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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRCC 2023-02-08 agenda.pdf City of Maple Ridge Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee AGENDA – REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 4:00 pm Blaney Room, Maple Ridge City Hall Meeting Access Information Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee (PRCC) meetings are held in a hybrid format. Members of the PRCC and the public are asked to join the meeting in-person in the Blaney Room at Maple Ridge City Hall or remotely using the following access information: Join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone https://mapleridge-ca.zoom.us/j/89951614922?pwd=Z05ERFpjZ2lSdWJ2MkVyL3NSaHFIdz09 Or join the meeting using your phone Dial: 1-778-907-2071 Meeting ID: 899 5161 4922 Passcode: 438933 1.CALL TO ORDER 2.APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA 3.ADOPTION OF MINUTES – October 26, 2022 4.NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS 4.1 Welcome/Member Introductions 4.2 Advisory Committee Overview 4.3 Chair and Vice Chair Selections 4.4 2023 Meeting Schedule 4.5 2023 Draft Work Plan 5.DELEGATIONS 5.1 PRC Master Plan Review – Stephen Slawuta, RC Strategies 5.2 BC Summer Games – Christa Balatti 6.LIAISON UPDATES 6.1 Staff Liaison 6.2 Council Liaison 7.QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC 8.ROUNDTABLE 9.ADJOURNMENT Next Meeting: May 31, 2023 Agenda Items Submission Deadline: May 17, 2023 QUESTION PERIOD Question Period provides the public with the opportunity to ask questions or make comments on subjects that are of concern to them. Each person will be given 2 minutes to speak. Up to ten minutes in total is allotted for Question Period. MAPLE RIDGE Oril•tih Col.umb1• mapleradge.ca Doc#2982706 City of Maple Ridge Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee MEETING MINUTES October 26, 2022 Regular Meeting Blaney Room Maple Ridge City Hall The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee (PRCC) held via Zoom teleconference and hosted at Maple Ridge City Hall on October 26, 2022 at 4:00 pm. COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT Councillor Ryan Svendsen, Chair Council Liaison Carolyn Gosling, Vice Chair Member at Large Sasha Passaglia Member at Large Stephen Von Sychowski* Member at Large Mike Murray School District No. 42 Board Trustee Cass MacLeod Member at Large STAFF PRESENT Danielle Pope Director of Recreation & Community Engagement/Staff Liaison Arsh Dhillon Committee Clerk Darlene Slevin Recreation Coordinator – Volunteer & Special Events Tony Cotroneo Manager of Community Engagement COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT Karlo Tamondong Member at Large *Participated Remotely 1.CALL TO ORDER – 4:01 p.m. 2.APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA R/2022-PRCC-011 It was moved and seconded That the agenda for the October 26, 2022 Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee Regular Meeting be approved as amended including moving Neighbourhood Engagement to Item 5.1 and 2023 Business Planning to Item 5.2. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 3.ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES R/2022-PRCC-012 It was moved and seconded That the minutes of the Maple Ridge Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee Regular Meeting dated June 29, 2022 be adopted. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 4.DELEGATIONS – NIL Note: C. MacLeod joined the meeting at 4:04 PM. 3.0 MAPLE RIDG E Dnl••h Cotumbta maple ridge.ca Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee Minutes October 26, 2022 Page 2 of 3 Doc#2982708 5. NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1 Neighbourhood Engagement – Darlene Slevin and Tony Cotroneo D. Slevin, Recreation Coordinator, and T. Cotroneo, Manager of Community Engagement presented on Placemaking Celebrating Great Neighbourhoods. Topics included: guiding principles, placemaking strategies and the 2023 engagement plan. The Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee engaged in discussion, asked questions and provided feedback. Note: S. Passaglia left the meeting at 4:18 PM. Note: T. Cotroneo left the meeting at 4:33 PM. Note: D. Slevin left the meeting at 4:35 PM. 5.2 2023 Business Planning D. Pope highlighted the achievements and deliverables from the Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee 2022 Work, including discussion on the draft 2023 Work Plan. Committee members provided their recommendations and feedback. A revised copy of the 2023 Work Plan will be provided at the next Parks, Recreation, and Culture Advisory Committee regular meeting. R/2022-PRCC-013 It was moved and seconded That the 2023 Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee Work Plan be endorsed. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 6. LIAISON UPDATES 6.1 Staff Liaison D. Pope provided an update on the following items: • Committee membership terms • Turnout and activities during Celebrate the Night event on October 21, 2022 • PRC Master Plan draft and recommendations 6.2 Council Liaison Councillor Ryan Svendsen provided an update on the following items: • Council land acquisition for parkland • Grant applications to federal government for park maintenance • Callaghan Park and heritage protection 7. QUESTION PERIOD FROM THE PUBLIC - NIL 8. ROUNDTABLE Committee members shared information on relevant events and activities. 9. ADJOURNMENT – 5:02 p.m. Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee Minutes October 26, 2022 Page 3 of 3 Doc#2982708 The next regular meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee will be held on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 4:00 pm. ________________________ Councillor R. Svendsen, Chair /ad Parks, Recreation, and Culture Advisory Committee (PRCC) TO: Committee Members MEETING: February 8, 2023 FROM: Committee Clerk SUBJECT: Chair and Vice Chair Selection BACKGROUND: The goal of the Chairperson is to ensure that the Committee functions properly, that there is full participation during meetings, that all relevant matters are discussed, and that effective decisions are made and carried out. There are three main spheres that the Chairperson has to manage: •Assisting with the planning of meetings •Running the meetings •Ensuring that the Committee is achieving its goals The Committee Clerk will chair the meeting as the Acting Chair until a new Chair is appointed or for the duration of the meeting. During the meeting, the floor will be opened for Committee members to nominate fellow members for the position of Chair and Vice Chair. In order for their name to stand, an individual must accept the nomination. If there are multiple nominations and nominees willing to serve, voting will be done through ballots. If a Committee member is participating virtually, voting will be done virtually via Zoom. The Committee member will send a private Zoom chat message to the Committee Clerk with their vote. The Committee Clerk will compile all the votes and provide the results to the Committee. The Committee Clerk will then ask if any member would like to put forward a motion that the selected individual be appointed as Chair or Vice Chair for 2023. Once the Chair and Vice Chair have been appointed, the meeting can be turned over to the appointed Chair or the Committee Clerk can continue as the Acting Chair for the remainder of the meeting with approval from the newly elected Chair. RECOMMENDATION(S): That _____________be appointed as Chair of the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Advisory Committee for 2023. That be appointed as Vice Chair of the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Advisory Committee for 2023. 4.3 mapleridge.ca Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 17 18 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 24 25 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 31 26 27 28 26 27 28 29 30 31 Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 1 2 3 5 6 1 2 3 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 FCM 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 12 13 16 17 16 17 18 19 21 22 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 23/30 24 25 26 27 28 29 28 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 22 23 23/30 24/31 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 31 26 27 28 29 24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30 Committee:Meeting Time/ Location: Parks, Recreation, and Culture Advisory Committee (PRCC)4:00 pm - Zoom OR Blaney Room, Maple Ridge City Hall Meeting Dates: Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 4:00 PM Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at 4:00 PM Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 4:00 PM Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at 4:00 PM June R September K 2023 PRCC Calendar NOTE: Calendar subject to change. January February March E A KBR 16 October November December K A KR K B B R R E A K 30 April 29 May B MEMBERSHIP RECRUITMENT CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS B 29 B R E A K 4 20 14 15 21 5 E A K 30 B R E A ER 16 30 A AB August E 23 E July 4.4 □ Committee Mandate The Parks, Recreation and Culture Committee (PRCC) will advise Council on the enhancement of parks, recreation and culture to deliver services and programs that best meet the needs of present and future citizens of Maple Ridge. The Committee provides community perspective on emerging needs and policies, makes recommendations on strategic planning initiatives, and advise on matters referred to the Committee by Council. 4.5 Final Draft – November 2022 5.1 Maple Ridge is located on the traditional territory of the Katzie First Nation and Kwantlen First Nation, and whose land we live, work and play. Through our shared commitment to land and place, the City of Maple Ridge seeks to honour the legacy of the region’s Indigenous Peoples and find new ways of walking together to create opportunities for shared truths and to continue on the path towards reconciliation. I Executive Summary Master Plan Purpose, Process and Inputs The new City of Maple Ridge Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan will guide how services (facilities and programs) are delivered over the next 10 years. The Master Plan will be used by staff and Council to inform decision making and priority setting with the goal of providing all residents with optimal, sustainable and accessible parks, recreation and culture services. The Master Plan was developed throughout 2022 and informed by extensive community engagement, research and analysis. Phase 1: Project Launch Spring 2022 Phase 2: Research and Engagement Learning about the state of Parks, Recreation and Culture in Maple Ridge Spring-Early Summer 2022 Phase 3: Visioning and Strategic Direction Setting Summer 2022 Phase 4: Developing and Finalizing the New Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan Fall 2022 The Master Plan Process C ■------------ II Master Plan Inputs (Engagement, Research and Analysis) Community Engagement Research and Analysis External Stakeholder Discussions 15 sessions, representing approximately 50 stakeholder interests Sounding Boards & Pop-Up Events numerous touchpoints with residents throughout May and June Children & Youth Engagement Children's Activity Colouring Book (22 participants) Yo uth Survey (118 responses) Coded Resident Survey 731 responses Non-Coded (Open Access) Resident Survey 553 responses User Group Questionnaire 34 responding groups Online Crowdsourcing 383 “pins” Review of current service delivery practices Review of trends and best practices Recreation infrastructure condition assessments Benchmarking (comparison of infrastructure provision with other communities that have a population under 155,000 residents) Population and demographics analysis Inventory of parks, recreation and culture infrastructure assets Spatial analysis (e.g. the geographic distribution of amenities and relationship to key population characteristics) I 0 ¥ • . i• . • E ;: --------------■ III Strategic Objectives for Parks, Recreation and Culture in Maple Ridge Section 3 of the Master Plan identifies five Strategic Objectives that are intended to anchor the City’s investment in parks, recreation and culture around some overarching shared values. In other words, these Strategic Objectives should be fundamental to why and how the City invests in providing residents with parks, recreation and culture opportunities. Diversity of Opportunities What does this mean? The City provides a mix of appealing parks, recreation and culture opportunities that appeal to all demographics and interests. Why is this important? • Public sector parks, recreation and culture services are most beneficial when they meet a broad spectrum of community needs. • Having a balance of active and passive, structured and spontaneous, and indoor and outdoor opportunities ensures all residents have opportunities to participate. Aligning with Trends What does this mean? The City recognizes that parks, recreation and culture trends and preferences are continually evolving with service delivery being able to adjust and evolve accordingly. Why is this important? • Programming and facilities need to be aligned and adjusted as needs and preferences change. • The City has the expertise and data to identify and analyze trends (which can also support community group delivery and trends alignment). Strategic Objectives ■-------------- IV Inclusive and Accessible What does this mean? All residents have opportunities to benefit from the City’s investment in parks, recreation and culture. Why is this important? • Publicly provided parks, recreation and culture services need to benefit all residents (directly or indirectly). • Ensuring inclusion and access aligns with key City values across the entire organization. Value for Tax Dollar What does this mean? The City makes optimal use of available resources by ensuring that public funds are aligned with community need and opportunities to leverage resources through partnerships are taken advantage of. Why is this important? • Resources are always finite (limited) and it is the responsibility of the City to ensure capital and operating decisions lever the highest possible amount of public benefit. • Showing prudent and transparent use of available resources helps build support for service delivery and ensures clarity as to how decisions are made. Quality Services What does this mean? Residents believe that the City provides and/or support programs, events and other activities that are delivered to a best in class standard. Why is this important? • Aligning with best practices ensures that programming and facilities provide meaningful parks, recreation and culture opportunities that foster the desired personal wellness and community-wide outcomes. • Residents do, and should, have a high expectation of publicly delivered “quality of life” services. Strategic Objectives --------------■ V Strategies The Master Plan recommends 94 Strategies, organized into four sections (Section 4 – 7). These Strategies were developed to establish key focus areas and priorities over the next ten years. Parks and Open Spaces Strategies *See Section 4 for additional details on each Strategy Amenity / Space Type Recommended Strategies Overall Park Space Supply A. Develop a Parkland Acquisition Strategy. B. Strive to sustain Neighbourhood Park provide at 0.69 Ha. per 1,000 residents. C. Identify opportunities to strategically and responsibly develop City owned lands to increase park supply. D. Adopt and use the refreshed classification system to guide experiential quality and operational inputs. E. Improve the collection of park utilization data in order to better understand utilization data, park provision benefits, trends and other data points that can inform operational and capital resource allocation. F. Allocate resources to undertake strategic planning for the following specific sites: Maple Ridge Park, Whonnock Lake Park, Jackson Farms, Albion Sports Complex/Fairgrounds, Thornhill and waterfront park spaces. G. Develop an Urban Forest Management Strategy. Playgrounds A. Continue the Playground Renewal Strategy to identify targeted renewal / lifecycle schedules for all City managed playgrounds. B. Undertake a detailed inventory of play structures and spaces that includes a play opportunity rating. C. Continue to diversify the play inventory to ensure a balance of play opportunities (natural play, adventure play, etc.) and ensure accessibility across the children and youth age spectrum. Trails A. Develop a Recreation Trails Strategy to further explore trail system specific needs and provide the necessary strategic and tactical guidance. B. Establish a Trails Committee (as a sub-committee to the Parks, Recreation & Culture Advisory Committee) to advise administration on an ongoing basis. Campgrounds A. Support Economic Development in a feasibility study to further explore the viability of a campground by the City of via partnership. ■--------------- VI Amenity / Space Type Recommended Strategies Park Amenities and Features A. Continue to monitor picnic shelter bookings and consider further addition of picnic shelter supply if demand continues to trend upwards. B. Continue to identify new and creative ways to encourage and facilitate social gathering across the city’s park spaces. C. Identify opportunities for increased placemaking across all classes of parks, including the integration of public art and features that create neighbourhood, community and city- wide connections. D. Continue to invest and sustain spray parks across the city and analyze the spatial distribution of spray parks across the City to guide development of new spray parks and features. E. Undertake an assessment of existing parks and identify opportunities to include trending amenities and features where appropriate in new and enhanced park spaces. Dog Off-leash Areas (DOLA’s) A. Continue to utilize the engagement findings from the 2020 Dog Park Survey to inform operational and planning decisions. Consider replicating this survey every 3 years (2023) to track trends and shifting perspectives. B. Use the recommended criteria to assess the suitability of new or retrofitted parks to accommodate dog off-leash use. Community Gardens A. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. B. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks and vacant City-owned lands with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. VII Recreation Facilities Strategies *See Section 5 for additional details on each Strategy Indoor Recreation Amenities Facility / Amenity Type Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Aquatics Facilities A. Continue to conduct regular assessments of the MRLC and undertake the necessary repairs and enhancements needed to keep this facility at a safe, functional and appealing level. B. Undertake feasibility analysis for a new aquatics facility to serve the community. *Additional suggestions on specific areas requiring further exploration are identified later in this section. Ice Arenas A. Work with the Planet Ice arenas operator and arena stakeholder groups to confirm acceptable service standards that ensure facility sustainability and optimize user experience. B. Expand the supply of arenas in the city by 2 sheets, with 1 sheet developed in the near term in order to meet ice and dry- floor needs. C. Use the recommended Ice Provision Approach Framework to guide future decision making on the best approaches to provide ice arenas in the city. Indoor Walking / Running Tracks N/A A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multi-use facility or community centre). Indoor Children’s Play Space N/A A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multisport facility, pool or community centre) and/or as part of a future space retrofit. Neighbourhood Hubs and Gymnasium Spaces A. Review the infrastructure upgrade planned for the Hammond Community Centre site. B. Ensure the Whonnock Lake and Albion Community Centre sites are sustained through the appropriate asset management practices. C. Work with School District 42 to maximize community access to school gymnasiums as a primary means of increasing gymnasium supply in the community. D. Use the recommended Neighbourhood Hub Service Level Targets to inform future capital investment and planning decisions. Youth Focused Spaces A. Develop a lifecycle plan to sustain the Greg Moore Youth Centre and undertake regular condition assessments to update the plan. B. As an ongoing practice, develop a business plan every 5 years that revisits trends, program practices and space optimization opportunities. C. As new facilities are planned and brought online, ensure unstructured space needs for youth are considered. ■--------------- VIII Facility / Amenity Type Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Older Adult Focused Spaces A. Continue to invest and sustain the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre. B. Ensure that evolving older adult activity needs are considered as all other types of new indoor recreation infrastructure are planned. Racquet Court Sports A. For the short to medium term, sustain the current courts at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre. B. Monitor trends and utilization and consider re-purposing opportunities if higher value uses of these spaces are clearly justified. N/A Curling Facilities A. Develop a lifecycle plan to ensure that the Golden Ears Winter Club facility is sustained at a safe, functional and appealing level. N/A Indoor Multi-Use Facilities N/A A. Establish a working group consisting of local indoor sport, recreation, and culture stakeholders to develop program and space needs for an indoor multi-use facility. Climbing Walls A. Sustain the climbing structure and bouldering wall in the Greg Moore Youth Centre. B. Monitor private sector provision and trends. C. Consider including an aquatics climbing feature and/or dryland climbing feature as part of future recreation facility development based on trends, community engagement and assessed need as projects are implemented. Fitness Facilities A. Continue to sustain the existing fitness spaces at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre at a functional and appealing level. B. Include fitness spaces and amenities in future arena and aquatics facility development. Recreation Support Spaces N/A A. Ensure that community-wide needs for meeting spaces, program rooms, social gathering space, and office space are considered as part of future arena and aquatics facility planning. ---------------■ IX Outdoor Recreation Amenities Facility / Amenity Type Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Pickleball Courts A. Continue to monitor pickleball trends and determine the best and highest value use of existing court spaces. B. Initiate planning for a hub pickleball facility (12+ courts) that can accommodate the growth of this activity and provide tournament hosting capability. Outdoor Sports Courts A. Continue to invest and sustain existing courts at a safe and functional level. B. Include as a standard amenity offered in most new and renewed Community and Neighbourhood parks. Skate Parks / Youth Amenities A. Work with the wheeled sports community (skateboarders, scooter participants, etc.) to optimize existing amenities, monitor trends, and encourage participation in the various wheeled sports disciplines. B. If future trends and community engagement suggest that more supply is needed, establish a working group to identify potential site options. Sports Fields A. Develop a capital reserve fund specific to synthetic turf renewal. B. Continue to work with sport groups to identify opportunities to optimize the supply of, and access to, support amenities like washrooms, seating areas, and storage. C. Consider retrofitting or adding a synthetic turf ball diamond in order to increase capacity, multi-use functionality, and enable expanded shoulder season use. D. Work with the City of Pitt Meadows to develop a Ridge-Meadows Sport Field Supply Study. Outdoor Aquatics A. Continue to undertake basic repairs to the Hammond Outdoor Pool to sustain use for the short term. B. Determine the future of the Hammond Outdoor Pool based on the outcomes of the Aquatics Feasibility Study. Tennis Courts A. Sustain the current supply of tennis courts. B. Use Tennis Canada’s Municipal Tennis Facilities Strategy & Partnership Framework (Let’s Play Year-Round) and the Capital Project Delivery Process provided in Section 7 of this Master Plan document to guide future exploration and potential City involvement in a covered tennis facility. Track and Field Venues A. Consider taking on increased maintenance responsibility for the existing track at Maple Ridge Secondary in order to improve standards and user experience. N/A (current track expected to meet community needs for the next 10 years) ■--------------- X Facility / Amenity Type Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Major Outdoor Event Venues A. Work with stakeholders to develop a site Master Plan that better leverages the Fairgrounds and Albion Sports Complex. B. Conduct a feasibility study to determine needs for a new outdoor stadium venue. Equestrian Facilities / Amenities A. Continue to support and maintain existing equestrian facilities. B. Further investigate equestrian needs as part of the suggested Recreation Trails Strategy. Mountain Bike Trails A. Develop a Thornhill Trails Management Strategy. B. Further explore future needs as part of the recommended Recreation Trails Strategy. Bike Skills Parks and Amenities A. Work with local stakeholders and users to support growth of the sport and encourage use of existing amenities and features. B. Consider bike skills amenities and features as part of all new park builds. Sand Volleyball Courts A. Monitor utilization of the new sand volleyball courts being added in 2023. N/A (current sand volleyball court supply is sufficient for the next 10 years) XI Arts and Culture Infrastructure Strategies *See Section 6 for additional details on each Strategy Arts and Culture Infrastructure Topic / Focus Area Strategies Policy Advancement A. Continue to advance the infrastructure related Objectives and Supporting Actions identified in Walking Together, the City of Maple Ridge Culture Master Plan. ACT Arts Centre A. Ensure that a sufficient asset management plan exists for re-investment in the ACT Arts Centre. Public Art A. Further integrate public art (including and especially Indigenous art) with recreation through installations and murals in recreation facilities, parks and trail features / signage. B. Establish a public art allocation commitment for new recreation facilities being considered (e.g. a % of the total project value). Integrating into Community Infrastructure A. Ensure arts and culture stakeholders and space needs are considered as new community facility development is undertaken. XII Service Delivery Strategies *See Section 7 for additional details Service Delivery Topic / Focus Area Strategies Data Collection and Management A. Enhance the collection, management and use of data to inform decision making. B. Develop KPI’s to measure the City’s success rates in the delivery of parks, recreation and culture services. Child Care A. Continue focusing on providing programming and activity opportunities for children and youth during critical hours. B. Consider child care space needs as part of all future space planning. Major Capital Planning A. Use the recommended Capital Project Delivery Process to guide future major capital facility projects. B. Work with adjacent municipalities and other regional entities to ensure that capital planning for parks, recreation and culture infrastructure occurs collaboratively using a regional lens. Service Delivery Approaches & Tools A. Use the Recreation and Culture Opportunity Delivery Approaches Tool to guide programming and activity delivery decision making. B. Use the recommended Programming Triggers to inform decision making and when programming should be considered for expanded provision or retirement. Increasing Participation A. Continue identifying ways to engage equity seeking residents and those with social, physical and cultural barriers in active living opportunities. B. Improve communications and marketing in order to connect more residents with parks, recreation and culture opportunities. XIII Service Delivery Topic / Focus Area Strategies Policy Development and Refreshment A. Develop a new Fees and Charges Policy in alignment with the recommended benefits continuum. B. Review the allocation policy, adopted in 2021, to ensure it meets the recommended principles. C. Refresh the Public Art Policy to include a commitment to a capital allocation for new recreation infrastructure (as previously identified in Section 6). D. Develop a new Facilities and Amenities Naming Policy. A Commitment to Reconciliation A. Develop a statement of commitment that reflects how the City will utilize parks, recreation and culture to implement pertinent Calls to Action identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. B. Engage with local Indigenous communities and rights holders to identify how the City’s parks, trails, open spaces, programs and services can better connect to Indigenous culture and history. Strategy Alignment and Implementation A. Adequately resource the implementation of previously developed strategies. B. Utilize parks, recreation and culture as a mechanism to advance the priorities and goals identified in the Economic Development Strategy and Maple Ridge Tourism Strategy. *Section 4 identifies a number of outdoor space plans and strategies that should be undertaken to guide the development of potential new park spaces and optimization of existing ones. ■--------------- XIV Implementation – What Comes Next? Section 8 of the Master Plan outlines a preliminary implementation plan for the Master Plan Strategies and performance measurement tools to track implementation success. The City will need to continue updating and refining these timeframes and resource requirements over the next decade based on a number of factors, including available resources and budgeting considerations (e.g. competing priorities from other City service areas), partnership opportunities, and new trends or evolving needs. Included throughout the Master Plan are a number of tools that they City can use to support project specific analysis and implementation and broader service level decision making. ■ XV Table of Contents 1 Introduction 1 1.1. Master Plan Purpose and Context 2 1 .2. The Master Plan Process 4 1 .3. Master Plan Format 5 2 What we Learned and Heard Summary 7 2.1. Engagement and Research Overview 8 2.2. Key Findings 9 3 Foundations for Parks, Recreation and Culture Services in Maple Ridge 12 3.1. The Importance of Grounding Parks, Recreation and Culture Investment in Clear Foundations 13 3.2. Strategic Objectives for Parks, Recreation, and Culture in Maple Ridge 1 4 4 Parks and Open Spaces 16 4.1. Overview of the Current Situation 17 4.2. Park Classifications 21 4.3. Parks and Open Spaces Strategies 24 5 Recreation Facilities 37 5.1. The Current Situation 38 5.2. Prioritization Framework 40 5 .3. Recreation Infrastructure Strategies 41 6 Arts and Culture Infrastructure 70 6.1. The Current Situation 71 6.2. Arts and Culture Infrastructure Strategies 73 7 Service Delivery 78 7.1. The Current Situation 79 7.2. Service Delivery Strategies 81 8 Implementation Plan 96 8.1. Strategy Implementation 97 Appendices 113 ■------------ 1 Introduction Section One 2 1.1. Master Plan Purpose and Context The City of Maple Ridge has developed this new Parks, Recreation & Culture Master Plan to guide the delivery of services (facilities and programs) over the next 10 years. The Master Plan will provide staff and Council with a key strategic planning document that helps inform decision making, priority setting and ensures that parks, recreation and culture services are optimized, sustainable, and accessible to all residents. The City’s last Parks, Recreation, and Culture Master Plan was developed in 2010. The City invests approximately $15 million dollars annually in parks, recreation and culture to achieve a number of community benefits, including: • Resident social, mental and physical wellbeing; • Community connectedness, pride and spirit; • Generation of non-local spending by attracting visitors to the community; and • Increasing the perceived value of the community for prospective residents, businesses, and developers. Did you know? Over the past 10 years Maple Ridge has grown by approximately 15,000 new residents. With 18% of residents aged 14 and under, Maple Ridge is one of the youngest communities in Metro Vancouver. 3 To achieve the benefits noted on the previous page, the City’s delivery of parks, recreation and culture services utilizes three different approaches: • Direct Delivery: The City provides services, programming and other related activities at parks and facilities that they operate and maintain. • Indirect Delivery: The City forms agreements with business and non-profits specializing in recreation and culture programs and services for citizens through a number of contract models (e.g. partner operated facilities, contracted third party entities to provide services, grants, etc.). • Mix of Direct and Indirect Delivery: The City directly offers some programming and activities, but also invests in recreation and culture through indirect methods. The City providing subsidized time to user groups that offer programming at City operated facilities is an example of blending direct and indirect delivery approaches. This document will guide the City’s decision-making and help the City maximize its return on investment by providing guidance on which service delivery method will be most effective. Indirect Delivery Direct Delivery Mix of Direct & Indirect Delivery Maple Ridge Example: Partnership with the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Arts Council to operate and program the ACT Arts Centre Maple Ridge Example: Directly delivering programs and lessons at the MRLC pool while also making pool time available to swim clubs Maple Ridge Example: Programming at the MRLC and other City operated facilities ------------------■ 4 1.2. The Master Plan Process The following graphic illustrates the four-phase process used to develop the Master Plan. Key findings from the research and engagement (a critical aspect of developing the new Master Plan) are provided in Section 2. The research and engagement undertaken by the project team helped determine the current state of parks, recreation and culture in Maple Ridge and identify key strategic directions, priorities, and opportunities. Phase 1: Project Launch Spring 2022 Phase 2: Research and Engagement Learning about the state of Parks, Recreation and Culture in Maple Ridge Spring-Early Summer 2022 Phase 3: Visioning and Strategic Direction Setting Summer 2022 Phase 4: Developing and Finalizing the New Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan Fall 2022 5 1.3. Master Plan Format The Master Plan document has been organized into eight sections. The following table explains the purpose of each section in the Master Plan. Section Strategic Purpose Within the Master Plan Document Section 1: Introduction Provides context on why the City is developing a new Master Plan and the process used. Section 2: What We Learned and Heard Summary This section provides an overview of the research and engagement inputs used as well as a summary of key findings. Section 3: Foundations for Parks, Recreation and Culture Services in Maple Ridge Parks, recreation and culture services should be based in a clear, philosophical understanding of what the City is looking to achieve through its ongoing investment. This section provides Strategic Objectives that should drive overall service delivery and investment (and which can be used on a move forward basis to measure success). Section 4: Parks and Open Spaces This section provides a refreshed classification system to support parks and open space planning and management as well as Strategies for the various types of park infrastructure and spaces. Section 5: Recreation Infrastructure This section provides Strategies to guide investment across the various types of indoor and outdoor recreation infrastructure. The Strategies are based upon a prioritization framework that helps identify those potential projects that provide the highest degree of overall community benefit. Section 6: Arts and Culture Infrastructure This section provides Strategies to guide investment and optimization of arts and culture facilities and spaces in Maple Ridge. Section 7: Service Delivery Provides Strategies intended to optimize how the City plans, manages, and delivers recreation and culture services on an ongoing basis. Section 8: Implementation Identifies high level implementation timing and resource requirements for the Strategies in Sections 4 – 7. ---------------■ 6 At a Glance - Overview of Parks, Recreation and Culture Infrastructure in Maple Ridge The ACT Arts Centre •486 Seat Theatre •Studio Gallery •Art Gallery •Ceramic/Pottery Workshop •Dance Studio Maple Ridge Leisure Centre •Competition, Leisure and Teach Pools •Sauna, Steam Room(s) and Hot Tub •Two Gymnasiums •Fitness Centre •Three Multi-use Rooms •One Squash Court, Two Racquetball Courts •One Boxing Studio Greg Moore Youth Centre •Social/Games Space •Active Area •Skate Ramps •Climbing Wall Ridge Meadows Seniors Centre Maple Ridge Library Community Centres/Halls •Albion Community Centre •Hammond Community Centre •Whonnock Lake Centre Planet Ice & Golden Ears Winter Club •Two ice surfaces •One ice surface w/ 6 sheets Heritage Sites •Haney House •Maple Ridge Museum Sports Fields •Synthetic fields •Twenty natural grass sports fields Sport Courts/Lacrosse Boxes •Seven Pickleball Courts and 1 Convertible Court •16 Tennis Courts •Two Lacrosse Boxes Outdoor Aquatics & Water Features •Hammond Outdoor Pool •Two Large Spray Parks •Six Small Water Features Park Amenities (247 ha. of managed parks space) •47 Playgrounds •Five Outdoor Fitness Equipment Locations •Seven Picnic Shelters •Three Outdoor Skate Parks •Four Community Garden Sites •Six Dog Off-Leash Areas Multi-use Trails •210 km of trails 7 What we Learned and Heard Summary Section Two 8 2.1. Engagement and Research Overview The Master Plan was informed by a broad and extensive data collection process undertaken by the project team in order to better understand the current state of parks, recreation and culture in Maple Ridge, potential opportunities for optimization, gaps, and potential areas of future focus / priority. The community engagement was focused on ensuring that all residents had an opportunity to offer input and that wide ranging perspectives were garnered from the public, children and youth, stakeholders, and user groups. Community Engagement Research and Analysis External Stakeholder Discussions 15 sessions, representing approximately 50 stakeholder interests Sounding Boards & Pop-Up Events numerous touchpoints with residents throughout May and June Children & Youth Engagement Children's Activity Colouring Book (22 participants) Yo uth Survey (118 responses) Coded Resident Survey 731 responses Non-Coded (Open Access) Resident Survey 553 responses User Group Questionnaire 34 responding groups Online Crowdsourcing 383 “pins” Review of current service delivery practices Review of trends and best practices Recreation infrastructure condition assessments Benchmarking (comparison of infrastructure provision with other communities that have a population under 155,000 residents) Population and demographics analysis Inventory of parks, recreation and culture infrastructure assets Spatial analysis (e.g. the geographic distribution of amenities and relationship to key population characteristics) I . tit .. ~ll . • ~ ~ ll ' ■,----------------- 9 2.2. Key Findings Provided is a summary of key findings from the research and engagement. The detailed findings are available in the Needs Assessment and “What We Heard” Report – the background report to the Master Plan. Key Findings from the Engagement – Resident Survey Parks, recreation and culture opportunities are highly valued by residents and a number of physical, wellness, and social reasons motivate activity participation. Physical health and exercise, enjoying nature and the outdoors, pleasure / entertainment (having fun!), being with friends and/or family and mental health and wellbeing were the top 5 motivators of activity among Maple Ridge households. While residents value and engage in a lot of program- based activity, a large proportion of recreation and leisure in Maple Ridge is spontaneous / unstructured (e.g. use of trails and parks, drop-in use of facilities, etc.). Top 5 indoor activities that Maple Ridge households regularly participate in: swimming drop- in, fitness / weight training at a gym, library activities, fitness classes, and swimming pool programs (e.g. lessons). Top 5 outdoor activities that Maple Ridge households regularly participate in: hiking / walking / running on a trail or pathway, gardening, nature viewing, BBQ/picnic/social gathering, and cycling / biking. Satisfaction levels with parks, recreation and culture are generally strong, but opportunities exist to improve communications and awareness of opportunities. The majority of residents are somewhat or very satisfied with most aspects of service delivery. Satisfaction levels were highest for the city’s parks system. However, nearly half of residents indicated that they feel inadequately informed about parks, recreation and culture opportunities. There is a strong demand for new facility development in Maple Ridge, however many residents are hesitant to incur increased taxes and user fees to support investment. Top 5 amenity types (by percentage selected) that residents would like to see enhanced and/or more of: natural surface trails, indoor aquatics facilities, BBQ and picnic areas / park shelters, campgrounds, and indoor multi-use facilities. When asked if they would support an increase in taxes to fund parks, recreation and culture, only 36% were willing to do so (40% indicated that “no” they were not willing to support an increase). This finding seems to speak to the need to find alternative funding models to deliver the facilities needed such as borrowing, grants and/or other government funding sources. ---------------■ 10 Key Themes from the Engagement – Community Organizations and Facility User Groups Overall Perspectives on Outdoor Amenities and Spaces • There is a need to ensure clarity around appropriate and designated trail uses, especially on natural surface trails that are appealing for biking, hiking, and equestrian uses. • It is important that neighbourhoods, both new and existing, are adequately serviced with parks, playgrounds and trails. • Parks in Maple Ridge are used by a diverse array of individuals and groups. Continuing to ensure that an adequate supply of comfortable, attractive, and accessible amenities are available will maximize user experience for all abilities (e.g. washrooms, change areas, shaded sitting areas, etc.). Conservation • Outdoor amenity development needs to be balanced with conservation. • The Maple Ridge area is becoming a regional destination for cycling, paddling, and other forms of outdoor recreation. This situation creates opportunity, but must be appropriately managed and accommodated with sufficient infrastructure to ensure safety, conservation and maximization of community benefits. • The impacts of climate change need to be considered in future outdoor facility and amenity planning. Indoor Facilities and Spaces • Similar to what we heard through the Resident Survey, there is a desire among many groups for new facility development or enhancement. • While user groups are appreciative of what currently exists, the viewpoint that Maple Ridge has fallen behind other communities in the region was commonly expressed. • Arena and pool capacity is limited and challenging for some user groups / activity interests to access during peak times and seasons. • Multi-purpose facilities are preferred by most groups for a variety of reasons, including the ability to have support spaces that can support their activities (e.g. warm-up areas, tournament rooms, etc.) and the recognition that multi-purpose facilities create efficiencies, yet understanding that multi-purpose doesn’t always work depending on function/type of activity. • The Greg Moore Youth Centre is highly valued and regarded as a best practice for youth and teen focused facilities. Additional Themes and Perspectives from the User Group and Stakeholder Engagement • Most groups expect to grow over the next decade. • Many groups are concerned with the rising costs (expenses) associated with delivering their activities and the impact that has on participant costs. • Stakeholders and groups recognize that Maple Ridge is growing and changing, requiring new methods to reach residents and ensure programming is accessible for all. • Opportunities exist to continue building the cultural capacity and “vibe” of the community. • When asked about future facility priorities and needs, many user groups were challenged to distinguish between Maple Ridge specific needs and the broader needs of the “Ridge Meadows” area. ■--------------- 11 Key Findings from the Research and Analysis • Maple Ridge is growing at a faster pace than most communities in Metro Vancouver and province. Within the next 30 years it is estimated that Maple Ridge will grow to 120,000 residents. • Data analytics of key demographic indicators in Maple Ridge suggest that the community has a high proportion of sports involved families and individuals – potentially a contributing factor to high levels of facility demand. • Like every community, some areas of Maple Ridge have a higher proportion of residents that face social, health related, financial and systemic barriers to accessing some parks, recreation and culture opportunities. Areas of the city with a higher proportion of residents facing these barriers are Hammond, West Maple Ridge, Town Centre, Cottonwood, and Central Maple Ridge. • Covid-19 pandemic disruptions have impacted the ability to assess the recent renovation on Maple Ridge Leisure Centre utilization and user experience. • Benchmarking (comparison of infrastructure services levels on a population basis) suggests that Maple Ridge provides a lower level of recreation facility infrastructure in indoor aquatics facilities and ice arenas; however, exceeds in the provision of synthetic turf fields. • The benchmarking research also suggests that Maple Ridge provides most other parks, recreation and culture facility / amenity types at similar levels to regional comparators. • The City’s parks, recreation, and culture infrastructure requires significant investment to sustain service life. Maple Ridge at a Glance Market demand for parks and recreation services is strongly influenced by demographic indicators and characteristics. The emergence of analytics tools and resources can help providers of many services (including parks, recreation and culture) better understand the dynamics of their community and how they translate into needs and wants for programming, facilities and events. The largest segments of population in Maple Ridge according to Environics Analytics PRIZM (a segmentation system that classifies Canada’s neighbourhoods into 68 unique lifestyle types) are: • “Suburban Sports” Households (24% of all Maple Ridge households). These households place a high value on regular exercise and participation in sports and recreation pursuits. Many of their family outings are based around sports and recreation. • “Family Mode” Households (18% of all Maple Ridge households). Similar to “suburban sports”, these households base many of their outings around sports and recreation. They are also frequent visitors to amusement parks, campgrounds, and other family oriented attractions. While the City needs to provide services for all residents, understanding who the most prevalent consumers of parks, recreation and culture are can help inform programming and other aspects of service delivery. ---------------■ 12 Foundations for Parks, Recreation and Culture Services in Maple Ridge Section Three 13 3.1. The Importance of Grounding Parks, Recreation and Culture Investment in Clear Foundations Maple Ridge residents clearly value parks, recreation and culture opportunities and believe the City should continue investing in these services. The provision of parks, recreation and culture services is most effective when there is a clear understanding of what drives service delivery or, in other words, what return the City is looking to accrue through its investment. Residents in turn want the City to continue getting the best value from its investment in all types of services – including parks, recreation and culture. Establishing clear, philosophical foundations for service delivery articulates clear objectives and measurables that can be used to assess success (or areas that require continue improvement) and ensure resources are focused around some common values. Key Findings from the Resident Survey • 98% of Resident Survey respondents believe that parks, recreation and cultural opportunities are important to the appeal and attractiveness of Maple Ridge for prospective and current residents. • 98% of Resident Survey respondents believe that parks, recreation and cultural opportunities are important to the quality of life of all residents. • 97% of Resident Survey respondents believe that parks, recreation and cultural opportunities are important to the appeal and attractiveness of Maple Ridge for prospective business owners and developers. ---------------■ 14 3.2. Strategic Objectives for Parks, Recreation, and Culture in Maple Ridge Five Strategic Objectives have been identified to guide the City’s investment in (and delivery of) parks, recreation and culture services. Diversity of Opportunities What does this mean? The City provides a mix of appealing parks, recreation and culture opportunities that appeal to all demographics and interests. Why is this important? • Public sector parks, recreation and culture services are most beneficial when they meet a broad spectrum of community needs. • Having a balance of active and passive, structured and spontaneous, and indoor and outdoor opportunities ensures all residents have opportunities to participate. Aligning with Trends What does this mean? The City recognizes that parks, recreation and culture trends and preferences are continually evolving with service delivery being able to adjust and evolve accordingly. Why is this important? • Programming and facilities need to be aligned and adjusted as needs and preferences change. • The City has the expertise and data to identify and analyze trends (which can also support community group delivery and trends alignment). Strategic Objectives ■--------------- 15 Inclusive and Accessible What does this mean? All residents have opportunities to benefit from the City’s investment in parks, recreation and culture. Why is this important? • Publicly provided parks, recreation and culture services need to benefit all residents (directly or indirectly). • Ensuring inclusion and access aligns with key City values across the entire organization. Value for Tax Dollar What does this mean? The City makes optimal use of available resources by ensuring that public funds are aligned with community need and opportunities to leverage resources through partnerships are taken advantage of. Why is this important? • Resources are always finite (limited) and it is the responsibility of the City to ensure capital and operating decisions lever the highest possible amount of public benefit. • Showing prudent and transparent use of available resources helps build support for service delivery and ensures clarity as to how decisions are made. Quality Services What does this mean? Residents believe that the City provides and/or support programs, events and other activities that are delivered to a best in class standard. Why is this important? • Aligning with best practices ensures that programming and facilities provide meaningful parks, recreation and culture opportunities that foster the desired personal wellness and community-wide outcomes. • Residents do, and should, have a high expectation of publicly delivered “quality of life” services. Strategic Objectives --------------■ https://www.facebook.com/yourmapleridge/photos 16 Parks and Open Spaces Section Four 17 4.1. Overview of the Current Situation The City manages approximately 247 ha. of park space that includes a diverse mix of parks, greenbelts and open space. While the provision of park space (2.7 ha per 1,000 residents) relative to the population has decreased over the past 10-12 years in Maple Ridge, this is a typical occurrence for communities that experience higher than average levels of growth as park acquisition is challenged to occur in lockstep with growth and gradual densification. Equally important as the quantity of park space relative to the population is the distribution and quality of park space - in other words, the ability for residents to access quality and appealing park spaces using active transportation modes. Including the regional, provincial and municipal park supply, approximately 95% of Maple Ridge residents are within a 15-minute walk of a park. 18 Park Space Distribution in Maple Ridge Hammond West Maple Ridge Town Centre Cottonwood East Maple Ridge Albion FlatsAlbion Industrial Albion South Alouette Silver Valley Alouette Yennadon Central Maple Ridge Golden Ears Spilsbury 7 Legend Municipal Boundary Highway Road Neighbourhood Waterbody Municipal Park Provincial | Regional Park ALR Boundary Park Space Supply Analysis: exculdes the following: - Regional & Provincial Parks - Future, Undeveloped & Reserve Parks N0120.5 Kilometers Map Extent 0 ha within a 15 minute walking ditance - 45 ha - 0.1 ha - 16 ha - 12 ha - 4 ha Total hectares of Park Space within a 15 minute walking distance:L.i ' L -_I ■ ~ ½1/. , ___ _j .------ _____ _....r-----. ' ,--.......-L --_-I I 0 . I ,• MAPLE RIIDGE B,11,sh Cou..>lboi> ■--------------- 19 Playground Coverage Map Playground coverage is also strong, with the majority of the city’s settlement areas having access to a playground within a 10-minute walk. Legend L j Mur"lefpol go,..l"IO:lry -Hlr:t,,,¢y R'Ood ICI tnir,,.,1 bl: fl-S km! • ICltt,lr,,.,f Glfv [6.0 kml MAPLE RIDGE Bri ti sh Columbia ~ KHometer. 0 l '1 A ---------------■ 20 Residents are generally satisfied with the current provision of park spaces in the community and have a desire for continued investment in park infrastructure and other related outdoor spaces and noted trails as a priority. The City’s investment in park amenities has also resulted in increased use of park spaces. One specific example is bookings of picnic shelters. While increased supply may be one of the reasons that has resulted in higher levels of formal use (bookings), it is also reasonable to assume that the COVID-19 pandemic and the broader regional trend of more residents engaging in outdoor recreation and social activities are also driving these increased levels of use. Additional Insights into Park Space Utilization and Activity Preferences from the Community Engagement • The top 5 activities Maple Ridge residents participate in occur outdoors: hiking / walking / running (80%), gardening (57%), nature viewing (52%), and BBQ / picnicking / outdoor social gathering (50%), and cycling / biking (42%). • 35% of residents indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in them doing more activities outside in City park spaces and using trails more. • Aspects of park provision (including proximity of parks and the quality and appeal of parks) generally had the highest levels of satisfaction among all parks, recreation and culture service functions. • Trails, BBQ and picnic areas / park shelters, campgrounds, and outdoor destination parks were identified as priorities for investment by over a quarter of residents. • The importance of balancing recreation use with conservation and education are key priorities for many outdoor focused community organizations and groups. 81% of Resident Survey respondents are satisfied with the quality and appeal of parks in Maple Ridge. Reflecting the desire for continued investment, many types of park amenities and features were also identified by Resident Survey respondents as top priorities. Picnic Shelters Hours Booked 1,377 Hours (~197 hours per shelter) 1,312 Hours (~187 hours per shelter) 2,423 Hours (~346 hours per shelter) 2,323 Hours (~332 hours per shelter) 4,343 Hours (~620 hours per shelter) 2017 20182019 2020 2021 ■--------------- 21 4.2. Park Classifications The following table identifies a refreshed Parks Classification System to guide future planning, enhancement and management of the park system. This refreshed classification system builds upon the one previously included in the 2010 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Please refer to Appendix A for the updated classification of the current parks inventory using this refreshed Park Classification System. Park Classification Key Characteristics Level of Operational Input What experience(s) is the City looking to provide in these parks spaces? Signature Parks Examples: Memorial Peace Park, Albion Sports Complex, Hammond Stadium • Feature parks that draw visitors from the entire community and beyond. • Typically have amenities and features that can facilitate events and social gatherings (e.g. washrooms, stages or central plaza features, parking or direct accessibility via transit, etc.) while also supporting larger volumes of day to day use. • Includes parks that can facilitate events and related critical mass activities (sporting events and major tournaments, markets, performances, etc.) • Includes specialized types of outdoor facilities / spaces that receive concentrated levels of use (e.g. golf course) • Typically co-located with major indoor amenities. High • Social gathering and connecting (through both events and regular volumes of use). • Placemaking through public art and other unique spaces and amenities (these park spaces represent the identity and “vibe” of the community). • For some parks in this class, the opportunity to participate in or watch sporting events and tournaments. Destination Parks Example: Whonnock Lake • Created to feature major natural attractions (e.g. water bodies, older growth forests, etc.). • Have sufficient infrastructure and amenities to support and balance regular levels of visitation while preserving the ecological value of the natural features. As such, these parks often require a Visitor Management Plan. Moderate - High • The opportunity to connect with and learn about nature and the outdoors. • The opportunity to gather socially in a natural setting that includes water, native vegetation and/or other natural elements. ---------------■ 22 Park Classification Key Characteristics Level of Operational Input What experience(s) is the City looking to provide in these parks spaces? Community Parks Examples: Thornhill Park, Merkley Park • Serve multiple neighbourhoods. • Typically 2 ha. or larger. • Range of recreation and active living amenities (e.g. sports fields, ball diamonds, playgrounds, walkways, community gardens or feature plantings, water features, skate and bike park features, etc.) that appeal to a wide range of ages and interests. • Connected to the trail network. • Play infrastructure is dynamic and appeals to a broader age range of children and youth. • Amenities that support longer duration stays (washrooms, parking, water fountains). • Designed and animated to “place make” within a community. Moderate • A mix of recreational opportunities for residents of all ages and diverse interests. • Park spaces that feel appropriate to the communities in which they are situated. Neighbourhood Parks Examples: Cottonwood North Park, Lion’s Park • Serve a more localized catchment than community parks (typically one or two neighbourhoods) and distributed across the city to provide basic park space access for all residents. • Typically between 0.5 and 2 ha. • Typical amenities include basic play structures, sport courts, pathway connection, seating areas, community gardens or plantings, and passive open space. • Form to match the visual, physical and social focus of the neighbourhood. • School ground parks contribute to the neighbourhood parks inventory. Moderate • Basic active living opportunities that every resident can walk to. Pocket Parks Examples: Brown Avenue Park, Country Lane Estates North and South Parks • Typically under 0.5 ha. • Typically service smaller neighbourbood areas and higher density developments that may face challenges with accessing neighbourhood and community level parks. Low – Moderate • Value-added recreation and cultural opportunities that enhance a specific area. ■--------------- 23 Park Classification Key Characteristics Level of Operational Input What experience(s) is the City looking to provide in these parks spaces? Natural Areas Examples: naturalized areas, water adjacent areas, and urban forests throughout Maple Ridge • Includes land designated forest of conservation (e.g. water body adjacent areas, slopes, etc.). • These spaces support a healthy tree canopy and greenbelt function. • Not subject to specific standards. Low • Residents experience and engage with these spaces in a manner that is conservation focused. Open Space Examples: spaces and features throughout Maple Ridge, Maple Ridge Cemetery • Includes landscaped areas such as boulevards, urban features, landscaped areas around other municipal infrastructure, and street trees. • Includes places of burial and remembrance. • Many of these spaces may not be subject to design or maintenance standards. Determined as per specific space / site needs • Open space contributes to city beautification, appeal, safety, and resident wellbeing. • Places of burial and remembrance provide residents and visitors with the ability to remember and honour loved ones. 24 4.3. Summary of Parks and Open Spaces Strategies The following table provides a summary overview of the Parks and Open Spaces Strategies. Amenity / Space Type Recommended Strategies Overall Park Space Supply A. Develop a Parkland Acquisition Strategy. B. Strive to sustain Neighbourhood Park provide at 0.69 Ha. per 1,000 residents. C. Identify opportunities to strategically and responsibly develop City owned lands to increase park supply. D. Adopt and use the refreshed classification system to guide experiential quality and operational inputs. E. Improve the collection of park utilization data in order to better understand utilization data, park provision benefits, trends and other data points that can inform operational and capital resource allocation. F. Allocate resources to undertake strategic planning for the following specific sites: Maple Ridge Park, Whonnock Lake Park, Jackson Farms, Albion Sports Complex/Fairgrounds, Thornhill and waterfront park spaces. G. Develop an Urban Forest Management Strategy. Playgrounds A. Continue the Playground Renewal Strategy to identify targeted renewal / lifecycle schedules for all City managed playgrounds. B. Undertake a detailed inventory of play structures and spaces that includes a play opportunity rating. C. Continue to diversify the play inventory to ensure a balance of play opportunities (natural play, adventure play, etc.) and ensure accessibility across the children and youth age spectrum. Trails A. Develop a Recreation Trails Strategy to further explore trail system specific needs and provide the necessary strategic and tactical guidance. B. Establish a Trails Committee (as a sub-committee to the Parks, Recreation & Culture Advisory Committee) to advise administration on an ongoing basis. Campgrounds A. Support Economic Development in a feasibility study to further explore the viability of a campground by the City of via partnership. ■--------------- 25 Amenity / Space Type Recommended Strategies Park Amenities and Features A. Continue to monitor picnic shelter bookings and consider further addition of picnic shelter supply if demand continues to trend upwards. B. Continue to identify new and creative ways to encourage and facilitate social gathering across the city’s park spaces. C. Identify opportunities for increased placemaking across all classes of parks, including the integration of public art and features that create neighbourhood, community and city- wide connections. D. Continue to invest and sustain spray parks across the city and analyze the spatial distribution of spray parks across the City to guide development of new spray parks and features. E. Undertake an assessment of existing parks and identify opportunities to include trending amenities and features where appropriate in new and enhanced park spaces. Dog Off-leash Areas (DOLA’s) A. Continue to utilize the engagement findings from the 2020 Dog Park Survey to inform operational and planning decisions. Consider replicating this survey every 3 years (2023) to track trends and shifting perspectives. B. Use the recommended criteria to assess the suitability of new or retrofitted parks to accommodate dog off-leash use. Community Gardens A. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. B. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks and vacant City-owned lands with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. 26 4.3.1. Overall Park Space Supply Strategies The City currently manages 247 ha. of park space, which provides an overall provision level of 2.7 ha. per 1,000 residents. Like many municipalities in the region experiencing growth and some modest densification, this level of provision has decreased slightly over the past 10-15 years. Benchmarks vary with 4-5 ha. per 1,000 residents often used for small to mid-sized urban communities. To sustain the current level of managed park space provision, the City would need to add 78 ha. of park space by the time the projected population of 120,000 residents is reached. Given the cost associated with parkland acquisition, the best strategy for the City is to strategically and responsibly develop existing undeveloped or under-used City owned land. These decisions should be based around the following key considerations: • Opportunities to develop land as park space that can advance the ecological and conservation value of the site (e.g. brownfields). • Ensuring a balance of park spaces and opportunities as per the refreshed Parks Classification System. • Opportunities to address gaps to provide neighbourhoods that are underserved in terms of supply and have coinciding equity need. • Continue to connect park and recreation spaces to the recreational trail network. Recognizing the importance of ensuring that residents have access to quality park spaces that are walkable and able to service localized needs, it is also recommended that the City strive to sustain Neighbourhood Park provision at 0.69 Ha. per 1,000 residents. As the city grows in population, this will need to occur primarily through the development process. Recommended Strategies A. Develop a Parkland Acquisition Strategy. B. Strive to sustain Neighbourhood Park provide at 0.69 Ha. per 1,000 residents. C. Identify opportunities to strategically and responsibly develop City owned lands to increase park supply. D. Adopt and use the refreshed classification system to guide experiential quality and operational inputs. E. Improve the collection of park utilization data in order to better understand utilization data, park provision benefits, trends and other data points that can inform operational and capital resource allocation. F. Allocate resources to undertake strategic planning for the following specific sites: Maple Ridge Park, Whonnock Lake Park, Jackson Farms, Albion Sports Complex/Fairgrounds, Thornhill and waterfront park spaces. G. Develop an Urban Forest Management Strategy. ■--------------- 27 As noted in the recommended Strategies, further strategic planning is required to inform future actions for a number of specific spaces, including existing sites (Maple Ridge Park and Whonnock Lake Park) and potential additions to the parks inventory (Jackson Farms and waterfront park spaces). This strategic planning should be holistic and ensure consideration is given to both amenity needs for park users and visitor management strategies that can ensure ecological health of these high value spaces. It is also recommended that the City undertake an Urban Forest Management Strategy to more broadly guide preservation of the tree canopy in Maple Ridge and responsible recreation use of forested areas within the city. While a quantifiable park space supply target has been identified, the growing value of park spaces to residents is best measured using qualitative indicators that capture perspectives of experience. The refreshed Parks Classification System identifies experiential targets that the City should measure through ongoing engagement and improved collection of park utilization data (e.g. through the use of trail counters, a “spot counting” protocol, purchasing mobility data and other analytics tools, etc.). Better understanding park experiences and levels of use can help inform planning for new park supply. 28 Connecting Residents and Parks - Potential Focus Areas Analysis was conducted that cross-referenced areas with lower levels of park space supply with areas that trigger on 11 key equity indicators. • Population Density • Projected Population Density (2031) • Lone Parent Families Density • Senior (Ages 70+) Population Density • Aboriginal Identity Density (note: official Statistics Canada terminology) • Recent Immigration Density • Visible Minority Density • Educational Attainment Density • Median Household Income • Labour Force Unemployment Density • Tenure Rented Density The map on the following map reflects specific areas of the city (in red) that may warrant increased attention and initiatives that focus on connecting residents with their local parks, enhancing the appeal of existing parks, and (where possible) increasing park supply and access. 29 Park Equity and Supply Bivariant Map ___ ,..,,.,.,,. r---·--.J I j r ,,,,,,,.,,.' _,,, ,;· ~~ilo e ters 0 0.5 1 2 l!ivcrioteAnotv,.d:: T oh:11 Park Sv~y ' ' '":-,... ' ... • ~ • . I ~ .... , 30 4.3.2. Playground Strategies The City has generally done well at developing and renewing its playground inventory. Continuing with the Playground Renewal Strategy will help create a clear roadmap for playground upgrades and replacements. This Strategy should be updated regularly and based around a clear decision making process that integrates the following considerations: • Assessed condition • Levels of use (as previously suggested, required increased collection of utilization data) • Park context • Type(s) of play opportunities offered Over the next 10 years, the City should also continue to work towards diversifying play opportunities in alignment with trends and best practices. This includes increasing opportunities for natural play and adventure play (sometimes termed “risky play”). Research supports that providing these play opportunities is critical for childhood development, especially in urban settings where these opportunities may not be as easily accessible. The playground inventory should additionally have appeal to a broad range of children and youth age cohorts, and support opportunities for multi-generational play (e.g. parents and grandparents being able to play with children). By conducting an inventory of play spaces and structures in the city based on the play opportunity provided (not just condition), the City will be in a better position to ensure future investments in playgrounds are focused towards addressing gaps and diversifying play. Recommended Strategies A. Continue the Playground Renewal Strategy to identify targeted renewal / lifecycle schedules for all City managed playgrounds. B. Undertake a detailed inventory of play structures and spaces that includes a play opportunity rating. C. Continue to diversify the play inventory to ensure a balance of play opportunities (natural play, adventure play, etc.) and ensure accessibility across the children and youth age spectrum. ■--------------- 31 4.3.3. Trails Strategies There are approximately 210 km of managed trails in Maple Ridge that encompass a mix of surface types, intensities, and characteristics of use. The community engagement undertaken for the Master Plan clearly supports that importance of trails and suggests some areas that require further exploration. It is recommended that the City build upon the Master Plan by undertaking a Recreation Trails Strategy that can further explore and provide guidance on a number of trail and pathway related topics, including: • Assessment of the existing trails inventory. • Opportunities to create better trail linkages and connections (between existing trails and parks spaces managed by the City, Metro Vancouver Regional Parks, and BC Parks). • Priorities for new trails. • Trail management (including appropriate uses, multi-use vs designated trails, managing overuse of vulnerable trails, etc.). • Links to active transportation and use of road infrastructure for cycling. • Appropriate standards for a variety of recreational uses trail typologies (e.g. where a hard surface trail is and isn’t appropriate). The Recreation Trails Strategy also presents the opportunity to establish a new trails classification system that can guide investment, maintenance levels, and amenity provision (e.g. signage standards). Establishing a Trails Advisory Committee (as a sub- committee to the Parks, Recreation & Culture Advisory Committee) that can advise on an ongoing basis can help create a more cohesive and strategic voice for the trails community that brings together multiple trails interests and supports more effective prioritization of future projects. The new Trails Advisory Committee should include representatives from key trails user groups as well as spontaneous and unaffiliated trails users (e.g. members at large). Recommended Strategies A. Develop a Recreation Trails Strategy to further explore trail system specific needs and provide the necessary strategic and tactical guidance. B. Establish a Trails Committee (as a sub-committee to the Parks, Recreation & Culture Advisory Committee) to advise administration on an ongoing basis. Key Trails Related Findings from the Community Engagement • Hiking / walking / running is the most regularly participated in recreational pursuit among Maple Ridge residents (80% of households undertake these activities at least twice per month) • Natural and hard surface trails were identified as top 5 outdoor facility / amenity priorities by residents. • Some stakeholder groups would like to see increased clarity and guidance around trail use and management. ---------------■ 32 4.3.4. Campground Strategies The community engagement undertaken for the Master Plan identified that campground infrastructure was a high priority for residents (37% of Resident Survey respondents identified campgrounds as a future infrastructure priority – 4th highest among all indoor and outdoor amenity types). Further exploration is required to better understand the types of camping experiences desired and the future demand outlook for camping in a post-pandemic context (e.g. is current camping demand driven by residents staying more local as a result of travel restrictions or a potential long-term recreational need). Developing a feasibility study will help the City further explore camping needs, trends and the viability of providing this amenity municipally or through other indirect types of support / partnerships. It is recommended that the City then use the feasibility study findings to engage in dialogue with regional partners on the best approaches to providing camping infrastructure, recognizing that camping infrastructure supply and demand dynamics have regional impacts and opportunities. Recommended Strategies A. Support Economic Development in a feasibility study to further explore the viability of a campground by the City of via partnership. 33 4.3.5. Park Amenities and Features Maple Ridge residents are keen to engage with their local and city-wide park spaces. The refreshed Parks Classification System provides a basis for aligning park experiences with infrastructure and can guide specific amenity installations and park enhancements. The research and engagement undertaken to inform the Master Plan identified some additional, more specific priorities for park amenities and features. The first three recommended Strategies for park amenities and features (A, B and C) are intended to meet emerging needs for social gathering in parks and continue to use parks as a key community building and placemaking mechanism. Spray parks and water features are an important and in- demand amenity that should be analyzed for its fit and viability in new communities. The impacts of climate change (hotter summers) are driving demands for places where people can cool off. Broader demands for leisure aquatics opportunities can also be partially met or complemented through spay park and water feature amenities. The City should also be continually monitoring trends and identifying opportunities to integrate value added amenities into park spaces. The addition of amenities such as pump tracks, parkour installations, climbing wall features, skate spots and other amenities that emerge in popularity over the next decade can help enhance park appeal and diversity of opportunity. Ongoing engagement with key resident age cohorts, better park usage data collection, and regional trends scanning can help the city identify these potential amenity opportunities and whether they may be an appropriate fit for specific park spaces. Recommended Strategies A. Continue to monitor picnic shelter bookings and consider further addition of picnic shelter supply if demand continues to trend upwards. B. Continue to identify new and creative ways to encourage and facilitate social gathering across the city’s park spaces. C. Identify opportunities for increased placemaking across all classes of parks, including the integration of public art and features that create neighbourhood, community and city-wide connections. D. Continue to invest and sustain spray parks across the city and analyze the spatial distribution of spray parks across the City to guide development of new spray parks and features. E. Undertake an assessment of existing parks and identify opportunities to include trending amenities and features where appropriate in new and enhanced park spaces. ---------------■ 34 4.3.6. Dog Off-Leash Areas The City currently designates six park sites for dog off- leash use: • Beckett Park • Albion Fairgrounds • Maple Ridge Upper Park • Hammond Dog Off-Leash Area • We stview Park • Jerry Sulina Park These spaces comprise 7.8 acres of dog parks, including approximately 1.0 acres of fenced area for smaller dogs. In 2020, the City conducted a Dog Park Survey in order to better understand resident perspectives on current dog parks, needs and gaps, and the overall characteristics of the dog community in Maple Ridge. The City should consider replicating this survey every 3 years in order to track and benchmark satisfaction levels and dog ownership trends. Having a time-series database of this information will help inform both ongoing operations of these spaces and planning for future dog parks and associated amenities. Rather than setting a specific provision target for dog parks (e.g. number of acres or sites per resident), a more prudent approach is to make decisions based on the collection of accurate dog park utilization data and trends. Additionally, the City should evaluate the need and appropriateness for dog off-leash use as new park spaces are brought online and as existing parks undergo enhancement or retrofit projects. The table on the following page provides a preliminary site evaluation checklist that can be used to assess the suitability of a new or existing park space for dog off- leash use. Recommended Strategies A. Continue to utilize the engagement findings from the 2020 Dog Park Survey to inform operational and planning decisions. Consider replicating this survey every 3 years (2023) to track trends and shifting perspectives. B. Use the recommended criteria to assess the suitability of new or retrofitted parks to accommodate dog off-leash use. ■------------------- 35 Dog Off-Leash Park Suitability Checklist Criteria Consideration Yes/No Park User Safety • Does the site have any potential safety issues as a result of being too close (or not enough set-back) with playgrounds, social gathering spaces, schools, older adult amenities, etc. • Are there any circumstances that would limit the installation of fencing or barricades needed to ensure safety on the site? Dog Safety • Are there any potential issues with unsafe water that cannot be mitigated or rendered non-existent? (e.g. stagnant or contaminated water that could pose harm to dogs). • Are there any issues with proximity to major roadways that cannot be mitigated through barriers and fencing? Environmental and Ecological Considerations • Are there any risks to vulnerable animal or vegetation species that cannot be sufficiently mitigated? • Is there a moderate to high risk of creating or exacerbating any issues with wildlife be reasonably prevented or mitigated? If the above criteria are adequately assessed and/or addressed, a park site could be a candidate for a dog off-leash area. Conceptual planning for dog park sites that pass this initial checklist should also consider the following factors: • Local community impacts and input. • Potential dog park gaps (e.g. the size(s) and types of dogs that are most in need of dog off-leash space and the opportunity to design sites that have spaces suitable and appealing across the dog ownership spectrum). • Geographic gaps. • Connection to the trails system. Dog off-leash area development and design (including consideration of the above factors) should be explored through engagement on a project by project basis in alignment with the City’s new Communications and Public Engagement Strategy. ---------------■ 36 4.3.7. Community Gardens Expanding community garden supply in the city provides numerous opportunities and benefits, including: • Enabling residents without the space or supplies to grow their own food (creating equity for residents living in higher density areas). • Increasing food education experiences. • Animating park spaces. While community gardens should be considered across all classes of parks, Community Parks are optimally suited as homes for new community garden plots based on their location characteristics (serve multiple neighbourhoods but generally still accessible to most residents via active transportation modes) and amenities (typically have washrooms and water supply). The following table outlines site evaluation criteria that can be used to access potential park sites for their community garden suitability. Recommended Strategies A. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. B. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks and vacant City-owned lands with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. Criteria Consideration Suitable Amenities • Does the park site have water supply that the community garden can access and use? • Are there amenities such as washrooms and seating areas that community garden users can access? Safety and Security • Is the potential community garden space within the park visible and reasonably easy to monitor? Geographic Balance • Does the potential park site address a geographic community garden gap in the city? Amenity Conflicts • Are there any potential conflicts with other amenities or activity spaces that could occur? It is also recommended that the City seek a service partner to manage community gardens in alignment with best practices for food security. This working group should include the appropriate expertise from the City as well as individuals from existing community garden groups, neighbourhood associations and other interested community organizations (e.g. service clubs). The working group should focus on: • Evaluating potential sites (using the identified criteria as a guide). • Determining how to create the community capacity needed to successfully operate new community garden sites. • Establishing a uniform process / mechanism for assigning community garden plots, taking membership payments (if applicable), and setting rules and regulations for use. ■--------------- 37 Recreation Facilities Section Five p ~ / 1------1 38 5.1. The Current Situation Summarized as follows are key research and engagement indicators and other factors that will impact indoor and outdoor recreation infrastructure needs in Maple Ridge over the next 10+ years. • Like most communities, Maple Ridge has an inventory of aging recreation facilities that will require significant re-investment to simply sustain existing service levels. The investments required to sustain existing facilities will need to be considered along with demands for new infrastructure. • Strong levels of resident demand for increased aquatics provision and benchmarking indicators that validate this potential amenity gap in Maple Ridge. However, the capital and operating costs associated with providing this amenity are significant. • Maple Ridge has a unique arena provision context, with the only city owned facility in Maple Ridge operated an indirect provider. • The “Ridge-Meadows” dynamic of facility provision and use is also unique, with all major organizations using facilities across two separate municipalities (Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows). • The City has invested significantly in synthetic turf which has alleviated capacity challenges over the past five years. Benchmarking suggests that the City’s provision of this amenity is better than regional comparators. • The population areas of Maple Ridge have continued to expand. While spatial analysis reflects that accessibility via active and motorized modes remains strong, engagement and trends suggest that it is likely that there will be increasing desire for localized recreation programming. • Key trends impacting indoor and outdoor recreation: multi-use facilities, evolving older adult activity preference, demand for spontaneous / casual use opportunities (e.g. low commitment recreational sport and “drop-in” gym time), and creating integration between indoor and outdoor recreation amenities. 39 The State of Recreation Infrastructure in Maple Ridge The City directly operates an inventory of recreation assets with a replacement value exceeding $140M dollars. Facilities owned by the City and operated through service partnerships are valued at a further $80M. Key facilities in Maple Ridge include the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre (MRLC), Greg Moore Youth Centre, the ACT Arts Centre, Planet Ice Arenas, Golden Ears Winter Club, the Maple Ridge Library, the recently opened Albion Community Centre, Whonnock and Hammond Community Halls, and Hammond Outdoor Pool. Planning to sustain and keep these facilities functional, safe and relevant to user needs is important for the City and will require significant re- investment on an ongoing basis. As with all types of infrastructure, planning for what happens when facilities come to the end of their lifecycle and need to be replaced. The City’s recreation facilities, including pools and arenas, are on average 20 years old (excluding the recently opened Albion Community Centre). In 2005, an Infrastructure Sustainability Reserve was established by the City, recognizing that as the community’s infrastructure ages it will be necessary to reinvest in repair and renewal. Asset renewal extends the usable life of recreation facilities by upgrading or remediating deficiencies in building systems including electro- mechanical, HVAC, security, fire & life safety, roofing and building envelope, structural, plumbing, technology and energy management. The forty-year-old MRLC underwent a significant renovation of the leisure pool and hot tub, pool mechanical/filtration systems, change rooms and lobby, substantially funded through this Reserve, and re-opened to the public in 2020. Currently, several key facilities have been identified as having components end of life over the 10 to 15 year assessment period. A condition assessment (2022) for the City’s main facility, the MRLC & GMYC, has identified $13.4M in repair, renewal and upgrades with a breakdown of $5.6M for structural renewal, $6M for mechanical, $1.2M for electrical and $0.5M for finishes and fitments. The condition assessment (2019) for the Planet Ice Arena-Golden Ears Winter Club facility identified $750k average annual in investment over a ten-year time horizon. For community assets such as Hammond Hall, strategies are needed to renovate, enhance and optimize these facilities to meet changing recreation needs. Options for repurposing the space occupied by the aging Hammond Outdoor Pool and Change Rooms should be evaluated to provide needed in- demand community hub facilities. ~I~ ■■■-----------------------------------------------11 ---------------■ 40 5.2. Prioritization Framework Prioritizing capital investment is challenging and important as resources are limited and the City must balance re-investing in existing recreation infrastructure with demands for new and enhanced facilities. To support the prioritization of potential projects, a framework was developed to score 28 different types of indoor and outdoor recreation amenities types using the following 10 criteria. These criteria reflect a diversity of research and engagement inputs, practical considerations (e.g. cost) and benefits outcomes. • Resident Demand • Equity and Access Considerations • Stakeholder and User Group Priorities • Youth Perspectives • Recreation Provision Benefits (locally and regionally) • Probable Capital Cost Impacts • Probable Operating Cost Impacts • Trends Indicators • Benchmarking Indicators • Economic Benefits Each of the criteria was assigned a weighting value to reflect the level of importance each should have relative to the scoring. The following tables reflects the top 5 indoor and outdoor amenity types identified through the prioritization scoring. Please refer to Appendix A for the detailed scoring metric and amenities rankings. Top 5 Indoor Top 5 Outdoor T1. Indoor aquatics facility 1. Pickleball Courts T1. Indoor multi-use facility 2. Mountain bike parks / trails T3. Neighbourhood hubs / gathering places T3. Bike skills parks and features T3. Ice arenas T3. Outdoor sports courts 5. Indoor walking / running tracks T3. Skate parks / features The following graphic illustrates how the Prioritization Framework informs the Recreation Infrastructure Strategies provided in this section. Research & Engagement Inputs What we know and learned about each facility/amenity type Prioritization Fr amework A clear and transparent prioritization approach that uses 10 criteria Recreation Infrastructure Strategies Strategies to guide the provision of the facility/amenity type over the next 10+ years ■--------------- 41 5.3. Summary of the Recreation Infrastructure Strategies The following tables summarizes the Recreation Infrastructure Strategies. Included are recommended Strategies aimed at both sustaining and optimizing existing infrastructure as well as (where needed) potential approaches to increase supply in Maple Ridge. As illustrated by the graphic on the previous page, these Strategies were informed by the Prioritization Framework while also taking in account a number of other practical considerations, including: • The condition of existing infrastructure • Land supply • Realistic timing for project planning and execution • Potential space synergies and relationships with other (including existing) infrastructure • Value opportunities (e.g. opportunities to include amenities within other facilities) In addition to summarizing the recommended Strategies, the following tables also identifies a recommended level of supply in 10 years relative to current supply levels for each facility / amenity type. Legend Increase Supply Enhance or Increase Supply Maintain Supply Decrease Supply Further Investigation Needed Quantity of the facility / amenity type should be increased. Access to existing facilities / amenities should be increased. If this is not possible more supply should be considered. The quantity of the facility / amenity type is sufficient and should be sustained through sound asset management practices. Oversupply of the facility / amenity type exists in the community. Reduction of service levels warrants consideration. Further analysis or ongoing trends monitoring is required to assess future needs. ------------■ 42 Indoor Recreation Amenities Facility / Amenity Type Recommended Supply in 10 Years Relative to Current Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Aquatics Facilities A. Continue to conduct regular assessments of the MRLC and undertake the necessary repairs and enhancements needed to keep this facility at a safe, functional and appealing level. B. Undertake feasibility analysis for a new aquatics facility to serve the community. *Additional suggestions on specific areas requiring further exploration are identified later in this section. Ice Arenas A. Work with the Planet Ice arenas operator and arena stakeholder groups to confirm acceptable service standards that ensure facility sustainability and optimize user experience. B. Expand the supply of arenas in the city by 2 sheets, with 1 sheet developed in the near term in order to meet ice and dry-floor needs. C. Use the recommended Ice Provision Approach Framework to guide future decision making on the best approaches to provide ice arenas in the city. Indoor Walking / Running Tracks N/A A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multi-use facility or community centre). Indoor Children’s Play Space N/A A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multisport facility, pool or community centre) and/or as part of a future space retrofit. Neighbourhood Hubs and Gymnasium Spaces A. Review the infrastructure upgrade planned for the Hammond Community Centre site. B. Ensure the Whonnock Lake and Albion Community Centre sites are sustained through the appropriate asset management practices. C. Work with School District 42 to maximize community access to school gymnasiums as a primary means of increasing gymnasium supply in the community. D. Use the recommended Neighbourhood Hub Service Level Targets to inform future capital investment and planning decisions. t t t t ■----------- 43 Facility / Amenity Type Recommended Supply in 10 Years Relative to Current Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Youth Focused Spaces A. Develop a lifecycle plan to sustain the Greg Moore Youth Centre and undertake regular condition assessments to update the plan. B. As an ongoing practice, develop a business plan every 5 years that revisits trends, program practices and space optimization opportunities. C. As new facilities are planned and brought online, ensure unstructured space needs for youth are considered. Older Adult Focused Spaces A. Continue to invest and sustain the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre. B. Ensure that evolving older adult activity needs are considered as all other types of new indoor recreation infrastructure are planned. Racquet Court Sports A. For the short to medium term, sustain the current courts at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre. B. Monitor trends and utilization and consider re-purposing opportunities if higher value uses of these spaces are clearly justified. N/A Curling Facilities A. Develop a lifecycle plan to ensure that the Golden Ears Winter Club facility is sustained at a safe, functional and appealing level. N/A Indoor Multi- Use Facilities N/A A. Establish a working group consisting of local indoor sport, recreation, and culture stakeholders to develop program and space needs for an indoor multi-use facility. ---------------■ 44 Fa c i l i t y / Am e n i t y T y p e Re c o m m e n d e d Su p p l y i n 1 0 Ye a r s R e l a t i v e to C u r r e n t St r a t e g i e s t o S u s t a i n a n d O p t i m i z e Ex i s t i n g I n f r a s t r u c t u r e St r a t e g i e s t o M e e t F u t u r e N e e d s (i n c r e a s e s u p p l y o f t h e f a c i l i t y / am e n i t y t y p e ) Cl i m b i n g W a l l s A. Sus t a i n t h e c l i m b i n g s t r u c t u r e an d b o u l d e r i n g w a l l i n t h e G r e g Mo o r e Y o u t h C e n t r e . B. Mon i t o r p r i v a t e s e c t o r p r o v i s i o n an d t r e n d s . C. Con s i d e r i n c l u d i n g a n a q u a t i c s cl i m b i n g f e a t u r e a n d / o r d r y l a n d cl i m b i n g f e a t u r e a s p a r t o f f u t u r e re c r e a t i o n f a c i l i t y d e v e l o p m e n t ba s e d o n t r e n d s , c o m m u n i t y en g a g e m e n t a n d a s s e s s e d n e e d as p r o j e c t s a r e i m p l e m e n t e d . Fi t n e s s F a c i l i t i e s A. Con t i n u e t o s u s t a i n t h e e x i s t i n g fi t n e s s s p a c e s a t t h e M a p l e Ri d g e L e i s u r e C e n t r e a t a fu n c t i o n a l a n d a p p e a l i n g l e v e l . B. Inc l u d e f i t n e s s s p a c e s a n d am e n i t i e s i n f u t u r e a r e n a a n d aq u a t i c s f a c i l i t y d e v e l o p m e n t . Re c r e a t i o n Su p p o r t S p a c e s N / A A . Ens u r e t h a t c o m m u n i t y - w i d e ne e d s f o r m e e t i n g s p a c e s , pr o g r a m r o o m s , s o c i a l g a t h e r i n g sp a c e , a n d o f f i c e s p a c e a r e co n s i d e r e d a s p a r t o f f u t u r e ar e n a a n d a q u a t i c s f a c i l i t y pl a n n i n g . p p p 45 Outdoor Recreation Amenities Facility / Amenity Type Recommended Supply in 10 Years Relative to Current Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Pickleball Courts A. Continue to monitor pickleball trends and determine the best and highest value use of existing court spaces. B. Initiate planning for a hub pickleball facility (12+ courts) that can accommodate the growth of this activity and provide tournament hosting capability. Outdoor Sports Courts A. Continue to invest and sustain existing courts at a safe and functional level. B. Include as a standard amenity offered in most new and renewed Community and Neighbourhood parks. Skate Parks / Youth Amenities A. Work with the wheeled sports community (skateboarders, scooter participants, etc.) to optimize existing amenities, monitor trends, and encourage participation in the various wheeled sports disciplines. B. If future trends and community engagement suggest that more supply is needed, establish a working group to identify potential site options. Sports Fields A. Develop a capital reserve fund specific to synthetic turf renewal. B. Continue to work with sport groups to identify opportunities to optimize the supply of, and access to, support amenities like washrooms, seating areas, and storage. C. Consider retrofitting or adding a synthetic turf ball diamond in order to increase capacity, multi- use functionality, and enable expanded shoulder season use. D. Work with the City of Pitt Meadows to develop a Ridge- Meadows Sport Field Supply Study. Outdoor Aquatics A. Continue to undertake basic repairs to the Hammond Outdoor Pool to sustain use for the short term. B. Determine the future of the Hammond Outdoor Pool based on the outcomes of the Aquatics Feasibility Study. t ---------------■ 46 Facility / Amenity Type Recommended Supply in 10 Years Relative to Current Strategies to Sustain and Optimize Existing Infrastructure Strategies to Meet Future Needs (increase supply of the facility / amenity type) Tennis Courts A. Sustain the current supply of tennis courts. B. Use Tennis Canada’s Municipal Tennis Facilities Strategy & Partnership Framework (Let’s Play Year-Round) and the Capital Project Delivery Process provided in Section 7 of this Master Plan document to guide future exploration and potential City involvement in a covered tennis facility. Track and Field Venues A. Consider taking on increased maintenance responsibility for the existing track at Maple Ridge Secondary in order to improve standards and user experience. N/A (current track expected to meet community needs for the next 10 years) Major Outdoor Event Venues A. Work with stakeholders to develop a site Master Plan that better leverages the Fairgrounds and Albion Sports Complex. B. Conduct a feasibility study to determine needs for a new outdoor stadium venue. Equestrian Facilities / Amenities A. Continue to support and maintain existing equestrian facilities. B. Further investigate equestrian needs as part of the suggested Recreation Trails Strategy. Mountain Bike Trails A. Develop a Thornhill Trails Management Strategy. B. Further explore future needs as part of the recommended Recreation Trails Strategy. Bike Skills Parks and Amenities A. Work with local stakeholders and users to support growth of the sport and encourage use of existing amenities and features. B. Consider bike skills amenities and features as part of all new park builds. Sand Volleyball Courts A. Monitor utilization of the new sand volleyball courts being added in 2023. N/A (current sand volleyball court supply is sufficient for the next 10 years) ■--------------- 47 5.3.1. Aquatics Facilities The Prioritization Framework presented earlier in this section (5.1) identified aquatics facilities as a top potential capital project priority. While community demand and benchmarking indicators clearly support the need to expand aquatics provision in Maple Ridge, the costs associated with this amenity type are significant. Feasibility analysis is suggested to further explore the following key factors associated with new aquatics facility development: • The scale and type of facility that is needed (e.g. indoor or hybrid indoor-outdoor, mix of water spaces and amenities, etc.) • Site options and potential land acquisition considerations • Impacts on the existing Maple Ridge Leisure Centre pool • Future impacts on, and need for, the Hammond Outdoor Pool (this facility is nearing the end of its lifecycle and decisions on its renewal should be considered based on a broader aquatics study) • Costs • Amenity synergy opportunities (e.g. fitness, arena, multi-use facility, indoor track, etc.) • Potential operating models and partnership opportunities Given that aquatics facilities can serve a regional catchment, it is also suggested that the City consider involving adjacent municipalities on future regional aquatic facilities in order to ensure sufficient dialogue around regional aquatics needs and potential impacts of new facilities coming online in both communities. Recommended Strategies Indoor A. Continue to conduct regular assessments of the MRLC and undertake the necessary repairs and enhancements needed to keep this facility at a safe, functional and appealing level. B. Undertake feasibility analysis for a new aquatics facility to serve the community. *Additional suggestions on specific areas requiring further exploration are identified later in this section. Outdoor A. Continue to undertake basic repairs to the Hammond Outdoor Pool to sustain use for the short term. B. Determine the future of the Hammond Outdoor Pool based on the outcomes of the Aquatics Feasibility Study. ---------------■ 48 While the development of a new aquatics facility is highly desired and presents and exciting opportunity to provide enhanced aquatics service levels in Maple Ridge, it will also be important for the City to ensure that the existing indoor pool at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre is sustained through appropriate asset management practices. The City has made significant re-investments in the pool over the past three years and, as with all aging facilities, additional re-investment will be required to ensure that the facility remains safe, functional and appealing for users. The Hammond Outdoor Pool is nearing the end of its lifespan. The City, guided by recent condition assessments, has identified needed repairs that will be required to keep the pool operational for the short term. The longer term future of the pool should be determined through the recommended feasibility analysis which will comprehensively explore a variety of potential options for a new aquatics facility in Maple Ridge, which could include outdoor components or a hybrid indoor-aquatics facility that may impact the need for renewal/replacement of the Hammond Outdoor Pool. 49 5.3.2. Ice Arenas The ice sports facility provision context in Maple Ridge is unique with key user groups using arenas across “Ridge-Meadows”. Available utilization indicators, stakeholder feedback, and benchmarking analysis supports that indoor ice capacity is limited and increased supply is needed. As such, it is recommended that the City add one additional ice sheet in the near term and target an additional ice sheet (for a total of +2 ice sheets) over the next ten years. Planning for new ice arenas in Maple Ridge will need to consider a number of important factors aimed at ensuring maximum benefit from the City’s potential investment in this amenity. The Ice Provision Approach Framework provided on the next page has been developed to provide the City with a tool that can help inform decision making on whether the new ice arenas should be operated directly by the City or via a partnership. For a partnership to be considered, at least three of the following four Criteria should be adequately met by a prospective partner operator. Recommended Strategies A. Work with the Planet Ice arenas operator and arena stakeholder groups to confirm acceptable service standards that ensure facility sustainability and optimize user experience. B. Expand the supply of arenas in the city by 2 sheets, with 1 sheet developed in the near term in order to meet ice and dry-floor needs. C. Use the recommended Ice Provision Approach Framework to guide future decision making on the best approaches to provide ice arenas in the city. 50 Ice Provision Approach Framework Criteria Consideration Yes/No Public Access • Can 75% of prime time ice for not for profit children and youth user groups and spontaneous use be guaranteed via a partner operated model? Operational Cost Benefits • Can a partnership significantly offset operational costs? (e.g. at least 50% of the estimated annual cost of directly operating the facility) Asset Care and Sustainability • Can the partner operator sufficiently demonstrate a robust asset management plan that will ensure needed repairs and lifecycle re-investment is not underrated? Amenity Synergies • Can a partner operated facility capitalize on other potential amenity synergies? (e.g. meet community needs identified in the Master Plan by providing at least one of a fitness centre, walking track, indoor children’s play area, or multi-use facility) Further exploration is needed to assess options for the recommended development of the new ice arena sheets. This further exploration should follow Steps 3 and 4 of the Capital Project Delivery Process identified in Section 7 and specifically focus on providing guidance on the the following key considerations and questions. • How to deliver multi-sheet facilities over stand-alone venues (e.g. adding on to the existing Planet Ice arenas or developing a new twin pad) • The scale of arenas needed (e.g. spectator capacity and support amenities) • Exploration of opportunities to pair up the new ice arenas with other potential new facility development (e.g. aquatics, multi-use facility, etc.). 51 The existing arenas operated by Planet Ice will continue to be important to meeting ice needs in the community in both the short and long term. To ensure optimal use of this City owned infrastructure, it is recommended that the City work with arena operator and key user groups to establish a refreshed set of service standards. Provided in the following chart are preliminary considerations that should form the basis of these service standards. Preliminary Service Standards Consideration Description / Rationale Asset Management Clear guidelines and expectations should be established for repairs and capital maintenance to maximize the lifespan of this City owned infrastructure. Access Refreshed levels of community access should be established based on current and anticipated needs and used as a basis for future contract discussions. Operational Cost Efficiencies Operational cost savings is a key rationale for contracting operations of a municipally owned recreation asset. Sufficient cost savings need to be demonstrated to justify this approach moving forward and should be established through the development of refreshed service standards. Trends Alignment Identification of how the facility will react to trends in participation through allocation and bookings practices. The research and engagement also reflect a potential need for increased dry-floor space. Opportunities to increase the availability of this space at existing amenities and through the development of new facilities should be considered as future planning is undertaken. 52 5.3.3. Indoor Walking / Running Tracks While not a traditional amenity in Metro Vancouver due to the milder climate and abundant outdoor walking areas, regionally trends reflect an increased demand for indoor tracks that can provide safe and comfortable space for walking and running during winter and shoulder season months. An indoor walking / running track should be included in at least one of the new potential facilities identified for development in Maple Ridge over the next decade. Arenas, multi-use facilities and community centres are optimal candidates for the inclusion of this amenity given the activity and space synergies. Recommended Strategies A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multi-use facility or community centre). 53 5.3.4. Indoor Children’s Play Space Similar to indoor walking / running tracks, this amenity type is increasingly being included in new and retrofitted facilities to provide safe and comfortable physical activity during the winter and shoulder season months. Additionally, indoor children’s play spaces can help animate and increase use of common spaces in recreation facilities. It is recommended that an indoor children’s play space be included as part of the new facility development identified for Maple Ridge. Recommended Strategies A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multisport facility, pool or community centre) and/or as part of a future space retrofit. 54 5.3.5. Neighbourhood Hubs and Gymnasium Spaces While major recreation facilities like the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre are important and provide destination locations for recreation and sport activity, it is also important to ensure residents have access to indoor recreation places within a 15 minute drive of their household. Given the age and condition of the site infrastructure, a renewal plan is needed for the Hammond Community Centre and surrounding site. Renewal options and opportunities will be informed by future aquatics investment. The Whonnock Lake Community Centre is assessed to be in good condition and have many years of remaining service life however, like all facilities, will require ongoing re-investment. The new Albion Community Centre is new and is unlikely to require much if any capital re-investment over the next decade, however the City should also ensure that appropriate asset management practices are undertaken to keep this asset in the best possible condition to maximize its long-term functionality and service life. Opportunities exist to further leverage school sites as community hubs or recreation activity. Doing so presents the opportunity to better leverage public resources and achieve broader community benefit from the significant infrastructure that exists on school sites. It is recommended that the City continue to work with School District 42 and identify opportunities to increase public access to gymnasiums (and mitigate barriers to access that exist). As Maple Ridge continues to grow, it is likely that planning will need to be initiated for new community centre facilities. The Neighbourhood Hub Service Level Targets presented in the table on the next page are intended to provide a high level framework that can help the City both determine potential priority sites / locations and the types of experiences that these potential new facilities should look to provide. Recommended Strategies A. Review the infrastructure upgrade planned for the Hammond Community Centre site. B. Ensure the Whonnock Lake and Albion Community Centre sites are sustained through the appropriate asset management practices. C. Work with School District 42 to maximize community access to school gymnasiums as a primary means of increasing gymnasium supply in the community. D. Use the recommended Neighbourhood Hub Service Level Targets to inform future capital investment and planning decisions. ■--------------- 55 Neighourhood Hub Service Level Targets Service Level Consideration Targeted Level of Community Centre Service Geographic Balance • All residents of Maple Ridge should have access to an indoor recreation facility within a 15-minute commute of their home (community centre or destination recreation centre). • If prioritization or multiple projects need to occur, neighbourhoods facing the most prevalent number of equity barriers should be ranked higher. Baseline Amenities • As a basic level of service, community centres should provide the following amenities: ºA gymnasium or similar large span space ºMulti-purpose program rooms ºCommunity kitchen or food preparation areas ºAccessible public washrooms Additional Needs Based and Value Added Amenities • Other amenities that are prudent to explore for new and renewed community centres on a case by case basis should include: ºChild care ºDedicated community arts and cultural spaces ºIndoor walking / running track ºChildren’s play space ºFitness spaces Space Animation • The space in the facility will be used by a combination of City offered programming and community bookings. • A diverse mix of recreation, culture and social programming will take place at the facility. ---------------■ 56 5.3.6. Youth Focused Spaces According to community stakeholders and facility users, the Greg Moore Youth Centre is a best in class facility that provides numerous amenities and opportunities for youth in Maple Ridge. Developing a robust lifecycle plan for the facility will help ensure that it remains safe and functional well into the future. As youth recreation activities and interests are highly dynamic, it will also be important for the facility to remain current and aligned with trends and provide an array of opportunities that appeal to a diverse cross-section of youth. Implementing the development of business plan every 5 years as a standard practice will enable the City to thoroughly revisit trends, program practices and identify potential space optimization and retrofit opportunities. It is also important to recognize that youth recreation should not be limited to one single location. As existing facilities are renovated / retrofitted and new facilities planned and brought online, youth activity and space needs should be considered and integrated. Recommended Strategies A. Develop a lifecycle plan to sustain the Greg Moore Youth Centre and undertake regular condition assessments to update the plan. B. As an ongoing practice, develop a business plan every 5 years that revisits trends, program practices and space optimization opportunities. C. As new facilities are planned and brought online, ensure unstructured space needs for youth are considered. 57 5.3.7. Older Adult Focused Spaces The City currently supports the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre which provides invaluable recreation and social activities to older adults in the community. Re- investment into the facility will be critical to sustaining the facility and ensuring continued service benefits. As with youth spaces, older adult recreation needs should not be thought of as limited to one site. Future planning for new major recreation infrastructure and localized facilities (e.g. community centres and hubs) needs to consider older adult recreation needs and trends. The City should also continue to follow best practices for accessible facility design and the programming that occurs in these spaces (e.g. multi- generational programming opportunities). Recommended Strategies A. Continue to invest and sustain the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre. B. Ensure that evolving older adult activity needs are considered as all other types of new indoor recreation infrastructure are planned. 58 5.3.8. Racquet Court Sports The existing squash and racquetball courts at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre experiences demand during peak, prime time hours and inconsistent levels of use outside of these hours. Trends for these activities and space remain somewhat unclear with municipalities and other public sector providers of recreation in Metro Vancouver taking differing approaches to squash and racquetball court provision. While some continue to offer this type of amenity, others have reduced court supply by re-purposing courts and/or not including courts as recreation facilities are renewed or replaced. Over the next five years, the City should monitor the use of these spaces as well as broader regional trends. Re-purposing of these spaces should considered if utilization and trends indicators suggest that these spaces can fulfill a higher value use. Utilization of less than 50% of prime time capacity for squash and racquetball could be used as a potential trigger for re- purposing. Recommended Strategies A. For the short to medium term, sustain the current courts at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre. B. Monitor trends and utilization and consider re-purposing opportunities if higher value uses of these spaces are clearly justified. 59 5.3.9. Curling Facilities As one of the last remaining facilities in Metro Vancouver, the Golden Ears Winter Club is highly valued by the curling community and serves a fairly wide ranging catchment area. Developing a lifecycle plan will help identify required capital upgrades and clarify the overall costs required to sustain the facility long-term. The curling season operates between 6-8 months of the year. In the off-season, the building is heavily used by Ball Hockey during spring/early summer. Opportunities to increase the use of the facility should be explored. Potential activity needs that could be supported during off-season use include: • Low impact sports • Indoor events and gatherings • Summer camps • Performance sport training The City and Golden Ears Winter Club should engage on how the facility could be enhanced and made available to meet these and other potential needs. Recommended Strategies A. Develop a lifecycle plan to ensure that the Golden Ears Winter Club facility is sustained at a safe, functional and appealing level. 60 5.3.10. Indoor Multi-Use Facilities An indoor multi-use facility was identified by the Prioritization Framework as one of the top capital project priorities. Conceptually, this facility could encompass a large space, divisible space for a multitude of sports and a host of other bookable and spontaneous uses. Establishing a working group of local indoor sport and recreation stakeholders to further explore and analyze facility program and space needs will help ensure that this potential facility is best positioned for success. Provided as follows are additional key topics that should also be further explored. • Capital and operating costs • Partnership and operational models • Flooring / turf typology options • Evaluate a seasonal dome vs a year-round (permanent indoor) structure • Site options and potential synergies with other recreation infrastructure • Space allocations and use (e.g. establish an agreed to philosophy for how the space will be prioritized) Recommended Strategies A. Establish a working group consisting of local indoor sport, recreation, and culture stakeholders to develop program and space needs for an indoor multi-use facility. 61 5.3.11. Climbing Walls The research and engagement findings suggest that same demand for increased climbing opportunities exist in the community. Climbing is also a trending activity that aligns well with children and youth physical literacy skill development. Climbing features should be considered and assessed for their inclusion across a number of indoor and outdoor spaces, including the potential new aquatics facility, other future indoor recreation facility projects and outdoor destination playgrounds. Recommended Strategies A. Sustain the climbing structure and bouldering wall in the Greg Moore Youth Centre. B. Monitor private sector provision and trends. C. Consider including an aquatics climbing feature and/or dryland climbing feature as part of future recreation facility development based on trends, community engagement and assessed need as projects are implemented. 62 5.3.12. Fitness Facilities The fitness centre at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre is highly used and, like other amenities at the facility, will need to be sustained through good asset management practices. To ensure that the facility remains appealing and aligned with user needs, the City should continue the practice of regular refreshment of the equipment and re-evaluation of how the space is configured. Future facility development (aquatics, arena, indoor multi-use, and community centre facilities) should also explore fitness space and amenity needs and opportunities on a case by case basis. The inclusion of fitness could provide the opportunity to increase cost recovery and meet provide complementary user needs (e.g. dry floor training). Fitness provision by the City should continue to focus on providing broad based and accessible opportunities. This approach will avoid competition with the private sector and aligns with the City’s service delivery objectives. Recommended Strategies A. Continue to sustain the existing fitness spaces at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre at a functional and appealing level. B. Include fitness spaces and amenities in future arena and aquatics facility development. 63 5.3.13. Recreation Support Spaces Community and user group needs for meeting rooms, multi-purpose program rooms and studios, common space and primary support amenities (washrooms, change areas, quiet space, etc.) should not be overlooked as existing spaces are renovated and new spaces planned and designed. Project specific engagement should evaluate needs for these spaces and ensure adequate supply based on assessed need and targeted facility use. Recommended Strategies A. Ensure that community-wide needs for meeting spaces, program rooms, social gathering space, and office space are considered as part of future arena and aquatics facility planning. 64 5.3.14. Pickleball Courts and Tennis Courts The Prioritization Framework identified pickleball as the top outdoor capital priority. Growth of the sport, accessibility for multiple age cohorts, and relative low cost to provide this amenity all support the rationale for increasing the supply of pickleball infrastructure. Developing a larger multi-court facility (12 or more courts) can provide a home for the pickleball community that does not conflict with other activity uses and will enable the community to host pickleball tournaments and regional clinics. The City will need to engage with the Golden Ears Pickleball Club and other pickleball stakeholders in the area to plan this facility and discuss potential operational partnerships. Existing tennis and pickleball sites should be sustained through sound asset management practices (e.g. surface replacements where necessary). The Garibaldi Secondary School courts are the current home for pickleball and should be sustained. While pickleball and tennis can and should co-exist, it is recommended that the City’s long-term philosophy for these two court sports favor purpose built sites. Doing so will avoid use conflicts and ensure activities are sited at the most appropriate locations (e.g. for pickleball, locations that have suitable noise mitigations). Tennis Canada’s Municipal Tennis Facilities Strategy & Partnership Framework (Let’s Play Year-Round) provides an excellent resource on the benefits and potential approaches to providing indoor covered indoor tennis venues. This resource, along with the Capital Project Delivery Process provided in Section 7 of this Master Plan document, should be used to guide future tennis investment considered by the City. Recommended Strategies Pickleball A. Continue to monitor pickleball trends and determine the best and highest value use of existing court spaces. B. Initiate planning for a hub pickleball facility (12+ courts) that can accommodate the growth of this activity and provide tournament hosting capability. Tennis A. Sustain the current supply of tennis courts. B. Use Tennis Canada’s Municipal Tennis Facilities Strategy & Partnership Framework (Let’s Play Year-Round) and the Capital Project Delivery Process provided in Section 7 of this Master Plan document to guide future exploration and potential City involvement in a covered tennis facility. ■--------------- 65 5.3.15. Sports Fields and Track & Field Amenities Over the past five years the City has made a significant investment in synthetic turf, doubling the number of fields. Increasing the supply of synthetic turf has also reduced the wear and tear on natural surface and expanded winter season use opportunities. The table on the following page reflects the five year trend for synthetic turf bookings in the city and shows increased supply has alleviated capacity challenges. Recommended Strategies Sports Fields A. Develop a capital reserve fund specific to synthetic turf renewal. B. Continue to work with sport groups to identify opportunities to optimize the supply of, and access to, support amenities like washrooms, seating areas, and storage. C. Consider retrofitting or adding a synthetic turf ball diamond in order to increase capacity, multi-use functionality, and enable expanded shoulder season use. D. Work with the City of Pitt Meadows to develop a Ridge- Meadows Sport Field Supply Study. Track & Field Amenities A. Consider taking on increased maintenance responsibility for the existing track at Maple Ridge Secondary in order to improve standards and user experience. --------------------------;■ 66 Synthetic Turf Bookings (2017 – 2021) 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 # of Fields Available 2 3 4 6*6* Total Hours Booked 5,877 5,901 7,873 7,456 8,635 Total Bookable Time Using Total Annual Capacity Assumption 6,000 9,000 12,000 15,000 15,000 % Booked 98%66%66%50%58% Total Bookable Time Using Peak Demand Capacity Assumption 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000 10,000 % Booked 147%98%98%75%86% *The two fields at Telosky Stadium are overlapping ball diamonds and rectangular fields, to illustrate the capacity it was assumed that each activity type only uses one field at a time. The fields came into the inventory in October 2019 and were accounted for as part of the capacity in the 2020 season and beyond. While the addition of synthetic turf supply has been beneficial, it also creates an additional facility renewal cost for the City. Typically, a synthetic turf field surface has a lifespan of 10-12 years before replacement is required to ensure continued safety. Based on current (2022) cost figures, this replacement cost can typically be between $1.0 and $1.5 million. As such, adequately funding replacement would require an average of $100,000 - $150,000 annually per field to be set aside into a capital reserve (not including cost escalation). It is recommended that the City establish a capital reserve fund specific to synthetic turf fields that includes user fee contributions (as further outlined in Section 7). The overall supply of rectangular sports fields (e.g. fields for soccer, football, and rugby) is most likely sufficient for the next 10 years. However, the City should improve data collection practices in order to better track actual utilization that can inform future planning and the subsequent Master Plan update. Additionally, the City should also work with group to ensure support amenity supply and access is optimized. Doing so will help support the growth of these organizations and enable them to provide their participants with the best possible experience. Community needs for ball diamonds requires further collaborative exploration across the Ridge-Meadows area. The recommended Ball Field Supply Study should endeavor to: • Gain a better understanding of actual utilization in both Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows • Explore the types / sizes of ball diamonds that may be needed • Explore opportunities to undertake cost effective upgrades to existing diamonds in both Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows that can increase capacity and meet user identified needs The Ball Field Supply Study should also evaluate the viability and benefits of converting Larry Walker Field to synthetic turf. The adjacent Hammond Stadium is not deemed a strong candidate for synthetic turf given the preference for high level ball to play on natural grass, however retrofitting Larry Walker Field could provide increased spring and fall ball playing and training opportunities. The current track at Maple Ridge Secondary School fulfills community needs for an outdoor track. The track should be sustained and renewed (when needed) through the City and School District 42 partnership. ■--------------- 67 5.3.16. Major Outdoor Event Venues The Fairgrounds and Albion Sports Complex have a significant footprint that includes spaces that are only used on a limited basis a few times each year for parking and event support. Given the adjacency to the Golden Ears Winter Club, Planet Ice Arenas, and Albion Sports Complex sports fields and ball diamonds, opportunities may exist to make higher value use of this space (specifically the gravel all-weather fields). The recommended site Master Plan should consider: • If this site could support one or multiple of the potential new arenas, aquatics facility or multi-use facility. • Opportunities for better and more functional park space. • Opportunities to renew or decommission aging and underused structured on the site. • The potential for a better / enhanced loop trail to connect amenities on the site. • Opportunities to enhance outdoor event hosting functionality and amenities. Future needs for a major (5,000 – 10,000) seat outdoor stadium venue should be further explored in the future through a feasibility study that looks deeper into regional demand factors, local user group need, potential sites, operating partnerships, and costs. Recommended Strategies A. Work with stakeholders to develop a site Master Plan that better leverages the Fairgrounds and Albion Sports Complex. B. Conduct a feasibility study to determine needs for a new outdoor stadium venue. 68 5.3.17. Other Park and Outdoor Amenities Recommended Strategies Outdoor Court Spaces A. Continue to invest and sustain existing courts at a safe and functional level. B. Include as a standard amenity offered in most new and renewed Community and Neighbourhood parks. Skate Parks / Youth Amenities A. Work with the wheeled sports community (skateboarders, scooter participants, etc.) to optimize existing amenities, monitor trends, and encourage participation in the various wheeled sports disciplines. B. If future trends and community engagement suggest that more supply is needed, establish a working group to identify potential site options. Mountain Bike Trails A. Develop a Thornhill Trails Management Strategy. B. Further explore future needs as part of the recommended Recreation Trails Strategy. Bike Skills Parks and Amenities A. Work with local stakeholders and users to support growth of the sport and encourage use of existing amenities and features. B. Consider bike skills amenities and features as part of all new park builds. Sand Volleyball Courts A. Monitor utilization of the new sand volleyball courts being added in 2023. Equestrian Facilities and Amenities A. Continue to support and maintain existing equestrian facilities. B. Further investigate equestrian needs as part of the suggested Recreation Trails Strategy. ■--------------- 69 Outdoor court spaces, skate parks, mountain bike parks and trails, bike skills parks and amenities, and sand volleyball courts can be stand-alone amenities but are often included as part of multi-use park sites in Maple Ridge. Given the primarily spontaneous use nature of these amenities, future supply needs should be continually re-evaluated based on improved collection of utilization data and stakeholder engagement. Outdoor courts and bike skills parks and amenities (e.g. pump tracks) should be considered for inclusion as all new park sites given their popularity, multi- use capability, and relative cost-effectiveness. Skate parks are a popular amenity and have a unique provision context in Maple Ridge (outdoor skate park supplemented by an indoor facility as part of the Greg Moore Youth Centre). The City should work with groups to monitor trends and help grow skate and scooter activities, and use this information and dialogue to inform future needs for outdoor skate and scooter infrastructure in the city. The City is looking to increase the supply of beach volleyball courts at the Albion Sports Complex. Adding or decreasing beach volleyball court supply should be based on assessing the levels of utilization at these potential new sites. ----------------■ 70 Arts and Culture Infrastructure Section Six 71 6.1. The Current Situation The ACT Arts Centre provides a critical hub for both visual and performing arts and culture in Maple Ridge and surrounding areas. The facility encompasses a main theatre space (486 person capacity) along with a 2D studio, craft studio, black box style theatre room, and a host of other program and gathering spaces. The facility is operated by the Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Arts Council through a lease and operating agreement with the City. The recently opened Albion Community Centre , located adjacent to c̓əsqənelə Elementary School, will additionally add some arts and cultural space capacity to Maple Ridge by providing program rooms and a multi-purpose large span space (the “Great Hall”). Walking Together, the City of Maple Ridge Culture Master Plan included significant community engagement to help assess the current state of arts and culture in Maple Ridge and identify key priorities. Key Findings from the Community Engagement • Opportunities exist to continue develop culture capacity and “vibe” in Maple Ridge. • 58% of Resident Survey respondents indicated that they use the ACT Arts Centre at least a “few times per year” (second among all indoor spaces behind only the MRLC pool). Walking Together, the City of Maple Ridge Culture Master Plan (pg. 23) WHERE DO WE NEED TO GO? Survey respondents key priorities for culture in Maple Ridge: 491o/o Celebrating lhe nalural environment 29% Providing creative education ancl y0L1lh -foc:us.ed programming 21 % Supporting the cultural nerttage of Indigenous Peoples 20% Celebrating the cull ur;;i I heril,-t ge of Mapre Riage ---------------■ 72 Infrastructure specific Objectives and Actions in Walking Together included: • Develop a Cultural Spaces and Facilities Framework to serve as a guide for phased investment and planning, extending beyond City-owned facilities and spaces, that includes but is not limited to: ºExamine current real estate inventory for arts, culture and heritage uses; ºIdentify and collate the mapping and listing of all Cityowned spaces, City-leased spaces, and emerging spaces with potential for re-purposing such as industrial zones, and/or renovated spaces as well as purpose-built venues; ºMaintain active dialogue with cultural community to stay current on space needs (including performing arts and museum discussions); ºSeize opportunities to work with other levels of government towards securing funding for identified new or renovated cultural spaces and facilities, and related planning (e.g. feasibility studies/needs assessments; and capital infrastructure). ºFacilitate agreements and address insurance issues with local realtors and developers to utilize existing venues, unrented or vacated spaces for cultural uses, for a possible tax deduction or other incentive. ºLook to the City of Vancouver’s Cultural Facilities Priorities Plan’ Self-Assessment Checklist for user groups of existing or proposed cultural facilities and spaces. ºLook at regulatory measures which may be preventing the use and development of artist and creative production spaces (including co-op models) and develop guidelines to allow more flexibility, as appropriate. • Determine City-identified spaces for temporary cultural activity (e.g. lobbies) and provide community spaces for artists (temporary or permanent), to introduce artists in residence program in higher traffic areas. • Support community-led efforts to share space and services and explore the opportunity to create a centralized arts and culture ‘hub’. • Use local transportation networks as channels to communicate awareness of events and programs (e.g. buses, bus shelter ads, West Coast Express etc.). • Encourage arts and heritage-based creative solutions for empty storefronts and animating spaces. • Where possible, identify opportunities for interpreting heritage and animating neighbourhoods in Maple Ridge through artist and community-led place-making activities. • Implement recommendations of the Developer Public Art Program to encourage beautification and an enhanced sense of place in urbanization. • Improve wayfinding in Maple Ridge and enhance ‘sense of place’ at neighbourhood levels through place naming and public works. Integrate with Indigenous cultural heritage initiatives. ■----------------- 73 6.2. Summary of Arts and Culture Infrastructure Strategies The following table summarizes the arts and culture infrastructure strategies. Arts and Culture Infrastructure Topic / Focus Area Strategies Policy Advancement A. Continue to advance the infrastructure related Objectives and Supporting Actions identified in Walking Together, the City of Maple Ridge Culture Master Plan. ACT Arts Centre A. Ensure that a sufficient asset management plan exists for re-investment in the ACT Arts Centre. Public Art A. Further integrate public art (including and especially Indigenous art) with recreation through installations and murals in recreation facilities, parks and trail features / signage. B. Establish a public art allocation commitment for new recreation facilities being considered (e.g. a % of the total project value). Integrating Arts and Culture into Community Infrastructure A. Ensure arts and culture stakeholders and space needs are considered as new community facility development is undertaken. 74 6.2.1 Policy Advancement Significant public and stakeholder engagement went into the development of the Culture Master Plan. Continuing to advance the strategic direction in this document reflects a commitment to the process used to develop it. Appropriate resourcing should be allocated over the next decade to ensure that infrastructure related elements of the Master Plan are implemented. Recommended Strategies A. Continue to advance the infrastructure related Objectives and Supporting Actions identified in Walking Together, the City of Maple Ridge Culture Master Plan. 75 6.2.2. ACT Arts Centre The ACT Arts Centre, operated through a partnership between the City and Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Arts Council, is a regional hub for performing arts and programming. Like other major facilities that fall under the City’s portfolio, re-investment will be required to sustain facility life and ensure that the venue remains current with best practices. Prioritization for capital re- investment should be informed by ongoing dialogue with the Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Arts Council and regular condition assessments. Recommended Strategies A. Ensure that a sufficient asset management plan exists for re-investment in the ACT Arts Centre. 76 6.2.3. Public Art Public art is an important place-making tool and can enhance user experiences and connection to the city / land. Establishing a public art allocation reflects a significant commitment to integrating public art into future recreation and related community infrastructure. Recommended Strategies A. Further integrate public art (including and especially Indigenous art) with recreation through installations and murals in recreation facilities, parks and trail features / signage. B. Establish a public art allocation commitment for new recreation facilities being considered (e.g. a % of the total project value). 77 6.2.4. Integrating Arts and Culture into Community Infrastructure The service level standards identified in Section 5 for Neighbourhood Hubs identifies baseline and value- added amenities for community centres in Maple Ridge. Multi-purpose program spaces should be included as “baseline amenities” and fitted to service a variety of uses, including introductory arts and culture programming. Dedicated arts and culture amenities are also identified as being important to consider based on community need and value added inclusion opportunities. Recommended Strategies A. Ensure arts and culture stakeholders and space needs are considered as new community facility development is undertaken. 78 Service Delivery Section Seven 79 7.1. The Current Situation Engagement with residents and user groups suggests that satisfaction levels with most aspects of parks, recreation and culture service delivery are relatively strong. Key Findings from the Resident Survey Resident satisfaction with… Very Satisfied Somewhat Satisfied Dissatisfied Not Sure / No Opinion The proximity of parks 41%43%12%4% The quality and appeal of parks 30%51%16%4% The proximity of recreation facilities 29%48%13%10% The overall ability for all residents to live a healthy and active lifestyle 24%53%14%9% Community organized events and festivals 16%48%13%23% City organized events and festivals 15%46% 16%23% The quality and appeal of recreation facilities 15%51%19%16% The proximity recreation programming 15%43%10%32% The proximity, quality and appeal of arts and cultural facilities 15%43%8%35% The quality and appeal of recreation programming 11%42%14%33% Life skill programming (e.g. Swim lessons) 11%24%15%49% The proximity, quality and appeal of arts and cultural programming 11%41%9%39% Adaptable programming 7%32%8%54% ---------------■ 80 While satisfaction levels are good, the community engagement also identified that some residents face barriers to participation and that opportunities exist to better communicate and connect residents with opportunities. Resident demands and needs for recreation, parks, and culture services are also continually shifting and perhaps even more rapidly in recent years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key findings from the research and engagement suggest that: • There continues to be an increasing demand for spontaneous and unstructured recreation (the majority of activity in Maple Ridge is spontaneous and unstructured). • Residents and visitors to the community are engaging more with trails and natural areas. • Many resident cohorts, especially youth and older adults, are eager to try new activities. • The demographics of Maple Ridge (as supported by available data analytics) suggests that Maple Ridge has an active population that places a focus on sports, leisure and recreation as central elements of their lifestyle. These factors among others suggest that the City’s delivery of services over the next 10 will need to be diverse and adaptable. ■--------------- 81 7.2. Summary of Service Delivery Strategies Summarized in the following table are the recommended Service Delivery Strategies. It is important to note that while in some instances these Strategies are intended to address identified gaps / issues, others are simply intended to reinforce and advance practices that are already being used. Service Delivery Topic / Focus Area Strategies Data Collection and Management A. Enhance the collection, management and use of data to inform decision making. B. Develop KPI’s to measure the City’s success rates in the delivery of parks, recreation and culture services. Child Care A. Continue focusing on providing programming and activity opportunities for children and youth during critical hours. B. Consider child care space needs as part of all future space planning. Major Capital Planning A. Use the recommended Capital Project Delivery Process to guide future major capital facility projects. B. Work with adjacent municipalities and other regional entities to ensure that capital planning for parks, recreation and culture infrastructure occurs collaboratively using a regional lens. Service Delivery Approaches & Tools A. Use the Recreation and Culture Opportunity Delivery Approaches Tool to guide programming and activity delivery decision making. B. Use the recommended Programming Triggers to inform decision making and when programming should be considered for expanded provision or retirement. Increasing Participation A. Continue identifying ways to engage equity seeking residents and those with social, physical and cultural barriers in active living opportunities. B. Improve communications and marketing in order to connect more residents with parks, recreation and culture opportunities. Policy Development and Refreshment A. Develop a new Fees and Charges Policy in alignment with the recommended benefits continuum. B. Review the allocation policy, adopted in 2021, to ensure it meets the recommended principles. C. Refresh the Public Art Policy to include a commitment to a capital allocation for new recreation infrastructure (as previously identified in Section 6). D. Develop a new Facilities and Amenities Naming Policy. ---------------■ 82 Service Delivery Topic / Focus Area Strategies A Commitment to Reconciliation A. Develop a statement of commitment that reflects how the City will utilize parks, recreation and culture to implement pertinent Calls to Action identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. B. Engage with local Indigenous communities and rights holders to identify how the City’s parks, trails, open spaces, programs and services can better connect to Indigenous culture and history. Strategy Alignment and Implementation A. Adequately resource the implementation of previously developed strategies. B. Utilize parks, recreation and culture as a mechanism to advance the priorities and goals identified in the Economic Development Strategy and Maple Ridge Tourism Strategy. *Section 4 identifies a number of outdoor space plans and strategies that should be undertaken to guide the development of potential new park spaces and optimization of existing ones. 83 7.2.1. Data Collection and Management Significant advancements have been made within the parks, recreation and culture sector in recent years with regards to data analytics and tools. The City should strive to be a leader in using these resources to ensure programming is aligned with community needs and trends. More specifically, opportunities exist for the City to better collect utilization data for spontaneous / unstructured spaces such as parks, trails, and spaces that are typically drop-in in nature (e.g. sport courts). Enhanced tracking of when and how these spaces are used will help the City better understand trends and characteristics of use. Having this data will help the City better manage these spaces and inform future capital planning and prioritization. Recommended Strategies A. Enhance the collection, management and use of data to inform decision making. B. Develop KPI’s to measure the City’s success rates in the delivery of parks, recreation and culture services. 84 7.2.2. Child Care A significant amount of research exists which support the wide ranging benefits of providing safe, accessible and multi-dimensional programming for children and youth during “critical hours”. The City should continue to work with School District 42 and other community partner organizations to provide recreation and culture programming. This programming should be balanced and ensure children and youth have opportunities to participate in a diverse array of activities that develop skills and peak interests in longer term participation. The Service Level Targets identified in Section 5 for Neighbourhood Hubs and Gymnasium Spaces recommends that child care spaces be considered for inclusion in new community centre facilities. Recent provincial and federal government commitments towards child care may additionally present high value opportunities to include child care in new and retrofitted facilities. As such, the City should also consider child care space inclusion for major recreation projects (new builds and retrofits) where appropriate and viable. Recommended Strategies A. Continue focusing on providing programming and activity opportunities for children and youth during critical hours. B. Consider child care space needs as part of all future space planning. The term “critical hours” refers to those times immediately after school as well as non-school weekdays. These times are of particular attention focus as there is a higher probability of children and youth being unsupervised. ■--------------- 85 7.2.3. Major Capital Planning This Master Plan identifies a number of potential major capital projects that could be undertaken over the next ten years. As the community grows and evolves, it is also likely that the additional project requests will emerge from the community and other local or regional partners. To best position potential major projects for success, the city should follow a clear, transparent and sequential process that ensures final decision making is based on a comprehensive understanding of the costs, benefits and project impacts. The following graphic identifies a recommended Capital Project Delivery Process that the City should follow when evaluating both City-led and partner proposed major capital projects (e.g. those with an estimated capital impact exceeding $0.5 M dollars). Recommended Strategies A. Use the recommended Capital Project Delivery Process to guide future major capital facility projects. B. Work with adjacent municipalities and other regional entities to ensure that capital planning for parks, recreation and culture infrastructure occurs collaboratively using a regional lens. 86 Why might a project come forward for consideration? • Identified in the Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan. • Brought forward by a partner organization or other entity with sucient supporting rationale. • An existing facility is at or nearing the end of its lifespan and a decision on re-investment / replacement. Need assessment inputs • Research analysis and strategic direction in the Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan. • Supply in the market area. • Demographics and growth. • Utilization and participation. • Activity specific trends. • Potential user demands and needs. Key feasibility considerations • Facility program options (potential main components and support amenities). • Capital and operating costs. • Impacts on existing facilities. • Potential sites and geographic placement. • Partnership and funding opportunities and approaches. Suggested process 1. Decision on project viability. 2. Finalize funding model (and partnership model if applicable). 3. Business planning. 4. Design. 5. Construction and commissioning. STEP 1 Preliminary Need Identification STEP 2 Needs Assessment (3-6 months) STEP 3 Feasibility Analysis (3-6 months) STEP 4 Decision Making and Development (12+ months) Recognizing that Maple Ridge is part of a broader parks, recreation and culture ecosystem in Metro Vancouver, the City should initiate and participate in regional recreation planning with adjacent municipalities, Metro Vancouver Regional Parks, BC Parks, School District 42 and other entities that provide parks, recreation and culture infrastructure. Maple Ridge is well positioned to be a leader in facilitating regional planning and doing so will provide mutually beneficial opportunities to avoid duplication and best leverage public resources. -------------------,■ _f~ 87 7.2.4. Service Delivery Approaches & Tools The City is continually required to determine the most effective and efficient approaches to delivering recreation programming and other activities. The decision on whether to offer a program or activity at all and, if yes, the best way to offer it should be based on a number of factors. The following Recreation and Culture Opportunity Delivery Approaches Tool outlines a decision making process that can be followed to help determine when and how the City should support the provision of a recreation and culture opportunity. Recommended Strategies A. Use the Recreation and Culture Opportunity Delivery Approaches Tool to guide programming and activity delivery decision making. B. Use the recommended Programming Triggers to inform decision making and when programming should be considered for expanded provision or retirement. 88 If “Yes”, proceed to Step 2. If “no” do not consider o ering the program Potential Recreation and Culture Program / Activity Step 1: Initial Program / Activity Evaluation Is there sucient rationale to support demand for the program / activity? Does the program / activity align with City values and the Service Delivery Objectives? Step 2: Who is best to provide the program? The City may be best suited to delivering the activity if... • There is not a local or regional organization with the capacity or skill sets required. • The City can best ensure accessibility and inclusivity. • There are synergies with other City oered program activities. • The City can provide the program in a more cost eective manner. Community Organizations or a Third Party Provider May Be Best Suited to Delivering the Program / Activity If… • They have the required skill sets and expertise. • They can oer the activity in a more cost eective manner. • They have a track record of success delivering similar activities. ■--------------- 89 Situations also arise that require the City to assess whether a program should be provided in greater quantity or potentially retired (no longer offered). The following Programming Triggers provide another tool that can be used to inform these decisions. A program should be considered for increased provision when at least 3 of the following 5 Triggers are met: • Program participation is at or approaching capacity. • Space exists to increase provision of the program without negatively impacting another high value program or activity. • Human resources exist to increase provision of the program without negatively impacting another high value program or activity. • The program can achieve cost recovery or, if requiring a subsidy, sufficient benefits rationale can be demonstrated to justify the level of subsidy required. • The program fills an identified gap for an underserved population. A program should be considered for retirement if 2 of the following 3 Triggers are met: • The program is taking away resources that can be redirected for a higher value use. • The program or program types has seen participation levels decrease by over 50% in the last 3 programming seasons / sessions. • The infrastructure being used to facilitate the program is no longer available or deemed suitable (e.g. safe, appropriate, etc.). t ---■ 90 7.2.5. Increasing Participation The City’s investment in parks, recreation and culture achieves maximum benefit when most residents are using the services. As in every community, some residents in Maple Ridge face systematic and practical barriers to participation. Increasing participation in parks, recreation and culture will need to be an ongoing effort that should employ the following tactics: • Use the direction provided by the City’s new Communications and Public Engagement Strategy. • Utilize data analytics to identify areas of the community higher proportions of residents facing potential barriers. *The Needs Assessment and What We Heard Summary Report includes analysis that can be used to identify potential geographic and demographic focus areas. • Increase promotion of the Access Pass and identify methods to get more uptake (e.g. working directly with local service agencies, translation into non- official languages, etc.) Recommended Strategies A. Continue identifying ways to engage equity seeking residents and those with social, physical and cultural barriers in active living opportunities. B. Improve communications and marketing in order to connect more residents with parks, recreation and culture opportunities. 91 7.2.6. Policy Development and Refreshment Policy development and refreshment is needed to align with the strategic guidance provided by the Master Plan and broader best practices in parks, recreation and culture service delivery. Three specific policy related initiatives are recommended. Recommended Strategies A. Develop a new Fees and Charges Policy in alignment with the recommended benefits continuum. B. Review the allocation policy, adopted in 2021, to ensure it meets the recommended principles. C. Refresh the Public Art Policy to include a commitment to a capital allocation for new recreation infrastructure (as previously identified in Section 6). D. Develop a new Facilities and Amenities Naming Policy. 92 Fees and Charges Policy The new Fees and Charges Policy should be developed around a set of agreed to benefits outcomes that are then aligned with a subsidy continuum. This approach, as summarized in the following graphic, will create a logical link between the benefits achieved by providing space for the program or activity and the fee or charge levied by the City for use of the space or direct provision of the program. Full Cost Recovery (no Subsidy) Achieves all or most of the agreed to benefits outcomes. Partially achieves the agreed to benefits outcomes. Achieves only a few of the agreed to benefits outcomes. Low Leve l of Cost Recovery ( Leve l of Subsidy) As part of revisiting fees and charges the City should also transition away from the “per participant” fee model used for some facilities to a model that aligns time booked with time paid for. Doing so may help reduce instances of overbooking and creates consistency with facilities that are booked hourly (e.g. ice arenas and pool time). ( I I I ) 93 Allocations Policy As the City brings expanded and new facilities online it will be important to ensure priority access to these spaces is equitable and transparent. It is recommended that the City develop a new Allocation Policy based upon the following four overarching principles. • While historical priority is recognized and maintained where rationalized, allocation priority is first and foremost based on demonstrated need. • The new allocations approach recognizes that some groups have faced systematic inequities and barriers to accessing space. • New and emerging groups need access to sufficient space and at times that are appropriate for their participants in order to flourish. • Making efficient and effective use of space is the shared responsibility of the City, its contracted partners in facility provision, and community organizations. Recommended Public Art Policy Addition The City’s current Public Art Policy does not recommend a major overhaul but should be supplemented with guidance and parameters to ensure public art is sufficiently included as part of future capital investment. As identified in Section 6.2. it is recommended that the City “establish a public art allocation commitment for new recreation facilities being considered (e.g. a % of the total project value)”. This commitment should be embedded in the Public Art Policy with additional guidance provided on how this commitment will be implemented upon as projects are planned and delivered. Facilities and Amenities Naming Policy A refreshed look at how parks, recreation and culture facilities are named is suggested. This policy work should consider a multitude of factors, including opportunities to advance decolonization of public assets, place making, and consistency. 94 7.2.7. A Commitment to Reconciliation The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Final Report includes 94 Calls to Action that all levels of government need to undertake in order to show a meaningful commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Canadians and decolonize society. A number of the Calls to Action directly relate or touch upon aspects of culture, recreation, parks and sport. By formalizing a statement as to how parks, recreation and culture services in Maple Ridge will contribute to implementing the relevant Calls to Action, the City will demonstrate a meaningful commitment to reconciliation and decolonization and create measurable goal posts that can be used to measure success at doing so. The City should also engage with local Indigenous communities and rights holders to identify increased opportunities to reflect Indigenous culture and history within Maple Ridge. Parks and trails naming, interpretive signage, Indigenous art installations, the inclusion of traditional Indigenous healing and wellness spaces are just a few opportunities that could be pursed. However, the planning and potential implementation should only be undertaken as per approval of the local Indigenous community through ongoing dialogue and a recognition of the harm resulted from colonization in Maple Ridge and the region. Recommended Strategies A. Adequately resource the implementation of previously developed strategies. B. Utilize parks, recreation and culture as a mechanism to advance the priorities and goals identified in the Economic Development Strategy and Maple Ridge Tourism Strategy. *Section 4 identifies a number of outdoor space plans and strategies that should be undertaken to guide the development of potential new park spaces and optimization of existing ones. ■--------------- 95 7.2.7. Strategy Alignment and Implementation *Section 4 identifies a number of outdoor space plans and strategies that should be undertaken to guide the development of potential new park spaces and optimization of existing ones. In recent years the City has undertaken the development of a number of plans and strategies aimed at specific aspects of parks, recreation and culture. • 2020 – 2030 Maple Ridge Child Care Action Plan (2020) • Maple Ridge Youth Strategy (2019) • Maple Ridge Sport and Physical Activity Strategy 2016 - 2021 (Updated in 2020) • City of Maple Ridge Age-Friendly Community Implementation Strategy (2018) • Walking Together, the City of Maple Ridge Culture Master Plan (2018) *As previously identified for specific areas of advancement in Section 6. Each of these documents includes recommended strategic direction aimed at advancing the associated topic area. Adequately resourcing the implementation of these documents reflects the value that the City places on the community and stakeholder engagement that informed many of the above documents and the importance of the strategic guidance provided in each. Parks, recreation and culture is also an important and recognized driver of visitation and associated non- local spending. This visitation occurs through non-local resident use of the abundant outdoor assets in and surrounding Maple Ridge, tournaments and competitions held in the city, and numerous community events, cultural performances and festivals. Wherever possible and appropriate, the provision of parks, recreation and culture should seek to advance the Economic Development Strategy and Maple Ridge Tourism Strategy. These efforts should include identifying ways to leverage existing infrastructure assets and the consideration of sport, recreation and culture tourism as major capital facility projects are planned. Recommended Strategies A. Adequately resource the implementation of previously developed strategies. B. Utilize parks, recreation and culture as a mechanism to advance the priorities and goals identified in the City’s Economic Development Strategy and Maple Ridge Tourism Strategy. *Section 4 identifies a number of outdoor space plans and strategies that should be undertaken to guide the development of potential new park spaces and optimization of existing ones. Did you know? Maple Ridge is the host of the 2024 BC Summer Games (originally scheduled for 2020 and postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The games are anticipated to generate an estimated $1.6 to $2.0 million dollars in economic benefits (BC Games Society). ---------------■ 96 Implementation Plan Section Eight ■ - 97 8.1. Strategy Implementation 8.1.1. Parks and Open Spaces Strategies Capital Funding Requirements Low ($) = <$200,000 Moderate ($$) = $200,000 - $5,000,000 High ($$$) = >$5,000,000 *High level estimates for order of magnitude purposes only. STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Overall Park Supply A. Develop a Parkland Acquisition Strategy. $ Capital funding identified does not include the significant capital funding required to implement park projects. B. Strive to sustain Neighbourhood Park provide at 0.69 Ha. per 1,000 residents. N/A To be primarily achieved through the development process. City costs to be determined on a site by site bases. C. Identify opportunities to strategically and responsibly develop City owned lands to increase park supply. N/A Capital costs to be assessed on a site by site basis. D. Adopt and use the refreshed classification system to guide experiential quality and operational inputs. N/A ---------------■ 98 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) E. Improve the collection of park utilization data in order to better understand utilization or parks, park provision benefits, trends and other data points that can inform operational and capital resource allocation. N/A Appropriate staff resources to support enhanced data collection. F. Allocate resources to undertake strategic planning for the following specific sites: Maple Ridge Park, Whonnock Lake Park, Jackson Farms, Albion Sports Complex/Fairgrounds, Thornhill and waterfront park spaces. $ G. Develop an Urban Forest Management Strategy. $ Playgrounds A. Continue the Playground Renewal Strategy to identify targeted renewal / lifecycle schedules for all City managed playgrounds. $$ B. Undertake a detailed inventory of play structures and spaces that includes a play opportunity rating. $May require outside expertise. C. Continue to diversify the play inventory to ensure a balance of play opportunities (natural play, adventure play, etc.) and ensure accessibility across the children and youth age spectrum. $$ Trails A. Develop a Recreation Trails Strategy to further explore trail system specific needs and provide the necessary strategic and tactical guidance. $May require outside expertise. ■--------------- 99 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) B. Establish a Trails Committee (as a sub-committee to the Parks, Recreation & Culture Advisory Committee) to advise administration on an ongoing basis. N/A Campgrounds A. Support Economic Development in a feasibility study to explore the viability of a campground by the City of via partnership. N/A Danielle to look at Tourism Strategy Park Amenities and Features A. Continue to monitor picnic shelter bookings and consider further addition of picnic shelter supply if demand continues to trend upwards. N/A Capital funding identified does not include the significant capital funding required to implement park projects. B. Continue to identify new and creative ways to encourage and facilitate social gathering across the city’s park spaces. $ "Needs to be linked to othe ongoing neighbourhood development work and resourcing. Requires ongoing engagement resourcing. " C. Identify opportunities for increased placemaking across all classes of parks, including the integration of public art and features that create neighbourhood, community and citywide connections. $Leveraging funding already in place. ---------------■ 100 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) D. Continue to invest and sustain spray parks across the city and analyze the spatial distribution of spray parks across the City to guide development of new spray parks and features. $$ E. Unertake an assessment of existing parks and identify opportunities to include trending amenities and features where appropriate in new and enhanced park spaces. $$ Dog Off-leash Areas (DOLA's) A. Continue to utilize the engagement findings from the 2020 Dog Park Survey to inform operational and planning decisions. Consider replicating this survey every 3 years (2023) to track trends and shifting perspectives. $ B. Use the recommended criteria to assess the suitability of new or retrofitted parks to accommodate dog off-leash use. N/A Does not include capital funding for sites. Community Gardens A. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. $$Some of this work is already ongoing. Community engagement resourcing required. B. Expand community garden supply with a priority on providing this amenity in parks and vacant City- owned lands with appropriate amenity and use characteristics. N/A ■--------------- 101 8.1.2 Recreation Infrastructure Strategies (Indoor) STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Aquatics Facilities A. Continue to conduct regular assessments of the MRLC and undertake the necessary repairs and enhancements needed to keep this facility at a safe, functional and appealing level." $$$As per condition assessment report. B. Undertake feasibility analysis for a new aquatics facility to serve the community. $ Does not include facility project costs. Ice Arenas A. Work with the Planet Ice arenas operator and arena stakeholder groups to establish service standards that ensure facility sustainability and optimize user experience. N/A Costs may be requires to implement service standards once developed. B. Expand the supply of arenas in the city by 2 sheets, with 1 sheet developed in the near term in order to meet ice and dry-floor needs. $$$ C. Use the recommended Ice Provision Approach Framework to guide future decision making on the best approaches to provide ice arenas in the city. N/A Indoor Walking / Running Tracks A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multi-use facility or community centre). $$Capital cost figure reflects inclusion as part of a larger project. ---------------■ 102 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Indoor Children’s Play Space A. Include this amenity in a new facility (arena, indoor multisport facility, pool or community centre) and/or as part of a future space retrofit. $$Capital cost figure reflects inclusion as part of a larger project. Neighbourhood Hubs and Gymnasium Spaces A. Review the infrastructure upgrade planned for the Hammond Community Centre Site. N/A B. Ensure the Whonnock Lake and Albion Community Centre sites are sustained through the appropriate asset management practices. $$ C. Work with School District 42 to maximize community access to school gymnasiums as a primary means of increasing gymnasium supply in the community. N/A D. Use the recommended Neighbourhood Hub Service Level Targets to inform future capital investment and planning decisions. N/A Does not include capital project costs related to addressing identified gaps. Youth Focused Spaces A. Develop a lifecycle plan to sustain the Greg Moore Youth Centre and undertake regular condition assessments to update the plan. $Funding required for the lifecyle plan. B. As an ongoing practice, develop a business plan every 5 years that revisits trends, program practices and space optimization opportunities. $May require outside expertise. C. As new facilities are planned and brought online, ensure unstructured space needs for youth are considered. N/A ■--------------- 103 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Older Adult Focused Spaces A. Continue to invest and sustain the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre. $/$$ B. Ensure that evolving older adult activity needs are considered as all other types of new indoor recreation infrastructure are planned. N/A Dependent upon specific projects and assessed older adult needs. Racquetball / Squash A. For the short to medium term, sustain the current courts at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre. N/A B. Monitor trends and utilization and consider re-purposing opportunities if higher value uses of these spaces are clearly justified. TBD Curling Facilities A. Develop a lifecycle plan to ensure that the Golden Ears Winter Club facility is sustained at a safe, functional and appealing level. $ Indoor Multi-Use Facilities A. Establish a working group consisting of local indoor sport, recreation, and culture stakeholders to develop program and space needs for an indoor multi-use facility. $ Does not include capital project costs. Climbing Walls A. Sustain the climbing structure and bouldering wall in the Greg Moore Youth Centre. N/A B. Monitor private sector provision and trends. N/A ---------------■ 104 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) C. Consider including an aquatics climbing feature and/or dryland climbing feature as part of future recreation facility development based on trends, community engagement and assessed need as projects are implemented. $ Fitness Facilities A. Continue to sustain the existing fitness spaces at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre at a functional and appealing level. $/$$ B. Include fitness spaces and amenities in future arena and aquatics facility development. $/$$ Recreation Support Spaces A. Ensure that community-wide needs for meeting spaces, program rooms, social gathering space, and office space are considered as part of future arena and aquatics facility planning. $Only accounts for the specific support space as part of the larger project. ■--------------- 105 8.1.3 Recreation Infrastructure Strategies (Outdoor) STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Pickleball Courts A. Continue to monitor pickleball trends and determine the best and highest value use of existing court spaces. N/A B. Initiate planning for a hub pickleball facility (12+ courts) that can accommodate the growth of this activity and provide tournament hosting capability. $$ Outdoor Sports Courts A. Continue to invest and sustain existing courts at a safe and functional level. $ B. Include as a standard amenity offered in most new and renewed Community and Neighbourhood parks. $/$$ Skate Parks / Youth Amenities A. Work with the wheeled sports community (skateboarders, scooter participants, etc.) to optimize existing amenities, monitor trends, and encourage participation in the various wheeled sports disciplines. N/A B. If future trends and community engagement suggest that more supply is needed, establish a working group to identify potential site options. TBD ---------------■ 106 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Sports Fields A. Develop a capital reserve fund specific to synthetic turf renewal. $$ B. Continue to work with sport groups to identify opportunities to optimize the supply of, and access to, support amenities like washrooms, seating areas, and storage. N/A Could have impacts on future capital project needs. C. Consider retrofitting or adding a synthetic turf ball diamond in order to increase capacity, multi-use functionality, and enable expanded shoulder season use. $$ D. Work with the City of Pitt Meadows to develop a Ridge-Meadows Sport Field Supply Study. $ Outdoor Aquatics A. Continue to undertake basic repairs to the Hammond Outdoor Pool to sustain use for the short term. $$ B. Determine the future of the Hammond Outdoor Pool based on the outcomes of the Aquatics Feasibility Study. N/A ■--------------- 107 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Tennis Courts A. Sustain the current supply of tennis courts. $ B. Use Tennis Canada's Municipal Tennis Facilities Strategy & Partnership Framework (Let's Play Year-Round) and the Capital Project Delivery Process provided in Section 7 of this Master Plan document to guide future exploration and potential City involvement in a covered tennis facility. TBD Tracks and Field Venues A. Consider taking on increased maintenance responsibility for the existing track at Maple Ridge Secondary in order to improve standards and user experience. N/A Likely to require increased operational costs. Major Outdoor Event Venues A. Work with stakeholders to develop a site Master Plan that better leverages the Fairgrounds and Albion Sports Complex. $ B. Conduct a feasibility study to determine needs for a new outdoor stadium venue. $ Equestrian Facilities / Amenities A. Continue to support and maintain existing equestrian facilities. N/A B. Further investigate equestrian needs as part of the suggested Recreation Trails Strategy. $ ---------------■ 108 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Mountain Bike Trails A. Develop a Thornhill Trails Management Strategy. $ B. Further explore future needs as part of the recommended Recreation Trails Strategy. $ Bike Skills Parks and Amenities A. Work with local stakeholders and users to support growth of the sport and encourage use of existing amenities and features. N/A B. Consider bike skills amenities and features as part of all new park builds. $ Sand Volleyball Courts A. Monitor utilization of the new sand volleyball courts being added in 2023. N/A ■--------------- 109 8.1.4. Arts and Culture Infrastructure Strategies STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Policy Advancement A. Continue to advance the infrastructure related Objectives and Supporting Actions identified in Walking Together, the City of Maple Ridge Culture Master Plan. $$/$$$ ACT Arts Centre A. Ensure that a sufficient asset management plan exists for re- investment in the ACT Arts Centre. $$ Public Art A. Further integrate public art (including and especially Indigenous art) with recreation through installations and murals in recreation facilities, parks and trail features / signage. $/$$ B. Establish a public art allocation commitment for new recreation facilities being considered (e.g. a % of the total project value). N/A Actual project value as per the policy commitment. Integrating Arts and Culture into Community Infrastructure A. Ensure arts and culture stakeholders and space needs are considered as new community facility development is undertaken. N/A Capital costs may be required to ensure arts and cultural amenities are included in spaces. ---------------■ 110 8.1.5. Service Delivery Strategies STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Data Collection and Management A. Enhance the collection, management and use of data to inform decision making. $ B. Develop KPI's to measure the City's success rates in the delivery of parks, recreation and culture services. $ Child Care A. Continue focusing on providing programming and activity opportunities for children and youth during critical hours. $ B. Consider child care space needs as part of all future space planning. $/$$/$$$Deliverying additional child care spaces has a wide range of potential cost impacts (capital and operating costs impacts require assessment on a project by project basis). Major Capital Planning A. Use the recommended Capital Project Delivery Process to guide future major capital facility projects. N/A B. Work with adjacent municipalities and other regional entities to ensure that capital planning for parks, recreation and culture infrastructure occurs collaboratively using a regional lens. N/A ■--------------- 111 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) Service Delivery Approaches & Tools A. Use the Recreation and Culture Opportunity Delivery Approaches Tool to guide programming and activity delivery decision making. N/A B. Use the recommended Programming Triggers to inform decision making and when programming should be considered for expanded provision or retirement. N/A Increasing Participation A. Continue identifying ways to engage equity seeking residents and those with social, physical and cultural barriers in active living opportunities. N/A B. Improve communications and marketing in order to connect more residents with parks, recreation and culture opportunities. N/A May require incremental operating funds. Policy Development and Refreshment A. Develop a new Fees and Charges Policy in alignment with the recommended benefits continuum. N/A B. Review the allocation policy, adopted in 2021, to ensure it meets the recommended principles. N/A C. Refresh the Public Art Policy to include a commitment to a capital allocation for new recreation infrastructure (as previously identified in Section 6). N/A D. Develop a new Facilities and Amenities Naming Policy. N/A ---------------■ 112 STRATEGY TIMING CAPITAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ = Low $$ = Moderate $$$ = High OTHER RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS On g o i n g ( e m b e d d e d pr a c t i c e ) Sh o r t T e r m (0 - 3 Y e a r s ) Me d i u m T e r m (3 - 5 Y e a r s ) Lo n g T e r m (5 + Y e a r s ) A Commitment to Reconciliation A. Develop a statement of commitment that reflects how the City will utilize parks, recreation and culture to implement pertinent Calls to Action identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. N/A B. Engage with local Indigenous communities and rights holders to identify how the City’s parks, trails, open spaces, programs and services can better connect to Indigenous culture and history. N/A Strategy Alignment and Implementation A. Adequately resource the implementation of previously developed strategies. $Will require staff time and resourcing. B. Utilize parks, recreation and culture as a mechanism to advance the priorities and goals identified in the Economic Development Strategy and Maple Ridge Tourism Strategy. N/A Will require staff time and resourcing. ■--------------- 113 Appendices 114 Appendix A: Refreshed Classification of Parks Park Name Address Street Park Classification: Signature Albion Fairgrounds 23588 Jim Robson Way Memorial Peace 11930 224 St Port Haney Wharf 22300 River Rd Park Classification: Destination Jerry Sulina 13180 210 St Maple Ridge 13180 232 St Maple Ridge 13165 236 St North Alouette Greenway 13360 Park Lane Whonnock Lake 27871 113 Ave Park Classification: Community Samuel Robertson Technical Secondary 10445 245 St Garibaldi Secondary 24789 Dewdney Trunk Rd Albion 24460 104 Ave Albion Sports Complex 23778 104 Ave Allco 13255 Alouette Rd Cliff Park 25086 116 Ave Cross's Cabins 23644 Fern Cres Davidson's Pool 23701 128 Cres Golden Ears Field 23125 116 Ave Hammond Community Park 20601 Westfield Ave Hammond Dog Off Leash Area 20015 Wharf St Haney House Museum 11612 224 St Horseman's 12790 224 St Jim Hadgkiss 22520 116 Ave Maple Ridge Lawn Bowling 11445 232 St Maple Ridge Secondary School Track & Lacrosse Box 21970 124 Ave Merkley 22008 124 Ave Rieboldt 23278 Tamrack Ln ■--------------- 115 Park Name Address Street SRT Rotary Sport Field 10445 245 St Ruskin 9880 280 St Selvey 27101 106 Ave Telosky Stadium & Thomas Haney Youth Action Park 23000 116 Ave Thornhill 26007 98 Ave Westview Secondary Rotary Sport Field 20905 Wicklund Ave Park Classification: Neighbourhood Alouette Elementary 22155 Isaac Cres Whonnock Elementary 27471 112 Ave Albion Elementary 10031 240 St Glenwood Elementary 21410 Glenwood Ave Maple Ridge Elementary 20820 River Rd Laity View Elementary 21023 123 Ave Fairview Elementary 12209 206 St Mount Crescent Elementary 21821 122 Ave Harry Hooge Elementary 12280 230 St Webster's Corners Elementary 25554 Dewdney Trunk Rd Hammond Elementary 11520 203 St Ridge Meadows College / Riverside Centre 20575 Thorne Ave Kanaka Creek Elementary 11120 234a St Eric Langton Elementary 12138 Edge St Yennadon Elementary 12153 248 St Blue Mountain Elementary 12153 248 St 241A Park 11170 241A St Alexander Robinson 23761 118 Ave Alouette 12500 220A St Beckett 11683 223 St Belle Morse 23600 Jim Robson Way Blaney Hamlet 13712 230A St Boundary 12261 201 St Brickwood 11579 225 St Camwood 20846 McFarlane Ave Cedar 23735 132 Ave ---------------■ 116 Park Name Address Street Cottonwood North 12111 238B St Deer Fern 13393 236 St Fairview 20468 122 Ave Firefighters 11280 238 St Fletcher 12260 Fletcher St Hammond 20577 Lorne Ave Hampton 21653 Spring Cres Haney Nokai 12061 222 St Harry Hooge 12290 230 St Jordan 21018 117 Ave Kin 21790 121 Ave Lion's 12100 Laity St Pioneer 11824 230 St Red Alder 13040 239B St Reg Franklin 22522 123 Ave Tolmie 20272 Lorne Ave Volker 21131 123 Ave Webster's Corners 25496 Dewdney Trk Rd Westview 20950 Wicklund Ave Park Classification: Pocket Park Nelson 22800 Nelson Crt. Bridle Ridge 14070 Buckles Dr. Birch 13798 230A St Brown Avenue 12038 224 St Callaghan 22375 Callaghan Ave Chilcotin 20873 Alpine Cres Cook 21150 Cook Ave Country Lane Estates - North 24295 102A Ave Country Lane Estates - South 24395 101 Ave Creeks Crossing 10021 240A St Dewdney Parkette 23649 Dewdney Trk Rd Emmeline Mohun 20208 Wharf St Holly 21450 117 Ave ■--------------- 117 Park Name Address Street Homestead 24101 102A Ave Horseshoe Creek 11700 Gilland Loop Raymond 22109 119 Ave Robertson 24685 104 Ave Roslyn Ridge 23126 112B St Park Classification: Open Space Fraser River Walk & Park 11612 224 St Maple Ridge Cemetery 21404 Dewdney Trk Rd Maple Ridge Golf Course 20818 Golf Lane Storey Green 22400 River Rd Whonnock Cemetery 27300 96 Ave ---------------■ 118 Appendix B: Recreation Amenities Prioritization Scoring and Ranking Scoring Metric CRITERIA 3 PTS 2 PTS 1 PT WEIGHTING VALUE Resident Demand Identified as a priority by >40% of Resident Survey respondents Identified as a priority by 25 - 39% of Resident Survey respondents Identified as a priority by 20 - 24% of Resident Survey respondents "0" pts are given if <20% of Resident Survey respondents identified the amenity type as a priority 4 Equity and Access Considerations The amenity type (and the majority of activities that take place at it) would most likely have no cost to use / participate without the need for a formal registration or admission and be physically accessible to all residents The amenity type (and the majority of activities that take place at it) would most likely havea very low cost to use / participate and be physically accessible to all residents The amenity type (and the majority of activities that take place at it) would most likely have some moderate costs to use / participate and be physically accessible to all residents "0" pts are given if the amenity (and the majority of activities that take place at it) would have a high cost to access and potential physical accessibility barriers 3 Stakeholder and User Group Priorities Commonly / frequently identified as an infrastructure priority by multiple groups in the stakeholder and user group engagement (discussion sessions and survey) N/A Identified by multiple groups as an infrastructure priority by multiple groups in the stakeholder and user group engagement (discussion sessions and survey) "0" pts are given if the amenity type was not identified by multiple groups during the stakeholder and user group engagement 3 ■--------------- 119 CRITERIA 3 PTS 2 PTS 1 PT WEIGHTING VALUE Youth Perspectives Identified as a priority by >40% of Youth Survey respondents Identified as a priority by 25 - 39% of Youth Survey respondents Identified as a priority by 20 - 24% of Youth respondents "0" pts are given if <20% of Youth Survey respondents identified the amenity type as a priority 3 Recreation Provision Benefits Increasing supply of the amenity type would provide a recreation opportunity for residents that is not currently available in Maple Ridge or adjacent communities in the region. *Existing amenities that have been identified as needing replacement within the next 10 years are given a "3" score (based on the rationale that losing the amenity would create a gap) Increasing supply of the amenity type would significantly enhance the existing provision of the recreation opportunity in Maple Ridge (improve resident access, types of programming available, etc.) "Increasing supply of the amenity type would result in some moderate improvements to the existing provision of the recreation opportunity (complement what already exists, address capacity challenges, etc.) "0" pts are given if the amenity would not significantly increase the diversity of recreation opportunities in Maple Ridge (duplicate what is already sufficiently provided) 2 Probable Capital Cost Impacts Low Medium High 2 Probable Operating Cost Impacts Low Medium High 2 Trends Indicators Regional, provincial and national trends strongly suggest that the activity is growing in demand N/A Regional, provincial and national trends strongly suggest that the activity is maintaining current levels of demand or experiencing some modest growth in demand "0" pts are given for activities that regional, provincial and national trends suggest are declining in demand 2 ---------------■ 120 CRITERIA 3 PTS 2 PTS 1 PT WEIGHTING VALUE Benchmarking Indicators Benchmarking indicators suggest that Maple Ridge provides the amenity type at a deficient level to regional comparators N/A Benchmarking indicators suggest that Maple Ridge provides the amenity type at a similar level to regional comparators or available data is unclear / not applicable "0" pts are given if benchmarking indicators suggest that the City provides the amenity at a significantly better level than regional comparators 1 Economic Benefits The amenity type is likely to drive higher levels of non-local spending to Maple Ridge (e.g. through facilitating event and tournament hosting) The amenity type is likely to drive higher moderate levels of non- local spending to Maple Ridge (e.g. through facilitating event and tournament hosting) The amenity type would drive some minimal levels of non-local spending to Maple Ridge and/or support amenities that drive non-local visitation "0" pts are given if the amenity would have no impact on non-local spending 1 ■--------------- 121 Assigned Scores Amenity Type Re s i d e n t D e m a n d Eq u i t y a n d Ac c e s s Co n s i d e r a t i o n s St a k e h o l d e r an d U s e r G r o u p Pr i o r i t i e s Yo u t h Pe r s p e c t i v e s Re c r e a t i o n Pr o v i s i o n B e n e f i t s Pr o b a b l e C a p i t a l Co s t I m p a c t s Pr o b a b l e Op e r a t i n g C o s t Im p a c t s Tr e n d s I n d i c a t o r s Be n c h m a r k i n g In d i c a t o r s Ec o n o m i c Be n e f i t s We i g h t e d S c o r i n g Indoor aquatics facility 3 2 1 2 2 1 1 3 3 2 46 Indoor multi-use facility 2 1 2 3 2 1 2 3 1 3 46 Pickleball Courts 0 3 3 0 2 3 3 3 1 1 42 Mountain bike parks / trails 0 3 0 2 2 3 3 3 1 1 39 Neighbourhood hubs / gathering places 2 2 1 0 2 2 2 3 1 1 37 Ice arenas 1 2 3 0 2 1 1 2 3 3 37 Indoor walking / running tracks 2 2 0 0 3 2 3 2 1 1 36 Bike skills parks and features 0 3 1 0 2 3 3 3 1 1 36 Outdoor sports courts 0 3 1 1 1 3 3 3 1 0 36 Skate parks / features 0 3 0 3 1 2 3 2 1 1 36 Indoor children's play spaces / amenities 1 2 1 0 2 3 2 3 1 1 35 Youth focused spaces 1 3 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 0 35 Synthetic turf sports fields / ball diamonds 0 2 1 2 1 2 3 3 0 2 35 Natural grass sports fields / ball diamonds 0 3 3 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 35 Gymnasiums 0 2 1 2 1 2 2 3 1 1 33 Outdoor pools 1 2 0 2 3 1 1 2 1 1 32 Seniors focused spaces 1 3 1 0 1 2 2 1 1 0 29 Tennis Courts 0 3 1 0 1 3 2 1 1 1 28 Climbing walls 0 2 0 2 1 2 2 2 1 1 28 Sand volleyball courts 0 3 0 0 1 3 3 1 1 1 27 Outdoor stadium 1 1 1 0 2 1 1 2 1 3 26 Social gathering facilities 0 2 1 0 1 2 2 2 1 1 25 ---------------■ 122 Amenity Type Re s i d e n t D e m a n d Eq u i t y a n d Ac c e s s Co n s i d e r a t i o n s St a k e h o l d e r an d U s e r G r o u p Pr i o r i t i e s Yo u t h Pe r s p e c t i v e s Re c r e a t i o n Pr o v i s i o n B e n e f i t s Pr o b a b l e C a p i t a l Co s t I m p a c t s Pr o b a b l e Op e r a t i n g C o s t Im p a c t s Tr e n d s I n d i c a t o r s Be n c h m a r k i n g In d i c a t o r s Ec o n o m i c Be n e f i t s We i g h t e d S c o r i n g Fitness facilities / indoor training facilities 0 1 0 2 1 2 2 2 1 0 24 Track and field venues / amenities 0 3 0 0 1 2 2 1 1 2 24 Multi-purpose rooms / dry floor spaces 0 2 1 0 1 2 2 1 1 0 22 Equestrain facilities / amenities 0 1 1 0 1 2 2 1 1 1 20 Racquet court sports 0 2 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 17 Curling facilities 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 1 1 2 14 ■---------------