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HomeMy WebLinkAboutS2-Council Office CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO - REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION Date: May 13, 2004 ORiGiNAL Subject: Presentation by the Wildlands Conservancy jUniversity of Redlands on "The Santa Ana River in the City of San Bernardino: A Vision for the 21 st Century" From: Councilwoman Susan Lien Longville Dept. Council Office Synopsis of Previous Council Action: Recommended Motion: To discuss and take possible action. ~~~,.c:p! " Signature Contact Person: Councilwoman Susan Lien Lonl!Ville Phone: 5222 Supporting Data Attached: Ward: FUNDING REQUIREMENTS: Amount: Source: (Acct. No.) (Acct. DescriDtion) Finance: COuncil Notes: Agenda Item No. 5/17/0'1 5~ c o c , " ", CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO - REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION STAFF REPORT PRESENTATION BY THE WILDLANDS CONSERVANCY/UNIVERSITY OF REDLANDS ON "THE SANTA ANA RIVER IN THE CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO: A VISION FOR THE 21ST CENTURY San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange Counties have been working for some time, along with representatives on the Federal and State level, to create a point to point trail from the headwaters of the Santa Ana River all the way to the Pacific Ocean. One important step for each local jurisdiction that the Santa Ana River travels through is the creation of a local vision of the trail in their own area. The Wildlands Conservancy and University of Redlands are assisting local jurisdictions in San Bernardino County to create their own visions. Last year, Mayor Ronald Loveridge, of Riverside, created a Santa Ana Trail Task Force in his city. They produced Riverside's "The Santa Ana River in the City of Riverside: A Vision for the 210t Century" Report in January 2004" that is an attachment to this item. Dr. Tim Krantz, Associate Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of Redlands, and a representative from the Wildlands Conservancy, will make a 5-10 minute presentation on the overall concept, the City's segment, the process and time commitment, and the role of the Wildlands Conservancy and the University of Redlands in the planning process. There would be no cost to the City. The Mayor will be appointing representatives to the City of San Bernardino Santa Ana River Task Force and has asked Councilmember Longville to act as Chair. E!51.~3/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 02 '. ;. "!' Avlsion '. for . : ' . " . . , . ,. thei....;21..'st . . . ::~~'~r~.ry:;....... i" I" 6 I: }:r~. City of Rive,side Santa Ana River Task Force "1:.- c , i , J , , , , , -' 0\ i ....; o , -j , c 05/13/2004 06:39 ~_. " 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST ...;' A Vision for the 21 st Century .. '::'~~"'" . . ~. , ~ w > -, ~...., <( Z', <(' ',' <( I- Z <(i. . . ,,.. , ", <> ^.," ; ," PAGE 03 '.,,;;' . ~,::. {:~!f: ..... .r,:'~- ", .,~~? ,c,;l '",,'~;''' .J' ~ ~'" ~-.l::. w I: ~ Santa Ana River Task Force Reporf .... Jonuary2004 . .'::'~~ .,,";"" . ::',;:~~ .~<'. ;!~ ~~: >'::!h: }$~ $ J~~ ~J:t 51"" 8~/.1~/2884 85:39 989BB875B2 '. WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 84 rr.'~Jf~j~i:t~i;~;~!1:;~.{;-~~.-~j/~':''i~~;~1~1~1!~~~!1j;;~;- '-." ;~},:\' !~/:;:")t:. '~',; - ~;.---~_:,::,~}~- . ~ -:J~" """.'.:" I I. I., I ;:- Cd,,: '1', Acknowledgments . . L . The City of Riverside WisMStc? thank I'atricia Lock-Dawson who created and author.~ this report. The City of, RiverSide . .also wishes to thank 011 those who particip!Jt~d In the Santa .... . "naTas!< Force and mode this rePoripo5sibl~. Most of the photographs in this docunlent were contributed by the Santa' Ana Watershed Project Authority. Otherphotogrophers ore . . credited it; the text. .' , j; L., i- !-\ ~ t.. I' , ~ C L...' , i ,- L~. .--- , L.._~' !"" ; .~. . o "~'l -, , .....1 I ,I i ,J 9 .~ =J t , e.511'3/2ee4 e6:39 ge988e7682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE e5 " ., ~ , . . ':.' ~ ~ ":; . :.., . '-:~\:;i;.:~',:~::)~~t)~:':: ;~: .,'~' "";:.:dY:',~~di!,~~,~!~j,.:€~;1:f,~~;,'J~~i~~;i~J::..'C'~'~R~~I Table of Contents Acknowledgments ..n.~..._u.....n..............._."'_'''..'''.'....'''.U.'._......... 2 Vision Stotement................_.....................__......_....................~'n 4 Introduction ............._.._....._....._._..._._.....~........_......_.................._.~ 5 The Santo Ana River Task Force ..,...n_......................_..,........... 7 Moior Recommendations of the Task Force ............._.........,....9 Activities Proposed on the River by Area...................._........... 9 Fairrnount Park and Mt. Rubidoux.................................'....... 9. Tequesquite and Old Landfill....................~........................12 Martha McLean..Anza Narrows ..~.~...........~....:I..I...~...._.....~...~ 2 Van Buren Bridge ......a.....u_..._._.~....A......U.....;.............A~.~.....~. 1 3 Hidden Valley Wildlife Areo.....;;.;........................;;;..._._.2'. The Importance of' Linkoges .....,..~.........,.;............_..................2 j. Generollmprovemenfs and Suggeslions~......;............;;~...._.25 Current Activities on the River.;.............;.................;.._.............26 Critical Elements for Success ...,...........,..;.......;...............;....;.,;..26 c,:...',.I'-~;.. " .",,<:... ,: ':'",':....' ':'1 :. "'1 .i,"-': : .....:~..:-.:"~~.~ ,c,':'J;l.d. " '/,",\ .'i..- ::ff~ )<;:':~' (,~':\ ye:;!!:~ .... ,': ;'~~ ';C, ".,'J~ ,....'tj ........."i.;"../ii;i;,1 11iS" .~ I.. ", " '". '.::-(i"Z .)~i1:. ~"":'~?~~ ',,:' ',,',' !~. ..-;:.::.', ,.;::;~I~~~; ........;' :: ...... / .... ,. .,.,,'. ':'.r I ,,; ;,- ,',,::. . ~..:,,,: ~~~~'2 _~:,.j., ' .M~..," _.." ~., ". .....^. '?/ " :".:7,}- ",',"".-: ~.~. .-, .," ~-'. ;~ . ,,,-",'i.~ . ;>~~ ....,. ....! .......~ ..',i.~ '/.i : .~~~: <;'il ~~ ~~1 "I . .;\oo~ \:,: ~5/~3/2004 05:39 9098807582 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE . ~5 0'.. o. c....... :: .' .' . Vision '. The Santa Ana River is a uni9ue asset and source ot pride forthe City of R.iverside~ providing a detjtination tor r~sigehts and. . . .. . visitors alike. We celebrate theri'chh~~itage.. .... and natural beaut~ ot our river and are< ." . commitfed to restoring and conserving its . ' . . 'native habitats. We recognize its recreational" .' . . .. .', . and educational values,~:coh'omic.potential,. ,'. . ..andthe o pportll nities these p". resenttor '. enhancingthe qualitH of life ' for now and'.' . tuture generations. ,." . ,.~., !....... ......; , ' c- 0, r~. , . 1..: r:-l i I"' ! . r I \~.~ I-"~ \ :" L..: . r c -I -] " ,:p .-J -! , '..i J -1 c 05(~3/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 07 ," .:::, : ~." .,;.'.:.":;:!;,~.'; ..,....~,;"'!(~::,:. <, :';-:'Y:-" ...,'. '.., ,~r . .", :'":":::.y.:..'s..I0M.;..1':O,<<:;,,J:It,'I. ')2 ~'$.T: 'C'..E..N T'U:R'Y.' .' ".;:" 'F"/.: ~"i:.,;.,.~.: .,1:.. . : . ,:,-...;:,:,~_;:~..:.;.:.." :.:.... ", ,.~ ::~..~. . \ .' ~, ,> ::.:".;.; ,-. ',,>..' -.'c" '"';;'.~ __i ,,:' Introduction The Si:lnta Ana River Task Force proposes a parkway plan that establishes th.. river as 0 center of civic and community life. Such a parkway would provide its citi;z&ns with a plac.. to gather, meet, recreate, and socialize. The parkway would be a source of pride for Riv..rside and provide a destination for resid..nts and' visitors alike. The parkway would encourage educational opportunities by providing recreation adjacent to the river. The.. river parkway would bring the city together through a series of trails and linkages in a biking and hiking network. Native habitats would be restored and wildlife would thrive. The Sonia Ana River Parkway concept links communities across town and. across generations. The Santa Ana River has long been the focus of passionate citizens ealller to see its potential realized as a civic center for recreation, commerce, and the conservation of. natural and scenic .' beauty. The river stretches ninety-seven linear miles in Its journey from its headwaters in the Son Bernardino Mountains to its terminus at the Pacific Ocean. Approximately nine miles of that journey is through the City of Riverside. The river is uniquely Southern Californian in its beauty and hydralogy. Dry at certain times of the year and intermittent along Its courso., the Santa Ana River is nO less important than rivers in wetter ports of the United States. ,.J, i I ~~ ~ .J, .,;; ~ ~, '. ". 1'1' ~ft. ';;fi;)i:'~~!r.jf~\,~lttl~ .('.:. -', ~-~:'.....;. ,.";';;'''tf'',I.1 .;>;.10,,/ '" . ~ " . . ....', '~')"~r- :c.' ..,.,;'/I',~. """ - ...... --,... :tf-,., . . '.' . :, -......" . ,.1->....,,;;..- ,! ,.' ._ ~""'; - ~ '." ~ '. ,'- '> """~. -("~, , .. " . ..J 'f.:i.,', "J;'"'~ .....,.. L<-.:f< '?,'. _",' 'r'Joor. ".., ~ r .'.~"- :.,'.t ~~" ;)~-::~.-~ 'c' .r;.r.- _.Ii, . The Santa Ana River has already 'proved its utility os 0 water source and floodwater conveyance system. It has also provided recreation alol1g some of its reaches. However, citizel1s' groUps and cities and jurisdictions adjacent to the river hove identified more and varied uses for the waterway. 'These efforts envision the river as a lively parkway, its margins a patchwork of urbanized and natural areas. 8allfields and playgrounds would be connected to restauran~ and coffee shops. Commercial \,.' ')1'.' r:1, ., '"''','.''' .,..:.:!:';,~1~1.~j:0v",',(~'i:. -";/:"';"-\.\0' , ''',>; .',", ~;... . ",,:' .",,-.,. The Santo Ana River has long been the focus of passionate citizens eager to see its patential . .. ,. ." realized as a civic cenler ;:~'::~.;~~.:. for recreafion, eommerce, . and the conservation of na /ural and scenic beauty. .. '~',,'. ',:.;- . .' .''- ~"" . . . " .~-, :.:;\-,~Y.;-. : ;~- -~ ."'..' ;:.~; c... ,,;,' '(f;::. '<~~ ,." -,~~... ~-': 5 l'I?l13/21'11'14 1'16:39 91'19881'17682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 1'18 SANTA ANA RIVER WATERSHED . ,~..:. .:.... :-' :~... . > i..: j-- r" : l.... ,- L. ., -00.- i... , . -. ~ :,' P8cific Oatan Baji Cilllfor,"'i~ . MeXiCO ..." .,Of, .~ nt CIt(Cl' 1''''W:1lk ~ .Ow.GIflin1{OI IN: *",."OHlD.....tot.t /JIllnou_ o~,.1J 1IiIIP. CoUV .d COU",cDW!IIIlI .".21112. A.1IAt.3"'.",,,..d 'U,ud3ll.1ICDl SNNM. I.lIant1kWl C.,., CS.3XD. n. U(Uiau.o'h eeplOO'ctd .Ofdislb4~. COtrfftJl t3JD&.I'Ultgttt ,CA. UIIP I).IM Dun. . 6 0?!13/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 09 .. -', ": _:',;;~~&ntc;r~J~&~:t~i~;~;~~Ift'i . ~ . ~ .: ...'. ", '.~: 1 (; ,",'.',..,'.;.. o '-"- Jc The Santa Ana River Task Force met four times between September and December of 2003. In each meeting, the group was asked to participate in various exercises with the ultimate objective of developing 0 parkway concept plan. In the first meeting, the group was asked to provide ~,' .'-:~: .'l {?~;~'~i .;:, ", "';~::~l'" k "f..),...' ,~., j'_.- ''''''11;..". '"" " '; ..111.'1l'~:". .- .,_,~ - , .1- --"~W;.- ';;Ii .,.':.,:. " ,_:~E~~~' "1' -- _ -- f;::;~f;,..~ - '~!::-. ~-~~;~~~~~:':%;'_ -', 'N; . Y.".' <( '. ~~'Y r~ot ,..~,'t'., ~"it,,,, .)I'~:...i' " ,_ ~. "I'~.~~,~...~_)o,::,~~.!. _ ~.':{1_":'.1'1'- f " -:::;.:.~*. ,.;.''''~ '\~...~ \~~;: .:.. ':;i" ~ :;...". , . 'r~r:to' ; l~., .,,-,;,.,..~. .'._ , ,~r.."'''i"'" '1'~:-:,' &-~~" '~r>\ J '~"$ '" ...;,iT~;ii~i:..)t~,~ ," .,'. :'~"{iI: -:~"''l.'lr,;.'~'' ~:f..,!I : ,- - '~t~ ~a~~ag~~;~~:'r ~:~o;o~::~~~;:;~d~:r;:"~~::~~:~e;ted the .' ',;fli.;,., .'. ~:,:;.'".~;i.:::';:'~': .', ".{;,~;iJ . approximately twenty-five members representing federal, state; and"'''' Objectives of the . ;';~ local agencies; non-profit organizations; and citizens' groups. The ,:"',~;: Task Force ':ft Task Force was charged with developing a concept plan, or visi()n,.for :,~U;cj). Develop a vision for ..:'~I :: :::::n:a:i::rp::::::~e ~:y ~m:::f F:::rs~::~ds a larger..' . . ::;;",fj. 2~~~:~:~:::::J"..jj~ public interest in the future of the river. Because of its proximity to . ,,;,..;1# implement vision :,; D~f ' ~. .....1\ ' :::~;~=~~,~II~~~~?=:h... St"/"\~,~.;_'f~,;.~.:: ': ){:~ " ,~ I ~fn~7u~e~r:IS~bo:::~e~:;e:;~~nie~:~~o:':::~~I::U::~~:: ,.~.-:,',':.-.-::,_......_\..:.;.'.~.~,l_.i.;!.i.,,'.'.~..""".,~'~_'~"_.:,'~.~,'",,',-.,.,',:,,:;:,-'"~,'."-",:,'.',__"",_,,,.-,,-_,,-,". ij~&.j~i!i*-~ a:~~:sb:7a~~:~oc:~~~ea~:~~e:: ::d~:t:~n~~;;;::~ning ,.p, ~--. . ";,:.;i~:"P:,h, ~;~gE~;:?~~~~ ~'1.G A1f'~" these efforts by coordinating planning on a regional scale. ; :fi ';.'.~. -;1: ".\ii '. ~'>..: .,. .'-'-'-- :'~~ .r. ' ....,..---..., ,.., ,'. ;.,\,\_'.~~.;.-.;.(::_/_'~.',','~'.~...'::. ., ',' '",.....'.L.'*.l',..,.... : .'." ;T;},::~~i:.;: :' ;';'" ..\~~~;~};;:: .;1 A -:,.:T' .,' ;.'~" ~ . _._at. . ;"tri.~?:\ . - ,J.; ..... ~... - , '.':' endeavors such as equestrian facilities and golf courses could co-exist alongside native riparian and wetlands communities. All would be connected by a series of trails in a safe, family-friendly system linked to other ports of the city. This report describes the results of one group's efforts to realize such a vision along the Santa Ana River in the City of Riverside. .:,,' ':"~, ~'" ;'i - -l Photo by John Whire. I ,-.1 The Santa Ana River Task Force r-', -, c j , J ,-, . '"1 ~. ", I. 7 ~5jr3/2004 05:39 9098807582 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 10 c ~> .";~'.- .~.. if ~,' 'r...,' :~,,' :;/I'. $'." , ,~.. ~, ~:', " .:"'" "F" '\." ~:". 'f-~ ok-".:. .::!.S~>..;: ~,,~-, .' ':'?1h:' , , I.., ~".,..i.:~,~( .)~~~:;-,: ;,; .'i;i:;~~~j~'1 " ',',. ,~.,". .... '.'-',.'; ....: .- .., , . ,- '<J' T' ';:!::::>::)~~,", ., {f':~I:,:2.:,"":',',.',';,:,'"~:.,,,',;,,, ',.:".." ~~C7.", '.,t.. , '., "'~~i;:~\,. ~ .'. ..,,<:;:(~:;. ~{". .,:;....,; ", ""., ~ '., .:,<3\;Z. .' -' . '~'. .' '~": ~~{~: \' ,..v'......'. '. .:. ". '-l'~.' {. ~l' '::': V' '.;:.' ;--'-' ;-~. -: ,".;- " The Sonia Ana River Task " Forte recognizes the need to conserve water and ",';;;',," '''~-' , W%-~. 2).,. ~> ;':ft~{~ ~, it' ~ .. ~;~.~\~, -:,..- ~...", . ~~{ ;\;~,J04:, . Ii,,, .;" ~,..," ii~l;,. 2.~1j~;: ~i~"":,~~~~'~' " .. ",';' "'_:.~:',;'~ ~~ Cu 8 native habilats ancl :,.,: '~ ,::'; i . provide opportunities to learn about these ';,', ~:~~' valuable, uniquely Southern Californian :~:", .....~'il.t~;.n ;"}(,)~,':. '",-,.'"'' . '.~ .j' '....~' : , ' :~~. .. . . ~:::.. . ~.~";;.., . .j". :~j'~,: 11.~;i, !~~I, ,<:;~~tG' ' . .' ~,~;:;; ':..':::{~>, -'..;,.: resources. "', , ~ ' ',," . . , ;~:~:.)~::~.\,~..'~' ' ';:0' . . ;,. . ,:' information on existing activities along the river. In this way, the T osk Forte could identify ways to build on existing efforts and leveroge par1nerships. From there, the group developed a vision statement that provided a "road map"'or guidance for creating the concept plan. The, vision statement reflected the group's diverse membership and interests, addressing conservation," Photo by Karen Kirtland. economic development, recreational and educational . 'activities. The group then identified activities and programs . . that reflected the values estoblished by their vision statement. They transcribed these ideas onto a map of the river in order to better visualize and locate the different types of development. These activities provided the basis for this report. rw, I~" L i: ; The Task Force reasoned that some activities could be . accomplished in the short term, but others would involve more planning and phased implementation. Almost all members believed that accomplishing these short-term activities would allow the public ta see immediate results and build momentum for the rest of the parkway project. This view led the group to identify' three major recommendations for immediate implementation. Following is a summary of the three major . . recOmmendations that could be acc~mpJished in the shorf te":". ' This is followed by a more detailed description of the proposed activities in five major areas along the river. ro, t__.; t.., ,'-, ~ r' L~ ,-I c , -' c ...J d! I ..I Ie 0?/13/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 11 . :.., ......;. , , " . ': ~" ,:~~~J:F~,~_'. . '::,."'", Major Recommendations of the Task Force . Complete bike path to provide continuous linkage from Riverside to Orange County. Refurbish existing facilities at Fairrnounf Pork to improve use, attract new visitors, and establish new programs. These include developing nature trails and 0 boardwalk through wetlands areas, building 0 natun.. center to conduct naturalist progroms, redesigning and updating the golf course. and attracting businesses such os restaurants to the area. Partner with the US Army Corps of Engineers to study feasibility of developing new trolls and linkages. Update Santa Ana River National Trail Plan . . Activities Proposed on the Santa Ana River.' . by Area The Task Force identified five focus areas, or segments, of . . the Santo Ana River in which proposed activities could occur: Each area has unique characteristics that influence the types of activities rhat could occur there. Following is 0 description .' of each orea with the various developments proposed by the . . Task Force. Fairmount Park and Mt. Rubidoux This area encompasses the northeastemsection of the river as it first enters the City of Riverside from the north. Combining Fainnount Pork and MI. Rubidoux was a logical delineati()n .... ." because eoch has been the site of past development ond ore currently popular destinations olong the river. The T osk Force concluded that most of rhe economic development along the river could be concentrated in this area and that the highest probability of success would come from ...... ". '~-jr ':''''"'. .~ ;~ .. ..<.,~ ............,....'.......~....~.!...<(.~.l.~.~.~..:b.~...~....:.~.:.;....',~..~l..........,:~.;~..,.~.::..:.....,....^... i...:.,.;....;..:..~:...,.Wf,..~... '~~:~;{c.. ""~l.'" ...1 ~;~~i~ii;;t :'.~1~~ . FOirm":::;:k/Mt.)'::l, . 'c""'., "..i} . ',Rvbidovx . ","i$ >t4~1: ~::~:~f;' Ave. 000 :'::.,~:J =,M_._,;j .,,,!~ ,,~ :",e .,:....."~'. Wildlife Area :.'." : 1.. ..... . _" .. l ,..::;'. /l/'I'1""~~"'~l-~.,.,~."..,... . , . 'J-"r.~'J r'~ .it.i~";". 6~ ...... ",'1. ../I"'/i I/'''";,'#!t}.''t.<-:'.,,;,:'!.r~ ..~;t':.:~ I: ,.r?" /1 ; /'../ ~. .,' . ',f '!t...,. r~ . 1/ ,It; 1,....,/ , : ~> {.~!;:!~,.~,. '1, /Ii 1 -' >.~ .~~..."."" t't , 11,'" J; ~ h" ",1, i~' . ,:,,:~(,:.,.: ." ," Y'.~' 'fit~~~~1:'.iU;~".':..i, ;:..::{i~~~ ~;:);~~S.1J~. ..~~... ...,............".1,. ""~ 1~@]i1~fl!);I,;. .,."'~~;.L...,.......,,...,.;.. .~.:.:.(':'~(' . ..,~ .~./. . ,:..~,: f.' ,".: ..-.....~ ,~: Von Bvren Bridge Hidden Valley . . . ::<;:' ......~;I; . ;..... , ......'..l.. ......~ :'J;;~ "~ .:~ ?::~ . ..~ "):1 .~ -:'.,' ,.,.:. . ,~!. ,.' . '.: ',' ~~" ..; . ::',':~;i>: . 'i'/.. '. ., ."',:"' . .. '.,...' .<.::',;. ',1 9 ; ,,"" 0~/~~/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 12 = Existing Bikeways = Existing Unnamed Trails C Proposed Bikeways ...Proposed Santa Ana River Trail Other Proposed Trails CJ other Parks [J City Owned Parcels l!..";l Riverside City Limits ., .) Santa Ana River ~ Santa Ana River Watershed n... CJyf/lR"~'?II"....~ 'w, ...1l'Ill'My.llt a,P ._....., ,,.~I"""o1ll,,!';'''~''''''''1 (jIl11lllo "001'. ~""""''' !.IIIt.. 'oW'r~"'" co....., "I 11;;.......,..., I~: "'Ulh n',I\e....." Iml'l CilI..lI' Rft,;,flolll<l. ''I!lEI. 1\11...,.... rI."'II""('OI1I:.ly ~ ft;_~'~ GIS. 2flQ2.:!lllY.l. \~"''''''''''' :onn:), I,I~...~. CI\. ",;" ~1.:lIl :II...r'N~ ,.. ,,'._r,f'Il ~....""""""""'. PM...11l1/l)ol ~ 10 '. ,e -, ~ i . i .j , . C . , : . i ., I I -' I I -1 ~c ~5/r3/2004 0G:39 9098807G82 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 13 ..... .:' ....t; ~~:;~.'~~j"g~z~ljl.;~:~j~~';,~f~if~t~~r~~.C:' -'." '. . gentrifying existing features at Fairmount Park and Mt. Rubidoux. For example, the golf course could be redesigned and refurbished by a top course designer, providing a draw to the area. The Task Force also determined thot the wetland area provided on ideal location for nature study and recreation. The group suggested restoring the wetlands and installing 0 wooden boardwalk through the area to connect Mt. Rubidoux and Fainnount Pork to the Santa Ana Trail. Additionally, the group suggested developing a nature center at the site of the old Boy Scout camp to conduct youth programs and provide ,a summer day camp for kids. Other suggestions included: . . Modify the river channel with an impoundment to create a large open water feature thot can be seen from State' Route 60. This would provide a visual enticement to attract visitors to the parkway. Work with private interests to develop 0 restaurant or . . . cappuccino bar in Falrmount Park near the river with views. of the open water impoundment. Ideally, the group would like to see 0 "restaurant row" adjacent to the river with a thriving economy. Establish horse and bike rental concessions. Provide educational kiosks that explain the history of the Santa Fe Bridge, Mount Rubidoux, and Agua Manso. Signs and other artwork should reflect this heritage and. evoke 0 feeling of the post. Establish traillinkoges from Mt. Rubidoux to Fairmount . . Pork and generally improve trails in and around thear~a. Encourage and highlight the use of Mt. Rubidoux for recreational rock climbing and training. Sponsor classes and events that focus on rock climbing. Explore the development of water treatment wetlands that can be used for bird watching and improving water quality inputs adjacent to the river course. Recopl1.lre the former glory of the park os a recreational area. Provide picnic areas, bathrooms, and other attractions such 05 pony rides and carousels. Improve linkages to other parts of the city via an improved walking/biking troil olong Market Street ond/ or Mission Inn Avenue. Improve signage to direct visitors. from other porks ond other parts of the city to the parkway. . . . . ,." -{:-":' "-:~ @ " ._~i~ ..~ 'd:l ,\I~ , ,< . ^ , .;~ "'. ::,i\i,)'>! ",;y~ ., ,I:. ',"":'" ,',.' ' rp '~~""": ,.~'. . - ":':--.:~J~ ... ...\il.f:~;'~;)~K;1,~~\~;,;~1 .!,.;.:':.;:"i.:.~,..:~.:";, .;l}Vit .'i .. /';:;::.:::..; .'?~;:;>~"~::':;~ €ffti'~~II~' -,,' ({. . .. ',;-.1 ~~~';i:,d' ," , ~'" ., ":',,;;: ','::i/:'~ .;~r; . .~.~;~ . ",.:,",' t_.,..;'"..,.. "-)71',~~ . ...'" c.. .~{ ,\.~ ',~;": . Suggestions for Action at Fairmocmf Parle Redesign and upgrode golf cou rse Create youth doy camp ond education center Restore wetlands and install catwalks ,..'. . ~":'" !. r .~. '. ... 'n_ , ." ....~.:.f~:.: ", " r:,' " ,,~ , , ~'" ,. l .. .'. ~"'. ; ,~.:~ :....~:; '.,~. .......,'1 ','..:;'" . .. " :." ,:.t~ ijf ,:~ "'J~ '.iW :.;f~ ". "II ."':~~' .,~. \~ ..~ . ~,~ WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 14 9098807582 0.5/1"3/2004 05: 39 .....'ir[.~tl.;?;,~tJ;~i;{~e:1Bi1::.~.J'~~}j~~ .~lit~l@,:~:il~~}:,.:~.,'.., Ie Tequesquite Avenue and Old Landfill r' '.-. , , .. . The openness and relatively . . undeveloped nature of the lands around Tequesquite Avenue and the old landfill . make this area ideal for less commerce ond more play. The Task Force recommended that this area be developed for . . ..more traditional urban park uses such as ballfields. These would be connected to other parts of !he parkway via 0 . system of trail linkages. Suggestions for !his orea included, . Building soccer fields and coordinating with local soccer clubs and organizations to hold events. . Develop adja,ent grassy play areas with ploy equipment. . Provide access points to the river with parking areas. . Provide picnic areas, bathrooms, and information kiosks adjacent to parking areas and ballfields. . Establish limited commercial concessions such os coffee carts ond bIke rentals. ,--. , ", ',-'.".' ',~:'.:. .-: ;;',i I:. : :.,',. ~.. "," ' ~., ,~j.~:. . ~. .,~c'; . :,":' ,- : , ' The Task Force identified r , . !.. five major areas, or segments, of the Santo Ana River in which proposed activities could occvr. Each area has its :~:. . .~. [ .",>, :~{;~ I':' ;i,f' A.'.,. a.'oLi" ~' C...J. ,; / ,:~~ ":';..."'1;;:..",,, ':'...~ '\1':..<.'.\:r:-~""::";\i.',"'--= , / ~;:,'<'c:'A' D',:,"""'*,>". ~~.:..}~: i!~...~.; ~';~.'-'-~' -,~'" *1 " i;(~~~ ''''''';:l~ . " I, ! ' unique characteristics that , inflvence the types of activities that ,ould occor ~ , ! Coo' there. r r-, I , ' L.. .' i I L ,; Martha McLean-Anza Narrows The Martha M,lean-An2:Cl Narrows Regional Pork is currently managed by the County of Riverside. Recently, the County received several grants to make improvements along the Santa Ana River trail. The Task Force recommended that the City of Riverside partner with !he County on realizing portions of its vIsion where feasible and aligned with County objectives. The group recommended developing 0 memorandum of understandIng between Riverside City Parks and Recreation and County Regional Parks and Open Space District for ,ooperating end jointly managing portions of the parkway. At times, the two agencies' mandates' are different. For example, the County must charge to park at its facilities and the Task Force would like to aliow free parking at the ;,.~;,:~'~:';':r:: .,.. ..',' . '{-;,:':)..'/: , \..,' f".... , "./.. ".:.' r-" ; 1:::.: ".;, ., .~".. . . . ~, .' !.. . . .." .~- ';-..<-: c ,'; 12 c , , J ~ , , .J :e .J i j , ,,' '.C 0~/13/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 15 .' . .:~~f~.1,4~~ilt~~~t;~;f,;~~[~~.t~1~'~!1 Martha McLean site. An MOU could help reconcile such issues' and facilitate the parkway concept. Other suggestions include: . Develop a cafe or restaurant in the park. . Develop a large conference center and retreat site. Coordinate with County and City Economic Development ogencies to market the center to groups. . Establish a water play area (when water quality is improved to body contact standards.) Van Buren Bridge The Van Buren Bridge area is currently a popular, albeit unauthorized, weekend destination for families. The Task Foree . reasoned that legitimizing the recreation that occurs in this area would make it safer and more easily monitored. The group also thought that the probobility for success is high in this area . .~~.. because the city would be';"if."":::'i, building on an established recre(1tion destination. Visitation would likely increase, building momentum for the Parkway concept. Some suggestions for the .. site include: · Develop an overnight camp for kids with nature programs and other educational opportunities. . Restore n(1tive habitats and create a system of interpretive' trails for use in nature programs. . Work with County or City Economic Development agencies: to bring a n.staurant into the area (the group suggested the, name "Jurupa Beach Restaurant") looking up the river to Foirmount Pork. -::::"i -..".; .~ .:~.. ;J:j;: ':~~ .~? .' .... < ; ',,' '" ,g~ -,,'> ~ , ,,;,~,\~':)'i"_:':~ '. .",-~..; \' ";'. ~- ''"{.~: ~:";;fr'- ":1": : .' - ,.'~~ ':"" ~,~ , I. _.'..: ...., ....,>,-,'''' '"'i",'i, ';t~ '!-:.);L.. ../,f :,..~ ~.':;;. :"-~'''''~ .~.;-' "'. '.;,:~.~,'.::.,...;.~.:..~:,',.....'.,',:,.'.'.;..,'.'.:..,.........~.'..,' '. '"',. .\", "i : ... , I' , . . .,,{)~~ "-.: "';". .' '. ....(....::t'..;;,....!'~r:.,:::..}.~ ...,,, 'II~ . ::.:; , .;:'::,~\,:l:~~i~%".,''i~jt . ) =/ """,. ....,.~....,..~,.".,",.t 'Vf~~~~iIIC ~i\:" i' The Task Force reasoned~i~i " that legitimizing the ,}~ , ' recreation thot occurs '.'cr' , ',,",>:i- ., near the Von 8uren ",'" ;-, r. . :',1:-:.,',':.:.:: 'd'li'~', . ....;. .. :.:'~::):;~;J :!'{~;j;..:: . ,)." ~;~~\:':':>3. Bridge would make it safer and mor" easily monitored. r'd;it?:(~:!'::' . I .--:.1 '..':~ '!:J . "..,. , ~~l ...~ :~o.i ~~ ..j. ., ":.' " " ,. ":,"" "i. ;:-.,;.~, ..,.... '~ : ".:.'. ,c, .'~' ,~ . . 13 .' 0;;/1"3/2004 06: 39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 16 ~ HIDDEN VALLEY W AND ADJACEN' The CItY oll1ll\'~loe mi_ no warrantY on !he acCiJraev or c.onttnl o! lne (lata 8~ on thl.$ IT'IaO. Photos nom"! oi 1ht river from CountY of "Nerlide, 1995: sauth Of lhe ravef I 0p/13/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 17 .- 'af Park Sit" ;ity) [)J:IFE FOCUS AREA :L.UNTY LANDS Iv9rSIO&. 199!. All DIller data lrOlTl City of Aivtr$i<le't, GIS. 2002-2003. CoovriQhl 2004. River;iO'e. C.... This lTIaD :;hall not be- r~t)I'odvcW nQr a18lriDUl:ed. Pri'lled 01/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 18 = Existing Bikeways Proposed Bikeways .... Proposed Santa Ana River Trail ~"'''i t' p" RiVE ~: 05/13/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 19 nent Plant :n,~".l,:o':(.>J"";"G .' '......,...... :~,~~". ..~....(~...u.,",",1f)1";t:';-.'.;".;..:'~ .;U....~\l:.;; ,.,., ~"'-",':";,"4-" ::.5i'l ~:o:e.::";~1:~.:-' ....,:~'!4~ :ity Limits [) Santa Ana River o City Owned Parcels i::1 Santa Ana River Watershed ~5/13/2004 05:39 9098807582 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 20 (. ting Bikeways 5 Existing Unnamed Trails Proposed Bikeways ... Proposed Ana River 1.3 Santa Ana River .J'--) Santa Ana River ~ Watershed ~;;1Rjverside City Limits The Citv of ~i\JetSide makes ,flOYV8rTllntv on tn. accurecv or l':MUlmnffnjOo ('IJlfill tfo'll"'Wt'I "" "".. .......~ C>........~ .,....... _..~_ .:...., . 0;i1 1'31 2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 21 Landfill Other Proposed Trails ::J City Owned Parcels . 05/13/2004 06:39 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 22 ',-' Landfill - Existing Bikeways ..... Proposed Santa Ana River Trail GJ Riverside City Limits S Santa jj ~ l ......._ ,...,... _~ ",,:..___:-,_ __I'AA __ ,.._~#__... __ ...._ ___..__.. __ ___6__. _1....._ ...._._ _..__.._ _~ 9098807682 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 23 iver Proposed Bikeways Other Proposed Trails ~ Santa Ana River Watershed i. Photos north 01 the river from County of Riverside. 1995; south of the river tram i,,<=>r~ino=. f"'.A Thj~ m~n ...h~1I not nA rAnrnnllc:p.rl nnr rti$:;trihtlfArl Print~rt n1l04. III o , ~I I .c. ..1 .J _! .C 6~/i3/2664 6G:39 9698867G82 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 24 , .(,.... ";." ~k.~~~..I:O~'~'il~~~i~~;~;;.~"~.~~"t,;c.:,~:~ir'u.t <" destinations were more important than others'in terms of their "link-ability." Following is a list of areas that the group determined should be linked to the Santa Ana River Troil either physically, by additional trails or paths, or virtually, by improved signage and traffic flow. o Downtown Riverside, Main Street and Market Place o University of California at Riverside o Fairmount Park o The Trujillo Adobe o Metrolink stations o The Victoria Country Club o State Citrus Historic Park o SOl( Springs Mountain and Springbrook Wash General Improvements and Suggestions The Task Force also made recommendations for general improvements to ensure the parkway concept is a success. Ensuring public safety was a priority and a common theme for most Task Force members. Additionally, the group emphasized the need to restore and preserve native habitats along the river. Some specific suggestions included: o Improve the perception of public safety by installing information kiosks, providing police patrols on horseback or bicycle, and removing graffiti and overgrown plants. o Restore habitat in open space and nature study areas by planting native plants, removing invasive species, and maintaining the areas. o Emphasize local history by highlighting past events in interpretive materials (e.g_, kiosks, signs) along the parkway. o Ensure proper and effective signage to direct visitors to their destination to and along the trails. Provide benchmarks and mile markers. o Develop easily accessible picnic sites with views, parking facilities, and shade trees. o To facilitate planning, divide the river into three use categories: urban, re<reation, and habitat restoration. o Cooperate wiih the Regional Water Quality Control Board to make the river "swimmable" by controlling inputs to river along its course. '::. .;~:..\ "/: .:.~ ~ ,. "i';"': ,-! :" . '.;.. The Task Force recognized thaI 10 make the Parkway a successful civic center, it mU$f be easily founel and accessed. ,-. . . -:" "",,". .j.:: J ;.::';i~ " ..<}i~ ' ,:: -,,-" .'~ ~~ '~''l' .~ ::.~~~ ;;'~ ."'l .:,. ...::? ",j ,'../l,{ , ,,:-t '.,;";:0) .'.-..,,! 25 0~/13/2004 06:39 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 25 9098807682 Many activities and project. are currently underway on the river and prov ide a basis for ,',' implementing components of this concept plan. , I :'". . ;y' ':".~ ; >.:~'~.r:~~:: :'.: 1~ltI~~;~1~i\;~"f~;~:':1:~{;;i-~;F~~::;?'\_i0; iF-':;3JY\;;~~;i,;;:t5ii~{.,','", . .,". ->:'~'.. }~,.. .1~'" t..... i/ C '"' ;,,,' - ~~~:' ~ i" " i::" I ~., ~~~~' ...,: ~_:;..}<~, " r~---- ,",,- ..~..'- ,. .t".".."-"...,,, '~t~tF~{'~' .,.', · ' c c., .... "t"i; ;*,:" l i; ''1$="' '~" '::,! ";;".'! " ;,::,.- ,".' c ,:",:;'i:' ~'~'~.'.: . .:- -,~ . . >~ i.:r:~..~'.~\:;~,,':'. ,..'-.,.,"........,,).,'. ".':-"-';."" ~~';' ". i\^',:"': -;,"' ',- Removing graffiti and overgrown vegetation would improve the perception of safely along the river by making the public feel the area is vseel and cared for. .---~-~.-.-,--..... 26 Current Activities on the River Many aCTivities and projects are currently underway on the river and provide a basis for implementing components of this cencept plan. The broad range ef adivities and agencies and ergonizations involved in these efforts represents fully the ideals expressed in the visien statement. Therefore, building on such efforts portends success ,. for the river parkway concept. ,. Many federal, state, and lecal agencies, as well as nen-profit .organizations, are warking on the river in various capacities. Some groups, such as the Rlverside-Carana Resource Conservatian Dlstrid, are aggressively removing non-native species (e.g., Arundo dooox) in an anempt to. restere pepulatiensef native plants and animals. This organization is also. spearheading a public education campaign to demenstrate the benefits ef landscaping with native plants and conserving water on the landscape. The Santa Ana Watershed Projed Authority is conduding multiple studies to determine water usage and Implement measures to conserve water. , Additionally, agencies such as _. the Riverside CounTy Regienal Parks and Open Space Distrid are partnering with the State Resources Agency and City af Riverside to increase recreational oppertunities along The river. The Santa Ana Regianal Water Quality Control Boord is also overseeing efforts to imprave water quality by monitoring stormwater and develaping Iimit$ on ' pollutants in the watershed, among other water management adivities. , :./,.... . :Y:::<<::':');: -"..,' -....: . ./.,.::~. '~>.'.i..: :,' "..-! Critical Elements for Success The Task Force's first job was to research and evaluate successful parkway models from elsewhere and determine what fadors contributed to. their success. The group reviewed a range of parkway medels from native habitats to. highly cemmercialized. These included the Boise River Greenbelt, a mixed urban-natural environment with hiking trails, golf courses, water parks, and museums along its course; the Jordan River Parkway in Utah, a forty-four mile trail system t'., , L~ r ! L~.; I L.., r-~ , i:..; " ) L.i ~, I L.~ , r , ! I I L...; r", ,-, ~' I ! . "._, 05/13/2004 05:39 9098807582 o -; j : i -' JO , i .j WATER RESOURCES INST "'; . . :.;.';'. :" .,' ,':;:~;',:::;?,j~';i".~.~" _ {Ai: 'M:I<9,j cO ,: ';;,,":r;'~"j.('O),t "~ ~<>, 8ased on these findings, the Santo Ana Task Force detennined . that several critical elements must be in place to realize their. vision. Partnerships and unprecedented oooperation are esse~tial. to implementing the activities proposed In this report. Public .' . safety must also be assured as must on adequate and secure source of funding for project planning, development, implementation, and management. through the Salt Lake Valley that includes pedestrian and equestrian trails, canoe launches, nature centers, and wetlands wastewater treatment facilities; the Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas, 0 highly urbanized commercial center with restaurants and conference centers; the South Platte river in Denver, Colorado which connects ten and half miles of trails and parks through the city of Denver; and the Rio Salado river in Arizona, a completely modified channel with groundwater pumps and open water areas. Each of these models had several critical elements in common. AU evolved from creating a vision to developing a plan to adopting' long-range management plans. All combine recreational opportunities with economic development. Each effort began as a volunteer or city-organized endeavor with grassroots support;' All of them support projects and activities throuQh grants, tax mechanisms, or private foundations. All are managed by city or . county agencies with outside partners such os chambers of commerce. Additionally, the most important aspect is that 011 managing entities hove some decision making authority, usually from 0 city or county ordinance, that allows unencumbered' . implementation of projects. '1 , I .J The activities proposed on the river are diverse and will require the involvement of both public and private sectors. Within the . public sector, various ogenci.,s .,. would be involved, bringing TO" .. bear different areas of expertise and resources. These agencies . would partner with private interests to develop business opportunities, assist in creating parks ond troils, end menege -"0 : .. '. ',~' . ,~:,;{'~'i/~<{ ", .,. ,- . .' ,:< \_,;r.~<..,,' ." "'~:~:,',i~>"~_~ i?-::: ".. -.. . , "~~... ,~ ~f~{.. :,/.\1'. ',:~',. .;/}J; <u? :..:;....,..'":.; '.~' ;4'" 2/~;f >~I;":.. Funding for the various . activities elong the river would most likely be a mixed hag of grant funds, local .':.\ "; ," 1 ":;';/:;,'1 :K/;,:;. '.;-iI'~ '-~> : ..,;.t -.:..,) appropriations, pooled agency assistance, and private sector contriwtions. PAGE 25 ,~J' .,i ,'::-::'.i~ . -=> i i't'~:7f ':-':4~ ""i:i1 ';"r:,~ :",:~\l~ :.';.... ;?:,~ ;'(, .... i~ .,~ ..,;~ 'l'";}f 'i'~'~: .g: ... . . -:' ~ ~ \:~ ,:: '<::~ <;~';~. ..:"~-' . '<~ ...,.:1 . --"I~ ...::... .:.t~ -.'~~ ","'J.. . ' ~. ,. . '...... ....-:~ .~ . ~i~ : :~.! :.t!, ,;'1. ';l', .:~~ :"':,:..? '~~61~~~~.~:;''-',,' '...~. :""~',: ';f;".:;':.. :" ...~~ "",:"'_h ~,' ".,;:,. :" ):':,:~. ~~~~:.. ..'.~~i~' ~,...,. ;~' ......?:, ':J.. :~ 27 65/13/2664 65:39 9698867582 WATER RESOURCES INST PAGE 27 .,~~!~;t~1m:~_~~~iri_f~i~~~;~lTI~f~~_1:;~t:;;i-'. c . "~ .;';" ; :(' .~~ =':"$.. ~" t;,\.: ~.' :tJ'., ~. it :,.,..;,. ":..:l. . - ,n, .~ The Santa Ana River Parkway concept links communities across town and across generations. " :. ,. ~;:Y'::" ~~:;), ~%. I. " f"',.....,',,;... ~~/,. .' IlK,...... ./ "',;'. .. . ,'~',: 1: ,~" ~"I' ...( C. ),.:"'. :.:,....,'.;S,ji.,~.,.".,........'},...,...:.::.'..:.,~,S-.;.;'.>'.';...:..., " ,/,". .~,'.,~~,"J -~" ....,.. ..... ".,' ;~~!v::..:;../,,:>: .,' I ....,:':~~~~.;?~~:.<:',..~,;::;::<... -:;{~~~.:.':t~ "}i,:,' ",.' 1j':~'? ;'," " 'C',:: :" " , ,', '.'.,>.:.',':' ;.';' .., " :: .. ': " ,'~', ',: ','0,' :~' ,i "" it ,; ~<': ".: :).., ~1: /}:; ,:j.:-'uy;;i ("J'.f.f.,::" n., <"j: "" "".. I:',?,t~:.:;:: .. ...<:::~':: , ~~. , . q~.. ~..,..:' :;,~: j :.. -:;; .~.w ~:i-:I' ~:.'i>/ ~:J.,'~~'~~' " ., h~') ',~, !,"," .. " ;,,; , ,',' . ;. .~> '. ~ . ",.: .',' 0, .i",' ~8 '.'" . commercial operations. Implementing these partnerships successfully would require the development of cooperative agreements to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of 1he parties involved. "'. The monagement of 1he activities on the river would most likely be . split among different agencies, depending on1he nClture of the activity. The oversight committee would ideally be comprised of . representatives from the various interests on !he river, including . public and private members. The committee would be tClsked with ensuring that developments are done fairly, with adequate public involvement, in CI timely end cost-effective manner. The committee .should also be able to prioritize activities and direct funds to implement them. Funding for the various activities Cllong the river would most likely be 0 mixed bag of .grant funds, local appropriations, pooled agency assistance, and privClte sector contributions. AppropriCltions and grant 'funds may be used to establish the basic infrastructure of the plCln. Once this is in place, certain elements would become income generators (e.g., various commercial enterprises) and thot income could be reinvested in additional developments and improvements. Ensuring the safety of the public on the parkwClY is also essential to its success. This could be achieved via a n.uinber of different mechanisms. Increased police presence and ~ivic employee presence would mClke users feel more comfortable and less . isolated. Staffed information or public safety kiosks would let the public know thClt there Is always a safe place to go, if necessary. Removing grClffiti and overgrown vegetation would Cllso improve the perception of safety along the river by making the public feel the area is used and cared for. ,- 1-,' [ l' I. r' I I L.: [ r L f-' I '- r"": I' C: r , w r- I L.._; i' I, 1._.. i