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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03 CHAPTER 2 . . . PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN Chapter 2 Our Auburn Community Parks -- Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs In making decisions about the future direction our parks, open spaces, and recreation programs will take, it is vital to know something about who we are. The age of our citizens, where they live, their hobbies and recreational interests, and our predicted population growth-all these things inform us how our recreational spaces and programs can be designed to serve the city's diverse population. This chapter concentrates on two of Auburn's most important resources: its people and its land. Both are vital to the decision- making process. Who our citizens are will influence their preferences and expectations for recreational opportunities. And the geographic setting serves as the "canvas" upon which we can design our system of parks and open spaces. Planning Area The plan for this study includes all areas within the Auburn city limits. Parks located in nearby unincorporated areas are discussed briefly, however development ofthese parks do not usually occur outside the existing City limits. Auburn . currently has parks outside the City limits. Auburn * More Than You Imagined 2-1 Population Estimates Population figures for 1990 and 2000 are based on actual counts of persons in each household. In each of the intervening years our population figures are actually estimates reviewed by the Office of Financial Management. Population numbers are not updated each year for the various categories discussed in the remainder of this section, therefore 2004 figures will be . used to discuss who our residents arc. Auburn 1990 33,102 2000 40,314 2004 46,141 2010 68,696* 2020 85,556* *projected estimates CI1Y OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON Community Profile and Population Changes Every ten years the U.s. Bureau of the Census performs a detailed population count of all residents of the United States. Data from the 2000 Census reveals a great deal of information about who we are. One of the most basic pieces of data provided by the Census, which is useful to cities, is the overall population count. For example, the Census shows Auburn's population increased 33,102 in 1990 to 46,141 in 2004. (See note about population estimates in side-bar) Recent growth, as well as projected growth, is attributable mainly to annexations and/or the construction of new housing in the recently annexed areas. If Auburn continues to grow at its current rate, and if it incorporates its potential annexation areas as planned, then by year 2020, its population will be approximately 80,000 people. . Other 2000 Census data relevant to this Park Plan, and which will be considered in the decision-making process, are listed below: · Population by Age Group · Households by Type · Population by Race · Housing · Income . Population by Age Group The population is measured in increments of five years of age, from 0 to 75+. Each of these increments shows an increase in numbers, with the exception of 20-24 and 25-34 year-olds. The largest increases in population group is the 35-60 year-olds. Significance of Age Groups for the Park Plan: Recreation programming adjusts by specific age groups, as population increases and decreases in the various segments. · Auburn's large population of children, from infants to nine year-olds in 2000, affects our recreation programming for years to come. Increased numbers of recreation classes, or an increase in class size, may be necessary to . 2-2 . . . PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN meet the needs of this group as they mature. The same is true of adults, ages 35 to 60. · As our middle-aged and older populations experienced the largest increases in growth, it may be necessary to provide additional programming that meets the specialized interests of these groups. · Although the number of teens increased slightly, the needs of this group are many. The present smaller youth population may provide a good opportunity to develop and refine a youth program. Family Composition Families composition (with and without children) comprise the largest segment of Auburn's population. In the year 2000 Census, Auburn had a total of 16,108 households. Families with children comprise less than one-third of Auburn's total households. A nearly equal number of households are people living alone or married couples with no children. Single parents, mostly women, head approximately 12% of family households with children. Significance of Household Data for the Park Plan: Recreation programs benefit single-parent households reducing the pressure placed on an individual raising children alone. Examples include: · Recreation/learning programs in which children can participate during periods when they are out of school, but while parents are working. · Innovative programs that give single parents an opportunity to interact with other adults during the evening or on weekends. Child care might be provided on these occasions. · Educational and social programs oriented toward the single parent. Auburn * More Than You Imagined 2-3 2-4 CI1Y OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON Population by Race . Auburn's population is almost 79% white. Although this is a majority, the number and percentage of people of color is increasing in Auburn. Between 1980 and 2000 total figures for people of color almost tripled, from 1,611 individuals to 6,932. The greatest increase in actual numbers was in the Latino and Native American category, while the largest percentage increase was in the Latino population. Although not strictly a consideration of racial composition, staff observation and immigration trends reveal that this part of King County is seeing a larger increase in Latino residents. Significance of Racial Composition for Park Plan: Facilities should be designed to take advantage of different cultural interests and histories. Possible facilities and programs are: · Educational programs that acknowledge ethnic differences and celebrate diversity. · Events that celebrate traditional holidays and occasions . of the Muckleshoot Indians, Latino, Black, and Asian populations. · Facilities designed using the artwork of, or in the historical style of, one or more of these cultures. Housing Auburn's 74% population growth in the 23 years between 1980- 2003 means that there is also a significant increase in new home construction. Much of this construction is in multi-family units, in mobile homes and manufactured housing. The city has a total housing stock of about 19,489 dwelling units in 2004, which is a 16% increase in the total number of housing units since the year 2000. In 2004, 46% of Auburn's housing units are single family, 42% are multi-family and 12% are mobile homes. According to the Year 2000 Census, the number of owner-occupied housing units was 54% and the number of renters was 46%. . PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN . Significance of Housing for Park Plan: Increases in multi-family housing and decreases in average house lot size mean that most people have smaller yards or no yard at all. For some this is an advantage, but for those with young children or with active recreational interests, it means that public parks and open spaces become even more vital. As a result, the following will be needed: · New parks to meet the demands of increasing population numbers. · Developer impact fees paid by each new household to contribute to the additional new park space that will be needed or parks will be developed to meet city standards. · Connecting routes to the natural environment from new residential development via an open space/trail system. . Income Household income levels in Auburn are one of the lowest in King County; however, the city also has some of the lowest housing costs in the county. Table 2-1, using data from the 2000 census, shows the difference in income between Auburn and King County. Auburn also has a substantial number of households that fall into the low and very-low income categories. More than 53% of our households are considered "low income", which is defined by the U.s. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as a household with a total yearly income equal to, or less than, 80% of the King County median household income. "Very low income" is defined as a household with an income equal to, or less than, 50% of the King County median household income. More than 32% of Auburn households fall into the very low-income category. . Significance of Income Leveis for the Park Plan: Data show that people with lower incomes tend to recreate less than those with higher incomes. However, it may also be true that populations with less financial flexibility need local recreational resources more than those who can afford vacations outside the city or state. The City may respond to the needs of our less affluent citizens with some of the following methods: Table 2-1 Median Household Income Auburn $39,208 King Count\ $53,157 Auburn * More Than You Imagined 2-5 CI1Y OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON · Recreational and educational programs designed to meet special needs, such as: 1. Scholarships for needy participants, which are based on family income and are available at 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% levels. The Parks and Recreation Department may want to evaluate this existing program to see if it is sufficient to meet the needs of Auburn residents. 2. An increased number of "no-cost" or "low-cost" programs 3. Programs devoted to improving skills or money management 4. Child care during evening programs, especially those oriented to low income or single-parent households. 5. Continuation and expansion of free community sponsored events . · It may be advisable to expand programs for special population groups such as teens, the developmentally disabled, and senior citizens, and include exploration of . providing transportation, on-site counseling and mental health services, adult day care, expanded health services and more. · Good geographic distribution of parks throughout the community will be especially beneficial to low-income families. Parks are ideally located within walking distance of most residential neighborhoods. Geographic Setting Auburn's location in the Puget Sound region has a great influence on the City as it exists today and in the future. Originally, geography was a driving force in the development of the region. Auburn's proximity to rivers made it an early transportation center for both Native Americans and settlers. As the fertile valley began to be farmed, train tracks were installed to move important food crops and timber from the rural towns, like Auburn, to the larger cities of Tacoma and Seattle. 2-6 . PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN . In the 1990s, Auburn's south King County location made it a prime target for growth as the entire Puget Sound region experienced a rapid influx of new residents. Auburn's 1980 population, of approximately 26,000, took a 74% jump to over 46,141 in 2004. Although population is not expected to continue growing at this rate, Auburn is still seen as a desirable community in which to live due to its image as a family-oriented small town. Its low real estate costs, compared with most of King County, its ready access to highways and its small town atmosphere will continue to attract steady growth. This growth will create a continuing need for recreation facilities. Topography . Topography refers to the configuration of surface features of the land-from minor changes in elevation to riverbeds, mountains and other natural features. Topography is significant because it affects how and where human activity occurs. Flat, dry areas were traditionally developed first. These kinds of sites easily accommodate the construction of houses, roads and other structures. They are also well suited to park development, which often requires broad, flat expanses for the development of sports fields and other recreation facilities. Hills, steep slopes and poorly drained soils pose construction challenges for both parks and other uses. The dominant topographical features of Auburn consist of a broad, flat valley bordered on the east by the Green River and Lea Hill, with the West Hill forming the western edge of the city. These hillsides create distinctive edges that contain immediate views within- the city, but still allow views beyond to the Cascades and Mount Rainier. The White River in the southern part of the city creates an edge between the more developed part of the city and the more rural. . The city has followed a typical pattern of development, with growth occurring in the valley in the early days of settlement, and in the recent past. Most city parks are also located on sites in the central valley. As this area reaches its capacity for development, construction activities are moving to the more difficult hillside terrain. Auburn * More Than You Imagined 2-7 CI1Y OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON Significance of Topography for the Park Plan: While the slopes of some hillsides are too steep and unstable for construction of conventional park facilities, they may be suitable for open space designation or pedestrian trails. Topographic constraints are not an issue in the remaining unoccupied valley locations, which might be considered for park sites. In the west part of the valley floor, wet soils and high ground water are common, making development of these sites more difficult. These conditions would, however, allow some interesting opportunities for pedestrian scale recreation and education. . Drainage Auburn has a system of rivers and creeks that are valuable for their drainage, flood control, fish and wildlife habitat, visual interest, historical value, and recreational opportunities. The Green River, White River, Mill Creek, Mill Pond and White Lake all provide fascinating glimpses into Auburn's past. The integral role that these bodies of water played in earlier decades has changed over the . years, but is no less valuable. Mill Creek, in west Auburn, is a small stream that passes through open wetlands, retired pastures and fields. Earlier in the century, portions of the Mill Creek channel were realigned and redesigned to accommodate farming activities. With the demise of farming here, Mill Creek is returning to its original drainage function. The presence of wetlands along much of its corridor precludes extensive development, although some industrial properties are already present. Although the alignments of the rivers were altered by human activity, and the banks were engineered to contain the river during flood events, they remain attractive and desirable recreation resources. White Lake is the only naturally occurring lake or pond in the city. It is presently in private ownership and not available for public use. Should the area eventually be developed, White Lake would be a very desirable recreation amenity. . 2-8 PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN . Significance of Drainage for the Park Plan: In the past few years the City began to take advantage of the recreational opportunities provided by these drainage areas, with the construction of Isaac Evans Park on the Green River, and Game Farm Park, Game Farm Wilderness Park and Roegner Park on the White River. Public access and future park development along the rivers continue to be goals of the City. A summary of potential projects utilizing naturally occurring drainage ways include: · Roegner Park which connects to Game Farm Wilderness Park by a trail. that runs alongside the river. Continuation of the trail from Roegner Park to W Street and eventually to the Interurban Trail is planned. · A master site plan by King County, which is being utilized to develop a regional trail along the Green River. Additional recreational use is envisioned along the west bank of the Green River in north Auburn. . · Mill Creek, which provides an opportunity for a system of recreational activities along its length, from pedestrian trails or boardwalks to educational interpretive sites. Continued proposal of the interpretative park. The City of Auburn is currently looking at the possibility of incorporating an environmental park that generally extends south from Emerald Downs to west Main Street, from the West Valley to the east along the Interurban Trail. This future site will include connections to the Interurban Trail and environmental, educational, interpretive signage describing the fish, plants, wetlands, and bird migration patterns. Vegetation Historically, 80% of the trees in this region were Douglas fir, with western red cedar, mountain hemlock and Sitka spruce present in smaller amounts. This naturally occurring vegetation in Auburn was largely replaced as land came into use for farming, housing, . Auburn * More Than You Imagined 2-9 CI1Y OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON . commerce and industry. Exceptions are the wooded hillsides, and the wooded corridors along the Green and White Rivers. Many of these locations were cut for timber years ago and now are second growth woodlands. In the valley, in the more developed portions of the city and in the city parks, ornamental and introduced species predominate. Wetlands in the west part of the valley vary in composition from tree/shrub combinations of willow, dogwood, blackberries and black cottonwood to non-tidal marshes consisting primarily of grasses and rushes. Vegetation along the larger rivers consists primarily of black cottonwood and with an occasional red alder and several varieties of deciduous tree species. Significance of Vegetation for the Park Plan: All of these natural elements provide unique educational and recreational opportunities. They are also different visually, and each provides visitors with a different experience. Possible ways to incorporate vegetation into the educational and recreational experience include: · Install signage about the natural history of Auburn and . the Puget Sound in several park locations throughout the city, each providing its own distinctive environment. · While existing and proposed parks already encompass the river environment, explore the wetlands and forested hills as two other natural environments that could be used for possible park sites. · Reintroduce native species, particularly in less urban parks. Not only are these varieties generally low maintenance and disease resistant, they also provide valuable wildlife food and habitat. History From its beginnings, Auburn was a crossroads. Tribal groups such as the Skopamish, Smalhkamish, and Stkamish lived along the intersecting rivers. They forged trails over the Cascade Mountains, traded with tribes living east of the mountains, and canoed down river to gather shellfish and trade with coastal tribes. 2-10 . PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN . In the mid-1800s, the first pioneers arrived in the White River Valley. Railroads reached the area in the 1880s and brought adventurers from the east and Midwest United States, as well as Europe and Asia. Early farmers, and many immigrants, from both Europe and Japan, tilled the rich soil and planted a variety of crops. The harvests were abundant and soon the White River Valley became one of the prime agricultural centers in the region. Auburn's central location between Seattle and Tacoma was a key factor in the rapid growth of the area. A powerhouse, built in 1911 on the upper White River, served Auburn as well as the needs of the cities of Seattle and Tacoma. This facility also served the legendary Interurban Railway. In 1910 the Northern Pacific Railroad selected the town as the site of its western freight terminal. When scores of permanent rail workers arrived and needed housing, Auburn experienced its first population boom. . World War II saw the second transformation of Auburn. The most dramatic change, however, affected the local Japanese American community. When the federal government relocated the residents of Japanese ancestry to distant internment camps for the duration of the war, many families lost businesses, homes and farms. Most of these families never returned. Although Auburn remained a strong agricultural community for some time, the city became even more industrialized in the years following the War. The Boeing Company opened an aircraft plant in Auburn in the 1960s. The occasional winter and spring flooding that wreaked havoc for the early pioneers was brought under control when the U.s. Army Corps of Engineers built the Mud Mountain and Howard Hanson Dams. The metamorphosis of a small frontier settlement into a well-developed industrial center is a story that continues to evolve. . Auburn * More Than You Imagined 2-11 CI1Y OF AUBURN, WASHINGTON Significance of Auburn History for the Park Plan: Unfortunately, this rich history is not known to many residents. Recreational sites can be a key tool in introducing residents to local history. The following ideas would contribute to furthering local historical knowledge and appreciation: . · Use park design, artwork, interpretive material and recreation programs to highlight past events and lifestyles to help bring history to life. · The acquisition and interpretation of historically significant sites should be explored. Olson Canyon is a desirable site for this kind of use. · The White River Valley Museum provides a valuable educational, cultural and recreational resource. The continued marketing and educational programs of the museum and their efforts to increase numbers of visitors will further enhance its value to the community. Recommendationsl Conclusions in Response to Our Auburn Community . Data concerning our population, natural resources, and history give us valuable information about how to best serve our people's park and recreation needs. The following conclusions can be drawn from the data provided above: 1. Age/Composition Our young, growing population, with many single-parent families and an increasing population of elderly residents, has extensive needs for recreation and service programs, as well as recreation facilities. 2. Race Auburn's changing racial composition can be incorporated into its historical, cultural and recreational programming and in development of facilities. 3. Housing With increased density of housing, an increased need for parks and open space to replace the lost "backyard" is occurring. . 2-12 PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN . 4. Income Levels The lower income levels in Auburn mean that there is a greater need for public recreation facilities. Our residents also require classes and programs at reasonable rates or no cost. Teens, the elderly and families with several children are particularly in need of free or reduced fee services. 5. New Park Development Specific park land and facilities needed to serve new residents should be determined as development occurs or is planned. Park site selection should ensure that the site will physically accommodate the identified facilities. Areas with extensive steep slopes and wetlands may be difficult areas in which to develop active recreation facilities, although they may be suited to open space or passive activities. 6. Scenic and Resource Lands Land with high scenic or natural resource value should be utilized for parks and open space. Public access to these locations should be guaranteed through site selection and design. . 7. Ecosystems Itis desirable to have parks located in a variety of ecosystems present in the city. This means we plan parks in, or adjacent to the rivers, creeks, wetlands and wooded hillsides found throughout the city. 8. Art and History The inclusion of historical artwork, public art, and information in the development of parks will broaden their value to the community. It can provide an added source of enjoyment and education to the recreational experience. . Auburn * More Than You Imagined 2-13 . . .