capital Costs/Energy Costs
Recreation Center
Be
» Access/ADA Compliance/Code Compliance
ck
s
Ro
a
» Relationship/Distance to Elementary and Middle Schools
d
» Low Mobility Area Needs
Stowe
Elementary
Gary New Duluth Community
Recreation Center
» Positive Relationship between Indoor & Outdoor Recre-
Fond du Lac Community ation Space
Recreation Center
E Mc Cuen St
» Equitable Distribution/Locations
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Trails and Connectivity » Improve trail conditions by enhanced maintenance, making
Trails, biekways, and walkways are desirable recreation features trails more durable and management of trail use. Maximize
the benefits of trail groups and volunteers. Make trails easier
and connect the community. They are also important to the
to find, use and follow with new trailheads, way-finding
economy and tourism. Trails were the number one desired rec- signage and trail maps.
reation amenity in Duluth (based on the results from the 2009
Duluth Parks and Recreation Community Survey). Duluth has » Implement the Skyline Parkway Corridor Management Plan
to make the Parkway less disjointed and to make it safe and
some excellent trails such as the Lakewalk, Superior hiking trail,
enjoyable for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Hartley Park and Amity Park; but lacks a connected network
of trails. Also, Duluth’s roads are not bicycle friendly. These » Connect the Lakewalk to the Munger Trail (planning is
policy recommendations are designed to connect the city and underway) and complete the Lakewalk connection east to
Gitchi Gammi Park.
build a comprehensive network of trails, bikeways, and support
facilities. » Create trailheads with parking signage at key trail access
locations. Add signage to direct people to trail heads. Ex-
Trail Policy Recommendations pand awareness of existing park, trail and recreation facilities
» Prepare a Duluth Trail and Bikeway Plan. – Work with the through use of in park and at trailhead kiosks with park and
public and stakeholders to create a plan to realize the poten- trail system maps.
tial of existing trails, stream corridors and Skyline Parkway
with new connections, trailheads and trail way-finding sig- » Design a single wayfinding program for all city trails and in-
(54) nage. Create an interconnected multi-use trail on on-street stall a coordinated and comprehensive set of trail way-finding
bikeway network and an interconnected hiking/walking signs at trail heads and at trail intersections.
trail network. The addition of bikeways and sidewalks is
supported by the Duluth Complete Streets policy. Have a
goal of Duluth becoming certified by the League of Ameri-
can Bicyclists as a Bicycle Friendly Community (see www.
bikeleague.org/programs/bicyclefriendlyamerica/).
» Hire a Trail Coordinator/Trail Planner. Trails are the number
one desired recreation feature in Duluth (2009 Duluth Parks
and Recreation Survey). Trails are also a top visitor attraction
and help connect the community. By being proactive on trail
planning and construction Duluth can become known as a
national trail destination.
» There are many trail groups and volunteers that are passion-
ate about trails in Duluth. Coordination is needed to fully
realize the potential of the trail groups and to enhance and
connect Duluth’s trails. A City trail planner/coordinator
should be created to work with groups, stakeholders and the
public to plan and build the trails, bikeway and walkway that
are a key to Duluth’s future.
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
LEGEND
Existing Munger Trail (paved) TRAILS AND CONNECTIVITY
Planned Munger Trail (paved)
Other Existing Trails
Skyline Parkway as proposed
Superior Hiking Trail
Proposed mountain bike trail
connections
Proposed trail connections
Parks
(55)
NOTE:
PENDING REVISIONS
AND UPDATES
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Funding
Parks Authority and Funding Options This Master Plan recommends a two-stage approach to fund-
(From information provided by Assistant City Attorney ing and park operations and improvements. The current tight
Steve Hanke) budget situation requires continued actions to achieve cost
efficiency. In the longer term, additional funding and more
stable funding sources are needed to allow for adequate main-
There are no Minnesota Statutes expressly addressing a tenance, phased replacement of aging infrastructure, adequate
Parks Authority. However, Minnesota Statutes indicate staffing and connecting the parks and the community. Non-
that a City or City Parks Board has the power to create general funding earmarked exclusively for Parks and Recre-
such an entity. ation is needed to provide funding stability.
The short and long term goal is a sustainable, flexible and relevant
The City does not need to create a Parks Authority (or a park and recreation system. The objective of cost and operational
Parks District) to either levy taxes or obtain funds specifi- efficiency goes hand in hand with increased and stable funding.
cally and expressly for Parks and Recreation purposes. Several funding and operational strategies were considered. The
The City already has that authority through a variety of preferred funding sources listed below represent a comprehen-
options. sive, feasible and balanced set of tools to increase funding for
Most options are funded from a property tax levy, which parks, trails, recreation and programs. Some funding actions
(56) could be implemented immediately while others have a two to
is established on or around December 28 of the year pre-
ceding the year the levy will be paid by taxpayers. On or four year planning and organizational lead time.
before five working days after December 20 of each year,
Funding Recommendations
the City Council must set the tax levy for the next year » Form a park authority ability to levy funds and issue bond
and send a certified copy to the county auditor. with City Council oversight. May require enabling legisla-
tion from the State. Within two years.
Another option may be using a revenue bond financed
by a special levy that would be used for maintenance and » Hold a bond referendum (vote of the people on whether
capital improvements to City parks. or not to issue bonds, backed by increased property taxes,
to fund park, recreation and trail capital improvements).
Another option may be using a General Obligation Within 1-3 years.
(“GO”) bond, supported by voters, to fund City Park and » Adopt a park and trail dedication ordinance (land or fee
Recreation programs. A GO bond is a municipal bond dedication for parks and trails from land developers) within
backed by the credit and “taxing power” of the City rather one year.
than the revenue from a given project.
» Identify excess undeveloped city lands and sell them with the
profits going toward park improvement within 1-2 years.
» Hold fee-based special events (bike rides, 10K and 5K runs,
concerts, etc.) with revenue dedicated to parks. Begin as
soon as possible.
» Add private concessions in parks (restaurants, vendor carts,
etc.). As site specific opportunities are identified.
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
» Create rental facilities (weddings, corporate events, family
gatherings, etc.). As appropriate facilities are available.
Friends of the Park (FOP)
» Donations and grants. On-going.
Friends of the Parks (FOTP) was organized in 2009 and
» Work with Duluth Friends of the Parks (non-profit entity incorporated as a 501(c)3. FOTP is currently housed in
dedicated to raising funds for parks, trails, etc.) to raise
the Lower Chester Recreation Center which was painted,
funding and build advocacy. (see sidebar description of the
friends organization) Current and on-going. mud-jacked, insulated, re-roofed and re-sided in 2010.
FOTP will move into a new relationship as tenants of the
» Increase business involvement, sponsorship, naming rights, refurbished building and in renewing its contract with
etc. of parks, recreation facilities and events. Identify spon-
the City, will assume facility costs during the time it in-
sorship opportunities and begin outreach to businesses.
habits the center. FOTP will strive to reduce the energy
» Increase partnership and volunteer involvement when a City footprint of the facility by employing energy conservation
Volunteer/Agreement Coordinator position is onboard. practices and will pursue the acquisition and installation
» Evaluate life-cycle costs when making facility capital deci- of alternative energy infrastructure, such as geo-thermal
sions. and solar.
Partnerships and Volunteers The Master Plan's Guiding Principles also will guide
Partnerships and volunteers are key elements of the current park FOTP's direction and growth over the next twenty years. (57)
and recreation system and are crucial to Duluth’s future. Volun- These principles [of providing safe, clean, fun and beau-
teers and partner groups provide a great service to the City. As tiful parks; of ensuring adequate funding; of building
cutbacks in City staffing and services occurred the number of partnership; ensuring equitable access; of connecting the
community groups and volunteers providing recreation services community; of connecting with the natural world; and to
has increased greatly. These services include offering recreation continue to meet evolving recreation needs] are in a very
programs, park clean up, trail maintenance and improvement, large part exactly why FOTP was created.
operating city buildings and facilities. This is a positive step,
FOTP will become the go-to source for information
but there is a lack of coordination, oversight and recognition of
about trails and parks. It will coordinate user groups and
these efforts. There are so many agreements between the City
organizations across the city/region in a welcoming and
and groups for facility use, that tracking and oversight of these
well-structured stewardship program that sustains and
agreements is not occurring in a comprehensive manner. A
improves trails and parks. FOTP will work side-by-side
City volunteer coordinator position should be created to fully
with the City of Duluth to coordinate volunteerism in
realize the huge potential of partnerships and volunteers and to
the parks, to establish a foundation to raise money for
adequately track use agreements.
parks and trails, and assist various park/trail user groups
Partnership and joint use agreements between the City of Duluth to coordinate capital improvement efforts.
and the Duluth School District are vital to enhance efficiency for
both organizations and to allow the public to realize the benefits
of schools and parks and public places.
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
Funding and Partnership Policies
» Consider the activity needs first and evaluate all options for
meeting that need. It may mean that the activity can occur
at existing facilities, or at partner facilities and that new
facilities are not needed.
» Make sure there is public buy-in before funding is sought
for the project.
» Improve and renovate existing hub recreation centers with
the increased efficiency found in the closures of old build-
ings.
» Empower volunteers through an intentional, consistent effort
to recruit, coordinate and recognize their efforts.
» Hire a Volunteer/Agreement Coordinator.
» Continue to build effective partnerships that foster system
goals.
(58) » Focus on efficient and beneficial partnerships.
» Enhance customer service around partnerships.
» Enhance access to information and increase communications
with groups, schools, businesses and residents via the web,
print, cable TV, phone and newsletters.
» Expand promotion of Duluth parks, trails, recreation attrac-
tions, and natural areas for tourism, quality of life and eco-
nomic development. Potential partners include Visit Duluth,
DEPA economic development, Explore Minnesota.
» Expand awareness of the benefits of parks and trails – com-
munity, individual, health, economic, environmental. Pro-
mote Duluth parks and recreation at special events,
» Designate signature parks and trail that serve a regional role
as “regional parks and regional trails.” This will reflect their
role in the community and region and enhance ability to ob-
tain State Legacy funding for park and trail improvements.
» Enter into a Joint Powers Agreement between the City and
School District for community use of schools and school
use of parks. Use site specific agreements for use, access,
maintenance, and staffing details.
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Marketing and Communications
Duluth does a good job of informing residents and visitors of
park and recreation resources using web, print and other media
resources, but awareness and knowledge of existing opportuni-
ties can be even greater. Marketing and communications is a
cost effective means of increasing use of existing facilities among
residents and visitors. Recommended marketing and commu-
nication actions are:
» Be the Recreation Information Clearinghouse. The City
should function as the information clearinghouse and the
“go to” source for recreation programs, special event and
facility information. Even though the City has cut its actual
delivery of recreation programs it still functions as a coordi-
nator, provider of facilities, and liaison to public and private
groups that still deliver recreation programs to children,
families, adults and groups. The City should build on that
facilitator role by being the trusted contact and conduit for
recreation program and activity information. This can take
the form of a web page and paper program guides. This may (59)
require redirection of existing staff resources or new staff to
perform this vital service. Having one source of information
for dozens of providers eases resident’s access to programs
vastly improves the participation in recreation programs.
» Create maps of existing trails and planned major trails and
post and distribute these maps through partners, business,
at public places, etc. Note: trail maps should be coordinated
with partner groups.
DRAFT Park and Recreation Plan: The Path to 2030
DULUTH
DULUTH
parks and Recreation
Master Plan
parks and Recreation Master Plan
CHAPTER 5
action plan
...making the vision a reality
NOTE:
ACTIONS IN OUTLINE FORMAT
ONLY. TO BE PREPARED FOR
FINAL MASTER PLAN BASED ON
COMMUNITY INPUT.
PRIORITY INITIATIVES & ACTIONS LIVING PLAN
The Master Plan lays out a comprehensive array of actions to be Recreation is dynamic and evolves rapidly. Park and recreation
taken over the next 10-20 years to revitalize the park and recre- facilities and recreation programs and activities must be re-
ation system, make it more economically sustainable and more sponsive to changing recreation, demographic and community
relevant to residents and visitors. Realization of this Plan and needs. A high performing recreation system regularly assesses
the Guiding Principles will take the on-going commitment and community needs, measures satisfaction and responds to meet
support of officials, staff, partners, volunteers and the public. It is those needs. Inherently this means flexible and adaptive facilities
vital that initial actions be taken to begin the path to a better park and programs. It also means regular community feedback and
and recreation system. Therefore, the following initiatives are plan refinement. Recreation 10 even 5 years from now will be
recommended as priority actions to begin the process of system different from today. New recreation activities and equipment
revitalization. The actions are organized by Guiding Principle emerge (in-line skates, the mountain bike, etc) and recreation
categories - Funding, Park Improvements, Trails, Maintenance trends ebb and flow. Duluth Parks and Recreation and the com-
and Partners. This chapter also includes Standards and Guidelines munity at large must desire to continually revitalize the system
for use in subsequent park and recreation planning and design and and programs to maximize performance and efficiency.
methods to measure implementation performance. The chapter
closes with the emphasis that this is a Living Plan that will need MEASURING PERFORMANCE
to be review and updated to keep pace with the dynamic civic, It is important to track implementation of the Master Plan rec-
(62) economic and natural environment. ommendations against some defined metrics and milestones.
Performance measures will be developed as priority actions are
Funding defined in September and October, 2010. Some examples of
potential performance measures are:
Parks
In 2011 -
Recreation » Create a Volunteer/Agreement Coordinator position and
develop volunteer standards and procedures.
» Adopt a park and trail dedication ordinance for new sub-
Trails divisions.
» Define improvement projects and costs for a park, recreation
Maintenance and trail bond referendum. Test likely voter support for
referendum funding.
Partners and Volunteers » Obtain protection for existing trails and recreation uses on
tax forfeited County land.
» Hire a Trail Coordinator and prepare a Trail and Bikeway
Marketing and Communications Plan.
» Other 2011 performance measures as appropriate based on
Concept Plans the Action Plan (to be prepared).
In 2012 –
» 2012 performance measures as appropriate based on the
Action Plan (to be prepared).
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
PARK & RECREATION DELIVERY GUIDELINES
TABLE 5.1 The following guidelines provide direction regarding the public and current availability. The infrastructure (field, court, path, etc.) needed
geographic access to recreation activities. The delivery levels range for the activity to occur is the second consideration. The physical
from city scale to neighborhood scale and define the expectations for facilities and programs needed for the activity may be best delivered,
the quantity and general location of a particular facility. For example, modified, or created by the City; or by other service providers alone or
golf and indoor ice arenas are specialized facilities that are used by in partnership with the City. To be feasible over time, the infrastructure
residents from across the City, while children’s play equipment and and on-going operational costs for an activity must be delivered at a
open grass play space should be accessible at a neighborhood level. sustainable rate.
The first consideration should always be the need, appropriateness, and
Delivery Level Recreation Focus Facility Examples Places Trails/Bikeways Service Area
Within the City Family, adult and group Golf courses, zoos, indoor ice arenas, stadiums, Regional Parks and The Lakewalk, regional trails and City–wide and the
recreation. natural areas, lake and river accesses. Special Use Parks city-wide on-street bikeways. Region
Large loop routes.
(63)
Within an area Family, adult and group Dedicated athletic fields, aquatics, group picnic Regional Parks, Citywide trails and regional trails. Within an area of
of the city (east, recreation. shelters, community gathering space, off-leash Community Parks, Links to adjacent jurisdictions’ the City (roughly
central, west) dog areas, natural areas, indoor recreation Special Use Parks, and trails and bikeways. Loop trail 3).
facilities (gyms, etc.) and activities which are Schools and bikeway routes.
new or emerging and need to be tested before
further integration into the park system.
Within a Activities appeal to a Organized outdoor athletic facilities (ball fields, Community Parks, Local off-street trail links to 1-2 mile radius,
community wide range of recreation turf fields), tennis courts, shared use fields, Schools, Recreation city- wide and regional trails. generally
(groups of 2-3 interests, ages and outdoor general skating rinks, and community Center Hubs Sidewalks and On-street encompassing 2-3
neighborhoods) abilities. use facilities. bikeways connecting residential neighborhoods.
areas to parks and recreation ½ - 1 mile radius for
centers low mobility areas.
Within a Children and youth Children’s play equipment, informal turf play Neighborhood Parks Shared trails/walks within Walkable distance,
neighborhood activities. space, and community gardens. and Mini Parks parks. Sidewalks and bike lanes not more than ½
connecting residential areas to mile.
parks
DRAFT Action Plan: Making the Vision a Reality
ATHLETIC FACILITY STANDARDS
TABLE 5.1
Minimum
Activity/ Space Recommended Size & Recommended Minimum Number per
Service Area Notes
Facility Requirements Dimensions Orientation Population
Radius
Full court: Full Court: Usually at a school or
46’ - 50’ x 84’ with 1 per 5,000 community park
Long axis north-
Outdoor 5’unobstructed space on all
2,400-3,100 sq. ft. south ½ -1 mile
Basketball sides Half Court: Half court typically in
Half Court: 1 per 3,000 neighborhood parks
40’ x 40’
Lighted facility. Outdoor
Rink 85’ x 200’ rinks usually includes a
22,000 sq. ft. including Play 10-15 minutes
(minimum 85’ x 185’) + Long axis north- Outdoor - 1/5,000 – general skating area. Number
Ice Hockey support area plus parking travel time
additional support area south 10,000 of rinks depends upon
(64) maximum
popularity and ability to
maintain and staff
Free
Varies flat terrain for ease of
Skating Minimum 20,000 SF None None 1-2 miles Lighted facility
flooding
Best in batteries of two or
36’ x 78’ more. Usually concentrated
Minimum of 7,200 SF single 12’ clearance on both sides; Long Axis north- 1 court per 2,000 – at schools and community
Tennis 1 mile
court 21’ clearance on both sides south 4,000 parks and/or spread
throughout the city in
neighborhood parks
Similar as other court
activities (e.g., basketball,
Sand 20’ x 60’ Minimum 6’ Long Axis north- 1 court per 7,500-
Minimum of 2,000 SF 2 mile etc.) Sometimes associated
volleyball clearance on all sides south 15,000
with larger rental picnic
shelters
Field
10-15 minutes Usually part of sports
Hockey 180’ x 300’ with a minimum long axis north to
Minimum 1.5 AC 1 per 20,000 – 40,000 travel time complex in community park
Lacrosse of 6’ clearance south
or adjacent to high school
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Minimum
Activity/ Space Recommended Size & Recommended Minimum Number per
Service Area Notes
Facility Requirements Dimensions Orientation Population
Radius
10-15 minutes
160’ x 360’ with a minimum Same as field
Football Minimum 1.5 AC 1 per 20,000 travel time Same as field hockey
of 6’ clearance on all sides hockey
Base lines - 90’ North northeast 1/city plus 1 per 5,000 10-15 minute travel Lighted fields part of
Minimum 3.0-3.85 AC
Baseball Pitching distance 60 ½‘ - South-southwest -10,000plus lighted - 1 time community athletic complex
Official Foul lines min. 320’ (home plate to per 15,000-30,000
Center field 400’+ center field)
Base lines - 60’
Little Pitching distance 46’
Minimum 1.2 AC
League Foul lines 200’ 1 per 5,000 – 10,000 1-2 miles
Center field 200’-250’
Base lines 65’ adult fields
1-2 miles
Pitching distance 50’ 1/ 5,000-10,000
-men, 40’ - women.
Sight difference in (65)
dimensions for 16” slow
Softball 1.5 to 2.0 AC Fast pitch radius from plate Same as baseball
pitch. May also be used for
- 225’, Slow pitch 275’-320’ Youth fields
1 mile youth baseball
(men) 265”-275’ (women) 1 per 2,500 -5,000
Indoor
Gym 10-15 minute travel Usually in schools and/or
10,000 SF 120’ x 80’ NA 1 per 20,000
Courts for time community centers
Public use
Indoor NA. 1 per 20,000 - 40,000
Varies on size Teaching - Min. 25’ x 45’
Outdoor - None, (pools should 15-30
Swimming of pool & Competitive- min.
but requires careful accommodate 3-5% of minute Typically in a community
amenities. 25m x 16m. Aquatic - varies.
Pools siting of life-guard total travel park, school site or stand
Usually ½ to Unusually has zero depth
stations in relation population at a time alone facility
2 AC site + parking entry and spray/play feature
to afternoon sun time)
Number of fields depends
Soccer 1/7,500 on popularity. Multi-use
1 Full size Full size: 195’ to 225’ x
opportunities with football,
300’ to 360’ with a 10’ min. long axis north to
2. Age 1.7 to 2.1 AC 1-2 miles softball, baseball, etc
clearance on all sides, plus south
specific 1/4,000 -6,000 people Designated quality fields
age appropriate size fields
require irrigation or artificial
turf.
DRAFT Action Plan: Making the Vision a Reality
County Hwy 4
PARK CLASSIFICATION
d
lv
FIGURE 5.1
Martin Road T B
n
do
ng
County Hwy 13
Amity Park Co
T
61
Howard Gnesen Road
Jean Duluth Road
Ave
Calva
ity
ry R
m
oad
r/A
d
T
te
Wood lan
s
Le
Homecroft Elem. T
Hawk Ridge
Rockridge Elem. T
Rice Lake Road
Hartley
Lester/ T
State Hwy 194
194 Amity Park
H ar
Hartle T
H ar
Kitchi Gammi Park
y
tle
ey
H ar
tle
T
y
tley Hartle
Hartl
y
y
Lester Park/
Hartley
H ar
tley
T
Glenwood St Rockridge Elem. (Brighton Beach)
T Hartley Park s t
Unnamed Ea
alk
University
Park
k ew
DRAFT Park Classifications
Haines Road
Hartle La
y Park
Hartl
ey
Unnamed Park Ordean Middle
Mini
Hartley
Waverly Park (Eastern High)
Midway Road
M Stanley
ill
e rT Park Bagley Nature Congdon Park
ru
nk W Arrowhead Road 43rd Ave E Park Neighborhood
Hw Area (UMD) Longview Congdon Park
Ric
y Elem.
Stebner Road
Tennis
ad
Ch
Passive
e
Old Main
Ro
es
ter
Lak
B
W College St
N Arlington Ave
ow
Park East High
on
Lowell Elem. l
Chester
nd
(East Middle)
e
T
Roa
Lo
Bowl
T
Woodland Special Use
d
Middle T Lakewalk East
Chester Park
Maple Grove Road Lakeview
Park
Heritage Garden Triangle Linear
St
Munger Park
T
h
T
9t
Ro ad
Community
St
k
E
E Central Entr w al
ke
Haines Road
ance Grant/ Nettleton
h
La
4t
Unnamed Park
Elem.
Decker Road
T
Trinity
Pennel
E
Park Central High School Regional
Ave
Nettleton Elem. Leif Erikson Park
in gton
Lake Place Plaza
Undeveloped
S Arl
Lake Superior Fountain
Lake Superior
St
Plaza Corner of the Lake Park Skyline Parkway
d
T
2n
Downtown Lakewalk
Lavaque Road
W
Piedmont/Lincoln
Park Elem. Jollystone Park
Civic Center Fountain of the Wind
Pi
Enger Park
T
Trails
(66)
ed
Morris Thomas Road m
on
Canal Park
t Point of
Av
Unnamed
e Rocks Park
Bayfront State / DNR
Park
Park T
Unnamed Lin
co
Franklin Park
Park ln
Pa
rk
53 City
Piedm ont
Lincoln Park
T
Lincoln Elem.
T
T
Getc
Western
T
Trail Access
hell
Walbanks
Middle School
Park
Minnesota Point Shoreline
Schools
Ro a
Wheeler
d
Carlton St 535
Athletic
N 2nd Ave
Complex Current Schools
Oneota Park
Denfeld High
School Locations to Remain
e
Highland St
Av
nd
ra
4th St Munger Trail
G
Laura MacArthur
Elem. 0 0.25 0.5 1
Klang Park Cody St
Miles
Hartman Park
S Boundary Ave
Keene Creek
2 Park Point Recreation Area
Fairmont Park
T
T
T
T
Lake T
Superior
T
Zoo Park Point
Spirit Mountain Park Point Hiking Trail Park
Recreation Area Western Waterfront Trail
nt
rfro
35
a te
W
e rn
Indian Point Campground
Sp
t Mtn
e st
Spiri
irit
Mtn
rit
W
M
Spi
tn
Spirit Mtn
Magney
T
Munger Landing
Magney
Smithville Park
Snively
Natural Area
Be
c
ks
Morgan
Ro
Park Middle
ad
Fond du Lac Park
Munger Trail
T
M
iss
39
Miss ion
io
n
N.B. Merritt
C re
ek
Creek
T
Memorial Park
Stowe Elem
Chambers Grove
E Mc Cuen St
39
Fond Du Lac Park Square 23
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
PARK CLASSIFICATION & STANDARDS
TABLE 5.2
The park classifications define and clarify the intended use of each The standards are not absolutes as conditions and needs vary, but they
park type and indoor recreation facilities; and clarify the area served, help guide investment to create a sustainable park system and to provide
the size, and ideal sites and maintenance expectations. Standards are a reasonable level of access. These standards reflect the different levels
particularly useful when planning for new parks within the community of mobility found within Duluth. In lower mobility areas (areas with
or when contemplating park rehabilitation projects. a high proportion of people aged 5-14 and 65+, households without
cars, and households in poverty) the standards for access to recreation
centers are based more on creating access within walking distance.
Current
Park
Use Service Area Size Site/Acres Potential Amenities Maintenance
Classification
Level
Easily accessible to
neighborhood residents. Outdoor - Play equipment, overlooks, (67)
Less
Provides opportunities for recreation Safe walking and/or biking court games, flexible open space, Tier 3 -
than 2
Mini Park close to home, particularly where access 1/4 mile. access. Located in areas maintained landscape or natural areas. Limited
acres.
to larger parks is limited/not feasible. not served by larger parks maintenance.
or isolated areas with low Buildings - none.
population.
Outdoor - Play equipment, field
games, court games, skating and/
1/2 mile radius, free
or sledding. Limited maintained
Developed primarily for active of major barriers
landscape.
recreation and neighborhood-scale such as major Easily accessible to Tier 3 -
Neighbor- 2-15
gatherings close to home. May be the highways or neighborhood residents. Limited
hood Park acres. Buildings -
location for an existing recreation steep topography/ Safe walking and biking access. maintenance.
Limited number with enclosed
center building. limited through
community center buildings. Others
streets.
with open shelter / rest rooms or no
structures.
Varies
Open areas, natural areas, or plazas Outdoor - benches, overlook, trails, Tier 2-3
Passive but
with limited recreational development. plaza Standard -
Park/Plaza Community - wide typically Small open spaces.
May include paths, mature trees, nature limited
less than
areas, gardens, plazas and lawn areas. Buildings -none maintenance.
5 ac.
DRAFT Action Plan: Making the Vision a Reality
Current
Park
Use Service Area Size Site/Acres Potential Amenities Maintenance
Classification
Level
Outdoor - sports stadium, tennis
Park specific
courts, golf course, skate park, skyline
Tier 1-3
Special Use Single-use areas such as sports Site specific parkway.
Community - wide Varies Premier -
Park stadiums etc. Wade Stadium
limited to
Buildings - varies with park use.
maintenance.
Narrow corridors of land that follow
Outdoor - Trails, trail head parking Tier 3
streams and include trails. Links Follows natural resources,
Linear Parks NA Varies Limited
neighborhood, community or other park typically water.
Buildings - None. maintenance.
categories of the same name.
Outdoor - Large picnic grounds,
Site should be suited for programmed sport complexes; golf
Facilities that serve the entire community use, be easily course, beach/lake access, natural Tier 1-2
1-2 mile service 15+ acres accessible to the population it
Community community. May also serve visitors areas, special features, etc. Premier -
radius or more is intended to serve.
Park though this is not their primary standard
(68) function. Accessible by car, bike, walk, Buildings - Recreation center, maintenance.
transit. maintenance buildings, rest rooms,
picnic shelters, stage/band shell, etc.
Outdoor - Varies widely but can
Community-wide and tourist
include natural areas, recreation
destination.
facilities, trails, event space, special
Tier 1
Regional Region-wide (and Varies uses such as zoos, plazas, etc.
Uses vary widely, but focus is on Site specific. Premier
Park beyond)
outdoor and natural resource based maintenance.
Buildings - varies
recreation and learning and/or
maintenance buildings, rest rooms,
community and visitor gathering.
picnic shelters, stage/band shell, etc.
Duluth Parks & Recreation Master Plan DRAFT
Current
Park
Use Service Area Size Site/Acres Potential Amenities Maintenance
Classification
Level
Forest Parks were established in Varies Varies Clarification of use/ Park specific
Forests/ the 1930’s to help Duluth manage its responsibility should be Tier 1-3
tax- forfeited property. They are not undertaken. Where land is Limited
Memorials/
official parks, but ares within which tax currently being used or will to premier
Forests/ Park specific.
forfeited land are managed for a public be used as park, formalize maintenance.
Forest purpose. Some are managed for a public agreements and classifications.
Preserves purpose, Others have been partially
developed for a variety of purposes.
City owned park land that is reserved for NA Varies Varies but may have limitations Decisions to add amenities will be As needed.
Undeveloped future use or will remain open space. for recreation development undertaken on a case specific basis
Parks such as steep topography or
wetlands.
Driving, walking running, biking, in City-wide NA Refer to Skyline Parkway Management For discussion
Skyline
some locations horseback riding and Plan.
Parkway snowmobile use.
(69)
DRAFT Action Plan: Making the Vision a Reality