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HomeMy WebLinkAbout4_SMCP TOP Application Northern Rockies 111 S. Grand Ave. Suite 203 Bozeman, MT 59715 T: 406.522.7450 F: 406.522.7453 tpl.org January 6, 2014 Chairman Bob Hawks Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOP) Committee c/o TOP Programs Manager 415 North Bozeman Avenue Bozeman, MT 59715 Dear Chairman Hawks and Members of the TOP Committee, It is our pleasure to submit the attached application for your consideration. Given the breadth and scope of the Story Mill Community Park proposal, we thought it would be useful to describe by cover letter The Trust for Public Land’s intentions and the unique opportunity we believe the project presents for the Bozeman community. The Story Mill site has deep connections to Gallatin Valley’s history and agricultural heritage. It was here that Nelson Story, with assistance from the first railroads, built his fortune by exporting locally-grown wheat and flour all across the world. With the addition of the rendering plant and stockyards, as well as a small farm and ranching operation, the area served as a vital industrial-agricultural hub through the mid-20th century. Standing on the property today, one can catch a glimpse of the valley as it looked over one hundred years ago, defined by wild rivers coursing through diverse wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. The site’s remnant wetlands continue to provide essential haven for a remarkable array of birds and wildlife in an otherwise urbanized environment. Open meadows and mature trees with sweeping vistas of the Bridger Mountains give visitors an immediate sense of space, quiet, and connection to nature, despite the proximity to a major arterial road, Interstate-90 and Historic Downtown Bozeman. As many in the community will recall, the property was recently slated for intense development, only to be sold through foreclosure to American Bank in November 2011 for $6.2 million (reportedly less than half what the developer had paid for the assemblage). Given the property’s incredible natural features, The Trust for Public Land recognized an opportunity to take advantage of market conditions, and stepped in to acquire the 62 acres in December 2012. Our intent was to create a window of time for the community to carefully consider the site for a new community park. The acquisition included the Bank’s holdings west of Story Mill Road, but excluded two parcels (containing the Mill complex) east of the road. Recently, we have also secured a contract with the adjoining landowner at the stockyard site to acquire through an exchange an additional 4-acre strip of critical land – which contributes to an unparalleled ½ mile of East Gallatin River frontage in the park proposal. The Trust for Public Land TOP cover letter Page 2 The enclosed application proposes a 54-acre Story Mill Community Park with exciting opportunities for active recreation, outdoor community gathering spaces, a nature sanctuary, new trails and trail connections, and natural and cultural interpretive programs. The Trust for Public Land will retain an 8- acre parcel in the northeastern corner of the property to explore the feasibility of a small pocket neighborhood that would complement the park, while meeting workforce housing needs identified in the Bozeman Affordable Housing Action Plan. Over the past year, The Trust for Public Land has dedicated considerable resources to due diligence, project planning, and public outreach to create a proposal and budget that reflects the Bozeman community’s unique vision for the Story Mill Community Park. The topline values and opportunities included in this proposal are:  Revitalization and protection of one of the largest undeveloped properties near downtown as a flagship community park with exciting recreation and trails amenities;  Restoration of the largest remaining wetland-riparian complex located in Bozeman’s urban core, providing significant habitat and water quality enhancements along both Bozeman Creek and the East Gallatin River;  Protection of and improved access to a half mile of the East Gallatin River – a favorite in-town fishing corridor;  Expansion of trail connections for the “Main Street to the Mountains” initiative, connecting downtown Bozeman to Bridger Drive and the East Gallatin Recreation Area, and providing an important staging area for the planned new “Path to the M”;  Contribution of significant matching funds, greatly leveraging the City’s investment and ensuring the development and maintenance of the new park; and  A multi-year commitment by The Trust for Public Land to dedicate its 40+ years of national experience in park design and construction expertise, and to collaborate with the City of Bozeman and partners across the community. We believe the Story Mill Community Park plan as proposed embodies the leadership, enterprise and vision expressed during the 2012 parks and trails bond campaign. Over 70% of city residents voted to think big and to invest in Bozeman’s extraordinary quality of life and unparalleled access to water, recreation and the outdoors for our children and grandchildren. Thank you for your service on the TOP Committee, and for your consideration of this proposal. Sincerely, Maddy Pope Deb Love Story Mill Project Manager Northern Rockies Director Story Mill Community Park Proposal Application to City of Bozeman Trails, Open Space and Parks Advisory Committee Submitted by The Trust for Public Land Maddy Pope, Story Mill Project Manager Deb Love, Northern Rockies Director 111 South Grand Avenue, Suite 203, Bozeman, MT 59715 January 6, 2014 Photo: Christi Cooper-Kuhn Story Mill Community Park Proposal Application for the City of Bozeman Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOP) Bond Funding 1. Please give a brief description of your project that includes location, budget, amount requested and amount contributed from other sources. The Trust for Public Land proposes a new community park at the Story Mill site, which would include a half mile of river frontage along the East Gallatin River; restoration of the largest remaining wetland complex in Bozeman; trail connections along the Story Mill Spur Trail and the planned new “Path to the M”; and exciting recreational amenities, such as new practice fields, an innovative playground, and plentiful opportunities for educational interpretation. Approval is requested from the Trails, Open Space and Parks Committee for the City of Bozeman to acquire the Story Mill property and, in a partnership with The Trust for Public Land, to masterplan and to build a new community park. The Trust for Public Land is committed to bringing its national park design and development expertise to our community, and to raising significant matching dollars through a philanthropic campaign to ensure the success of the Story Mill Community Park project. Since announcing the project last year, there has been overwhelming interest and support from hundreds of individuals and dozens of groups all across the community. Together with these emerging community partnerships, and a significant investment by the City of Bozeman through the TOP program, we can develop the vision and marshal the resources to create a truly extraordinary community park at the Story Mill site. A TOP funding request of $4.5 million for land acquisition and park development will be leveraged by a direct match of $3.7 million by The Trust for Public Land, as well as substantial additional investments in wetlands restoration and project management. 2 Story Mill Community Park Application Location: The proposed Story Mill Community Park includes approximately 54 acres of undeveloped land located in the City’s Northeast quadrant bordered by Bridger Drive to the north, Story Mill Road to the east, and bisected by East Griffin Drive through its middle. The site includes 1,854 feet of frontage along Bridger Drive. In addition, the site features trail connectivity along the popular Story Mill Spur Trail and the planned new “Path to the M”. The property currently has several structures, including an old farmstead complex and two slaughterhouse buildings lie within the Northern Pacific-Story Mill Historic District. The site does not include the iconic Story Mill buildings located east of Story Mill Road. The Trust for Public Land will retain an 8 acre parcel at the northeast corner of the site that is not part of this proposal. We have enlisted the assistance of two nonprofit partners, the Human Resources Development Council and Homeword, to explore the feasibility of developing a model neighborhood to complement the park and to provide sustainable, affordable housing for working families in the Bozeman community – a compelling community need identified in the Bozeman Affordable Housing Action Plan. The Trust for Public Land will provide a trail corridor easement along Bridger Drive to ensure permanent connectivity between the park and the Story Mill Spur trailhead at the intersection of Bridger Drive and Story Mill Road. The northern section of the property (between Bridger Drive and Griffin Drive) is characterized by open meadows dotted with clusters of mature trees and ornamental shrubs. The southern half (south of Griffin Drive) includes a significant riparian complex with wetland, forest and grassland communities. Just above their confluence point, Bozeman Creek and the East Gallatin River flow northwest through the site, defining the wetland area and providing the major natural features of the property. The Trust for Public Land proposes to restore the wetlands and rivers of the property, improving wildlife habitat and ecological function and enhancing downstream water quality. Recognizing the extraordinary potential of the site, The Trust for Public Land purchased the Story Mill property in December 2012 with the intention of providing the community with sufficient time and opportunity to envision a future public park for the site. We are proposing to sell the property to the City as a new city park, and to assist the City in developing a community- led park master plan, bringing The Trust for Public Land’s national expertise and 40 years of experience in building parks to create a new signature park for Bozeman. Green infrastructure, innovative park design, creative outdoor play spaces, and a participatory community design process are the hallmarks of our program and what we propose to bring to this new park, if approved. To accomplish this, we are requesting $4.5 million in TOP bond funding – $2.65 million for land acquisition and $1.85 million for park development. We are offering the property for sale to the City at a fair market value price not to exceed our $2.65 million purchase price, to be 3 Story Mill Community Park Application substantiated by an independent appraisal. We will commit to match the City’s park development investment with $3.7 million in cash and in-kind contributions, of which we have secured over $500,000 to date. The remaining funds shall be raised via a forthcoming philanthropic campaign following City approval of this application. The $3.7 million commitment represents a 2:1 match for park design and construction, and includes a $200,000 stewardship fund to help defray park maintenance costs. The estimated $5.5 million park construction budget is detailed in the ‘Parks’ section of this application. In addition to the $3.7 million direct investment towards park design, construction and maintenance, The Trust for Public Land plans to invest approximately $500,000 to execute a multi-year wetlands and river restoration effort. The Trust for Public Land will also cover substantial land holding costs, transactional services (such as appraisal, title, and environmental assessment) and closing costs. The local, regional, and national staff time required to lead a community participatory design process, to oversee project management and execution, and to conduct a private philanthropic and outreach campaign will also comprise The Trust for Public Land’s financial contributions. The Story Mill project is the top priority project for the Northern Rockies office of The Trust for Public Land. If the project receives City approval, The Trust for Public Land plans to dedicate its organizational resources and expertise on a multi-year basis working closely with the community and City of Bozeman to see the project through to completion. We wish to convey the property to the City as soon as possible before calendar year-end 2014. In addition, we would propose entering into a contract with the City of Bozeman to facilitate the community process to develop a park master plan in coordination with the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board by summer 2014; and, over the next two years, to assist the city during the park build-out and development phase of the project. City of Bozeman The Trust for Public Land TOTAL PROJECT COSTS Land Acquisition 2,650,000$ -$ 2,650,000$ Park Design, Construction and Stewardship 1,850,000 3,700,000 5,550,000 TOTAL PROJECT COSTS 4,500,000$ 3,700,000$ 8,200,000$ THE TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND Story Mill Community Park Project Budget Request to Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOP) Committee January 2014 - December 2016 4 Story Mill Community Park Application 5 Story Mill Community Park Application 2. Briefly describe how the project creates or enhances one or more of the following: a. Parks b. Open Space/Natural Areas c. Trails d. Water Quality e. Multi-Use Recreational Fields a. Parks As the largest city-owned park, the Story Mill Community Park will be a significant addition to Bozeman’s park system that augments and complements recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Since acquiring the property in December 2012, The Trust for Public Land has worked diligently to engage the Bozeman community to create a vision for the park. In January 2013, we conducted an informal online survey with 690 respondents overwhelmingly supporting the idea of a park for the Story Mill site, ranking park creation, trail connectivity, wetlands and water quality, and wildlife habitat protection as top priorities (Appendix C). In February 2013, we invited the public to a half-day workshop to learn more about the proposal, and to discuss key themes for the site including, park design, trails, wetlands restoration, sustainable agriculture and potential private redevelopment of mixed-income housing on a portion of the property. Feedback was collected from the more than 150 residents who attended, and we have continued to work with these and other community members and groups to gather ideas and input for the proposal. These efforts culminated in August 2013, when park designers on staff with The Trust for Public Land came to Bozeman to work with a local landscape architect and community members to develop a conceptual design for the Story Mill Community Park. Informed by the PROST Plan and the tremendous community input the project has received to date, the conceptual design is intended as a starting point. It provides a foundation for a forthcoming park master plan and preliminary cost estimates. The overarching vision for the Story Mill Community Park is a predominately natural park that retains the open space and scenic character of the site and that is inspired by the theme of rivers and water systems. The park would also include an active programmed area that is intended to serve the entire community by providing diverse and plentiful recreational opportunities and experiences for all interests and ages. The conceptual park plan and budget (below) include cost estimates for basic park infrastructure, as well as a range of potential park amenities to be identified and refined through a future public master planning process. Within approximately 10 of the 20 acres comprising the north portion of the site (with access along Bridger Drive), the plan provides for grading and site preparation, ample parking, landscaping, irrigation and paved pathways, as well as key park amenities, such as sheltered 6 Story Mill Community Park Application picnic tables, benches, signage, and fencing. In addition, it includes the opportunity for a range of potential park activities such as a grand lawn, playgrounds and play areas, off-leash dog area, multi-use practice fields, interactive art, and an intermodal network of trails. Playgrounds could integrate nature and adventure play with design inspired by the agricultural milling history of the site, incorporating sand elevators and water play, for instance. Climbing elements including rope bridges and boulders could also be an attraction. Other ideas include a teaching farm for children and local schools and an edible food orchard winding along park trails that could offer opportunities to connect visitors to local food systems and sustainable agriculture. The southern portion of the park is envisioned as a passive recreation area centered upon ecological restoration and permanently protecting a significant wildlife sanctuary for the community. The proposed budget includes funding for a light, well-placed footprint of trails with boardwalks crossing sensitive wetland areas and interpretive signage to guide visitors through the site for viewing birds and other wildlife. The park will serve as a “living classroom” and visitors of all ages will be able to witness the multi-year process of renewal and restoration and learn about the importance of wetlands to water quality and ecological health. The restoration plan calls for removal of the farmstead buildings to allow ample space for wetlands restoration and expansion. The Trust for Public Land proposes to work with the City to determine the most appropriate future outcome for the two more historically significant slaughterhouse/rendering plant buildings situated on the site parcel adjoining Story Mill Road. The Trust for Public Land and Learning by Nature hosts 130 campers from the Boys & Girls Club, the YMCA, and Montana Outdoor Science School. Photo: Shasta Grenier 7 Story Mill Community Park Application As part of the proposed restoration plan, anglers will have enhanced river access via three new access points that will be developed along the East Gallatin River, our best in-town fishing opportunity. Restoration activities will include removal of riprap and improved bank stabilization to ensure future river health. The existing small man-made pond will be restored and reconfigured to enhance surrounding wetlands for birds and wildlife, and to provide a scenic park viewing area. With parkland straddling the Story Mill Spur Trail, there will be opportunity to enhance the trailhead at Story Mill Road and provide increased parking and pedestrian access to both the trail and to the southern portion of the park. The Trust for Public Land is committed to working with the City of Bozeman and the community to realize a fully-developed and functioning park at the Story Mill site. In addition to conveying the property to the City, The Trust for Public Land proposes to enter into a contract with the City, providing our services on an in-kind basis, to 1) develop a park master plan for the Story Mill site through a public participatory design process; 2) oversee the site’s river and wetlands restoration effort; and 3) assist the City in managing the construction of the park. Master Planning & Park Design 450,000$ Site Preparation & Demolition (includes building demo and utilities)583,000 Hardscape & Walkways (includes parking area, DG walkway, multi-use path)1,024,000 Landscape (includes grand lawn, irrigation and landscaping)1,005,000 Playground & Sports Fields 650,000 Site Amenities (includes signs, lighting, dog play area, benches, trash cans, restroom etc.)627,000 Contingency (20%)777,000 Construction Administration 234,000 Park Stewardship Endowment 200,000 TOTAL 5,550,000$ THE TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND Story Mill Community Park Project Budget Conceptual Park Design and Construction Estimate 8 Story Mill Community Park Application 9 Story Mill Community Park Application b. Open Space/Natural Areas With sweeping views of the Bridger Mountains to the north and Story Hills to the east, the Story Mill property is an extraordinary scenic and open space asset for our community. The Story Mill Community Park will protect this significant nature sanctuary and critical wildlife corridor, home to deer, otter, mink, porcupine, red fox and other wildlife, all within the city limits of Bozeman. Many species of birds utilize the site’s meadows, rivers and wetlands, including nesting sandhill cranes and great horned owls, kingfishers, dippers, snipe and a plethora of nesting songbirds and waterfowl. Rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout abound in this section of the East Gallatin (a.k.a. Rocky Creek) – a favorite of local fisherman. Sacajawea Audubon has counted over 70 species of resident and migratory birds that utilize the site for nesting and stopover habitat. Through the protection of an uninterrupted half-mile of the East Gallatin River, enhancement of this very significant remaining wetland complex, and restoration of the floodplain along both the East Gallatin River and Bozeman Creek, this natural area will be unmatched within Bozeman’s urban core. Habitat diversity will be enhanced over time through planned restoration and management. While much of the plant composition at the Story Mill site today reflect years of agricultural clearing, manipulation, and neglect, transformation to a healthy, diverse complex of native plant communities made up of aspen forests, riparian shrublands, herbaceous and shrub dominated wetlands, and native grasslands is possible through ongoing noxious weed control and the planned restoration activities. These activities will favor plant species native to the area, which over time will transform the site into a more diverse refuge for birds, wildlife, and humans alike. For example, over time the existing aspen community on the South Parcel will continue to expand westward into the site and the willow dominated wetlands on the south and east sides of the South Parcel will also expand, providing more habitat and forage for resident and migrant birds. In the farmstead area, restoration actions are planned to restore native prairie species and expand existing herbaceous wetlands. Riparian and wetland shrublands would be planted in the expanded floodplain areas to help improve water quality as well as to enhance the scenic beauty of the Bozeman Creek and East Gallatin River corridors. Over time the abundance of available habitat and the increased plant diversity will offer more opportunities for wildlife and bird use, leading to increased opportunities for their viewing and enjoyment by park goers. The incorporation of native plant communities on the site also offers a number of advantages for park Great Horned Owl. Photo: Ben Pope 10 Story Mill Community Park Application maintenance, in that a significant portion of the Story Mill Park will not need irrigation and is largely intended to not be mowed. The Story Mill Community Park will provide a venue for both natural and cultural exploration. The site’s wetlands and open space characteristics, reminiscent of the earliest days in the development of the Gallatin Valley, will offer a unique educational opportunity for the public to follow the site’s transformation through restoration activities and to learn about the importance of wetlands in protecting our rivers, streams and water quality. Nature trails through the site will serve as a ‘living classroom’ providing activities and learning opportunities for park visitors. Likewise, the towering Story Mill buildings and land-use history of the area offers an extraordinary lesson in both the history of agriculture across the Gallatin Valley and new connections to local food systems and sustainable agriculture today. These unique features combine to make the Story Mill site a one-of-a-kind natural and cultural asset for our community. c. Trails & Connectivity Community trails are a central component of the proposed Story Mill Community Park. The heavily-traveled Story Mill Spur Trail brings pedestrians to the heart of the park, and trail users will be able to take advantage of new trails and paths that connect through the park. These new trails and connections will create a central hub for other northeast Bozeman destinations, including the East Gallatin Recreation Area, Story Hills, Gallatin County and Cherry River Fishing Access. The Story Mill Community Park will serve as a starting point for the new “Path to the M”, with a new parking lot that will provide a park and walk/cycle option. A paved, shared-use path will meander parallel to Bridger Drive, providing pedestrians and cyclists with a safe non-motorized transportation route buffered from high-speed traffic. The path will link the park to the City- owned trail corridor that begins at the intersection of Story Mill Road and Bridger Drive. The Story Mill site will also provide a long-sought trail connection between the Story Mill Spur Trail and Bond Street. A PROST Plan priority, this proposed Bond Street connector trail will traverse the southern portion of the Story Mill site and connect to a path and pedestrian bridge over Bozeman Creek (part of the proposed Barnard Construction campus expansion). The Trust for Public Land is working in partnership with Gallatin Valley Land Trust and other community trail advocates on the design of the trail network for the site. Sandhill Crane & colt. Photo: Thomas Lee 11 Story Mill Community Park Application Within the park, a network of new trails will provide diverse experiences on paved paths, natural surface paths, elevated boardwalks, and interpretive trails. Visitors will have access to loop trails for walking, running, and cross-country skiing, as well as nature trails that connect users to the natural environment and provide educational opportunities. The active northern portion of the park could include a network of paved and natural surface pathways for visitors to move through the property, stopping to enjoy park amenities before connecting on to other trail destinations. In the southern portion of the site, a light footprint of natural surface trails and elevated walkways will take the visitor through the sensitive wetlands area with minimal impact to the resources. Visitors will enjoy an interpretive trail that highlights the area's natural and cultural history in the southern portion of the park. Improved access to the East Gallatin River will provide anglers and others a “blue” trail opportunity within Bozeman's urban river system – a rare amenity that this site uniquely offers to the public. Map 1 below provides a conceptual plan for single- and multi-modal trail use across the site as well as significant connections to expand the Main Street to the Mountains system. Map 2 illustrates the strategic trail connections and trail hub the proposed Story Mill Community Park will provide in the northeast quadrant to the Main Street to the Mountains trail initiative. Photo: Alex Diekmann 12 Story Mill Community Park Application 13 Story Mill Community Park Application d. Water Quality The Story Mill site, situated at the confluence of Bozeman Creek and the East Gallatin River, offers a rare and remarkable opportunity to combine ecological restoration with multiple other community benefits for residents and the City of Bozeman. The Trust for Public Land is working with a group of community partners and a local riparian consulting firm to develop a plan for restoration of the wetlands and streams found at this confluence site in order to restore several important functions that have been lost over the years as the area was developed. These include water quality improvements, wetlands and floodplain restoration, enhancement of habitat for resident and migratory birds and wildlife, and new recreation and education opportunities for the Bozeman community. During the past century, an expansive riverine and wetland ecosystem was first transformed to support the Story Mill agricultural and industrial hub including a mill and granary, stockyard, slaughterhouse, ice ponds, and stock pastures. More recently, urban and commercial development continues to encroach on wetland and floodplain habitat in this area. A review of historic maps and records suggest that this transformation involved the straightening of streams, filling of floodplains, draining of wetlands, and the resultant loss of aquatic habitat and water 14 Story Mill Community Park Application quality benefits that this important confluence site once provided. While the Story Mill site still supports a significant fishery, and wetlands and riparian areas, these resources are now far below their habitat and water quality potential. In fact, both streams are listed by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality as having impaired water quality for both fisheries and recreational use. A rigorous planning and stakeholder process undertaken by The Trust for Public Land over the past year has resulted in the identification of a preferred restoration alternative that will build resilience into the riverine ecosystem and help ensure river health. It achieves this by restoring eight acres of wetland—more than doubling the current wetland acreage—and substantially restoring floodplain areas along the East Gallatin River and Bozeman Creek. Wetlands will be restored by plugging and re-filling the ditches that drained them and by removing and controlling invasive weeds that now dominate the site. This will recreate a diversity of native wetland and riparian vegetation that provides nesting and rearing habitat and forage for many species, particularly migratory birds. Additional floodplain acreage will re-connect the two streams with their historic floodplain areas and will attenuate downstream flood flows, capturing fine sediment that fouls fish habitat, and improving water quality by trapping and processing nutrients and other pollutants. The planned removal of riprap and junk along a half mile of the East Gallatin River streambed and banks will improve the trout fishery by allowing the river to once again scour pools and create spawning and rearing habitat. Maps showing the Selected Alternative are provided in Addendum A. The Trust for Public Land will provide a copy of the full Conceptual Restoration Plan upon request. East Gallatin River. Photo: Christi Cooper-Kuhn 15 Story Mill Community Park Application The Story Mill restoration project is being developed via partnerships and collaborations to provide the best possible ecological and social outcomes. Community partners such as the Greater Gallatin Watershed Council, the Gallatin Local Water Quality Planning District, and Trout Unlimited have contributed expertise in the development of restoration designs. The Trust for Public Land is working closely with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and the City of Bozeman to help mitigate upstream water quality impacts. Educational partnerships are emerging with Montana State University to use the site as a monitoring laboratory and outdoor classroom. Restoration design is integrated with recreational park design to ensure the greatest benefit as a community park and living classroom. The Trust for Public Land, working with its stakeholders, envisions undertaking restoration at the Story Mill site beginning in the summer 2014 and has begun seeking grants and soliciting funds for the restoration. If successful, up to $500,000 would be committed to this effort. e. Multi-Use Recreation Fields The plan currently provides for two practice fields, a need specifically identified in the PROST plan for the northeast quadrant. Note: We have written this application to address ‘Parks’ as the Prevailing Characteristics matrix recognizing that, in addition, the Natural Areas, Trails and Water Quality matrices also provide relevant information for review and assessment of the Story Mill Community Park proposal. 16 Story Mill Community Park Application 3. Has the exact site been identified? If so, please detail here. Yes, approximately 54 acres are proposed for conveyance to the City of Bozeman. As depicted in the parcel map below, The Trust for Public Land currently owns 50 acres and has 4 acres under contract to purchase. Also see the Existing Conditions map on page 4 of this application. 4. Briefly explain how the project creates long term value for the residents of Bozeman. Project Alignment with TOP Bond and City Planning Goals The Story Mill park proposal is closely aligned with the key purposes identified in Bozeman City Commission Resolution No. 4386 establishing the TOP Program including open space lands, trails, parks, natural areas, recreational fields and enhancement of water quality. The Story Mill community park proposal will:  Create a natural area community park with an array of recreational amenities;  Restore wetlands and streams to benefit water quality;  Enhance trail connections from the Story Mill Spur Trail and along Bridger Drive; and  Protect a nature sanctuary for birds and wildlife. 17 Story Mill Community Park Application The proposal also achieves numerous city planning goals and objectives. It will advance community objectives identified in the 2009 Bozeman Community Plan to:  Support natural resource conservation in the northeast quadrant while protecting ‘important wildlife habitat and natural areas’. (Goals G-1.4; LU-4.1).  Provide protection and interpretative opportunities for ‘historically and culturally significant properties.’ (Goal HP-2).  Advance shared-use pathways and trail connectivity for northside destinations (Objective R-1.5) and develop ‘interconnected and convenient pedestrian and bicycle network for commuting and recreation’ (Objective T-4.2).  ‘Protect, restore and enhance wetlands’ (Objective E-2.1), assist in storm drainage capacity to enhance ‘floodplain capacity’ (Objective #-1.2) and protect ‘surface and groundwater quality’ (Objective PS-1.6). The Story Mill Park Proposal will advance 2007 Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails (PROST) Plan goals by:  Adding community parkland, playgrounds and practice fields in the Northeast quadrant’ (Section 7.3; 7.5; Section 10.5.5; 10.5.6)  Enhancing community trail and transit system needs -- with significant frontage along Bridger Drive, a main arterial, and secondary access from Story Mill Road, a collector street, the site will allow for well-planned traffic flow to and from the new park. (Section 8.9; 10.2.2;10.2.8)  Offering new trail connections of safe and accessible trail routes between city parks and other public facilities and connecting trail linkages identified on the PROST Map within the City and connection to the County trail system and federal lands. (Section 10.7.1;10.8.1; PROST Trail Map)  Protecting vital wetlands and important functions such as ‘flood control and aquifer recharge, as well as important values such as wildlife habitat and open space’ and recreational benefits such as ‘hiking, bird-watching and visual enjoyment’. (Section 8.1.1)  Creating well-defined opportunities for off-leash dog areas (Section 7.4.1) helping to address issues relating to dogs in city parks and along trails. (Section 10.10.5) The Story Mill Community Park will also help realize goals of the Greater Bozeman Area Transportation Plan 2007 (Updated 2009) to promote multi-modal transportation options. The Trust for Public Land is presently working with Montana Department of Transportation on the design for widening Bridger Drive and a plan to provide a 10’-wide off-street shared-use path. A new parking lot will also serve users of the planned new “Path to the M”, helping to reduce 18 Story Mill Community Park Application traffic congestion in Bridger Canyon and at existing parking areas and trailheads. The new parking lot could also be used for a park-and-ride system promoting car-pooling and bus service to Bridger Bowl and other destinations up Bridger Canyon. The Story Mill park proposal also advances Bozeman Guidelines for Historic Preservation by protecting and interpreting a portion of the Story Mill Historic District and maintaining the rural character of the north arm of the district (Page 80). Finally, the Story Mill restoration plan will advance the goals of the Bozeman Creek Enhancement Plan by improving the ecology and recreational value of Bozeman Creek at the furthest downstream section of the waterway, just before its confluence with the East Gallatin River. This effort will also complement the recently approved TOP investment upstream along Bozeman Creek through Bogert Park. 5. Please list all groups/organizations involved or contributing to this project and what their short and long term commitments will be. The Trust for Public Land’s commitment to a public participatory process began when it purchased the property December 2012. That winter, 690 residents responded to an online survey and 150 attended a half-day community workshop to discuss and share ideas for a new community park at Story Mill. The Trust for Public Land continues this outreach with a dedicated staff member who is working with organizations and interested residents to build community awareness, engagement and partnerships. Story Mill Project Community Workshop. Photo: Troy Scherer 19 Story Mill Community Park Application Below is a chart highlighting some of the emerging partnerships: Partner Program Element Current Partnership Contribution Continuing Partnership Contribution Sacajawea Audubon Natural Areas Conduct bird surveys, install nesting boxes, lead birding & nature walks Help develop park interpretive programs for birds and other wildlife Greater Gallatin Watershed Council Water Quality Ground and stream water monitoring, public outreach; Member - restoration planning working group Long-term alluvial groundwater and stream water quality monitoring; support restoration effort Bozeman Creek Enhancement Committee Water Quality Member - restoration planning working group Advise and support restoration effort Trout Unlimited Water Quality Member - restoration planning working group Advise and support restoration effort Greater Gallatin Local Water Quality District Water Quality Member - restoration planning working group Long-term alluvial groundwater and steam water quality monitoring; advise and support restoration effort Gallatin Valley Land Trust Trails Assist with trail planning, design and development Help design, build, support and maintain park trail network Montana Department of Environmental Quality Water Quality Providing grant funding for groundwater well installation and water, temperature and nutrient monitoring efforts; Member - restoration planning working group Help fund future wetlands restoration, educational partnerships and long-term site monitoring; advise and support restoration effort Run Dog Run Park Amenity Assist with design for on- and off-leash dog usage areas Design and help fund off- leash dog usage area Montana Outdoor Science School Education & Interpretation Participated in Story Mill summer camp program and curriculum development Support program development for natural area interpretive programs Learning by Nature Education & Interpretation Wrote curriculum and taught Story Mill summer camp for 130 local youth Expand park outdoor curriculum, interpretive and youth programs Broken Ground Sustainable Agriculture Research potential for edible food forest/trail component Help design edible food forest; sustainable agriculture working group 20 Story Mill Community Park Application Towne’s Harvest Farm, MSU Sustainable Agriculture Research and student engagement in sustainable agricultural program element Partner on sustainable agriculture programming and student education Gallatin Valley Farm to School Sustainable Agriculture & Education Lead sustainable agriculture working group and program development Help design and manage K-12 teaching farm program at the park Montana Conservation Corps Site Restoration Youth crew engagement in site clean-up, weed management and trail maintenance Provide youth crews for restoration, weed management, and park construction projects Northeast Neighborhood Association Community Outreach Educate residents about Story Mill park proposal Engage residents in park design, master planning and development project Gallatin Valley Food Bank Sustainable Agriculture Participate in sustainable agriculture working group Design program connection to Food Bank clients and engage volunteers National Farm to School Sustainable Agriculture Participate in sustainable agriculture working group Advise and help design park programming for sustainable agriculture and local foods Sonoran Institute Community Outreach Advisor on community development component Support participatory park design process Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Montana Youth Engagement & Education Participated in Story Mill summer camp program through youth engagement Developing programming to meet the needs of underserved youth in the community YMCA of Gallatin Valley Youth Engagement & Education Participated in Story Mill summer camp program through youth engagement Developing programming to meet the needs of underserved youth in the community Montana State University Education & Partnerships -Sustainable Food and Bioenergy Systems -Civil Engineering -Land Resources & Environmental Sciences -Landscape Architecture -Environmental Art -Montana Water Center Participate in park design and programming, long- term monitoring and restoration, student engagement and utilization of the Story Mill site for educational purposes 21 Story Mill Community Park Application 6. Please describe the anticipated maintenance requirements for the site and who will be responsible for maintenance. Recognizing that the Story Mill Community Park will add to the City’s maintenance budget, we have included a $200,000 stewardship endowment in the park’s budget. Until there is a master plan for the new park it is difficult to estimate long-term maintenance requirements. The national average put forward by the National Recreation and Parks Association ranges between $4,000 - 6,000/acre/year for maintenance of active park areas. Depending on the ultimate design, the Story Mill Community Park could include between 10-20 acres of active park programming. The $200,000 stewardship endowment fund is intended to help defray costs for the first several years as the City works to address expanded maintenance requirements across the park system. 7. Are you aware of any mitigation needs on any part of a proposed property? If so, please explain. There would be no required mitigation for any of the actions proposed for the Story Mill Community Park and restoration effort. Applicant Contact Information: Maddy Pope, Project Manager The Trust for Public Land 111 South Grand Avenue, Suite 203 Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 522-7450 x4 - office (406)-539-8698 - cell maddy.pope@tpl.org The Trust for Public Land Story Mill Community Park Application Appendix A Story Mill Ecological Restoration Selected Alternative Conceptual Design Story Mill Site Restoration Project Over the past year, The Trust for Public Land and a group of stakeholders have been working with the local riparian consulting firm, RESPEC, to develop a conceptual restoration plan for the Story Mill site with the following goals and objectives: Vision: Create a destination city park where people learn and recreate and where river and wetland resources are restored and protected for the Bozeman Community Ecological Goal: In consideration of site constraints and other project goals, restore and protect on-site natural processes necessary for a functioning riparian and wetlands system. Ecological Objectives:  Provide hydrologic connectivity between stream floodplain and wetlands to maximize riverine and wetlands habitat diversity.  Remove river process constraints and non-natural features to the extent possible in the context of land ownership and access.  Remove or modify drainage and excavated features that disrupt and diminish groundwater-dependent wetland extent and functioning to restore wetland functions to the extent site constraints allow.  Demonstrate improved water quality (temperature, nutrients, and sediment measures).  Restore native plant diversity (upland, wetland and riparian communities) and minimize invasive plants. We are happy to provide the TOP committee with a copy of the full Story Mill Ecological Restoration Conceptual Design Report. The maps on the following two pages depict the Selected Alternative Conceptual Plans for the north and south portions of the Story Mill site. The Trust for Public Land Story Mill Community Park Application Appendix B Partner Support Letters The Trust for Public Land Story Mill Community Park Application Appendix C Story Mill Online Survey Story Mill Online Survey Overview and Key Findings February 2013 For four weeks over the holiday season, we invited people interested in our Story Mill project to give us their views on the potential uses of the site through an online survey. 690 surveys were completed, and although the methodology does not lead to results that are statistically significant for the residents of Bozeman – and cannot be guaranteed to reflect the views of everyone in the community – it is an excellent response and a great basis for the planning process for the future of Story Mill. All the data tables from the survey are included in the appendix to this brief overview. Who responded? 97% of respondents come from Gallatin County, with 72% living within Bozeman. Within the city, 40% live in the north part of town, and 63% do not have any children at home. Park and trail usage is mixed – 60% use them very frequently, with nearly 5% visiting less than once a year. For the Story Mill Spur Trail specifically, 30% use it at least once a month, while 15% have never used the trail at all. Key Findings There is enthusiastic support for creating a nature sanctuary park at the Story Mill site, and the respondents supported an equally diverse number of activities they would like to enjoy there. Only 20 of the responders voiced significant concerns about the project, with a handful saying the site should be developed rather than turned into a park. For both future use and activities, responders were given a list of options to rank (any and all of which could be ranked highest or lowest priority) and the opportunity to add their own ideas. The top usage options were: enhance trail connections along the Story Mill spur; restore wetlands to benefit water quality; create a new, natural area park for the city and create a nature sanctuary. The most suggested additional facility was rest rooms, added by 34 responders, followed by signage and equestrian amenities. The top activities looked for in a new park were: to hike, bike or walk on a trail; enjoy rivers and water features; or view wildlife in wetlands. 0.0% 50.0% 100.0% Very Important Somewhat Important Not Important I do not have an opinion How important is it to protect and enhance water quality along the East Gallatin and Bozeman Creek and restore natural wetlands function on the site? The most popular ‘write-in’ activity was soccer, suggested by 57 people, with widespread support for a multi-purpose playing field suitable for everything from lacrosse to ultimate frisbee. In response to questions about specific uses, 90% agreed that it is very important to protect and enhance water quality and restore wetlands. 60%, when asked what kind of community gardening would be appropriate, voted in favor of an educational farm linked to local schools, and 56% answered yes to a proposal to redevelop a 24 acre site with affordable, energy-efficient housing – although nearly 20% indicated they need more information. Conclusion and Next Steps The results of this survey are very positive, and it is clear that there is real enthusiasm for making the Story Mill property into a multi-purpose outdoor park that is open to everyone. The Trust for Public Land will present these results at a public workshop in Bozeman on February 7thand will incorporate the community’s ideas into a master plan for the Story Mill site that includes a proposal for a new city park. For further information please contact our project manager, Maddy Pope, at maddy.pope@tpl.org 0%10%20%30%40% 50%60%70%80% 90%100% If a new park is created on a portion of the Story Mill property, what would you like to do in the new park? [Choose as many responses as you like] Appendix: Survey Response Tables Response Percent Response Count 72.2%477 24.7%163 3.2%21 661 29skipped question Outside of the Bozeman but within Gallatin County Where is your primary residence? (Please select one) answered question Within the City of Bozeman Outside of Gallatin County Answer Options Response Percent Response Count 2.0%13 14.8%95 17.2%111 27.2%175 30.9%199 7.9%51 644 46 6 – 10 years skipped question Answer Options More than 20 years 1 – 5 years answered question If you are a current resident of Bozeman, how long have you lived in Bozeman? 11-20 years Less than a year Not a resident Response Percent Response Count 42.0%265 34.9%220 12.5%79 10.6%67 631 59 If you are a current resident, in what part of Bozeman do you live? Not a resident North side of Bozeman skipped question West end of Bozeman Answer Options answered question South side of Bozeman Response Percent Response Count 0.3%2 0.6%4 10.1%67 25.4%168 25.1%166 29.3%194 9.1%60 661 29skipped question Under 18 years of age 51-65 22-30 answered question Answer Options 41-50 18-21 Over 65 years of age How old are you? 31-40 Response Percent Response Count 63.2%417 15.5%102 18.2%120 2.3%15 0.9%6 660 30skipped question How many children age 17 or younger live in your household? 3 0 answered question 2 Answer Options 4+ 1 Response Percent Response Count 0.9%6 3.8%26 9.7%67 25.7%177 60.0%414 690 0skipped question How frequently do you use the parks and trails in the City of Bozeman and/or Gallatin Valley? Frequently (once a month or more) I’ve never visited any of the parks and trails in the City answered question Occasionally (every few months or so) Answer Options Very frequently (once a week or more) Infrequently (less than once a year) Response Percent Response Count 15.7%108 21.2%146 31.4%217 20.0%138 11.7%81 690 0skipped question How frequently do you use the Story Mill spur trail? Frequently (once a month or more) I’ve never used the trail answered question Occasionally (every few months or so) Answer Options Very frequently (once a week or more) Infrequently (less than once a year) Response Percent Response Count 72.2%498 22.0%152 4.3%30 1.4%10 690 0 How important is it to you to see the Story Mill Spur Trail expanded to help provide safe routes for walking, running or cycling between downtown I do not have an opinion Very Important skipped question Not Important Answer Options answered question Somewhat Important Answer Options Answer Options Response Percent Response Count 89.3%616 78.6%542 65.9%455 49.6%342 47.5%328 46.7%322 44.3%306 41.0%283 37.5%259 31.6%218 27.1%187 23.6%163 22.9%158 18.6%128 13.8%95 2.9%20 94 690 0 Follow a self-guided environmental education tour Have a picnic Other (please specify) Take children or friends to a playground Hike, bike, or walk on a trail Play active sports Bird watch skipped question answered question Enjoy rivers and water features Use a small performance stage Exercise dogs in an off-leash dog area Raise plants in a community garden View wildlife in wetlands Other Fish in East Gallatin River or Bozeman Creek View a mural or other artwork Sit on a park bench Climb on a bouldering rock If a new park is created on a portion of the Story Mill property, what would you like to do in the new park? [Choose as many responses as you like] Response Percent Response Count 63.2%436 58.4%403 52.3%361 36.7%253 35.1%242 3.8%26 690 0skipped question Help local growers provide farm-to-market services Other Community garden with leased garden plots to answered question Answer Options Demonstration farm to raise community awareness of Educational farm linked to preschool and K-12 If a portion of the Story Mill property were used for agricultural purposes, how should it be used? [Choose as many responses as you like] Community farm for providing produce to the food Response Percent Response Count 55.5%383 25.2%174 19.3%133 690 0skipped question No Should a 24-acre portion of the site along Bridger Canyon Drive, which was formerly a trailer park, be redeveloped into affordable housing with answered question Yes I do not have an opinion Answer Options Response Percent Response Count 87.1%601 10.7%74 1.2%8 1.0%7 690 0 How important is it to protect and enhance water quality along the East Gallatin and Bozeman Creek and restore natural wetlands function on the I do not have an opinion Very Important skipped question Not Important Answer Options answered question Somewhat Important Rating Average Response Count 490 114 36 27 1.40 667 461 127 55 26 1.47 669 379 157 94 29 1.66 659 128 236 188 105 2.41 657 396 178 52 37 1.59 663 96 120 180 237 2.88 633 294 227 96 38 1.81 655 115 189 219 120 2.53 643 47 678 12 answered question Restore wetlands to benefit the water quality of Enhance public access to the East Gallatin River and Please rank the following according to the highest priority for the future use of the Story Mill property. (highest priority is the box on the far left and lowest priority is the box on the far right) Create community gardens and an urban agriculture Other (please specify) Enhance trail connection options along the Story Mill Create an active park, with playgrounds or ball fields skipped question Create a nature sanctuary for waterfowl and riparian- Develop interpretive or educational materials to help Answer Options Create a new, natural area park for the city The Trust for Public Land Story Mill Community Park Application Appendix D Story Mill Site Views Story Mill Project Site: Northern Section Views Story Mill Project Site: East Gallatin River and Southern Section Views Story Mill Project Site: Southern Section Views Story Mill Project Site: Story Mill Spur Trail Connections