Res 2010-173 - Laserfiche WebLink

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, Methodology The basis for this plan was the need to update the previously completed 2002 plan. Several initiatives were identified in the 2002 Park Master Plan; many of which have been completed. Remaining projects from the 2002 plan were updated to gauge their priority within the City, while new projects were sought. In the end, the list of recommendations meets the current list of demands while recognizing past efforts. Guidelines developed by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) were utilized to compare standard -based needs for the community, but tremendous effort was also exerted to elicit public response through organized meetings, intercept surveys and mail out surveys. The data gathered through these demand -based needs methods provided the local knowledge and insight needed to tailor the park plan to the city it serves. The project team also utilized City data through the Planning, Capital Improvements, and Public Works Departments to assist in coordinating different projects in various City departments. Transportation, utility and comprehensive planning initiatives were reviewed and incorporated where necessary to create a more complete system. Existing Conditions Currently, there are approximately 1,699 acres of parkland in San Marcos which represents 48 parks. Most parks fit into the neighborhood (<10 acres to 50 acres) or regional park (50+ acres) category. Additionally, most of the area outside San Marcos city limits is not currently being served by a park. The park land provides a variety of opportunities for passive and active recreation, but tends to favor large gatherings with intense use along the San Marcos River. A separate river management report has been developed in cooperation by the City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department, Texas State University's River Systems Institute and the National Park Service's Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program. The recommendations from that management plan have been included as a chapter in this Parks Master Plan since any proposals for the river corridor have a direct impact on the development and use of the park system. As of the adoption of this plan, the population of San Marcos is 50,373 people (source: San Marcos Planning & Development Department). Using the "San Marcos Horizons Master Plan" as a guide, the population projection for the city is estimated to be 61,971 by 2015; 71,841 by 2020; and nearly 100,000 (or more) by 2030. These projections should be considered estimates, and can be dramatically affected by unforeseen changes in local, regional, or state economies and patterns of migration. 3