HomeMy WebLinkAbout34 Parks and RecreationThe Lakes at Valley West Subdivision – Phases 1 and 2
Preliminary Plat Application
Parks and Recreation
The Lakes at Valley West continues the award-winning tradition of parks and open space present
throughout the rest of Valley West Subdivision. The open space along Durston Road provides a
neighborhood buffer that reinforces a tree-lined edge from an urban arterial road. This edge
feeds into the entry to The Lakes funneling down Laurel Parkway, setting the stage for a green
belt transportation corridor. Special attention is paid to the Parkway median regarding scale and
repetition without compromising safety and efficiency. At the corner of Laurel Parkway and
Westmorland Drive, a hardscape plaza with seating areas and trees will welcome visitors and
neighbors alike to the special park area.
The east lake is bordered by the Baxter Creek Natural Area on the east. Significant wetland
mitigation activities have occurred in the natural area and along the wet perimeter of the lakes.
The north-south trail corridor on the west side of Baxter Creek will facilitate connectivity to and
from all directions, maximizing the potential use of the Natural Area without compromising
environmental commitments.
The northwest corner of the east lake will encompass active use park area. Neighborhood
gatherings are accommodated through two picnic shelters and associated improvements. A large
playground will accommodate a wide variety of play activities along with a swing set, a feature
missing in the greater Valley West park system. A combination of flat, un-programmed open
space and large berms provide for free and imaginative play. This neighborhood gathering area
will be irrigated to support such active and intense uses. Accessible trails will connect he active
use area to the natural, reclaimed wetland edge of the lake for fishing access.
The west lake is surrounded by ample open space. Irrigated un-programmed open space takes
advantage of flat topography on the north edge of the lake. This area creates a buffer between
private properties and the natural wetland fringe of the lake. This line is marked with the
accessible trail that separates irrigated from natural grasses. By limiting the irrigated area,
principles of water conservation contribute to the overall sustainability of the development. The
remaining lake perimeter is restored to drought-tolerant upland grasses, creating greater habitat
diversity. Greater habitat diversity attracts a variety of wildlife and avian species, thus creating
opportunities for nature-related recreation.
Together, the parks, trails and open space amenities encompass a wide variety of recreational
opportunities appealing to many different age groups. The public lands within The Lakes at
Valley West appeal to many interests, and are accessible by vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian
The Lakes at Valley West Subdivision – Phases 1 and 2
Preliminary Plat Application
means. This accentuates the high quality of life attributes affiliated with the Bozeman area and
the overall development consistent with the expectations found at Valley West.