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Home My WebLink AboutFINAL Approve Resolution 4494, allocation of $1,045,000 from Trails, Open-Space and Park Bond Funds for Bozeman Pond Expansion.pdfCommission Memo Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project Page 1 of 6 Commission Memorandum REPORT TO: Honorable Mayor and City Commission FROM: Mitch Overton, Director of Parks and Recreation Chris Kukulski, City Manager SUBJECT: Resolution 4494 authorizing the allocation of $1,045,000.00 from Trails, Open- Space and Park Bond Funds for the Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project. MEETING DATE: December 2, 2013 AGENDA ITEM TYPE: Action RECOMMENDATION: The Trails, Open Space and Parks Committee recommends the Bozeman City Commission adopt Resolution 4494 as currently written providing $1,045,000 from the Trails, Open Space and Parks Bond Fund for the Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion. We recommend the Commission allocate up to an additional $255,000 for construction of Ravalli Street and Pond Row and miscellaneous transaction costs. SUGGESTED MOTION: I hereby move to adopt Resolution 4494 providing Trails, Open- Space and Park Bond funding of up to $1,045,000.00 for the Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project. Alternative Motion: Should the Commission decide to allocate $255,000 to fund construction of Ravalli/Pond Row and miscellaneous transaction costs from the TOP Bond we recommend the Commission adopt the following motion: I hereby move to adopt Resolution 4494 providing Trails, Open-Space and Park Bond funding of up to $1,300,000.00 for the Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project. BACKGROUND: The Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project (the “Project”) is presented for funding under the Trails, Open Space, and Park Bond program (TOP Bond) as a two-phase project for the expansion and development north of the existing Bozeman Ponds Park. This memorandum provides brief information on the background of the Bozeman Ponds Park, a description of the Project including a discussion of each phase of the Project, a description of the partnerships involved in the Project, a discussion of the TOP Committee recommendation, and finally a Commission Memo Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project Page 2 of 6 discussion on fiscal impacts to the City regarding offsite infrastructure and ongoing costs associated with the Project. I. Background on the Bozeman Ponds Park The existing Bozeman Pond Park (the “BP Park”) is an existing 16.5-acre community park owned by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) and operated and maintained by the City under a lease from FWP. See the attached location map included in the application from the Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT). The BP Park is in the fast growing west quadrant of the City and includes a pond and natural open space with trails and fully developed amenities, including beaches, fishing access, dog beach, picnic facilities, restroom facilities, playground, and a climbing boulder. There is little remaining space for additional park infrastructure. The BP Park is located adjacent to an arterial street (Fowler Avenue) near multiple community services (such as the Gallatin Valley Mall, grocery store, restaurants, Streamline transit service, etc.) and ties into existing trail facilities. Aasheim Fields baseball diamonds are immediately west of the proposed Project on the west side of Fowler Avenue. Hyalite Elementary School is two blocks from the proposed Project. II. Description of the Project Approximately twelve acres of vacant property exist immediately north of BP Park. This twelve acre property has been under contract several times for high-density residential development; however none of the projects have closed on the purchase. At risk of losing the opportunity to expand BP Park, GVLT decided to acquire the property to preserve the opportunity for the City to purchase the property for park purposes. At the same time, GVLT became aware HAVEN, a local non-profit providing services related to domestic violence, was interested in acquiring approximately three acres of the property. According to GVLT, the seller is not interested in splitting the 12-acre property between multiple buyers. To leverage funding and achieve multiple community goals, GVLT and HAVEN entered into a partnership with GVLT securing a contract on the property in late September. The Project is separated into two phases. Both phases are included in the request for TOP Bonds. Phase I is the purchase of the land. Phase II includes a request to provide funds for the development of the newly acquired parkland. Phase I: GVLT entered into a purchase and sale agreement with the current owner for the entire 12-acre property for a purchase price of $800,000. Should the Commission adopt Resolution 4494, GVLT will close on the purchase. After survey and boundary line adjustments, GVLT proposes the City purchase approximately nine acres for the Project at the same price per square foot GVLT pays for the property. ($1.53/sq. ft.). As such, the proposed allocation for Phase I is $600.000. GVLT obtained an appraisal for the property. The City Manager may use this current appraisal as long as it is assigned to the City with the consent of the appraiser. GVLT has indicated it will obtain an update to the appraisal for the acreage the City will purchase. Commission Memo Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project Page 3 of 6 As mentioned above, HAVEN intends to purchase approximately three acres of the property from GVLT at a purchase price estimated to be $200,000. HAVEN will share the cost of the boundary relocation, survey work, appraisal, and other due diligence already conducted. Phase II: Phase II of the Project requests $437,900. Upon acquisition of the property, Phase II of the Project would provide funds to develop the parkland. Phase II includes the following components (for additional information on each component of Phase II please refer to GVLT’s application: Section 2, Conceptual Plan, and the proposed budget): a five acre natural park; a 3.5 acre off-leash dog exercise area; trail connections; restrooms; parking lot north of the Ravalli Street alignment west of Fowler; signaled pedestrian crossing on Fowler immediately west of Aasheim Fields at the north end of the Project; and other miscellaneous items such as benches, dog stations, picnic shelter, and a natural playground. The costs of improvements to the property are based on rough estimates created on a short timeline. A more thorough master planning process for Phase II will need to be completed, which could modify the proposed budget. However, GVLT and Run Dog Run are committed to securing $100,000, or 19% of the total improvement costs in matching funds and in-kind contributions to leverage the request of $437,900. III. Partnerships involved in the Project/Leveraging of the TOP Bond The Project involves several community organizations. GVLT, which builds and maintains community trails and preserves open space, and HAVEN, which provides emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and on-going support to victims of domestic abuse, envision an innovative community park and family violence prevention center. This partnership, should the Commission approve the Project, will provide the community with parkland and a new home for HAVEN’s critical social services. Should HAVEN develop its community center on the adjacent three acres, HAVEN and the City can share the costs of infrastructure development. GVLT has been instrumental in developing the Project. They are contributing financing, staff time, and expertise in-kind to purchase the property and will work with the City to assist in the development and maintenance of trails. ERA Landmark Real Estate commits to providing master planning services for Phase II in-kind. Finally, Run Dog Run, a local non-profit group advocating for additional off-leash recreation facility for local dog owners and promoting responsible dog ownership practices, will assist in developing the off-leash dog area. For specific information on the amounts stated for matching please refer to the Bozeman Pond Expansion Budget in GVLT application. IV. TOP Committee Recommendation The TOP Committee reviewed GVLT’s application for the Project during two public meetings (October 24, 2013 and November 7, 2013), The TOP Committee found the Project consistent with the ballot language from the November 6, 2012 election, GVLT’s application thorough, and the Project well justified. The TOP Committee passed the Project through the Rough Cut Matrix with five or more “yeses” by each of the five voting members. The application scored above 60% for both the Community Benefits Matrix and Prevailing Characteristics Matrix (Parks) by Commission Memo Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project Page 4 of 6 the votes of the five members present. For more information on the TOP Committee’s actions please see the attached minutes from November 7, 2013 approval. Members of the TOP Committee will be present on December 2nd to answer questions from the Commission. V. Offsite Infrastructure Three components of off-site infrastructure we feel the Commission must consider during the approval of the Project include: (i) the signaled mid-block crossing on Fowler; (ii) improvements to Fowler; and (iii) construction of Pond Row/Ravalli Street. It is important to note the acquisition of the real property does not by itself trigger road improvements to Fowler and Ravalli Street. Fowler Avenue: Fowler Avenue is a minor arterial that currently runs from Huffine Lane ending at Babcock. Fowler Avenue is planned to but does not currently continue north through the City. At this time, Fowler Ave. is not constructed to a current City standard. The east side of Fowler Ave. lacks curb, gutter, and sidewalks. As such, Fowler Ave. will need to be improved to current standards at some point in the future. However, according to the City’s Engineering Division, based on anticipated traffic volumes the Project does not trigger immediate improvements to Fowler Ave. In addition, the City does not have right-of-way adjacent to property at the southeast corner of Fowler Ave.; as such, until the City acquires all the right-of-way along Fowler any improvements would be incomplete. Options for financing future improvements to Fowler include: the TOP Bond for frontage along City parkland, the City’s general fund, the creation of a special improvement district, or the City’s street maintenance and reconstruction funds. A portion of Fowler Ave. from Huffine Lane to Babcock may be eligible for use of transportation impact fees should this portion be scheduled on the Transportation Impact Fee CIP. Pond Row/Ravalli Street: Concurrent with development of Phase II of the Project we recommend Ravalli Street/Pond Row be completed to a local street standard. At this time, the application does not include funding for construction of Ravalli Street/Pond Row through the Project. Pond Row runs south from Babcock along the northeast edge of the Project ending along the north edge of HAVEN’s proposed community center. Ravalli Street will, if constructed, run east/west through the Project and is planned to connect to Pond Row in front of the proposed location of HAVEN’s community center. Should the City construct a parking lot on the north side of Ravalli Street, Ravalli Street must be completed at a minimum from Fowler to the eastern edge of the entrance to the new parking lot. Construction of the entire road through the Project is estimated to cost approximately $250,000. Options for funding Ravalli Street/Pond Row include using the TOP Bond for the City’s proportionate share of the entire road (with HAVEN contributing its proportionate share through direct contribution) or the City’s general fund. Commission Memo Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project Page 5 of 6 As noted above, we recommend Ravalli/Pond Row be constructed concurrent with development of Phase II of the Project. Access to the amenities included in Phase II should be provided by a City standard street to ensure access for people with disabilities, or others unable to access these amenities through the use of an un-paved trail. In addition, constructing Ravalli/Pond Row is called for through the City’s transportation plan. The extent of construction and the timing, however, will depend on a determination of funding for the City’s proportionate share, the timing for construction of a parking facility, and the timing of development of HAVEN’s community center. Regardless of the specific timing of the above elements, we believe complete construction of Ravalli/Pond Row should occur concurrently with Phase II. UNRESOLVED ISSUES: Unresolved issues related to approval of the Project include funding for Ravalli/Pond Row construction as discussed above and receipt of a supplemental appraisal for the land the City will purchase. NEXT STEPS: Should the City Commission adopt Resolution 4494, the City must comply with all municipal code provisions regarding the purchase of real property, enter into a purchase and sale agreement with GVLT, and close on the purchase. The City Attorney will review the appraisal, preliminary title commitment, and Environmental Assessment prior to the December 2, 2013 Commission meeting. The City’s Engineering Division is reviewing the Phase I Environmental Assessment. ALTERNATIVES: As directed by City Commission. FISCAL EFFECTS: Below are the amounts we are aware of concerning the TOP Bond authorization, commitments approved by the Commission, and upcoming recommendations from the TOP Committee. TOP Bond Authorization: $ 15,000,000 Commitment: Trail to M $ (600,000) TOP Bond: Amount Yet to Be Committed $ 14,400,000 TOP Committee Recommended: Bozeman Ponds (Ph 1 & 2) $ (1,045,000) TOP Committee Recommended: Bozeman Creek/Bogert Park $ (250,000) Balance: $ 13,105,000 Approval of the application as written would decrease the TOP Bond Fund by $1,045,000. In addition, full development of the Project will require an estimated $250,000 for the construction of Pond Row/Ravalli. Once the Bozeman Pond Expansion is complete it will require that addition resources be allocated toward the maintenance and upkeep of the additional parkland and associated amenities, including the annual Street & Tree maintenance, and W. Babcock SID payments of approximately $5,000/yr in the Park’s Department General Fund budget. The fiscal effects of the City purchasing property along Fowler Avenue include our obligation as a property owner to fund approximately 1,000 ft (not including current FWP property) of street reconstruction to bring Fowler up to a minor arterial standard. A cost estimate is not available at this time. Commission Memo Bozeman Ponds Park Expansion Project Page 6 of 6 Because of the nature of this transaction (GVLT purchasing, holding, and re-selling to the City), we would anticipate additional closing costs/title insurance that is not included in the application of approximately $5,000, proposed to come from the TOP Bond. Attachments: Resolution 4494 GVLT Application TOP Committee Minutes Bozeman Ponds Project: Capital Costs: Phase 1, as described 607,100$ City transaction costs, estimate 5,000$ Phase 2, as described 437,900$ City Pond Row/Ravalli cost (without HAVEN offset)250,000$ Fowler Ave Improvements no estimate Total Estimate 1,300,000$ Annual Costs: City Assessments (including SID)5,000$ /yr Park Department Maintenance Costs no estimate Annual Water/Power/Garbage no estimate Page 1 of 5 COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 4494 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA, TO FUND THE BOZEMAN POND PARK EXPANSION, SUBMITTED BY THE GALLATIN VALLEY LAND TRUST, FROM MONIES WITHIN THE TRAILS, OPEN SPACE AND PARKS BOND FUND. WHEREAS, in Resolution No. 4386 the City Commission committed to the designation of an advisory board or committee to review and make recommendations to the Commission on proposals for use of Trails, Open Space, and Parks bond fund (TOP Bond Fund) as said fund was approved by the voters of the City of Bozeman on November 6, 2012; and WHEREAS, on April 15, 2013 the Bozeman City Commission appointed the Trails, Open Space and Parks Committee (TOP Committee) to assist the City Commission with the duties stated within Resolution No. 4386; and WHEREAS, the TOP Committee has reviewed and scored the Bozeman Pond Park Expansion Project (the “Project”) utilizing the City Commission approved evaluation criteria established within Resolution No. 4471 and found that the Project collectively scored more than five affirmative evaluations on the Rough Cut Matrix and over 60% of the total points possible on each of the Community Benefit Matrix and the Prevailing Characteristics Parks Matrix; and WHEREAS, this Project aligns and is consistent with goals set forth in the City of Bozeman Parks, Recreation Open Space and Trails (PROST) plan; and WHEREAS, this Project helps accomplish goals set forth in the Bozeman Community Plan by connecting the community using trails; ensures that parkland size, location, and suitability and development promote usability; and uses parks and open space to protect critical and sensitive lands. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Commission of the City of Bozeman, Montana: Section 1 277 Page 2 of 5 Approval of Funding/Authority. The Commission hereby authorizes allocating funds from the TOP Bond Fund for the Bozeman Pond Expansion in the amount of up to $1,045,000. Phase One of the Project is $607,100, which is the acquisition of approximately 9 acres of raw land immediately north of the Bozeman Ponds Park. Phase Two of the project is $437,900, which funds the improvement of the parkland (parking lot, midblock crossing, restrooms, irrigation, landscaping, and stream restoration, asphalt path trail, and a picnic shelter). Section 2 Findings. The Commission hereby concurs with the determinations of the TOP Committee for the Project and finds the Project meets or exceeds the requirements for TOP Bond Funding as established in Resolution No. 4471. The Commission finds that the Project included in this Resolution fulfills the intent, findings, policy, and purposes of the Open Space Land and Voluntary Conservation Easement Act (Title 76, Chpt. 6, MCA) (the Act). Any real property acquired using TOP Bond proceeds pursuant to this Resolution is hereby designated as open space land for purposes of compliance with the Act. Section 3 Project. The Project will create a 9 acre extension to the Bozeman Pond Park and include an estimated 5-acre natural park, an estimated 3.5 acre off-leash dog exercise area, trail connections, restrooms, and parking lot off of Ravalli/Fowler. The primary goals of the Project are: • Create a 5 acre natural park between the existing Bozeman Pond Park and Ravalli Road, by extending the existing Bozeman Pond parkland and including natural surface trails, dog stations, and benches. A small area of the park would be more developed with picnic facilities and a natural playground. • Create a 3.5 acre off-leash dog exercise area, by fencing the area to provide a safe off- leash recreation area for dogs. This part of the project would be spearheaded by Run Dog Run. This facility would provide a contained area with features to help dog owners exercise and train their dogs. The Bozeman Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails plan (PROST, 2007) recommends creating off-leash dog areas when and where opportunities arise. • Trail connections, including a paved, shared-use path paralleling Fowler Avenue that connects into the existing paved path on Huffine/College, and natural surface trails that offer recreational opportunities, provide access to park amenities, and create alternative transportation routes to community facilities. 278 Page 3 of 5 • Restrooms and parking off of Ravalli/Fowler by including a separate ½ acre, 50 car parking lot. The parking would provide access to the dog exercise area and the rest of the park, as well as to those accessing Aasheim Fields. A restroom could be located near this parking area to serve both the extended Bozeman Pond Park and Aasheim Fields. Section 4 Title and Administration. The City of Bozeman will own, manage and maintain the completed Project and any and all site amenities associated with the Project. The completed Project will be managed and maintained by the City Department of Parks and Recreation. Section 5 Funding. The total cost of the Project is $1,178,400. The TOP Committee recommends up to $1,045,000 in Top Bond funding. Gallatin Valley Land Trust has committed $106,500 towards the project. Haven has committed $2,400 plus partial infrastructure costs. ERA Landmark Real Estate has committed $2,000 and Run Dog Run has committed $22,500 to the Project. Section 6 TOP Committee Evaluation. The TOP Committee unanimously approves the use of TOP Bond Funds for the Project. The TOP Committee scores are as follows: TOP - ROUGH CUT MATRIX: Bozeman Pond Expansion Criterion Mbr 1 Mbr 2 Mbr 3 Mbr 4 Mbr 5 Total Yeses Ballot Language 1 1 1 1 1 5 Identified in PROST 1 1 1 1 1 5 Aligns with Bozeman Community Plan 1 1 1 1 1 5 Balances types of Parks, Trails & Open Space 1 1 1 1 1 5 Maintenance Requirements or Needs Feasible 1 1 1 1 1 5 Long-Term Investment for City 1 1 1 1 1 5 Feasible Partnership Opportunity 1 1 1 1 1 5 Opportunity to Leverage Bond Funds 1 1 1 1 4 Total Yeses 7 8 8 8 8 39 *One point for each yes vote 279 Page 4 of 5 TOP - COMMUNITY BENEFIT MATRIX - SCORING – Bozeman Pond Expansion Mmbr #1 Mmbr #2 Mmbr #3 Mmbr #4 Mmbr #5 Total Points Total Possible Points Percentage Variety 5 5 5 4 5 24 25 96.00% Distribution 5 5 5 5 5 25 25 100.00% Enhancement 5 5 5 4 5 24 25 104.17% Balance 5 5 3 4 5 22 25 88.00% Leverage 2 4 4 4 3 17 25 68.00% Connections 5 5 5 5 5 25 25 100.00% Total Points 27 29 27 26 28 137 150 91.33% Tot. Possible Pts. 30 30 30 30 30 150 Percentage 90.00% 96.67% 90.00% 86.67% 93.33% 91.33% TOP - PREVAILING CHARACTERISTICS MATRIX: PARKS - SCORING – Bozeman Pond Expansion Criterion Mmbr #1 Mmbr #2 Mmbr #3 Mmbr #4 Mmbr #5 Total Points Total Possible Points Percentage PROST Plan 30 30 30 24 30 144 150 96.00% Outdoor Recreation 25 25 25 15 25 115 125 92.00% Easy Access 25 25 20 20 25 115 125 92.00% Aesthetic Value 20 20 20 12 20 92 100 92.00% Fair Price 20 16 16 20 20 92 100 92.00% Total Points 120 116 111 91 120 558 600 93.00% Tot. Possible Points 120 120 120 120 120 600 Percentage 100.00% 96.67% 92.50% 75.83% 100.00% 93.00% 280 Page 5 of 5 PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Commission of the City of Bozeman, Montana, at a regular session thereof held on the _____ day of ________, 2013. ___________________________________ SEAN A. BECKER Mayor ATTEST: ________________________________________ STACY ULMEN, CMC City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: ___________________________________ GREG SULLIVAN City Attorney 281 Bozeman Pond Park Expansion Application for City of Bozeman TOP Funding October 17, 2013 Submitted by: PO Box 7021, Bozeman, MT 59771 406-587-8404 www.gvlt.org 282 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 2 1. Please give a brief description of your project that includes location, budget, amount requested and amount contributed from other sources. Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) proposes expanding the Bozeman Pond Park by approximately 9 acres onto raw land immediately north of the existing park. This will create a 24-acre flagship park with natural areas, picnic facilities, outdoor classroom, trails, riparian features, off-leash dog area, and separate parking that connects into existing trail networks and provides opportunities for recreation in high-density, fast-growing northwest Bozeman. An exciting and unique component of this project is a partnership with HAVEN, the local domestic violence shelter and advocacy organization, which will acquire 3 acres of adjacent land for a community center and emergency shelter. A detailed budget is attached to this proposal. The total project cost is approximately $1,178,400. GVLT proposes that the TOP Bond fund the project for a total of $1,045,000 (89%) in two phases: • Phase I: Acquire 9 acres of land. GVLT requests funding from the TOP Bond for up to $607,100, with an additional $33,400 (5%) contributed from other sources. • Phase II: Improve the parkland. GVLT requests funding from the TOP Bond for up to $437,900, with an additional $100,000 (19%) contributed from other sources. Background Bozeman Pond is an existing 16.5-acre community park owned by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and leased, operated and maintained by the City of Bozeman. The park is in the fastest-growing northwest quadrant of the City and includes a pond and natural open space with trails and fully developed amenities, including beaches, fishing access, dog beach, picnic facilities, restroom facilities, playground, and climbing boulder. There is no remaining space for additional park infrastructure. The park is on an arterial street (Fowler Avenue) and near multiple community services (such as the Gallatin Valley Mall, grocery store, restaurants, Streamline transit service, etc.) and ties into existing trail facilities. Aasheim Fields baseball diamonds are immediately across Fowler Avenue and the park is just two blocks from Hyalite Elementary School. This densely populated, fast-growing segment of Bozeman is underserved by parks and the demand for additional facilities is high. An Innovative Partnership The property was under contract for high-density residential development several times over the last year. At risk of losing the opportunity to expand Bozeman Pond Park, GVLT decided to work toward acquiring the property as quickly as possible. At the same time, GVLT became aware that HAVEN was trying to acquire approximately three acres of the property, but the seller would only convey the 12-acre property in its entirety. To leverage funding and achieve multiple community goals, GVLT and HAVEN entered into a unique partnership and GVLT secured a contract on the property in late September. GVLT – which catalyzes, builds and maintains community trails, and HAVEN – which provides emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and on-going support to victims of domestic abuse – are collaborating to create an innovative community park and family violence prevention project. HAVEN will use three acres of the property for their new community center and secure emergency shelter and GVLT proposes that the remaining nine acres of land be acquired for parkland using TOP Bond funding. This unique partnership will provide the Bozeman community with incomparable parkland, critical social services not provided through any other source, and exceptional value because we can share the 283 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 3 costs of the purchase and infrastructure development. In the end, this innovative collaboration will result in enhanced safety and welfare of our community by providing critical services and creating safe and affordable opportunities for recreation and gathering. Budget Please see the attached detailed budget. Some components of the budget, especially related to Phase I, are subject to change depending on timing and completing due diligence processes. Because our contract on the property is short, we need to move quickly to take advantage of this opportunity. Phase I: The entire 12-acre property was listed for $895,000, but GVLT secured a contract for $800,000. HAVEN will pay for their tract proportionally, which will be dependent on how much acreage they take as per the final boundary relocation. HAVEN’s portion is expected to be approximately 25% of the property, which equates to $200,000. HAVEN will share the cost of the boundary relocation, survey work, appraisal, and other due diligence. GVLT is also contributing staff time and expertise in-kind, and ERA Landmark Real Estate has provided master planning services in-kind. GVLT will take title to the property using bridge financing until the City is able to purchase their portion of the property. The longer this takes, the more GVLT’s interim ownership costs will be, but GVLT is contributing these costs in-kind. In total, 5% of the acquisition costs will be contributed by GVLT, HAVEN and ERA Land Mark Real Estate. Phase II: The costs of improvements to the property are based on rough estimates created on a short timeline. A more thorough master planning process for the park may need to be completed, which could modify the proposed budget. However, Gallatin Valley Land Trust and Run Dog Run are committed to securing $100,000, or 19% of the total improvement costs in matching funds and in- kind contributions to leverage the TOP Bond request of $437,900 for Phase II. 2. Briefly describe how the project creates or enhances one or more of the following: a. Open Space / Natural Areas b. Parks c. Trails d. Water Quality e. Multi-Use Recreational Fields The proposed parkland greatly enhances Bozeman Pond Park by expanding it by 54% and creating a flagship community park complete with natural areas and trail connections. Identified in the PROST Plan, accessible to the public on a major arterial street with transit service, and providing spectacular vistas of Bozeman Pond and the Bridger Mountains, it is a large enough size to accommodate a variety of uses in the future, should Bozeman’s needs change over time. For now, the proposal for parkland would include the following components (see enclosed conceptual plan): • A ~5-acre natural park between the existing Bozeman Pond Park and Ravalli Road. This would be an extension of the existing Bozeman Pond parkland and would include natural surface trails, dog stations, and benches. This area would provide a buffer to Bozeman Pond itself and the pond perimeter trail, which are tightly constricted by the existing parkland boundary. Bozeman Pond Outlet Stream, which runs seasonally from south to north across the property, would be landscaped and improved for a riparian feature in the center of the park. A small area of the park would be more developed with picnic facilities and a natural 284 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 4 playground. A simple gathering space would serve as an outdoor classroom for students from Hyalite Elementary School or other schools, who would routinely use the expanded Bozeman Pond Park. These facilities will also benefit families who stay at HAVEN, who can use the parkland for recreation, reflection, and exercise. • A ~3.5-acre off-leash dog exercise area north of Ravalli Road, spearheaded by the non- profit organization Run Dog Run. The entire area would be fenced to provide a safe off-leash recreation area for dogs. Unlike off-leash trails and large off-leash parks like Snowfill or the Regional Park, this facility would provide a contained area with features to help dog owners exercise and train their dogs – a type of facility currently lacking in Bozeman. This type of facility would take pressure off of the remainder of Bozeman Pond Park, which is currently the most ticketed area for off-leash violations in Bozeman. Dog parks are the 6th most used recreation facility in Bozeman, and the PROST Plan recommends creating off- leash dog areas when and where opportunities arise. • Trail connections, including a paved, shared-use path paralleling Fowler Avenue that connects into the existing paved path on Huffine/College, and natural surface trails that offer recreational opportunities, provide access to park amenities, and create alternative transportation routes to community facilities such as Hyalite Elementary School, HAVEN, Streamline bus services and the Gallatin Valley Mall. • Restrooms and parking off of Ravalli/Fowler, including on-street parking and a separate ½-acre, 50-car parking lot. The parking would provide access to the dog exercise area and the rest of the park, as well as to those accessing Aasheim Fields across Fowler Avenue. A mid-block crossing on Fowler would be installed to ensure pedestrian safety; a Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacon (such as located at 7th and Kagy) could be activated by pedestrians to alert traffic and allow safe crossing. The parking area would also help reduce safety and traffic issues on Fowler, where on-street parking is often problematic during events at Aasheim Fields. A restroom facility could also be located near this parking area to serve both the extended Bozeman Pond Park and Aasheim Fields. The three acre parcel that will be purchased by HAVEN will be used to implement their master plan for a modern facility that responds to the growing needs of Gallatin County’s families while fitting into the park setting. The facility will include a community gathering space for public education and services, offices for HAVEN staff and volunteers, and secure space for emergency housing. Later phases of development may include transitional housing and work force development facilities. This location is perfectly suited for HAVEN’s needs because it is close to public transportation, an elementary school, grocery stores and other shopping, and easily accessible for much of Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley. The aesthetics of the HAVEN development will complement the parkland development with landscaping and architectural design. Where used, fencing will be both attractive and functional to create a visual barrier without making the campus feel confining. HAVEN’s new facility will be a secure model that has public spaces as well as restricted access to certain areas. This secure model is the best practice in the field and will elevate awareness of this community issue. 3. Has the exact site been identified? If so, please detail here. Yes. The location of the parkland is depicted on the enclosed maps and is generally located east of Fowler Avenue and immediately north of Bozeman Pond. 285 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 5 4. Briefly explain how the project creates long term value for the residents of Bozeman. This project represents a rare opportunity to create a nexus of community assets focused on safe, affordable, and accessible community gathering spaces and recreation opportunities. The chance to expand an existing park is rare, and this project will connect into the Main Street to the Mountains trail system, baseball fields, and an elementary school, as well as providing a location for critical social services not provided through any other source. Taxpayer dollars will be leveraged with over $130,000 of funds contributed from other sources, and infrastructure costs will be shared with HAVEN. Our community will be safer with the elevated presence of HAVEN, helping to bring community awareness to an issue that affects one in four women and hundreds of children in our community. This project is closely aligned and entirely consistent with goals set forth in the City of Bozeman Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails “PROST” plan (2007). Specifically, the PROST Plan calls for: • Trail connections at this specific location (PROST trail map). • Consolidating and aggregating parkland into larger blocks wherever possible (goal 10.1.2). • Providing larger parks in underserved areas, and PROST identifies the northwest part of Bozeman between Babcock and Main Street as being underserved by parks (goal 10.1.5). • Siting parkland adjacent to school sites whenever possible (goal 10.2.3). Although this park is not directly adjacent to Hyalite Elementary School, together with Aasheim Fields it makes a large continuous block of parkland adjacent to a school. • Creating off-leash dog areas when and where opportunities arise (goal 10.5.11). • Parks to be served by adequate transportation networks (goal 10.2.2). Fowler is an arterial street served by Streamline transit service, and the park will tie into the Main Street to the Mountains trail network. • Parks to provide adequate parking (goal 10.2.8). Parking and frontage on Fowler Avenue help achieve this objective and the parking in this proposal will help alleviate a parking deficit at Aasheim Fields. The proposed park will also add to the variety and balance of park and trails, connecting important community resources and complimenting the existing Main Street to the Mountains trail network. It links existing public features at Bozeman Pond, Aasheim Fields, Hyalite Elementary School, Gallatin Valley Mall, and other Main Street/Huffine retailers, filling in a gap and creating a centralized connection between multiple community resources. The proposed project helps accomplish goals set forth in the Bozeman Community Plan (2009), including connecting the community using trails (R-1.5), ensuring that parkland size, location, suitability and development promote usability (R-1.6), using parks and open space to protect critical and sensitive lands (R-1.12), and continuing to provide parks that meet or exceed national per capita standards (R-1.14). The trail components of this park proposal, including the paved path along Fowler Avenue, will also help meet transportation goals set forth in that guiding document. The Bozeman Community Plan also calls for working with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) to create a seamless network of recreational lands, and creating parkland adjacent to the 286 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 6 MFWP-owned Bozeman Pond would do just that. This proposal would also make the City of Bozeman the most logical entity to own MFWP’s property, should they ever decide to divest their interest, and ensures that Bozeman owns parkland in this important area no matter what happens to the MFWP property. Further, the work of HAVEN at the adjacent location is supported by the Bozeman Community Plan, which advocates for affordable housing, partnerships with private agencies to ensure adequate services for the community, and maintaining public health and safety as a primary focus. Another long-term benefit to the City is that future infrastructure costs could be shared with HAVEN. Ravalli Road and Pond Row will likely need to be connected when HAVEN builds their facilities. Completion of Ravalli Road will also provide access to the public parking and the park itself. Sharing the costs of completing approximately 600 feet of local street (estimated to cost $250,000) will be beneficial to the community. We are not proposing using TOP Bond funding for the construction of that road. Fowler Avenue will likely be widened at some point in the future, probably utilizing a Special Improvement District (SID). If the City owns parkland within the boundary of that SID, it will pay into the SID like any other landowner. 5. Please list all groups/organizations involved or contributing to this project and what their short and long term commitments will be. Partners for the project include: • Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT). If approved for TOP Bond funding, GVLT will purchase the property and hold it until the City of Bozeman can take title. GVLT is committing $106,500 in matching funds through in-kind contributions related to transaction costs, trail improvements, and other park infrastructure. • HAVEN. Since HAVEN is acquiring 3 acres of land as a part of the same sale, they will help share some of the transactional costs, thereby reducing the overall burden to the TOP Bond. This will amount to over $2,400 in match for Phase I of the project. HAVEN would also be a future partner in infrastructure improvements to Pond Row/Ravalli Road, sharing the costs with the City as appropriate. • Run Dog Run. This non-profit organization advocates for off-leash recreation facilities for Bozeman dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership practices in the community. Run Dog Run is committed to fully funding and developing the creation of an off-leash dog facility in the portion of the park north of Ravalli Road, and helping to develop other park amenities, amounting to approximately $22,500. The project also has the support of the following organizations and community institutions: • Bozeman Breakfast Optimist Club. This club has adopted the existing Bozeman Pond Park and helped install over $1 million in infrastructure improvements. They may continue to invest in new improvements to the additional parkland. • Bozeman Police Department • Bozeman Recreation & Parks Advisory Board, which voted unanimously to support the project on October 10. 287 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 7 • Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) • Hyalite Elementary School 6. Please describe the anticipated maintenance requirements for the site and who will be responsible for the maintenance. The City of Bozeman will be ultimately responsible for maintenance of this park, but since the park is between two existing parks already maintained by the City of Bozeman, this will create little additional cost. Maintenance of the new parkland will be seamless as crews will already be on-site. Regular maintenance will include mowing, weed control, periodic resurfacing of natural surface trails, and management of restrooms, garbage, dog stations, and irrigation. These costs can be incrementally added to the Recreation and Parks Department budget. Partnerships will also reduce maintenance costs. The Gallatin Valley Land Trust is committed to helping with the management and maintenance of the trails and signage, including periodic trail resurfacing, weed control, brushing, and installing totems and kiosks. GVLT has a professional staff of seven and hundreds of volunteers donate over 2,500 hours each year. GVLT helps to manage over 67 miles of existing trails in the Main Street to the Mountains trail network. Run Dog Run is also committed to contributing resources to fully stock six pet waste stations at the park for two full years. Run Dog Run has experience with similar maintenance obligations at the Gallatin County Regional Park. 7. Are you aware of any mitigation needs on any part of a proposed property? If so, please explain. We are not aware of any mitigation needs or issues on the property. 288 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 8 Photographs User-created trails weave through native grasses in a part of the property that would become natural parkland. Looking north onto the property to be acquired, from the Bozeman Pond perimeter trail. 289 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 9 A trail cuts north from the Bozeman Pond perimeter trail onto the property to be acquired. A user-created trail meanders next to riparian vegetation along the Bozeman Pond Outlet Stream. 290 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 10 Looking south along a user-created trail that parallels Fowler Avenue. This is the general location for a future paved, shared-use pathway. Looking north from approximately where Ravalli Road would be completed, onto the portion of the property proposed for an off-leash dog exercise area. 291 TOP Funding Application: Bozeman Pond Expansion Page 11 Parking often overflows onto Fowler Avenue during events at Aasheim Fields, which may be alleviated by the new proposed parking area. The open vistas and native vegetation help create excellent opportunities for passive recreation in a fast-growing, densely populated part of town. 292 Bozeman Pond ExpansionBudgetPhase I: Land Acquisition DetailTotal Cost Request to TOP % TOP Match Match SourcePurchase Price9 acres of landapprox. price of $1.53/square ft.600,000$ 600,000$ 100%‐$ Transaction CostsTitle and closingTitle insurance, closing costs4,000$ 4,000$ 100%‐$ AppraisalShared with HAVEN3,000$ 1,850$ 62% 1,150$ HAVENBoundary Realignment to create 3‐acre parcel for HAVEN2,500$ 1,250$ 50% 1,250$ HAVENSite Planningto develop concpet plan2,000$ ‐$ 2,000$ ERA Landmark Real EstateGVLT Interim Ownership costs associated with interest, etc.15,000$ ‐$ 15,000$ GVLTGVLT project management legal fees, due diligence, staff time14,000$ ‐$ 14,000$ GVLTPHASE I640,500$ 607,100$ 95% 33,400$ 5%Phase II: Improvements DetailTotal Request to TOP % TOP Match Matching SourcesInfrastructureParking lot1/2‐acre, 40‐50 car capacity80,000$ 80,000$ 100%‐$ Mid‐Block Crossing Fowler to Aasheim Fields, flashing beacon10,000$ 10,000$ 100%‐$ Restroom facilities small facility, like similar parks120,000$ 120,000$ 100%‐$ Irrigationwells, sprinklers48,000$ 48,000$ 100%‐$ Landscapingweed control, restoration, plantings, etc.35,000$ 35,000$ 100%‐$ Stream restoration restoring vegetation, improving meanders30,000$ 30,000$ 100%‐$ TrailsAsphalt path (Fowler) approx. 1300 ft @ $20/linear ft26,000$ 26,000$ 100%‐$ Natural fines trails approx. 2500 ft @ $6/linear ft15,000$ ‐$ 15,000$ GVLTAmenitiesDog exercise areafencing, gates, etc.20,000$ ‐$ 20,000$ Run Dog RunDog stationssix stations plus bags for 2 years2,500$ ‐$ 2,500$ Run Dog RunPicnic shelterSmall shelter with multiple tables80,000$ 40,000$ 50% 40,000$ GVLTBenchesfive @ $2000 each10,000$ ‐$ 10,000$ GVLTNatural playground for various ages12,500$ ‐$ 12,500$ GVLTContingency10% construction contingency48,900$ 48,900$ 100%‐$ PHASE II537,900$ 437,900$ 81% 100,000$ 19%TOTAL1,178,400$ 1,045,000$ 89% 133,400$ 11%293 Bozeman Pond Hyalite Elementary School AasheimFields Gallatin Valley Mall MAIN BABCOCK FOWLERFALLON GARFIELD HUFFINE DONNAYELLOWSTONERAVALLI CASCADE VALLEYWILDAGRANITEHUNTERSTETONSANDERSMEAGHERPRAIRIEVIRGINIALAREDO SUNLIGHTCOLLEGEMEGHANSSHERIDANFLATHEAD WHITE OAKPONDSWEETGRASSMENDENHALL MICHAEL GROVELARAMIEPONDERA SILVER MAPLEMERIWETHERACCESSDROULLIARDGOLDEN VALLEYCHOUTEAU DRIVEWAYYORK LILLIAN OLIVINE TREASURECAHILL STILLWATERGINELLAMAGDALENEBROADWATER GENA FOWLERDRIVEWAYPONDERAFOWLERDRIVEWAY RAVALLI SHERIDANDRIVEWAYDRIVEWAYGRANITEkap 2013.10.16 ~ PO Box 7021 ~ Bozeman, MT 59771~~ 406.587.8404 ~ www.gvlt.org ~ ´ 0 1,000 2,000500Feet1:7,984 Bozeman Pond Location Existing Trails Proposed to HAVEN Proposed Parkland Schools Existing Parkland Aerial photo from 2012 294 AasheimFields FOWLERWILDABABCOCK PONDRAVALLI LAREDOSTILLWATER GOLDEN VALLEYDRIVE W A Y kap 2013.10.16 ~ PO Box 7021 ~ Bozeman, MT 59771~~ 406.587.8404 ~ www.gvlt.org ~ ´ 0 250 500125Feet1:2,372 Bozeman Pond Park Proposed Expansion Existing Trails Proposed to HAVEN Proposed Parkland Schools Existing Parkland Aerial photo from 2012 ~3 acres to HAVEN ~5.5-acre Natural Parkland ~3.5-acre Dog Park & Parking Area 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302