HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011 05 03 Other Regular 600 Document Distributed By Chris CaldwellDate: May 3, 2011
The following document was distributed by Mr.
Chris Caldwell during Agenda Item Regular
"600" at the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Committee Regular Meeting on May 3, 2011.
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CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES ..................................................... ..............................1
B. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................... ..............................8
C. INVENTORY OF EXISTING RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE FACILITIES .............................8
1. Public Parks and Open Space ........................................................... ..............................8
a . Regional Parks ................................................................................................. ..............................9
b . Community Parks ........................................................................................... .............................12
c . Special Use Facilities .................................................................................... .............................13
d Neighborhood Parks ..................................................................................... .............................13
e . Mini -Parks and Tot - Lots ................................................................................ .............................13
f . Open Space ................................................................................................... .............................14
g. Urban Plazas and Squares ....................................................................... ............................... 14
h . Nearby County Facilities ............................................................................. .............................19
i . School Facilities .............................................................................................. .............................21
2 . Private Facilities ............................................................................... .............................21
D. EXISTING AND FUTURE PARKS AND RECREATION NEEDS .................. .............................22
1. Population Trends and User Needs .................................................. .............................22
2. Outdoor Recreation Planning Guidelines ........................................ .............................23
3. Recreational Facilities ...................................................................... .............................30
4. Meeting Future Recreation and Open Space Needs ......................... .............................30
5. Public Participation in Recreation Planning ..................................... .............................31
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4" "61 a x_1 *i
Table VI - 1: Park and Open Space Acreage, Based on Level of Service Standards ..................6
Table VI - 2: Inventory of Public Parks and Recreational Facilities and Open Space, 2009....15
Table VI - 3: Inventory of Private Recreational Facilities, 2008 ................. .............................22
Table VI - 4: Use Guidelines for User - Oriented Recreation Activities, 2007 ...........................23
Table VI - 5: Population Guidelines for User - Oriented Recreation Activities, 2008 ................25
LIST OF MAPS
Map VI — 1: Inventory of Public Parks, Recreation Facilities and Open Space ..........................7
Map VI — 2: Seminole County Trails Construction Map ............................. ..............................1 1
Map VI — 3: Park Service Areas .................................................................. .............................27
Map VI — 4: Target Areas for New Parks .................................................... .............................28
Map VI — 5: Sites for Purchase Consideration ............................................ .............................29
Map VI — 6: Conceptual Trails Network Map ............................................. .............................32
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
CHAPTER VI
RECREATION & OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
A. GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES
GOAL 1: To provide adequate open space, parks, and recreation facilities to enable high
quality participation for all residents and visitors.
Objective 1.1: Level of Service Standards for Parks. To ensure that the City has an
adequate acreage of park lands and open space, the City shall utilize Level of Service (LOS)
standards.
Policy 1.1.1: Utilize the following LOS standards:
Total Overall Public Park and Recreation Land Acreage (including Open
Space): Eight (8) acres per 1,000 residents. For purposes of
implementing this policy, the City may utilize State and County park
lands and trails that are located within the City's jurisdictional
boundaries. This standard includes land with passive and active uses.
City Owned Open Space: Four (4) acres per 1,000 residents. Open
space is defined as "undeveloped lands suitable for passive recreation
or conservation ".
Policy 1.1.2: Establish a Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee made up of
residents who will work together to review parks and recreation
facilities and programs and make appropriate recommendations to the
City Commission.
Policy 1.1.3: Maintain an inventory of the location, size, condition and amenities
available at each public park, recreation area and open space. This
inventory shall be updated every year.
Policy 1.1.4: Implement and periodically update recreation guidelines and criteria
for park sites and facilities based on industry standards and
comparison with those of neighboring and comparable jurisdictions.
Policy 1.1.5: Rely upon the State of Florida and Seminole County park facilities and
wilderness areas located within a 30 -mile driving distance of the City
for their value as regional resource - oriented facilities. These areas
generally serve a population of over 100,000 and feature outdoor
recreation resources and facilities that capitalize on and promote
appreciation of the natural environment.
Policy 1.1.6: Rely upon private development to provide and maintain neighborhood
parks in areas of new development. A neighborhood park is a facility
that serves an entire neighborhood and which is located no more than
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
one -half (1/2) mile from the residents served. In cases where a
greater distance cannot be avoided, a paved parking area shall also
be provided. The size of a neighborhood park shall be dependent on
the number of units served as described in the land development code,
but shall not be less than one -half acre. Infill development of 20 units
or less shall be exempt from this provision. Typical facilities provided
in a neighborhood park often include a swimming pool, cabana or
clubhouse with restrooms, playground area, paved multi - purpose court,
picnic area., fitness trail, and /or open free play area. Open space
may also be one component of the dedicated area.
Policy 1.1.7: Protect and enhance open space areas and natural features within
existing City parks, and do not allow active recreational uses to
unnecessarily encroach upon them.
Policy 1.1.8: Require preservation of ecologically sensitive open spaces in the
Greeneway Interchange District and promote connectivity of these
natural features for habitat continuity and sustainability. Additionally,
require a network of public plazas with interconnected sidewalks to
promote an urban pedestrian environment.
Policy 1.1.9: Pursue additional sites for active public recreational opportunities for
current and future residents through land acquisition and /or
public /private partnerships.
Policy 1.1.10: Acquire park land and develop appropriate facilities by utilizing a
variety of funding sources as available, such as the general fund,
grants, developer contributions, impact fees, and user fees, as well as
creative funding solutions, such as special taxing districts, foundations,
private donations, endowments, partnerships, and bond referendums.
Policy 1.1.11: Explore opportunities to provide public recreation access to Lake Jesup.
Policy 1.1.12: Perpetually hold in public ownership, for recreation and open space
purposes, those lands owned by the City which are identified in this
element on Map VI -1 and Table VI -2.
Policy 1.1.13: Prior to the disposal of nonrecreational City -owned land or facilities,
evaluate the potential use of such land or facilities for recreation, and
whether such land or facilities are needed to maintain or enhance the
City's recreation program.
Policy 1.1.14: Prior to the vacation of any right -of -way, evaluate the potential of the
right -of -way for use as part of a future trail corridor or other
alternative transportation linkage.
Objective 1.2: Trails. The City should work to expand the existing Cross Seminole Trail
system to include a network of City trails, thereby improving access for pedestrians and cyclists to
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
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schools, parks, open spaces, and businesses and for the additional public outdoor recreation
opportunities trails provide.
Policy 1.2.1: Encourage public participation in planning and development of all
phases of City's trail expansion program.
Policy 1.2.2: Partner with appropriate agencies to study and implement options for
future coordinated provisions of a bike /trail network.
Policy 1.2.3: Develop standards and guidelines for trail planning, development and
maintenance.
Policy 1.2.4: Work with Florida Power & Light (FP &L) to co- locate trail easements in
utility corridors.
Policy 1.2.5: Encourage homeowner associations whenever possible, to incorporate
existing trails into the public trail system.
Policy 1.2.6: Acquire property or easements that can be integrated into the City's
existing recreation and proposed trail network system as illustrated on
Map VI -6: Conceptual Trails Network System.
Policy 1.2.7: Make providing trails a priority in the new planning horizon for the
connectivity they provide to schools, parks, natural lands, and
businesses.
Objective 1.3: Study of Recreation Preferences. The City shall determine the recreational
preferences and needs of City residents.
Policy 1.3.1: Periodically survey organized leagues and primary users of active
recreation facilities to determine participation rates and demand for
services and to determine adjustments to active land use programming.
Policy 1.3.2: Identify demographic changes in the community and incorporate
adjustments in recreation provision planning accordingly.
Policy 1.3.3: Reflect neighborhood input in specific park recreation plans.
Policy 1.3.4: Utilize national and regional park planning data trends to proactively
adjust programmed park facilities.
Policy 1.3.5: Develop and implement a City -wide recreation survey every five
years. The recreational needs survey shall inquire about recreational
preferences in terms of facilities and recreational /educational
programs, frequency of use of parks and recreational facilities,
location of most frequently used facilities, willingness to pay user fees,
location and age profile of respondents, household size, and travel
method to preferred /most used parks and recreational facilities.
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Policy 1.3.6: Reflect the results of the community's recreation preferences and needs
in prioritizing funding expenditures for maintenance and capital
improvements.
Objective 1.4: Park Maintenance. All City parks shall be maintained and improved in a
manner that is consistent with the needs of the City residents, and which maximizes the potential of
the individual recreational facilities.
Policy 1.4.1: Renovate and /or upgrade the City's parks and recreational facilities
as needed to provide improved recreational opportunities.
Policy 1.4.2: Continue the user fee system for City recreation programs and facilities
to offset the cost of maintaining and programming facilities, when
appropriate. Except in the context of a City- County cooperative
agreement, fee -based recreation programs shall be designed,
administered and priced so as to give preference to City residents over
non -City residents.
Objective 1.5: Accessibility. The City shall provide and maintain appropriate, operational
park and recreation access for all segments of the City population.
Policy 1.5.1: Continue to provide adequate and appropriate automobile, bicycle
and pedestrian access to all public parks and facilities.
Policy 1.5.2: Design all public recreation facilities as barrier -free as possible to
accommodate accessibility by the elderly, handicapped and very
young.
Policy 1.5.3: Continue to provide adequate parking space, including handicapped
parking, and bicycle racks at recreation sites.
Policy 1.5.4: Continue to enhance the public's awareness of park and recreational
programs and events through a variety of print and electronic media
formats such as the City's website, brochures newsletters, etc.
Policy 1.5.5: Work to increase public awareness of the need for and benefits of
healthy and active lifestyles.
Policy 1.5.6: Continue to provide a scholarship program for low- income families.
Objective 1.6: Private Parks and Recreation Facilities. The City shall encourage the
preservation and use of private lands for park and recreation facilities and open space.
Policy 1.6.1: Require residential developments outside of the Town Center with over
20 units, to provide and maintain neighborhood recreational facilities.
Standards for these facilities shall be described in the land
development code.
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Policy 1.6.2: Revise open space regulations for subdivisions and other new
developments in the land development code.
Policy 1.6.3: Assess park and recreation impact fees to new residential development
as a pro rata share of the costs required to expand or acquire capital
facilities or equipment made necessary by the new construction from
which the fees are collected or for principal payments on debt
instruments for these facilities and services. (Cross Reference: See Capital
Improvements Element, Policy 1.4.4)
Policy 1.6.4: Encourage new developments falling within the planned trail network to
provide public trail linkages either through or adjacent to their
development.
Objective 1.7: Interagency Cooperation and Joint use of Facilities. The City shall continue
coordination efforts with agencies and developers to provide quality development of recreation
areas, and to avoid duplication of recreation facilities including provisions for joint use of
facilities, to meet the recreation demands of the City's citizens.
Policy 1.7.1: Coordinate park and open space planning with adjacent jurisdictions.
Policy 1.7.2: Work with the Department of Environmental Protection and the
Department of Transportation and other trail - related advocacy and
support agencies for assistance in developing a local trail network with
connectivity to the regional trail system.
Policy 1.7.3: Continue coordination with the Seminole County School Board, to allow
the use of school board facilities by the general public. Parks and
schools shall be collocated to the extent possible to optimize the shared
use of facilities. (Cross Reference: See Future Land Use Element, Policy 1.1 1.9)
Policy 1.7.4: Review updates to the County Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and
make the necessary updates to this element to achieve consistency.
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Table VI - 1: Park and Open Space Acreage, Based on Level of Service Standards
Year
Population
Total Overall Parkland (1)
(8 acres per 1,000 residents)
Open Space (2)
(4 acres per 1,000 residents)
Existing
Acreage
Required
Surplus/
(Deficit)
Existing
Acreage
Guideline
Surplus/
(Deficit)
2009
2010
2015
2020
2025
2030
34,433
35,857
38,863
40,319
42,376
44,538
380.50
275.46
105.04
93.62
147.10
137.72
9.38
38 0.50
286.88
147.10
143.44
3.65
380.50
310.88
69.62
147.10
155.44
-8.34
38 0.50
322.56
57,94
147.10
161.28
-14.18
380.50
339.01
41.49
147.10
169.46
-22.36
............................ ............................... _
380.50
356.32
24.18
147.10
178.16
-31.06
Source: Population- U.S. Census, as adjusted for 2000; University of Florida Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR);
City of Winter Springs Evaluation and Appraisal Report
(1 ) Includes the total of all public parks and recreational lands including any State and County facilities within the City limits.
Therefore the Cross Seminole Trail is included and Jetta Point County Park will be included once developed.
(2) Includes the total of all city -owned open space. Some of this land is noted on subdivision plats as "park" but are
undevelopable wetlands and are included on the Future Land Use Map - 2030 as "Recreation and Open Space ". The remainder
of the lands are conservation lands under the City's jurisdiction and are included on the Future Land Use Map - 2030 as
"Conservation ". Conservation lands owned by the St. John's River Water Management District are not included. The addition of
the 40 -acre wetland park in the Town Center will eliminate the deficit, once it is conveyed.
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Mao VI — 1: Inventory of Public Parks, Recreation Facilities and Ooen Soace
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
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CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
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The quality of life for Winter Springs' residents is linked closely to the development and
management of a well- maintained, accessible system of public parks, trails and open space. The
City is well known for its award - winning Central Winds Park and the quality of recreational
programs and events offered there. Such facilities play a key role in shaping both the landscape
and the quality of life of Winter Springs' residents through the conservation of natural resources
and provision of recreational facilities. It is the intent of the City to provide an appropriate
balance of both active and passive recreation for the community. The quality of life for residents
of Winter Springs is not only linked to the availability of a well- maintained system of public park
and recreation facilities, but also to the quality of the natural resources they contain. Privately
managed parks, open space and facilities provide additional components of the open space and
recreational system serving City residents. As additional parks are developed, consideration for
the balance between conservation issues and the provision of active recreation becomes an
important ingredient in the park development process. The City's lead office in charge of parks
and recreational programs is the Parks and Recreation Department.
The purpose of this data is to identify existing and planned open space and recreation facilities,
review Level of Service (LOS) standards for these facilities, and analyze current and projected
park and recreational needs which support the Recreation and Open Space Element. The Element
includes specific goals, objectives, and policies to guide the provision of recreation and open
space facilities through the year 2030.
C. INVENTORY OF EXISTING RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE FACILITIES
Parks conserve open space and natural resources and provide recreation opportunities. In
general, parks are categorized as being either activity -based or resource - based. Activity -based
parks provide user - oriented, recreation facilities designed for a specific purpose such as tennis,
basketball, softball or soccer, while resource -based parks utilize the natural environment to
provide more passive activities such as picnicking, hiking, fishing, swimming, or boating.
The City provides a wide range of recreation opportunities to its residents. The City's park
inventory includes numerous parks and recreational facilities where citizens can enjoy both active
and passive forms of recreation. (See Table VI -2: Inventory of Public Parks and Recreational
Facilities and Open Space, 2009).
1. Public Parks and Open Space
The public park system within Winter Springs includes approximately 380.5 acres. This
acreage includes City -owned parks and open space, as well as State and County -owned
recreational facilities located within the City limits, such as the Cross Seminole Trail. (Jetta
Point County Park is not currently included, but will be included once developed.) Map
VI -1 illustrates the public park system. Also included are Seminole County facilities
located near the City.
City parks have been classified in congruence with guidelines set forth in Florida's
Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (2007) published by the Florida
Department of Environmental Protection and 9J -5, Florida Administrative Code (FAC). The
categories utilized by the City include regional parks (State and County), community
gum
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
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parks, neighborhood parks, tot lots, urban plazas and squares, and open space. Only
sites that are publicly owned have been included in this section.
As noted on Table VI -2, many City parks offer both passive and active recreation
opportunities. Some examples are Central Winds Park, Ranchlands Park, and Sam Smith
Park, all of which offer active recreational facilities as well as passive areas for fishing
and picnicking.
a. Regional Parks
Regional Parks are large, resource -based parks serving more than two
communities and featuring outdoor recreation resources and facilities that
capitalize on and promote appreciation of the natural environment. Regional
parks should serve a population of over 100,000 (generally located within an
hour's driving distance of the park) and should range in size from a minimum of
250 acres to as much as several thousand acres. The City relies on the State and
the County for the provision and maintenance of regional parks.
There are numerous regional resource -based parks and wilderness areas
accessible to the City's residents (see Florida Managed Habitat Conservation
Areas Map located in the Conservation Element).
Florida State Parks within 25 miles of Winter Springs include:
Driving Distance* Name of Recreational Area: Acreage:
12.5 miles Wekiva Springs State Park 6,900 acres
23 miles Rock Springs Run State Reserve 15,000 acres
23 miles Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park 17,650 acres
*driving mileage taken from Winter Springs Town Center
St John's River Water Management District Recreation Lands include:
Driving Distance *: Name of Recreational Area: Acreage:
9.2 miles Lake Jesup Conservation Area
1 1.7 miles Little -Big Econ State Forest
25 miles Buck Lake
25 miles Seminole Ranch
*driving mileage taken from Winter Springs Town Center
Seminole County Wilderness and Preserve Areas include:
Driving Distance* Name of Recreational Area:
3.8 miles Spring Hammock Preserve
(includes Environmental Studies Center)
5257
9,563
9638
29
Acreage:
1500
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
6.9 miles
Black Hammock Wilderness Area
700
8.5 miles
Lake Jesup Wilderness Area
490
10.5 miles
Black Bear Wilderness Area
1 650
10.6 miles
Econ River Wilderness Area
230
10.8 miles
Geneva Wilderness Area
180
(Includes Ed Yarborough Nature Center)
13.6 miles
Lake Procter Wilderness Area
475
15.7 miles
Chuluota Wilderness Area
625
driving mileage taken from Winter Springs Town Center
Trails (in or near Winter Springs):
A network of trails provides a range of economic, aesthetic, environmental and
recreation benefits to citizens of a community, beyond the benefits that accrue to
private landowners. A trails network can increase residential and commercial
property values, encourage the revitalization of declining area, attract tourist, and
provide an alternative to the use of automobiles that can help reduce traffic
congestion. The City has participated in regional trail planning and development
activities in recent years that have substantially increased access to trail
recreational opportunities for City residents.
Cross Seminole Trail
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Office of Greenways and
Trails owns, and has sub - leased to Seminole County, the Cross Seminole Trail, a
portion of which is located in Winter Springs. The Seminole County Parks and
Recreation Department is in charge of maintaining the trail. An interlocal
agreement exists between the City and Seminole County regarding use and
maintenance of the Cross Seminole Trail. The City's Parks and Recreation
Department assisted with the design of the restroom facility located at the Black
Hammock Trailhead (State Road 434 at State Road 417 (Seminole Expressway),
and is responsible for the maintenance and cleaning of the restroom facility.
The trail currently runs six (6) miles from Layer Elementary School in Winter
Springs to the intersection of State Road 434 and State Road 426 in downtown
Oviedo. Other built sections of the trail include from CR 46A south to Green Way
Boulevard in Lake Mary and from Mikler Road to the Orange County Line. The
Cross Seminole Trail connects with the Seminole Wekiva Trail via the 1 -4 Pedestrian
Bridge in Lake Mary. Upon completion, the Cross Seminole Trail will be a 34.5
mile long continuous trail connecting Altamonte Springs, Longwood, Lake Mary,
Winter Springs, and Oviedo and connecting to the Cady Way Trail and the
Orange County Trail System. The trail will run from Spring Hammock Preserve in
Winter Springs to Howell Branch Road at the Orange County Line and will connect
several parks including: Central Winds Park, Soldier's Creek Park, Big Tree Park,
Greenwood Lakes Park, Sweetwater Creek Park, Lawton House Park, and Spring
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CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Hammock. The trail will also connect seven schools: Layer Elementary, Winter
Springs High School, Indian Trails Middle School, Keeth Elementary, Trinity
Preparatory School, Oviedo High School, and Lawton Elementary.
The Cross Seminole Trail is currently under construction from the Oviedo Mall to
State Road 434. Design is complete on the segment from Miller to Red Bug Lake
Road and construction is scheduled to begin in late 2008. A pedestrian overpass
is programmed to be constructed over Red Bug Lake Road beginning in the fall
2008, with a connection to State Road 426 near the Oviedo Mall. The trail will
also be realigned by the FDOT State Road 426 widening project. The trail will
cross at the signalized intersection of Marketplace Blvd & State Road 426 and
connect with the trail corridor along Aulin Avenue. Map VI- 2 depicts existing and
future portions of the Cross Seminole Trail.
Map VI - 2: Seminole County Trails Construction Map
Construction Map Existing
Under Construction
Riverwalk Programmed for Construction
Proposed
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Seminole Wekiva
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Trail S R. 419
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Florida National Scenic Trail
The Florida National Scenic Trail was congressionally established in 1983 and is a
hiking trail network that provides access to scenic wilderness areas. A portion of
the Cross Seminole Trail coincides with the Florida National Scenic Trail.
The Great Florida Bircling Trail
The Great Florida Birding Trail is a program of the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission, supported in part by the Florida Department of
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Transportation and the Wildlife Foundation of Florida. In Seminole County, self -
guided designated trails are included at the Little -Big Econ State Forest, the Lake
Procter Wilderness Area, and the Geneva Wilderness Area.
Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail
The Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail is officially designated as part of
Florida's Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Access to this scenic
wilderness river is provided via a canoe launch site beginning 2.5 miles northwest
of Chuluota on State Road 419 (only 11 miles driving distance from Winter
Springs). The trail winds eastward through 18 -miles of forested flatlands, swamps,
and pasture, and eventually feeds into the St. John's River. This river flows
northeasterly to its junction with the St. Johns River where the trail ends 1.5 miles
downstream (north) of the confluence.
Bear Creek Nature Trail
Bear Creek Nature Trail, owned and maintained by the City, provides a passive
area with a .5 mile nature trail paralleling Bear Creek.
b. Community Parks
Community parks are defined as "ride to" parks that should be located near major
streets or arterials. Community parks are designed to serve the needs of four to
six neighborhoods that have residents within a radius of up to three (3) miles.
Typical facilities found in community parks are designed to serve all ages and
may include both passive and active recreation opportunities such as playground
areas, recreation buildings, sports fields, paved multipurpose courts, picnic areas,
open or free play areas, swimming pools, and landscaping. Community parks
include: Central Winds Park, Sunshine Park, Torcaso Park, Trotwood Park,
Blumberg Blvd. and Veteran's Memorial in the Town Center, the Black Hammock
Trailhead, and the future Jetta Point County Park.
Some parks may fall under more than one category. Most County parks are
considered community parks, but those that host national competitions and
tournaments can easily be classified as regional parks. Central Winds Park,
located on Lake Jesup, for instance, has been classified as a community park, due
to its geographic area and the type of recreational facilities and activities
offered. However, numerous civic festivals and special events are held in the park,
drawing citizens from all over Seminole County and the Central Florida area. For
this reason, Central Winds Park has been locally considered a regional park. This
park offers competition quality baseball, softball, and soccer fields, which are
reserved for league -play only, as well as basketball courts, volleyball courts,
horseshoes, playground, concession stand, the City's Parks & Recreation Office,
and restrooms. Additionally, a passive area located on the west side includes a
fishing area, pavilions, picnic grills, and an amphitheatre. A recent expansion to
the park added additional baseball, softball, and soccer /football fields, as well
as lacrosse fields and a dog park with large dog, small dog and training areas.
Together, the Central Winds Park and the expansion total 98.5 acres.
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
C. Special Use Facilities
Special use facilities are designed to serve the unique recreational needs of
certain population groups. The elderly are afforded the Senior Center Complex,
a 13,500 square foot facility, located at Sunshine Park. The complex was
expanded in 2007 and includes a new indoor therapy pool, a large multi - purpose
room, billiard /game room, kitchen, restrooms, arts and crafts room, conference
room, lounge area, and two offices. The therapy pool is one of only two public
facilities in the County. The center is operated by City staff and a senior
organization. Membership can be obtained for a reasonable fee. Members can
utilize the Senior Center to enjoy the following activities:
Arts & Crafts
Dance Classes
Bingo/ Card Playing
Lunch on Wednesdays
Charity Benefits
Movies
Social Functions
Medical Examinations
Computer Classes
Exercise, Yoga & Tai Chi
The young are afforded the Civic Center Complex, a 4000 square foot facility,
also located at Sunshine Park and connected to the Senior Center by a covered
breezeway. This facility includes a commercial type kitchen, restrooms, stage, and
dance floor. The Civic Center offers many recreational opportunities for the young,
including the Winter Springs Summer Youth Program. During the program, children
have the opportunity to participate in activities such as trips and tours, swimming,
arts and crafts, and outdoor games. Additionally, the Civic Center offers meeting
space for Boy /Girl Scouts, civic, religious and private organizations, charity
benefits, City meetings /training /parties, homeowners associations, etc. The Civic
Center Complex also offers rental of the facility for weddings, receptions and
parties.
Both the Senior Center and the Civic Center are wheelchair accessible.
d. Neighborhood Parks
Neighborhood Parks are "walk to" parks that are generally located along streets
where people can walk or bicycle without encountering heavy traffic. They serve
the population of a neighborhood in a radius of up to one -half (1/2) of a mile. A
neighborhood park size usually ranges from 2 to 10 acres. Typical facilities
provided include playground areas, recreation buildings, sports fields, paved
multi - purpose courts, picnic areas, open or free play areas, and landscaping.
Neighborhood parks include Moss Park, Sam Smith Park, Ranchlands Park, and
Bear Creek Nature Trail.
e. Mini -Parks and Tot -Lots
Mini -parks are small facilities that serve a concentrated or limited population, as
well as specific groups such as toddlers. Mini -parks include tot -lots and are
designed to serve the needs of a neighborhood within a radius of up to six (b)
blocks. A minimum of one half (1/2) acre for each stand -alone park is
recommended. Mini -parks primarily offer passive recreation and typical facilities
VI -13
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
provided include playground areas, benches, open space, picnic tables, and
landscaping. Mini -parks include Diane's Park, Fruitwood Park, Winding Hollow,
Oak Hollow, Market Square and Magnolia Square.
Most of the neighborhood and community parks offer the facilities typically found
in tot -lots and mini - parks. Many homeowner associations include private
recreational facilities within their developments. In many cases, these serve as
private mini -parks to those residents.
f. Open Space
The term "open space" is widely used with a variety of meanings. However, its
meaning herein (and throughout the Comprehensive Plan) is taken from Rule 9J -5
Florida Administrative Code and simply means, "undeveloped lands suitable for
passive recreation or conservation." Open space does not refer to land found in
medians, buffers, or retention areas.
In Winter Springs, most of the publicly -owned open space was conveyed to the
City at the time of subdivision platting, as "parks" or "parkland ". However, most of
these areas are composed of undevelopable wetlands, such as the 69.5 -acre
Tuscawilla Open Space donation. Winding Hollow subdivision also includes a
large 55 -acre open space with only .5 -acre in addition, available for active
recreation. Not all open space or conservation areas within Winter Springs are
owned by the City. Many are privately owned. However, only City -owned open
space is inventoried within this Element and included on Table VI -2 (with one
exception- the Hickory Grove Park in the Town Center is included, but it is owned
by the State Office of Greenways and Trails).
g. Urban Plazas and Squares
"Urban plazas" or "squares" are small urban pocket parks which vary in size from
1/10-acre to several acres depending on their intended use. Their primary
function is to intersperse congested urban environments with aesthetically pleasing
areas for people to gather as groups or to sit individually. These plazas and
squares may contain benches and tables, commemorative structures, fountains, and
landscaping. Within the Town Center, numerous urban plazas and squares are
planned. Several have been completed and include: Blumberg Blvd., Market
Square, and a portion of Magnolia Square. Blumberg Blvd. also includes the
recently completed Veteran's Memorial, located at Tuskawilla Rd. and Blumberg
Blvd. Most of these urban plazas and squares will serve as mini - parks. However,
in some cases (such as Blumberg Blvd. and the Veteran's Memorial), these facilities
serve as community parks because of the activities offered there and the
significance of the facilities.
Table VI -2 shows an inventory of public parks and recreational facilities and open space
within Winter Springs.
VI -14
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Table VI - 2: Inventory of Public Parks and Recreational Facilities and Open Space, 2009
VI -15
Passiv
Total
Parks
Active
a
Acres
Resources & Facilities
Acres
Acres
(2)
TRAILS
Natural Resources: Creek,
Bear Creek Nature Trail
0
8.7
8.7
environmentally sensitive area
Recreational Facilities: None
Other: 1 /2 -mile nature trail
Natural Resources: None
Black Hammock Trailhead
(acreage included in Cross
0
0
0
Recreational Facilities: Cross Seminole
Seminole Trail)
Trail
Other: Paved parking and restrooms
Natural Resources: Wetlands
Florida National Scenic Trail
0
4.4
4.4
Recreational Facilities: None
Other: Undeveloped
Natural Resources: Creek, natural
vegetation
Cross Seminole Trail
0
59.4
59.4
Recreational Facilities: Paved trail
Other: 6 -miles in the City connecting
with regional trail system
COMMUNITY PARKS
Natural Resources: None.
Rec. Facilities: Adjacent to Cross
Blumberg Blvd. & Veteran's
0
1.4
1.4
Seminole Trail
Memorial
Other: Fountains, pergolas, walkways,
seating, manicured landscaping.
Veteran's memorial with sculpture.
Natural Resources:
Nature /Environmentally sensitive area.
Recreational Facilities: 4 baseball
fields, 4 softball fields, 7 soccer, 1
football field, 2 multi - purpose fields
(football /lacrosse) 1 half basketball
Central Winds Park
78.1
20.4
98.5
court, 2 volleyball courts, 2 youth
playgrounds.
Other: Dog park (small dog, large dog
and training areas), fishing area,
nature trail, cooking grills, 2 picnic
pavilions, parks & recreation office,
concession stand, restrooms
VI -15
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
VI -16
Passiv
Total
Parks
Active
a
Acres
Resources & Facilities
Acres
Acres
(2)
Natural Resources: Lake (1.5- acres)
Rec. Facilities: 2 baseball fields, 1
softball field, 1 full basketball court, 1
volleyball court, 1 tot playground, 1
Sunshine Park (a)
6.7
3.5
10.2
youth playground.
Other: Civic Center, Senior Center with
indoor therapy pool, fishing area,
cooking grills, 2 picnic pavilions,
restrooms
Natural Resources: Pond (1.9- acres)
Recreational Facilities: 4 basketball
shooting baskets, 1 volleyball court, 1
soccer /football field, exercise course,
Torcaso Park
4.8
3.0
7.8
1 tot playground, 1 youth playground
Other: Fishing area, splash water
fountain, picnic pavilion, cooking grills,
restrooms
............. ...............................
.............................................................................................................................................................. ...............................
Natural Resources: Lake Tuskawilla
(6.4- acres) and smaller lake (1.6-
acres)
Rec. Facilities: 2 baseball fields, 1
softball field, 4 soccer fields, 2 full
Trotwood Park
23.0
5.0
28.0
basketball courts, 2 tennis courts, 2
racquet ball courts, 1 volleyball court,
1 tot playground, 1 youth playground,
1 splash playground.
Other: Fishing pier, cooking grills, 4
picnic pavilions, restrooms
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Natural Resources: None.
Rec. Facilities: 1 full and 1 half
basketball courts, 1 multi - purpose
Moss Park
2.0
0.3
2.3
field, 1 youth playground, 1 tot
playground.
Other: Cooking grills, 2 picnic
pavilions, restrooms
Natural Resources: Lake (1 1.5- acres)
Ranchlands Park
0.5
0.5
1.0
Rec. Facilities: 1 volleyball court
Other: Fishing area, cooking grills,
picnic pavilion
Natural Resources: Lake (4.6- acres),
nature area
Sam Smith Park
8.3
8.3
Rec. Facilities: 1 tot playground, 1
0.0
youth playground.
Other: Fishing area, cooking grills, 2
picnic pavilions
VI -16
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
VI - 17
Passiv
Total
Parks
Active
a
Acres
Resources & Facilities
Acres
Acres
(2)
MINI -PARKS
Natural Resources: None.
Dianes Park
0.0
1.0
1.0
Recreational Facilities: None.
Other: Picnic table, cooking grill.
Natural Resources: Lake (2.1 - acres)
Recreational Facilities: 1 youth
Fruitwood Park
0.3
0
0.3
playground
Other: None
Natural Resources: None.
Rec. Facilities: Adjacent to Cross
Magnolia Square
0.0
0.3
0.3
Seminole Trail
Other: Fountain and seating
Natural Resources: None
Market Square
0.0
0.3
0.2
Recreational Facilities: None
Other: Fountain and seating
Natural Resources: None
Recreational Facilities: 2 youth
Oak Hollow Park (linear park)
0.0
1.0
1.0
playgrounds
Other: Paved walking trail (0.1 miles)
Natural Resources: Adjacent to
natural open space
Winding Hollow Park (b)
0.5
0.5
Rec. Facilities: 1 tot playground, 1
0.0
youth playground
Other: Picnic pavilions, cooking grills
OPEN SPACE
Natural Resources: Creek
Alton Creek
0.0
0.2
0.2
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
Natural Resources: Wetlands
Foxmoor Park Unit 1
0.0
1.9
1.9
Rec. Facilities: None
Other:
Natural Resources: Lake (2.1 - acres);
Foxmoor Unit 2
0.0
1.6
1.6
Wetlands
Rec. Facilities: None
Other:
Natural Resources: Lake (1.0- acres);
Foxmoor Unit 3
0.0
4.89
4.89
Wetlands
Rec. Facilities: None
Other:
VI - 17
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Note- Lacrosse is growing in popularity and can be played on soccer, football and multi -use fields.
(1 ) Passive includes both developed areas as well as undeveloped open space acreage. Lake acreage is
not included.
(2) Acreage is from the City's Geographic Information System mapping. Lake acreage is not included.
(a) Park is a Special Use Facility
(b) One -half acre of this park is developed for active recreational use. 55.5 acres are conservation land.
Seminole County -owned
** State -owned (Greenways and Trails)
Source: City of Winter Springs Planning Division, January 2009
S
Passiv
Total
Parks
Active
a
Acres
Resources & Facilities
Acres
Acres
(2)
(1)
Natural Resources: Native hickory
Hickory Grove Park ** (Town
Center)
0.0
4.5
4.5
trees
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
Natural Resources: Wetlands
North Orlando Ranches Sec. 5
0.0
6.7
6.7
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
Natural Resources: Wetlands
North Orlando Ranches Sec. 9
0.0
6.5
6.5
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
Natural Resources: Wetlands
North Orlando Ranches Sec. 10
0.0
5.1
5.1
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Natural Resources: Wetlands
North Orlando Terrace Sec. 5
0.0
7.2
7.2
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
.............. ...............................
............................................................................................................................................................... ...............................
Natural Resources: Wetlands
North Orlando Terrace Sec. 9
0.0
7.4
7.4
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
.............. ...............................
.............................................................................................................................................................. ...............................
Natural Resources: Wetlands
Tuscawilla Open Space
0.0
69.5
69.5
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
Natural Resources: Wetlands
Winding Hollow Park (b)
0.0
31.6
31.6
Rec. Facilities: None
Other: Conservation
TOTAL OPEN SPACE
0
147.1
147.1
TOTAL OVERALL PARKLAND
115.9
264.6
380.5
Note- Lacrosse is growing in popularity and can be played on soccer, football and multi -use fields.
(1 ) Passive includes both developed areas as well as undeveloped open space acreage. Lake acreage is
not included.
(2) Acreage is from the City's Geographic Information System mapping. Lake acreage is not included.
(a) Park is a Special Use Facility
(b) One -half acre of this park is developed for active recreational use. 55.5 acres are conservation land.
Seminole County -owned
** State -owned (Greenways and Trails)
Source: City of Winter Springs Planning Division, January 2009
S
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
h. Nearby County Facilities
Seminole County operates and maintains several park and open space facilities
that are available to the citizens of Winter Springs. Some of the County parks
closest to Winter Springs, in addition to the Cross Seminole Trail, are Overlook
Park, Red Bug Lake Park, Soldier's Creek Park, and Spring Hammock Preserve.
Overlook Park is a 3 -acre facility located on Spring Avenue off State Road 434,
west of State Road 417 (Seminole Expressway / Greeneway). The park is
located on the southern shores of Lake Jesup and includes a designated State
Historic Site (White's Wharf) and Clifton Springs- a natural springs area.
Amenities include a small pavilion, fishing pier and a mooring dock. Red Bug Lake
Park is a 60 -acre community park adjacent to the 28 -acre Red Bug Lake. This
park is located 2 miles east of State Road 436 on Red Bug Lake Road and offers
picnicking, playgrounds, fishing, boating, tennis, racquetball, basketball, sand
volleyball, softball, flag football, soccer, exercise trail, pavilions, and restrooms.
Soldier's Creek Park is a 315 -acre park adjacent to the Spring Hammock
Preserve, 1 mile east of U.S. 17 -92 on State Road 419. The park offers soccer
fields and ball fields, which are used by community groups for youth baseball and
softball. Spring Hammock Preserve offers visitors access to more than 1,500 acres
of wilderness on the western border of Lake Jesup. Highlights of opportunities
offered within the Spring Hammock Preserve are the Environmental Studies Center
(located on the east side of State Road 419), nature trails, boardwalks, fishing at
Soldier's Creek, and "The Senator," a 3,500 year -old Cypress tree located at Big
Tree County Park.
Seminole County plans to construct Jetta Point Park on a 43 -acre site within Winter
Springs, south of State Road 434 just west of its intersection with State Road 417
(Seminole Expressway / Greeneway). The new Jetta Point County Park will serve
as an intensive -use sports complex with a concentration of facilities for leagues
and tournaments. It is expected to host national softball competitions as well as
soccer /lacrosse and will also include youth playground, tot playground, a
boardwalk, picnic pavilion and restrooms. The new park will be adjacent to the
existing Black Hammock Trailhead of the Cross Seminole Trail. Upon completion of
Jetta Point Park, Soldier's Creek County Park will be converted to baseball
facilities for leagues and tournaments.
Facilities provided within the Seminole County Park System include:
Lakes and Rivers with:
• boat ramps • overlook piers
• canoe launch • support facilities (including restrooms
• mooring dock and paved parking)
• fishing piers • wildlife
Natural Vegetation and Marsh Lands with:
• 3,500 year -old • environmental learning center
Cypress tree • wildlife
• boardwalks
VI -19
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Wilderness Areas with:
• campgrounds and • horseback riding trails
primitive camping • wildlife
• hiking /biking trails
Snorts and Recreation Facilities:
• amphitheatre • jogging trails /exercise stations
• basketball courts • kids' playgrounds
• tennis courts • picnic pavilions
• racquetball courts • support facilities (including restrooms,
• roller hockey rink • paved parking, and lighting)
• sand volleyball courts • dog parks and
• soccer /football fields • historically significant sites
• softball /baseball
fields
Seminole County Parks include:
Driving Distance*
Name of Recreational Area: Acreage
* *:
2.7 miles
Overlook Park
3
3.8 miles
Soldier's Creek Park
315
4.2 miles
Big Tree Park- Longwood
1 1
5.9 miles
Pawmosa Dog Park- Casselberry
1
6.4 miles
Sunland Park- Sanford
15
6.7 miles
Lake Dot Park- Sanford
15
7.4 miles
Red Bug Lake Park- Casselberry
60
7.6 miles
Winwood Park- Altamonte Springs
4
7.7 miles
Jamestown Park
1
8.0 miles
Kewannee Park- Casselberry
6
8.5 miles
Lake Jesup Park- Sanford
6
8.7 miles
Greenwood Lakes Park- Lake Mary
14
8.9 miles
Seminole Co. Softball Complex
38
9.4 miles
Sanlando Park- Altamonte Springs
40
10.3 miles
Paw Park- Sanford
1
10.4 miles
Little Big Econ Park (Canoe Launch)
1
1 1. 8 miles
Lake Mills Park- Chuluota
50
12.7 miles
Roseland Park- Sanford
1
12.8 miles
Midway Park- Sanford
2
13. 9 miles
Lake Monroe Wayside Park- Sanford
3.5
15.3 miles
Cameron Wight Park- Sanford
3
17.3miles
Bookertown Park
4
17.6 miles
C.S. Lee Park- Geneva
3
VI - 20
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
19.3 miles Mullet Lake Park- Geneva 151
20.0 miles Sylvan Lake Park- Sanford 126
21.2 miles Wilson's Landing Park- Sanford 19
* driving mileage taken from Winter Springs Town Center
** acreage does not include lakes
School Facilities
The City maintains an Interlocal Agreement with the School Board of Seminole
County related to recreational use of educational facilities. The agreement states
that the two parties concur to collectively utilize the recreational and educational
facilities of Winter Springs High School. Through this agreement Parks and
Recreation conducts youth basketball leagues and camps, youth football games,
and all sports training programs at Winter Springs High School. Additionally,
youth basketball leagues and programs, as well as special City events, including
the annual Halloween Dance, are held at Indian Trails Middle School. In addition,
the City has a cooperative arrangement with several of the local school principals
for co -use of their facilities.
2. Private Facilities
Some recreational facilities and services such as golf courses, dance studios, fitness clubs,
movie theatres, etc. are provided by the private sector, and are available to the public
through a membership or a fee. The provision this type of recreational resources is
normally based on market studies. Therefore, it can be assumed that the quantity of such
resources will increase as the city's population increases.
Some of the Private Recreational Facilities in or near Winter Springs
• Tuscawilla Country Club & Golf Course
• Florida Airboat Association, Inc.
• Lifestyle Fitness
• Pro Flight Archery
• Sadkane School for Dance & Aikido
• Studio 5D Dance Studio
• Russian Academy of Ballet
(formerly Orlando City Ballet)
• Bounce and Fun
• O'Mei Wshu USA
• United Theatres of Florida, Inc.
• AMC Interstate Theatres
• Regal Cinema Oviedo Crossing 22
• Central Batting Cages
• YMCA
1500 Winter Springs Blvd.
200 N. Cortez Ave.
5852 Red Bug Lake Rd.
280 E. State Road 434
1 196 Tree Swallow Dr
1 303 - 1 323 Winter Springs Blvd
1425 Tuskawilla Rd
135 E Bahama Rd
1 13 E State Road 434
1 -4 & HW 436, Altamonte Springs
473 Cardinal Oaks Ct., Lake Mary
1500 Oviedo Mktpl. Blvd, Oviedo
1 271 Belle Avenue
7900 Red Bug Lake Rd
VI -21
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Other private recreational facilities are found in residential developments within Winter
Springs. The facilities provided typically include community /exercise rooms, swimming
pools, tennis courts, etc. Some of the developments providing this type of recreation are
listed in Table VI - 3: Inventory of Private Recreational Facilities, 2008 [Note: some data
still being gathered.].
Table VI - 3: Inventory of Private Recreational Facilities, 2008
Development /Facility
Name
Pool
Club
house
Golf
Course
Shuffle
board
Basket
ball
Tennis
Play
ground
Volley
ball
Other
Highlands PUD
Wildwood PUD
3
1
1
1
5
5
1
Trail
Trail
2
1
....................................................... ...............................
Seminole Pines
1
1
1
1
......... ...............................
... ...............................
Tuscawilla Country Club
& Golf Course
1
1
1 -18
hole
8
..................................................... ...............................
Hacienda Village
2
2
1
.....................
... ...............................
................................................................................... ...............................
Howell Creek / Eagles
Watch
1
1
... ...............................
1
... ...............................
....... ...............................
Wedgewood
1
......... ...............................
NOTE: This inventory does not include all the private recreational facilities in the City, but accounts for
many of those within residential subdivisions which have one or more acres of activity -based
recreational opportunities.
Source: Winter Springs Planning Division, February 2009.
D. EXISTING AND FUTURE PARKS AND RECREATION NEEDS
Recreational demands do not remain constant over time, but grow with population increases and
change as population demographics change. Attitudes and opinions can be drastically altered
from a shift in the demographic makeup of a community. Therefore, it is necessary to assess
recreational needs and future demands for facilities in order to plan for the future.
1. Population Trends and User Needs
The City's population is projected to increase by over 10,000 residents by 2030.
According to the U.S. Census, the median age increased from 34 to 37 from 1990 to
2000, and the percentage of persons aged 65 or older increased from 9.2% to 10.8%
over the same time period. The projected median age (US Census) increased to 40 by
2007. This trend is expected to continue through the long -term planning period.
The City is well prepared to serve an aging population. During 2007, the City completed
a 9,200 square foot expansion of the Senior Center which added a new therapy pool
along with a large multi - purpose room. However, the City should continue to add
recreational facilities and programs which address the changing demographics of the City,
while continuing to support a wide variety of programs to serve all of its residents.
VI - 22
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
To accurately reflect changes in public demand, tools are needed to identify them. One
method is to survey the citizens for their input. The City has conducted several informal
surveys, many of which have not been documented. A City -wide survey was conducted in
1990. It questioned residents about the recreational activities they practiced on a
regular basis. The results showed that, at that time, residents wanted more playgrounds,
baseball fields, swimming pools, bike paths, and tennis courts. Since that time, the City has
added numerous playgrounds and baseball fields, and the State has added the Cross
Seminole Trail. This type of survey should be conducted regularly on a five -year basis to
maintain consistency and to monitor progress and changing demands. An opinion survey
of registered voters was completed in 2004, to explore interest and support for a multi-
purpose athletic facility and an aquatic center. The support was greatest for the multi-
purpose athletic center with 44 percent of those surveyed in support of such a facility even
if it increased property taxes, 21 percent opposed and 35 percent requiring more
information. Support dropped slightly (40 percent) and opposition increased (32 percent)
for an aquatic center. Support fell further (36 percent) to a level nearly equal with
opposition (35 percent) when respondents were asked if they would support both facilities
with a combined tax increase necessary to support both facilities.
2. Outdoor Recreation Planning Guidelines
Three types of guidelines are commonly used in outdoor recreation planning according to
Florida's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (2007). The first type, use
guidelines, are employed as a means of stating the amount of use a resource or facility
can accommodate under certain conditions. The second type- population guidelines, are
used in determining the amount of resources and facilities that are required to serve a
given population. The third type- site guidelines, are used primarily for estimating
acreage needs for local parks and recreation areas and open space.
Many variations exist in outdoor recreation environments. Therefore, each jurisdiction must
determine for its planning purposes how these guidelines will best serve their interests and
in most cases develop their own guidelines.
The use guidelines for user - oriented outdoor recreation activities included herein were
derived from the 1989 Recreation Standards for Comprehensive Planning in Florida. The
study examined what was considered the minimum, moderate and maximum levels of use
that facilities could sustain under various conditions according to over 100 local recreation
providers. Table VI -4 identifies the median value of the survey results for nine user -
oriented facilities for which information on use was collected.
Table VI - 4: Use Guidelines for User - Oriented Recreation Activities, 2007
Activity
Resource /Facility
Guideline
Baseball /Softball
Basketball
Football /Soccer /Rugby
Golf
Baseball /Softball Field
120 users per field per day
Basketball Court
90 users per court per day
Football /Soccer Field
175 users per field per day
Golf Course (9 -hole)
f 200 users per 9 -hole course per day
VI - 23
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Activity
Resource /Facility
Guideline
Physical exercise (urban
jogging and hiking)
Racquetball /Handball
Shuffleboard
Swimming
Tennis
Linear mile of
exercise /parcours trail
100 users per mile of trail per day
Racquetball /Handball Court
40 users per court per day
Shuffleboard Court
20 users per court per day
Swimming Pool (1)
256 users per pool per day
Tennis Court
30 users per court per day
Source: Florida's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (2007).
Population guidelines are hypothetical estimates of the amounts of outdoor recreation
resources and facilities that are required to support a given population. Generally,
population guidelines make no distinction between the varying requirements of different
segments of the population, but are used to assess community recreational needs by
determining the minimum number of resources and facilities required to serve the local
population. When used in concert with facility use guidelines and park /open space site
guidelines, population guidelines can prove a useful tool in outdoor recreation planning.
Table VI -5 identifies population guidelines for user - oriented recreational activities.
Site guidelines are a set of general criteria for determining the specific types and amounts
of park lands necessary to accommodate the recreational needs of local communities. The
criteria define the acreage, facility type and service area requirements for various types
of community recreation sites and areas. They are most commonly used as a means of
expressing outdoor recreation needs, based on population guidelines. The site guidelines
described in Table VI -6 are graphically applied to the City and depicted on Map VI -5.
The areas not served by existing parks primarily are parts of the City having larger lot
sizes in some cases, are areas still to be developed, such as the Greeneway Interchange
District. Levels of Service (LOS) Standards
Level of Service (LOS) standards are a measure for determining the specific types and
amounts or acreage of parkland necessary to accommodate the recreational needs of a
local jurisdiction. Winter Springs has historically defined its LOS based on acreage per
1000 residents.
To better reflect the growing needs of the City for parkland, and in support of the desire
for increased greenspace as further discussed under the major issue of "Population,
Density and Greenspace" (2008 Evaluation and Appraisal Report), Winter Springs will
increase the Overall Parkland LOS acreage from 5 acres per 1,000 residents to 8 acres
per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, a LOS for Open Space has been implemented. This LOS has been set at 4
acres per 1,000 residents to encourage the provision of public open space in Winter
Springs. Table VI -1 illustrates the existing park and open space acreage through 2030,
based on LOS standards.
VI -24
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Table VI - 5: Population Guidelines for User - Oriented Recreation Activities, 2008
Facility
Location
Existing
Number
Population
Guideline
Actual
(Min /Med /Max)
Central Winds Park (4)
Baseball Fields*
Sunshine Park (2)
8 fields
Trotwood Park (2)
1/2,000
1 /5,000
1 /2,15 2
Central Winds Park (4)
1/10,000
Softball Fields*
Sunshine Park (1)
6 fields
Trotwood Park (I)
...................................................................................................... ...............................
............................................ ...............................
Central Winds Park
(1 half)
Moss Park
11500
Basketball Court
( full, 1 half)
10 public
115,000
1/3,443
Sunshine Park (1 full)
2 private
1/20,000
Torcaso Park
(4 shooting baskets)
Trotwood Park (2 full)
..................................................................................................... ...............................
1 mi /1,500
............................................ ...............................
14 miles
Bicycle ways
Cross Seminole Trail
(6 miles in
1 mi /5,000
1 mi/2,460
the City)
1 mi /10,000
Football Fields*
Central Winds Park (1)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1 fields
Can be played on any
No
1/4,000
Lacrosse Fields*
soccer, football and /or
dedicated
1/6,000
1/4,304
multi -use fields.
fields
1/25,000
Central Winds Park (7)
Soccer Fields*
Trotwood Park (4)
12 fields
Torcaso Park (1 )
Racquetball/
...................................................................................................... ...............................
1/2,500
............................................ ...............................
Handball
Trotwood Park (2)
2 courts
1/10,000
1/17,217
1/20,000
VI - 25
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Facility
Location
Existing
Number
Population
Guideline
Actual
(Min /Med /Max)
Central Winds Park
(2 youth)
Sunshine Park
(1 tot, 1 youth)
Torcaso Park
(1 tot, 1 youth)
Trotwood Park
11500
Equipped Play
(1 tot, 1 youth)
17 public
1/10,000
1/1,497
Area
Moss Park
6 private
1115,000
(1 tot, 1 youth)
Sam Smith
(1 tot, 1 youth)
Winding Hollow
(1 tot, 1 youth)
Oak Hollow (2 youth)
Fruitwood (1 youth)
...................................................................................................... ...............................
11500
............................................. ...............................
Multipurpose
Central Winds Park
Fields
(2)**
3 public
1/3,750
1/11,478
Moss Park (1)
1/10,000
...................................................................................................... ...............................
2 public
1/1,067
............................................ ...............................
Tennis Courts
Trotwood Park (2)
15 private
1/2,000
1/1,913
1/10,000
Central Winds Park (2)
Ranchlands Park (1)
6 public
1/4,000
Volleyball Courts
Sunshine Park (1)
1 private
1/6,000
1/4,919
Torcaso Park (1 )
1/12,000
Trotwood Park (I)
1/1000
1/34,433
Swimming Pools
Senior Center Therapy
1 public
1 /25,000
(public)
Pool, Sunshine Park (1)
15 private
1150,000
1/2,152
(incl. private)
Note- Lacrosse is growing in popularity and can be played on any soccer, football and multi -use fields.
*DEP combines baseball and softball, and soccer and football.
** Includes the amphitheater
Source: Florida's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (2007) and City of Winter Springs,
September, 2008.
VI - 26
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Map VI — 3: Park Service Areas
,
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10 MAP VI -3 PARK SERVICE AREAS
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a•
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
1 ' ........
A
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Legend
I N,
1
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Mwph6eripgl krk
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1/2 Mih bi Swrim Arr-
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ate —
v
14E•
0 0.25 0.5 I Miles
Source: Winter Springs Plonring Division, 2004
N M • i i
C r �., ,f
-A
� • • i ii
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i n
16 - ,�-
Note: This Map is intended as a planning resource to illustrate distance from existing public recreation areas within the City. It is a tool to be utilized during
review of Future Land Use Map - 2030 change requests and during the development review process to help ensure the continued provision of accessible
recreation areas within the City.
VI - 27
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Map VI — 4: Target Areas for New Parks
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
•
P , I - 0 035 0.5 I Mlles
So— Winler Springs Plnnnieg D[Wslen, 2009
Note: The light green area of this Map depicts "Park Target Areas ". The Map is intended as a planning resource to illustrate distance from existing public
recreation areas within the City. It is a tool to be utilized during review of Future Land Use Map - 2030 change requests and during the development review
process to help ensure the continued provision of accessible recreation areas within the City. City -owned "open space" or lands designated with a
"conservation" future land use are not depicted and some of these areas may be included within the "park target areas" designation. However, it is not the
intent that these areas be developed for recreational use. Rather, these areas are to be retained for the value they provide to the public under their current
designation.
VI - 28
••
C _itzi of Winter 5prins;s (1— FrAensive plan
legead
�.
t
MAP VI -4 TARGET AREAS FOR NEW PARKS
■ C� , h
� ['�':i i'[I•_: l•'
. .�e_plborhood Pak
n
M1 "
ini Mri
A. '
Y Tmif�
r
lAepr Rtwdi
3
Pork rw.� a,o�
—
. + A
1
i' ■
•, �,•.
1 4i: .
•
P , I - 0 035 0.5 I Mlles
So— Winler Springs Plnnnieg D[Wslen, 2009
Note: The light green area of this Map depicts "Park Target Areas ". The Map is intended as a planning resource to illustrate distance from existing public
recreation areas within the City. It is a tool to be utilized during review of Future Land Use Map - 2030 change requests and during the development review
process to help ensure the continued provision of accessible recreation areas within the City. City -owned "open space" or lands designated with a
"conservation" future land use are not depicted and some of these areas may be included within the "park target areas" designation. However, it is not the
intent that these areas be developed for recreational use. Rather, these areas are to be retained for the value they provide to the public under their current
designation.
VI - 28
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Map VI — 5: Sites for Purchase Consideration
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
i _ Sites for Purchase Consideration
�` as recommended by the Open Space Advisory Committee, P:-ay 2007
YARA
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F :
7 ; F
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of
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r
rvoie: dies are ral]Kea aiPnarJel]cairy will] H Ueuig il]e l]igl]esi ui pnonry, as aeieninneu rjy il]e wiiiiiiiiiee.
VI - 29
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
3. Recreational Facilities
Access to existing parks is available to many special needs groups. All of the City parks
provide parking for persons with disabilities and most provide paved paths and pavilions
that are wheelchair accessible. Special considerations will need to be addressed on a site -
by -site basis, for deficiencies in the special access needs of these groups. For example,
while people with disabilities are provided parking areas at most of the parks, and
wheelchair accessibility is provided in many, internal access to facilities is still limited in a
few of the City's parks. Consideration to these access issues will need to be given at the
time of new park development.
According to the ADA, an important aspect of accessibility to be considered when
constructing new parks or altering existing parks, is the issue of stable ground surfacing,
which allows a person with mobility impairment to negotiate with dignity. For example, a
large area of loose fill such as sand or wood chips is not easily accessible. Rather, a
design following ADA guidelines might use a combination of more rigid surfaces such as an
engineered wood fiber, rubber surfaces along accessible routes, clear ground spaces, and
maneuvering spaces, in conjunction with small areas of loose fill.
Per ADA standards, consideration should be given to the general layout of youth play
areas, particularly to the integration of elements and spaces that can be accessed by
children who are disabled. Specifically, in areas where elevated play components are
provided, additional ground level play equipment must be provided and incorporated
into the same play areas. Additionally, the ADA requires that at least 50% of elevated
play components must be located on an accessible route and connected by a ramp. The
inclusion of soft contained play structures would also provide recreational opportunities for
children with disabilities.
The existing system of neighborhood and passive parks affords access to cyclists and
pedestrians, as the parks are numerous and dispersed in residential areas throughout the
City. Bicycle path facilities should continue to be designed so as to join recreational areas
together with residential areas to upgrade the accessibility for all citizens to recreation
areas. Access issues will be addressed specifically within the Goals, Objectives and
Policies of this Element.
4. Meeting Future Recreation and Open Space Needs
As illustrated on Table VI -1, the City does not expect to have any Overall Parkland
deficiencies through 2030. The addition of Seminole County's planned Jetta Point Park
(37 acres in Winter Springs) will further increase the surplus of Overall Parkland. A slight
deficiency is projected in Open Space. However, with the conveyance of Wetland Park in
the Town Center, this deficiency will be eliminated.
An important action needed by the City in the immediate future is the planning of a City
trail system to interconnect with the Cross Seminole Trail. The City currently owns a portion
of FP &L easement which could be the beginnings of this network. In order to accomplish
this, several policies relating to trails have been added to the element, as well as a new
objective in support of this effort.
VI - 30
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
5. Public Participation in Recreation Planning
The City has provided numerous opportunities for citizen input into the recreational
planning of the City. The Parks and Recreation Department has held a number of public
meetings, during which time, citizens were able to contribute their ideas and make
requests for future recreational opportunities. An ad hoc advisory committee helped
develop the Central Winds Expansion Master Plan. For improvements at Trotwood,
neighborhoods were notified and input was requested door to door. Similar outreach has
been conducted for Torcaso Park, with a Master Plan process initiated in September
2008. As noted above, the City will continue to conduct periodic surveys to identify future
activity -based recreational preferences. That survey will need to identify not only
preferences in terms of fields and courts, but also whether City residents would be willing
to pay user fees for improved amenities, etc.
VI -31
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Map VI — 6: Conceptual Trails Network Map
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
a"" ,,.., �. -i1 y cal �`�intrr
�� E
~C MAP VI -6 CONCEPTUAL TRAILS NETWORK MAP
5'
a
W F
5
■
N A�,
_ s
n
Legend
Canturlines
b r.ar
c—pf -r r ar:
ns P rs
S w ter swa
cr"
&—: - GO,
Aeo-enfia,Cei 1,
cry tim;rs
I
� 0.�5 U.5 1 Miles
Source, Winter Springs Planning Oivi :ton, zoos
Note: This conceptual map is intended to depict a network of multi -use trails and street rights -of way for the purpose of increasing future bicycle and
pedestrian travel options within the City.
VI - 32
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VI - 32