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Home My WebLink About05-07-2001 Park and Recreation Commission AgendasSaratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting City Hall Administrative Offices 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga Monday, May 7, 2001 7:30 p.m. AGENDA I. Organization 1) Roll Call: Alberts, Clabeaux, Dodge, Fronczak, Ioannou, Olsen, Seroff 2) Report on Posting of the Agenda: Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2 the agenda was properly posted on May 2, 2001 3) Review of April 2, 2001 Action Minutes. II. Administration 1) Update from Public Works Director John Cherbone 2) Update from Recreation Director Joan Pisani III. Oral Written Communication (This section is for the public to speak on any item not on the agenda-3 minute limit) N. New Business 1) House Property vacation request 2) Review of easement realignment at 22111 Villa Oaks Drive 3) Items carried over from Apri12, 2001 meeting: Review Azule Park Master Plan process and survey letter packet. Warner Hutton House improvements (Discuss possible joint meeting with Youth Commission to receive their input). El Quito Park Capital Project Community Gardens o Skateboard Park 4) Wildcat Creek Clean-up May 19, 2001. 5) Safety Study-review summary notes 6) Fundraising for Congress Springs Park V. Old Business 1) Update regarding "No bicycles permitted on trail" signage on Parker Ranch" Water Tank" trail. 2) Update on Union Pacific Rail Road Trail Community Meeting on June 7, 2001. VI. Commissioner Staff Reports 1) City Hall Update by Staff Liaison Bloomquist 2) Commissioner Reports VII. Adjournment Saratoga Parks and ltecreation �ommission 1Vleeting Administrative Offices, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga Apri12, 2001 7:30 p.m. Action 1Vlinutes I. �all to Orde� The meeting was called to order at 7:39 p.m. II. �oll �all Commissioners Present: Alberts, Clabeaux, Dodge, Fronczak, Ioannou, Olsen, Seroff �ommissioners Absent: None �thers Present: Public Works Director John Cherbone, Recreation Director Joan Pisani, Saratoga resident Jerry Coy, Saratoga resident Ajit Goel, Staff Liaison Cary Bloomquist III. l�eport on Posting of the NYinutes: Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2 the agenda was properly posted on March 30, 2001. N. Approval of Minutes of Meetin�: Action minutes from March 5, 2001 were approved with minor conections noted in New Business Section via a motion from Commissioner Ioannou, seconded by Commissioner podge, vote taken, motion carried 5-0-1, with Commissioner Alberts abstaining. Corrected Action minutes from February 5, 2001 were approved via a motion from Commissioner Dodge, seconded by Commissioner Ioannou, vote taken and motion carried 6-0. V. Administration: Reports received form Public Works Director John Cherbone and Recreation Director Joan Pisani. Mr. Cherbone indicated Congress Springs Park Project should go out to bid sometime within next 3 weeks. Also discussed was fundraising campaign with donation brochure for Congress Springs Park amenities listed with prices. Commission encouraged to participate and get the word out about funding needs. A grant application packet was submitted to the Saratoga Rotary for $200,000.00 to fund two baseball fields. Citywide safety study report from consultant not available for review at present time. Report from consultant should be available within the next two weeks. Motion made by Commissioner podge to change the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting time from 7:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Commissioner Ioannou seconded the motion, vote taken, motion did not carry 1-3-3. Commissioners Alberts, Olsen, Seroff against, Commissioners Fronczak, Clabeaux, Ioannou abstaining. VI. Oral Written Communication: Commissioner Alberts made a motion to change order of Agenda and skip to Old Business section of agenda, motion seconded by Commissioner Clabeaux, vote taken and motion carried 7-0. VII. Old Busioess: Jerry Coy from Parker Ranch Homeowners Association gave presentation regarding the permanent closure of the "Water Tank" trail section. Discussion ensued, no vote taken due to recent decision by City Council not to close the trail. Motion was made by Commissioner Clabeaux to place appropriate signage on "Water Tank" trail indicating "No Bicycles on Trail" to be posted at trail access points. Seconded by Commissioner podge, vote taken, motion carried 6-0-1 with Commissioner Alberts abstaining. Public input meeting for Union Pacific Railroad Trail to be held on June 7, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. Senior Center listed as possible location. Agenda back in order to Oral Written Communication. VI. �ral Written Communication: None. VIII. New Business: Chair Fronczak and Commissioner Seroff were recused from the meeting due to conflict of interest. Vice Chair Clabeaux took over as acting chair of the meeting. Regarding Azule Park Master Plan. Commissioner Olsen made a motion to send out a letter with a list to be created by the Park Improvement Committee showing the various park improvement ideas. The letter needs to notice all residents and affected groups near Azule Park. The letter needs to contain the date of the community meeting and a due date for comments/suggestions/additions to the list attached to the letter. Commissioner Alberts seconded the motion, vote taken, motion carried 4-0. Motion made by Commissioner Olsen to support the recommendation of Public Works Director John Cherbone to hire Greg Ing Associates as the proposed architect for the Azule Park Master Plan. Motion seconded by Commissioner Clabeaux, vote taken, motion carried 4-0. Warner Hutton House proposed improvements-costs not to exceed $100,000.00. Commissioner Olsen made a motion to appoint Commissioner Ioannou as Warner Hutton House project liaision, seconded by Commissioner Alberts, vote taken, motion carried 6-0. Motion made by Chair Fronczak to defer to next PRC meeting the following: El Quito Park Capital Project; Community Gardens; Skateboard Park, motion seconded by Commissioner Seroff, vote taken, motion carried 6-0. Motion made by Commissioner Alberts to approve plans for New Fire Department Headquarters Station Construction near Historical Park with given encroachment stipulations as indicated in plans. Motion seconded by Commissioner Olsen, vote taken, motion carried 6-0. Motion made by Commissioner Ioannou to hire Teri Baron as a consultant for the City to locate and organize Grant materials for Trails within the City. Motion seconded by Commissioner Olsen, vote taken, motion did not pass 1-4-1, with Commissioners Alberts, Clabeaux, Olsen, Seroff against and Chair Fronczak abstaining. Commissioner Clabeaux made a motion to have Public Works Director John Cherbone find Grant writers for Trails projects within the City. Motion seconded by Commissioner Alberts, vote taken, motion carried 6-0. IX. �teports: Staff Liaison Bloomquist: None Commissioner Reports: No formal reports given by Commissioners. X. Adiournment Commissioner Olsen made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Chair Fronczak seconded the motion. The motion carried 6-0 and the meeting was adjourned at 10:57 p.m. Prepared By: Cary Bloomquist City Staff Representative o��'�� O51;�;�,j�F>' 13777 FRUITVALE AVENUE SA�tATOGA, CALIFORNIA 95070 •(408) 868-1200 Incorporated October 22,1966 April 30, 2001 City of Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Saratoga, CA 95070 Dear Commissioners: COUNCIL MEMBEftS: Evan Baker Stan Bogosian John Mehal/ey Nick Streit Ann Waltonsmith The Parks and Recreation Commission Trails Subcommittee made a motion at their regular meeting on Monday, April 23, 2001 to approve the David House Property Street Vacation request on Old Oak Way as presented by Westfall Engineers and The Steinberg Group, the Architect of the project. The approval of the Vacation request is subject to the dedication of a trail easement through adjacent parcel number APN 503-12-41. The motion was approved by a unanimous vote. This letter is to serve as the official recommendation of the Trails Subcommittee to the Parks and Recreation Commission for approval of this Vacation proposal. Sincerely, Sheila Ioannou, Chair Trails Subcommittee Cc: David House Westfall Engineers The Steinberg Group CITY of ATOGA ��,i,��i v i�,�� ,v� a 0 I i Y �'�j�/ �r-- i �/��✓i, ,�'�":Y•, I i i r r i i_ r i/ �i�.� /i r. 1� 11 �j. r i� .i I Y i i �'I //�i i'�' f: f!! I',(�h'��'� I =-r r� 't i l':�!' 7 /.i� /rlr��/.�/. APN'S07-IS-02 �P.� _i. i yc- /i/., l I 'i s li.' i i 1 ��/i,� �i j �'/!�/,J.i;i '��'ijji� i 'c �.i' i .ir a i�' t� ;y �j l�� r� 1 i i 'j i .�h!� 7. i i I j `"i i"'i I i 1 �'i� �1 �:i,'� i I i,�:'�'` ..p��i I i i�. ii 1 I i l� �C',�•�� i 'j i it i i i 1 t t .��:��i'l1 ;l �i. r r,. i i 1 i r'j:". •i'�•�� i '�"i'r�,i''i.i� ..j�. 1 t r' MNSO3.ii-�i i �I i ,(�`�`J�'j�,'ldo��t.�rt w i ,I� s9 r .t 1 r i I' 1 i �gq��.�, 1 1� 1 I r� i �``,�,.I 11� 4 y .�1 a. ;f+— "T i i.. ,i 'I, f �r��`��.' ..s kC'�+c.� 1 a r ,��r /i r�.� .t. r i }4 �1� �F 1 J i[ f °'�t '�ta PROPOSEDTURNAROUND ��t; i- r r; f .r I ��!i-��. •i.r 111��ili� '�.t 1 �1�,� '1•�.:•.�; 4' L��IRA(777)0 ;i .,'APT� Ti63�� 6S 1 VICINITY MAP w. e, o.i� .c.u�,r� i.�ceNo PROfERTVLIMi R.U. W, i0 BE VACATCD r%��n R.O. W. TO HE UBUIGTEU �IJP4II11 ��{r ��r 1. 1 r A. :rnrn, s�e-r�co s[.:�..w WESTFALL EN'�INEERS, INC. Xil�v(.+ �r S.�C� n� >ei uc e.a. ��oro �ae n 0 p fD �'D t: LANDS OF DAVID HOUSE OLD OAK WAY, SARATOGA a Page 1 of 1 Cary Bloomquis� From: <TLBaron@aol.com> To: <jcherbone@saratoga.ca.us> Cc: <Phlames@aol.com>; <cbloomquist@saratoga.ca.us>; <waltonsmith@home.com> Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2001 7:29 PM Subject: Mt. Eden Estates John, Per our conversation of yesterday, the trail segment I told you about is on Lot 11, Mt. Eden Estates. Address is 22111 Villa Oaks Dr., Saratoga. I do not have the owners names. The man who is putting in the vineyard is Rick Berg. His phone is 868-1675. His address is 13985 Pike Rd. Saratoga. Just to reiterate what I already toid you, the trail segment that is on this lot was improved approximately a year ago. It was installed with 2x4 wood headers with geo teck fabric on the bottom and decomposed granite as the trail surface. This was installed by the previous owner, Rhonda Douglas at great expense. Apparently the new owners have hired Rick Berg to put in a vineyard. However, during the course of installing the vineyard, Rick Berg disced the hillside, including discing the trail improvements. This has destroyed the improvements. He has not only destroyed the improvements, but he is planting vines in the middle of the trail easement. Obviously, the trail is currently impassable. I also believe that he is planting vines in dedicated open space to the north east of the trail easement. I will drop you off a plat map of the affected area. His callus disregard of the easement and improvements thereon is of great concern to me. I did have a conversation with Mr. Berg and indicated this to him. He indicated that he was working with the city on moving the trail easement. He set out markers to mark the proposed new trail. I rode the proposed new trail and told him I did not see any problem with the location, but that he would need to contact the city regarding moving the trail and also fully improve the proposed section as the old section was. I sent him an e mail asking who he was working with at the city. He has not responded. This trail section is used daily. It is currently blocked, damaged and encroached upon. Could you please see what you can do about this? I think you know how hard I worked to even get this put in in the first place. Please respond to this so I know you received it. Thanks, Saratoga Trail Enthusiasts Teri Lynn Baron 4/20/O1 �`1/T '00 7. R 403 0 R Q .i i� I�1�'�' �a� f�r anforrnation�9 g�ur°�� m�uYy9 �c�anal par�el map is �vailab➢� c `�'�-�'�'L� z SCENI C EASEnENT rq.acT ��6i 6Qa� �n O y `�N �ASEnEN 1STJN TRAIL i 3. 45 ACRES i i LOT 1 4 B9I ACRES �9�4 LOT D. Ji; t S 495.' HARBOR B( LOT r. J/4" /.P.. 95J :1 io'n�av�ru tr,�rr. f'ASEMENT 'I t �3i ae a9i LOT 10 1.299 ACRES .�C�� 1 ��-'�•'`!0' P.S.E. p, VILL.A 0 HA RBOf LOT d �ity o� S�a Azu�e Park 1dl�s�e� 1'�am Survey 1. Rank the following park features on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being the least important and 5 being the most important: Landscaping: Community Garden Shrubs Rose Garden Grapevines Wildflowers Native California Plants Fruit Trees Other Trees Other Flowers _Sound wall Landscaping Children's Play Equipment: _Swings Tot lot _Climbing Wall Slides Other Park Features: Benches Picnic Tables _Drinking Fountains Nature Area Horse Shoe Pits _BBQ Area _Putting Green _Par Course Pathway far running/walking _Dog Run Tennis Courts Half Basketball Court Other 2. Please list other improvements or features you would like to see at Azule Park not listed above. Please u�eturn completecfl su�vey by 1V�ay 31, 2001 to the following acldress: City of Saratoga 13777 Fruitvale Avenue Saratoga, CA 95070 Please contact Cary Bloomquist at 868-1258 if you have any questions or comments. Site li�Iaster Plan Pr�cess for �zule Park Dear Residents: City Council recently approved the development of a Master Plan for Azule Park. This is the first step in the development of the park. This letter and the attached survey are designed to assist you through this process and hopefully answer a few questions. What is the purpose of this Maste� Plan? The purpose of this Master Plan is to develop a document which can be used as a design guideline for future development of Azule Park. The completion of the attached survey and the community meetings that will follow is the beginning of the Azule Park Master Plan development process. Attached is a schedule of the community meetings and a timeline for development of the Master Plan. By working closely with the City and the Parks and Recreation Commission, residents will be able to provide valuable input, which will be incorporated into developing a Master Plan for Azule Park. Y�ow to provide input? The attached survey is the initial method of communicating those features and amenities desired in the development of a Master Plan. Following the survey will be community meetings to discuss the input gathered from residents in the area. The initial community meeting will occur on June 4, 2001. Subsequent meeting dates are listed on the attached community meeting timeline schedule. Please return completed surveys by 1VIay 31, 2001 to the following address: City of Saratoga 13777 Fruitvale Avenue Saratoga, CA 95070 �uestions? Please contact Cary Bloomquist with the City of Saratoga Public Works Deparhnent at 868-1258. Your valuable input is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, John Cherbone Public Works Director �ornanunity meetang a�adl 1�Yaster ��a�a �imeflineo April 18 May 7 City Council Approves proposal to develop Master Plan. Parks and Recreation Commission reviews and approves Azule neighborhood survey letter May 7-11 Survey letter is mailed to Azule neighborhood May 31 June 4 July 2 August 6 Survey letter due from Azule neighborhood Azule neighborhood meeting to discuss conceptual plan with landscape architect and Parks and Recreation Commission. Azule Park draft Master Plan reviewed with Azule neighborhood and Parks and Recreation Commission. Azule Park final conceptual plan reviewed with Azule neighborhood and Parks and Recreation Commission. August 15 Final conceptual plan reviewed by the City Council for approval. �E��'��.u.� IVIEE'�'g1V� BDA�'E: Elpril 1�, 8001 ��]EI�A g�']EI�I: �I�Y�dNA'g'dl�� E�: Pu�lic Wor�lcs ��77C�' I�'lI��GER: PI�EPEII�I) �]El��' IE�E�: v SiJ�.YE��': Proposal for prepazation of a conceptual plan for Azule Park. i2EC�1VYIV�IVI�E�D AC�'gpi�1(S): Approve proposal from Greg G. Ing Associates in the amount of $19,800 for preparation of a conceptual plan for Azule Park and authorize the City Manager to execute same. 1tEPOR'g' SiJI�'Il��': At the City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission joint meeting on Mazch 27, Council directed staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission to move forward with preparation of a conceptual plan for improving the undeveloped Azule site into a neighborhood park. In order to move ahead on the project as expeditiously as possible, staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission recommend that Greg Ing. Associates, who are currently the City's landscape architects for the Congress Springs Park Improvement Project, prepare a conceptual plan for Azule Park. This will save approximately two months in the process, which will allow sufficient time to develop a project scope and a cost estimate so the Azule Park Improvement Project can be considered in the upcoming Capital Improvement Plan. Additionally, there is support from the Azule Park Neighborhood Committee for moving forward with the project as stated above. If the proposal is approved, the timeline for development of the conceptual plan will be as follows: April 18 City Council approves proposal to develop conceptual plan. May 7- Parks Recreation Commission reviews and approves Azule neighborhood survey letter. Week of May 7- Survey letter is mailed to Azule neighborhood. May 31 Survey letter due from Azule neighborhood. • June 4 - Azule neighborhood meeting to discuss conceptual plan with landscape architect and Parks and Recreation Commission. • July 2 - Azule Park draft conceptual plan reviewed with Azule neighborhood and Parks and Recreation Commission. • August 6 - Azule Park final conceptual plan reviewed with Azule neighborhood and Parks and Recreation Commission. • August 15 — Final conceptual plan reviewed by the City Council for approval. It is therefore recommended that Council approve the proposal from Greg G. Ing & Associates for preparation of a conceptual plan for Azule Park and authorize the City Manager to execute same. FISCAL IMPACTS: Funding for this work is programmed in the adopted budget in C.I.P. No. 9704 (Park Development) — Account No. 4010 (Contract Services). CONSEQUENCES OF NOT FOLLOWING RECOMMENDED ACTION(S): The proposal would not be approved and the conceptual plan for Azule Park would not go forward at this time. ALTERNATIVE ACTION(S): None in addition to the above. FOLLOW UP ACTION(S): The architect will be given approval to move forward with the above - recommended actions and staffwill proceed with the public meeting process. ADVERTISING, NOTICING AND PUBLIC CONTACT: Nothing additional. ATTACHMENTS: 1. Proposal for Conceptual Design plan for Azule Park. 2 of 2 Press Release For Immediate Release Contact: Sheila Tucker Phone: (408) 354-4734 i/olunteers IVeededl Roll Up Your Sleeves and CYean up �Vaterways u�a the �fVest Va�ley Communities April 27, 2001 Do your part to clean up the waterways in Los Gatos, Saratoga, and Campbell on National River Clean-up Day. Events will be held on Saturday, May 19, 2001 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Los Gatos Creek at Lexington Reservoir Park, Smith Creek at Rinconada Park, San Tomas Aquino Creek at Westmont High School, and Wildcat Creek near the Saratoga government center. Volunteers are needed to roll up their sleeves and help clean-up trash and debris in local waterways. This is an excellent opportunity to put your hands to work and make a difference in your community. "Most people don't seem to make the connection befinreen dumping trash out their car window and sweeping or hosing debris off their driveway and sidewalks and how that flows into storm drains and then on to our local creeks and the San Francisco Bay," according to Sheila Tucker, West Valley Clean Water Program Manager. Volunteers should wear long pants, sturdy shoes, gloves and sunscreen. Come with friends, family and lots of energy. Volunteers will receive a free recognition item and pollution prevention materials from the West Valley Clean Water Program. To view an event map or find out detailed information about event sites go online to cleanacreek.org or call (408) 265-2607. April 24, 2001 Dear Soccer and Little League Supporters: We are happy to report that work on the renovation Congress Springs Park will begin this June. The children with an expanded, top quality facility in Saratoga. of the Soccer/Baseball complex at renovation project will provide our which to play, within the City of A budget of $1.2 million has been allocated to complete demolition of existing elements of the park and improve the grading, turf, drainage, irrigation, maintenance yards, and parking lot for the 10-acre facility. The funds allocated do not, however, provide for amenities that would truly make Congress Springs Park a special place for youth sports. A goal of $800,000 would fund the additional amenities to make the park a special place. Your assistance, as users of the facility, is needed to provide for these amenities. We need to raise these funds by June 1, 2001. Here is how you can help. A list of the items needed with associated costs is attached. Although large donations are welcome, of equal or greater importance are a significant number of individual contributions. For example, several thousand $50 donations for paving stones with a family name, or as a memorial to someone special, would achieve the fund raising goal. Contacting extended family and friends would also be helpful in attaining the needed funding. Your support in identifying large corporate, civic, or individual donors is most certainly valued. The "Saratoga Youth Sports Fund", has been established to collect all contributions for the Congress Springs Park Renovation. All donations will be used for the park improvement project o� and are fully tax deductible. Contributions will be accepted for any dollar amount and can be applied to specific items or as a general contribution. The leaders of your sports organization can assist in providing details on how contributions can be made or, for more information, see the City of Saratoga web site: www.saratoqa.ca.us then go to CSP improvement project. We would like to thank you in advance for your participation in making the Congress Springs Park Renovation Project a success and providing a facility for youth sports in which the citizens of Saratoga can be proud. Sincerely, Norbert Fronczak, Chair Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Sar�toga Youth Sports FuneY Donation For �ongress Springs Park �rnprovement 1'roj ect Donor Information Name: Address: Telephone: Amount of Donation Y9onation Item �hecklist: Faa Number: INTERLOCKINC PAVING STONES (VVITH NAME) INTERLOCKINC PAVING STONES (WITHOUT NAME) MONUMENT SICNAGE BACKSTOP W/MASONRY WALL (3) PORTABLE BACKSTOP (4) DUCOUTS: (10) INCLUDES: BENCHES, CONC. FENCING BLEACHERS 30' W/MASONRY WALL (4) BLEACHERS 15' (2) SCOREBOARD (5) INCLUDES: ELEC. SCOREKEEPERS (3) TABLE &BENCH INFIELD FENCING (3) OUTFIELD PORTABLE FENCING (5) BATTING CAGES (2) FOUL POLES PORTABLE (10) STORACE BLDG. 1 STORAGE BLDG. 2 FIELD STORAGE BOX (5) ELECTRICAL OUTLETS CONDUIT PITCHING WARM-UP MOUNDS (6) SOCCER COALS (16) PAIRS TRASH RECEPTICLES (7) BENCHES 6' (7) TABLES (7) PEDESTAL GRILLS ADA DRINKING FOUNTAINS (2) BOLLARDS: (50) BIKE RACKS (4) FI.AG POLE (2) (PERMANENT, 50 FEET TALL) PORTABLE RESTROOM (1) BASEBALL FIELDS 1, 2 &3 BASEBALL FIELDS 4 5 PLAZAS uA»� aBn� aCn E-mail: Tax Identi£cation Number: 94-6030039 50 ea. 10 ea. 15,000 25,000 ea. 3,000 ea. 6,500 ea. 20,000 ea. 12,000 ea. 7,000 ea. 2,000 ea. 10,000 ea. 2,000 ea. 5,000 ea. 850 ea. 60,000 45,000 1,000 ea. 28,000 2,500 ea. 2,000 ea. pair 1,500 ea. 1,500 ea. 1,200 ea. 350 ea. 5,000 ea. 300 ea. 1,200 ea. 1,500 ea. 20,000 100,000 ea. 30,000 ca. 95,000 ea. All checks should be made payable to the "Saratoga Youth Sports Fund". Donations are tax deductible to the extent the law allows. A receipt will be mailed directly to you. Thank you for your support. X Signature of Donor Date Apri124, 2001 Dear Ms. Thank you for your donation to the Saratoga Youth Sports Fund. Your donation will go directly towards the funding of improvements at Congress Springs Park. The donation of $50.00 for 1 Interlocking Paving Stone with name is fully tax deductible (Tax ID# 94- 6030039). Please retain this letter as your tax receipt. Thank you again for your generosity and for making our parks a better place to play. Sincerely, John Cherbone, Public Works Director �t�� GE�' STA�'E F�Jl�i�� FI�ONI PASSAG� P12�OFOS�'�'�OI� 12 G'ity of Saratoga to receive $284, 000 I9rtprovements cited ��'�j�o d 'i By GLO� I. WwrrG Continued fiom page 1 Los Gatos, Monte Sereno and Saratoga Capps said that the funding proces are�ated.�o receive thousands of dollars requires groups�to apply for and receiv of�e� _nld�tey for theu public parks. The approval for a pro�ect from the state. Citi t1 funding was made possible when Califor- i can also proceed with working on a projec nia voters passed Proposition 12 in 2000. and then applying for reimbursement, a The California Department of Pazks and long as the project fits under the state' RecreationonApril6,announcedawazds g�delines,whichhaveyettobedetermin of vat�ing amounts totaling $388 million to J� RPer� ass�stant town manager of Lo each ixty in the.state depending on popu- Gatos, speculates that the $276,000 will lation. Los Gatos will receive $276,000, -.'ncludedasafundingsourcewhentheto discusses next yeaz s capital improvemen Monte. Sereno $39,000 and Saratoga program.Atentativeprogram,whichma $28�,000. Santa Clara County, in total, will out a guideline for town improvemenu fo receive more than $12 million.- the next five years, will be presented at th Proposition 12, a bond act, was passed in May 7 town council meeting. That way March 2000. The act was co-authored by �Per says, the public will have a chance t Ass�mblyman Fred Keeley and former Proposepossibleprojects. Assembly Speaker Antonio V'illaraigosa— Oddly enough, many town officials sa current mayoral candidate for the city of or the funding. TimB yerof the Gatos Los �ngeles. Parks and Public Works Department, says Proposition 12 provides funds not only that he has never heard of Proposition 12. for local parks, but also for state parks, Los Gatos Parks Com**>;��ion Chair- wildlife and land acquisition and nature woman April Maiten and Vice Chair- conservancies. More than $2 billion will be woman Sherrie Richter claim the same: bonds in the histo of the conn de att- L 1 Heure n ux ays he did o know �Y+ P that the city was to receive $39,000. ment of parks and recreation spokesman Steve Capps said. p�Cn�� Iirrr7 !n nn�e 14 L'Heureux did say, however, that what- ever parks money Monte Sereno is given is traditionally passed over to Los GaCos, since Monte Sereno residents use Los S Gatos parks. e The city of Saratoga, like Los Gatos, plans to include Proposition 12 funds t when the capital improvement program is S brought before city council, late this sum- S mer• The $284,OQ0 is "good news for the folks in park development," �said City S ManagerDave Anderson. Anderson said that the parks commission has come up with some improvement ideas for Lhe 10 t neighborhood and community parks in Saratoga. r John Cherbone, Saratoga's director of e public works, said that the money could be used on "practically anything that you see o a Pazk•" Cherbone lists playground and pathway improvements, tennis courts, y bathrooms and lighting as, some of the n potentialprojects. Anderson also sayS that there are limits to what the money can be used for. "I couldn't build city hall with it," he said. According to Capps, the state will take the next few months to spell out and con- duct public hearings on the conditions of approval for a project and to instru dif- ferent jurisdictions how to appl for money. i r t 'r t. k• 1 a �e111��C�.i��1 To: John Cherbone CC: Cary Bloomquist Fr�si: .David Mooney Dabe; OS/07lZOOI Re: Playground safely audits. As you �ow the City of Sarato� as well as all �blic a6encies c�pe�-ating play�ounds open to the public were required to have an inspec,rtor, who is certified by the National Play�ound Safety lnstitute, conduct a safety audit of their play�unds to determine their compliance with new ADA (Americdns with Disabilities Act), as well as CPSC (Consumer Products Safety Coaunission) and ASTM (American Society for Tesdng and Materials) standards. Tfie of these safety audits is to identify non�onforming products and designs, installation prati3ems �and environmental conditions that couid pose long-term hardrrds 4o children using those playgroi�iids. These audits cover items such as entrapment violations, prom�sions, equipment layout and;ite'sigi►�::and surface hazards. A site by site report is then generated by the inspe�.-cor who categorizcs i�azards by their potential for causing severe injury, then rea,mmends which hazards reqaire'iriimediate corrective action, wiuch. should be addressed as soon as possible, and which are minor enough to aliow corrective action aa timc and moncy allow. Attiicbed is a summary of the. finciings of those safety audit inspections, in adc�ition to a copy of sections 115725 —115750 of the State of California's Health and Safetv C�e which details t6e wtry, what, where and whea's of these new playground requirements. if you bave any questions or would care to look over the report in its entirety tet me �►ow and 1 will make it available to you. r...._ _._.c_- ___�_r cr:;- ..'v` 3'.r •_t y +r fio bQ ��r-Fc, W l b p s s� �D r C- BEAUCHAMP LANE PARK SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY No informational signs stating the intended age group of users for this play equipment. This equipment is for both the 2-S and 5-12 age groups. Signage should reflect that this equipment is intended for both age groups, but children under 5 should be closely supervised by an adult. Due to the fact that this equipment is for 2-12 year olds, all equipment will be addressed on the assumption that the minimum user will be 2 years old. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFACING The safety surfacing (sand) is insufficient. At the time of this audit there was approximately 12" of material present. Minimum requirement for this playground due to the height of the equipment should be 18" uncompressed depth. Leaves and twigs were present in the sand and there were low areas in the safety surfacing especially under the swings and slide exits. The safety surfacing should be inspected on a regular basis and cleaned and redistributed as needed to maintain an 18" uncompressed depth. SECTION 3 EQUIPMENT ACESS ERGRESS NOTE: There is ADA access to the play game panel at ground level. SECTION 4 GUARDRAILS PROTECTIVE BARRIERS Some lateral movement at the top platform leading to the spiral slide. This section should be closely inspected to ensure it is structurally sound. 2. Potential entrapment at the right side entrance to the tube slide. Small torso probe passes but large head probe does not. Refer to Pages 33-34 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's book entitled Handbook For Public Playground Safety for test procedures iised. Keep in mind that any opening between 3'/z" and 9" is a potential entrapment exposure. 3. There aze some protruding bolt ends under the tallest platform. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. SECTION 14 PLAYHOUSES 1. Some of wood on the bench/table units has splinters, which could pose potential puncture or laceration exposures. These units should be sanded smooth and repainted. SECTION 15 SLIDES 1. The spiral slide clearance is insufficient. There should be a clearance zone 21 wide when measured from the inside face of the sidewall along the outer edge of the slide for the entire length of the slide. 3 2. Potential entrapment at the entrance to the spiral slide. Refer to item 2 under Section 4 above. SECTION 16 SPRING ROCKING EQUIPMENT l. The wooden footrests for the two-seater are splintering. These should be sanded smooth or replaced. 2. The motorcycle unit also has splintering wood. 3. The handgrips for the two-seater unit are posing potential entrapment exposure. The concrete anchors for the horse and motorcycle units aze exposed. Adding the required amount of safety surfacing (18" uncompressed) should abate this situation. SECTION 17 SWINGS 1. The tot swing is constructed of a rubber seat with a metal band around the top. Metal on swings is no longer recommended. Recommend replacing this swing seat with one of the newer types that do not have a metal band. 2. The tot and sling swings are hung from the same bay. New regulations recommend that tot (bucket) swings be hung on separate support structures or at least from a separate bay. 3. The clearances are insufficient. Refer to page 28, Figure 22 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for clearance zones. 4. Some of the chain material is. rusting. All the chains should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. 5. Some of th:, attachment hardware is rusting. These shoul�I be closely inspected and replaced as needed. 6. There aze some protruding bolt ends at the top. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. Some of the "S" hooks are opening which could pose potential entanglement exposures. Close all "S" hooks. Refer to Page 8-9, Figures 6& 7 of the Safety First Checklist book for illustration. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for comments and recommendations. lf� 1 ��_I, �il Priority items for this playground are the potential entrapment at the slide, the safety surfacing and the splinters on the footrests of the spring rocking units. There is a potential entrapment at the right side entrance to the tube slide. Small torso probe passes but large head probe does not. Refer to Pages 33-34 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's book entitled Handbook For Public Playground Safety for test procedures used. Keep in mind that any opening between 3%z" and 9" is a potential entrapment exposure. The safety surfacing here is approximately 12" compressed material (sand). The height of this equipment.is approximately 10 %z feet. It is therefore recommended that at least 18" uncompressed depth be maintained to allow for compaction and dispersion. Keep in mind that most serious injuries are from falls off the equipment onto the ground. The splinters on the spring rockers footrests are posing potential laceration and/or puncture injury exposures. These should be sanded smooth or replaced. Also, the concrete anchors should be well below grade. d BROOKGLENPARK SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY No informational signs stating the intended age group of users for this play equipment. This equipment is for the 5-12 age group. Signage should reflect that this equipment is intended for this age group, and children under 5 should be closely supervised by an adult. The only piece of equipment for the 2-5 year old age group located here is a tot swing. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFACING The safety surfacing (wood chips) is insufficient. At the time of this audit there was 1-3" of compressed material present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. There were some low azeas in the safety surfacing. The safety surfacing should be inspected on a regular basis, cleaned, redistributed and additional material added as needed. SECTION 3 EQUIPMENT ACCESS EGRESS The final step used to access the platform on the net climber is not even with the platform. This could pose potential entrapment/trip exposures. Recommend reattaching this climber so the final step is even with the platform. 2. The distance between rungs is 13-14". Maximum requirements are 12". 3. There is a potential entrapment between the top rung of the rung ladder and the platform near the curved climber. In-fill should be provided. 4. There are potential entrapments between the clatter bridge and the platform at both ends. In-fill should be provided. SECTION 4 GUARDRAILS AND PROTECTIVE BARRIERS There are no protective barriers on this equipment. All platforms have vertical bars used as guardrails with openings approximately 10-12" apart. For the 5-12 age group all equipment or platforms over 48" above the safety surfacing should have protective barriers installed that are at least 38" high. 2. One of the support poles has an eyebolt that is protruding posing entanglement exposures. If this eyebolt is no longer being utilized it should be removed. SECTION 8 BRIDGES, CLATTER 1. There are potential entrapments at both ends of this bridge where it attaches to the platforms. In-fill should be provided. 2. The chain material and attachment hardware is rusting. Both of these items should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. Some of the wood is cupping and splintering. Closely inspect this wood surface and repair as needed. SECTION 11 CLIMBERS, FLEXIBLC The final step used to access the platform on the net climber is not even with the platform. This could pose potential entrapment/trip exposures. Recommend reattaching this climber so the final step is even with the platform. 2. The anchoring device is above the playing surface. The anchoring device should be below the playing surface. SECTION 13 HORIZONTAL LADDERS RING TREKS 1. The ring trek access platforms are too high. They should be a maximum of 36" high. Additionally, they are off set and users must reach out and over to grab rings. The rings should be centered on the platform. Some of the "S" hooks are opening that could pose entanglement exposures. These hooks should be closed properly. Refer to Pages 8-9, Figures 6-7 of the Safety First Checklist book for illustrations. Additionally, some are rusting. These should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. SECTION 15 SLIDES I. The spiral slide flexes where it attaches to the platform. Closely inspect this unit to ensure it is structurally sound. Additionally, some of the attachment bolts are backing out. Reattach these bolts. There are some protruding bolt ends underneath the spiral slide. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. The eyebolts on the chain bazrier at the metal slide entrance are rusting. Replace as needed. 4. The spiral slide does not have a protective barrier enclosing the platform. This slide is taller than 48" and should therefore have a protective barrier enclosing it. At the present time there are 3 vertical bars about 10-12" apart. 5. Both the metal and spiral slides aze taller than 48". The exit region heights of both slides are 17-18" above the safety surfacing. Slides ofthis height should have an exit region height of between 7-15" above the safety surfacing. 6. The metal slide faces in a southeasterly direction, which could allow the metal to become very hot and could pose potentials for contact burns. Metal slide should face in a northerly direction or be placed in a shady area. SECTION 17 SWINGS 1. There are three swings, two sling and one tot, hung from the same bay. New regulations require that no more than two swings be hung from the same bay. Since all the eyuipment except the tot swing is for 5-12 year olds, we recommend removing the tot swing and rehanging the sling swings with the proper clearances. Refer to pages 28, Figure 22 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for clearance zone requirements. NOTE: lf it is decided that the tot swing will be kept, recommend replacing this swing (has a metal band around the top of the seat) with a tot swing made of soft rubber. Some of the chain materiai and hardware is rusting. All the chains and hardware should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. a Some of the "S" hooks are opening which could pose entanglement exposures. Close all "S" hooks properly. Refer to Pages 8-9, Figures 6-7 of the Safety First Checklist book for illustrations. Additionally, the "S" hooks are rusting. Replace as needed. One of the sling swings is bent and very hard due to exposure. Recommend this swing be replaced. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for comments and recommendations. 8 SYTI�h[I�R�' Priority items for this playground are the safety surfacing, potential entrapments, and the structural soundness of the spiral slide and the lack of protective barriers. The safety surfacing (wood chips) is insufficient. The minimum requirement for this playground is an uncompressed depth of l2". There are potential entrapment exposures throughout this structure as follows: Flexible Net Climber The final rung is approximately 12" above the platform, which could pose entrapment exposures as well as trip exposures. Recommend reattaching this unit even with the platform making sure the anchoring bar is below grade and the chain material is secured tightly at both ends. 2. Clatter Bridge The areas where the bridge attaches to the platforms on both sides. In-fill should be provided. 3. Platform Near Spiral Slide Between the top rung of the rung ladder and platform. The platform at the spiral slide entrance flexes. This unit should be closely inspected to ensure that it is structurally sound. There are no protective barriers on this structwe. Any equipment or platform that is over 48" high should have protective barriers installed instead of guardrails. E CONGRESS SPRINGS PARK NOTE: There are two composite units located here. One is a fairly new or newer and the other is much older. When referring to these units they will be called either the new or old unit. SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY 1. No informational signs stating the intended age group of users for this play equipment. This equipment is for the 5-12 age group. Signage should reflect that this equipment is intended for this age group, and children under 5 should be closely supervised by an adult. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFACING Synthetic Surfacing There are wood chips on the synthetic surfacing which could pose potential slip/trip exposures. This surface should be inspected and swept clean on a regular basis. The safety surfacing is coming loose from the underlying surface. Reattach securely. Wood-Product Surfacing The safety surfacing is insufficient and there are low areas especially under the swings and slide exits. At the time of this audit there was approximately 10" of compressed material present. The minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. The surfacing should be inspected on a regular basis, redistributed and additional material added as needed. SECTION 3 EQUIPMENT ACCESS EGRESS Old Unit 2. 3. I�he orange climber rises above the access platform approximately 12-14". This could pose potential trip exposures. The stairway on the composite unit has closed risers, which collect wood chips that could pose potential slip exposures. The stairway to the composite unit has a slope of 59°. New requirements are that stairways should not have a slope of more than 50°. The minimum tread depth for the stairway should be 8". This unit has a tread depth of 7". The height of the handrail for the stairway is not high enough. It should be between 22-38" high. The wooden platforms aze cupping and splintering. These units should be sanded smooth and/or replaced as needed. ew Unit The transfer point is located 19" above the accessible route or platform. It should be no higher than between 14-17". 5ECTION 4 GUARDRAILS PROTECTIVE SARRIERS Old Unit The vertical wood slat protective barrier is posing potential entrapment exposures. Any opening between 3'/z" and 9" poses potential entrapment exposures. In-fill should be provide to narrow the openings to less than 3'/z". New Unit There are protruding bolt ends under the platforms. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. SECTION 11 CLIMBERS, FLEXIBLE 1. The plastic coating on the chain material is cracked and deteriorating that could pose potential pinch exposures. The parts of the chain that are exposed are starting to rust. 2. The top middle rung is posing a potential entrapment exposure. Some type of in- fill should be provided. SECTION 12 FIRE POLES 1. The fire pole does not extend 60" above the platform surface. SECTION 15 SLIDES The spiral slide (new unit) has an exit� region height of 22" above the safety surfacing. This slide is taller than 48 and should therefore have an exit region height of between 7-15" above the safety surfacing. SECTION 17 SWINGS The plastic coating on the chain material is cracked which could pose potential pinch exposures. The "U" joints, attachment brackets and some of the chain materials are showing some wear and/or are rusting. These should be inspected on a regular basis and replaced as needed. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for comments and recommendations. ��.TI�[1��' Priority items for this playground are the safety surfacing and the potential entrapment exposures. At the time of this audit there was approximately 10" compressed material (wood chips) present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed material. There are potential entrapments at the old unit as follows: The top middle rung on the flexible climber is posing a potential entrapment exposure. In-fill should be provided. The vertical wood slat protective bamer on the old unit is posing potential entrapment exposures. Any opening between 3'/z" and 9" poses potential entrapment exposures. In- fill should be provided to narrow the openings to less than 3%z". 12 EL QUITO SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY 1. No informational signs stating the intended age group of users for this pla}� equipment. This equipment is for the 5-12 age group. Signage should reflect that this equipment is intended for this age group, and children under 5 should be closely supervised by an adult. The only piece of equipment for 2-5 year olds is the out-dated tot swing. The 10" concrete portion of the border collects sand and/or wood chips, which could pose potential slip exposures. These areas should be swept clean on a regular basis. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFAING Wood-Product Surfacing Safety surfacing insufficient. At the time of this audit there was approximately 1- 3" of material present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. There are low areas in the existing material. This should be redistributed and additional material added to the recommended depth. Sand Safety surfacing insufficient. At the time of this audit there was approximately 4- 6" compressed material present. Minimum requirement is 12" uncompressed depth. We recommend 18" uncompressed depth to allow for compaction and dispersion. Sand tends to compress more easily than wood chips making the surfacing very hard. There are some low areas in the existing material. This should be redistributed and additional material added as needed. Additionally, the sand had stones, twigs, leaves and other debris mixed in with it. The safety surfacing should be inspected and cleaned on a regulaz basis. SECTION 3 EQUIPMENT ACCESS EGRESS There aze no handgrips on the arch climber, clatter bridge, banister slide or at some of the platforms to assist users in the transition from one azea to another. SECTION 4 GUARDRAILS PROTECTIVE BARRIERS The platform at the clatter bridge entrance near the fire pole should have a protective barrier instead of guardrails. All platforms over 48" high should have protective barriers. 2. Most of the existing protective barriers are posing potential entrapment exposures. Any opening between 3'/z" and 9" is a potential entrapment. In-fill should be provided to reduce the opening to 3" or less. 13 3. There are protruding bolt ends underneath the platforms. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. 4. Some of the hardware is rusting. All hardware should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. SECTION 8 BRIDGES, CLATTER There are potential entrapments between the platform and the bridge surface at both ends. In-fill should be provided. 2. There are some pinch/crush exposures between the slats due to the openings between the platform and the bridge that allow the slats to move. Providing in-fill as mentioned above should abate this situation. The anchoring eyebolts at both ends are protruding which could pose potential entanglement exposures. Additionally, there is rust present on these eyebolts. They should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. 4. The guardrail has a lower edge of 44 '/Z" above the bridge surface. It should be no higher than 28" above the bridge walking surface. 5. The wood surface has splinters that could pose potential puncture exposures. The wood should be sanded smooth. SECTION 10 CLIMBERS Wood Slat Arch Climber The use zone overlaps with the sling swing. 2. The spacing of the wood slats range from 2'/4" to 9". Rungs/slats should be evenly spaced. At this time the rungs/slats with openings between 3'/z" and 9" are posing potential entrapment exposures. 3. There are no handgrips to assist users onto the platform from the climber. 4. The screws underneath the climber are backing out. These should be reattached. 5. The wood surface is splintering. It should be sanded smooth. SECTION 12 FIRE POLES There is a potential entrapment between the top rung and the platform of the rung ladder this pole is attached to. 2. The pole should extend 60" above the platform and have a clearance of between 18-20" between the platforrn and the pole. This fire pole does not meet these new requirements. 14 SECTION 15 SLIDES Spiral Slide The exit region height is 20 `/z" above the safety surfacing. This slide is higher than 48" and should have an exit region height of between 7-15" above the safety surfacing. Refer to Page 25, Section 12.4.5 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety. 2. There are some protruding bolt ends at the attachment brackets. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. The concrete anchor is exposed. Providing the required amount of safety surfacing (12") could abate this situation. 4. There is no hood or rail at the top to encourage users to assume a sitting position. Metal Slide 1. This slide is higher than 48" and should therefore have a protective barrier installed instead of guardrails. 2. There is no hood or rail at the top to encourage users to assume a sitting position. Bannister Slide The slide should be even with the access platform. At the present time the slide entrance is approximately 12" above the platform surface. Additionally, there are no handgrips to assist users onto the slide. 2. There is no hood or rail to encourage users to assume a sitting position. SECTION 17 SWINGS NOTE: The following comments aze for both sets of swings. 1. The use zones are insufficient. Refer to Page 7, Figure 2 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for swing use zone requirements. 2. The "S" hooks aze opening that could pose entanglement exposures. Close all "S" hooks properly. Refer to Pages 8-9, Figures 6-7 of the Safety First Checklist book for illustrations. 3. Clearance zones are insufficient. Refer to pages 28-30, Figures 22 23 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for clearance requirements. 4. The suspension brackets, chain material and the master links are showing wear. These should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. 5. There are protruding bolt ends. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. l5 6. The tot swing consists of a rubber seat with a metal band on top. New regulations recommend tot swings made of soft rubber material. One of the sling swing seats is deteriorating. Replace the seat. (Located at the unit with wood chip safety surfacing.). SECTION 18 SWINGS, ROTATING 1. The use zone is insufficient. Refer to Page 7, Figure 3 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for use zone requirements. 2. The clearance zones are insufficient. Refer to page 30, Figure 24 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for clearance requirements. 3. The attachment brackets and master links are showing wear. These should be closely inspected and replaced as needed. 4. The "U" joint cover at the top is broken/deteriorating exposing the hardware that could pose potential pinch exposures. This should be replaced. 5. The tire is a"regulaz" tire. If this is a steel belted tire it should be closely inspected on a regular basis to ensure that there are no exposed steel belts that could pose potential laceration or puncture exposures. Additionally, drainage holes should be provided in the underside of the tire. SECTION 19 TRACK RIDES 1. The handgrips are 0.50 inches in diameter and twists on its own axis. It should be between 0.95 and 1.55 in diameter and be a solid grip that does not twist. 2. The horizontal distance to the first handhold from the leading edge of the platform is 18". It should be no more than 10". The distance from the takeoffand landing structure to the nearest handhold is 61" at one end. It should be no more than 45". This platform is about 14" above safety surfacing. The other end of the track ride has a platform about 65" high where users must sit or crouch to access this piece of apparatus and could run into it when sliding from the opposite end. SECTION 20 TUNNELS 1. The tunnel is constructed of inetal. At the time of this visit, the surface of the tunnel was very wann. During the warm weather months this unit could get very hot which may pose potential contact burn exposures. Recommend replacing this unit with one that is constructed of plastic. 2. The wood panels at both entrances aze splintering. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for comments and recommendations. �iTl�l��t�' Priority items for this playground are the safety surfacing, potential entrapments, use zones and the metal tunnel. The safety surfacing (sand and wood chips) is insu�cient. The wood chips should be a minimum of 12" uncompressed depth. The minimum requirement for the sand surfacing is 12" uncompressed depth, we recommend 18" uncompressed depth to allow for dispersion and compaction. Sand compacts easier than wood chips. Additionally, all safety surfacing should be inspscted, cleaned, fluffed and redistributed on a regular basis and additional material added as needed. There are potential entrapment exposures throughout this playground as follows: Most of the existing protective bazriers aze posing potential entrapment exposures. Any opening between 3'/�" and 9" is a potential entrapment. In-fill should be provided to reduce the opening to 3" or less. 2. There are potential entrapments between the platform and the bridge surface at both ends. In-fill should be provided. 3. The spacing of the wood slats on the wooden arch climber range from 2'/4" to 9". Rungs/slats should be evenly spaced. At this time the rungs/slats with openings between 3%z" and 9" aze posing potential entrapment exposures. 4. There is a potential entrapment at the fire pole between the top rung and the platform of the rung ladder this pole is attached to. The use zones for the swings aze insufficient. Refer to Page 7, Figure 2 and Section 5.1.3 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for use zone requirements. The tunnel is constructed of inetal: At the time of this visit, the surface of the tunnel was very warm. During the wann weather months this unit could get very hot which may pose potential contact burn exposures. Recommend replacing this unit with one that is constructed of plastic. NO�'lE: This entire playground needs work. The above priority items should be addressed immediately and the remaining items addressed as soon as possible. 17 GARDINER PARK SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY 1. There are power/telephone wires that run directly over the play area. If these are power lines an electromagnetic field specialist should be consulted to determine requirements. 2. No informational signs stating the intended age group of users for this play equipment. This equipment is for both 2-5 and 5-12 age groups. Signage should reflect that this equipment is intended for both age groups, but children under 5 should be closely supervised by an adult. There is a sprinkler head that sticks up approximately 10" neaz the rocks that aze between the ground level play units and the composite unit. This could pose potential trip exposures. The large tree under which most of this equipment is located drops leaves, twigs, acorns and small branches. This azea should be inspected on a regular basis and all these items removed to ensure that the safety surfacing is kept free and clear of all debris. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFACING Synthetic Surfacing There was sand present on the synthetic surfacing that could pose potential slip exposures. These areas should be swept on a regular basis. Sand Surfacing At the time of this audit there was approximately 9" compressed material present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. We recommend 18" uncompressed depth to allow for compaction and dispersion. There were leaves, twigs, acorns and small branches/twigs present. This area should be inspected on a regular basis and all these items removed to ensure that the safety surfacing is kept free and clear of all debris. 3. There were some low areas in the surfacing. The sand should be redistributed on a regular basis and additional material added as needed. SECTION 4 GUARDRAILS PROTECTIVE BARRIERS 1. There are protruding bolt ends underneath the platform near the sidewinder and banister slide. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. 2. There is a bolt missing on the clear plastic barrier (oval observation window). Replace the bolt. 18 MISCELLANEOUS The excavator (shovel and bucket) unit is posing a potential pinch exposure where it attaches to the lever bars. Closely inspect this unit and tighten any loose bolts. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for conunents and recommendations. SUMMARY Priority item for this playground is the safety surfacing. At the time of this audit there was approximately 9" compressed material (sand) present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. We recommend 18" uncompressed depth to allow for compaction and dispersion. NOTE: This playground is fairly new and as such meets most of the new requirements with a few exceptions as listed above. 19 KEVIN MORAN PARK SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY NOTE: This playground has signs informing users of the intended age for the play equipment. There are two separate areas, one for 2-5 year olds and one for 5-12. The signs are on the support posts at the entrance to the composite structures. We recommend posting larger signs that are a little more visible to users or adults supervising younger children. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFACING Sand At the time of this audit there was approximately 7-12" of material present. Additionally there were some low azeas in the sand, especially under the swings and slide exits. Some concrete was also mixed in with the sand in several areas tested. Minimum requirements for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. We recommend 18" uncompressed depth to allow for compaction and dispersion. The sand should be thoroughly cleaned of any concrete, redistributed and additional material added as needed. SECTION 3 EQUIPMNET ACCESS EGRESS There are protruding bolt ends underneath some of the platforms. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. SECTION 15 SLIDES The use zone for the sidewinder slide exit (5-12) is the minimum 72". Optimal would be 72" plus the height of the slide. 2. The use zone for the small sidewinder slide (2-5) overlaps with the stairs. There is a distance of 3'/�' between the slide and the stairs. Contact manufacturer for recommendation on how to address this situation. 3. The exit region height of the small sidewinder slide is 15" above the safety surfacing. This slide should have an exit region height between 7-11 Adding additional safety surfacing could abate this situation. SECTION 17 SWINGS The tot swing should be suspended at least 24" above the safety surfacing. 2. The tot swing is hung on the same bay as one of the sling swings. New requirements are that tot swings be suspended from structures or separate bay sections. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for comments and recommendations. 20 1 u Priority. item for this playground is the safety surfacing. At the time of this audit there was approximately 7-12" of compressed material (sand) present. Additionally, there was some concrete mixed in with the sand. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. We recommend 18" uncompressed depth to a11ow for compaction and dispersion. Also, the sand should be inspected and any concrete removed. 21 RAVENWOOD PARK SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY 1. No informational signs stating the intended age group of users for this play equipment. This equipment is for the 5-12 age group. Signage should reflect that this equipment is intended for this age group, and children under 5 should be closely supervised by an adult. There is sand present on the synthetic surfacing that could pose potential slip exposures. Recommend sweeping this azea on a regular basis. 3. The drinking fountain was clogged at the time if this visit which could pose potential slip exposures due to the water running onto the ground. The azea where the synthetic surfacing meets the sand has a drop-off of approximately 4", which is posing a potential trip exposure. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFACING Synthetic Surfacing There is sand present on the synthetic surfacing that could pose potential slip exposures. Recommend sweeping this area on a regular basis. Sand Surfacing At the time of this audit there was approximately 10" compressed material present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. We recommend 18" uncompressed depth to allow for compaction and compression. There were leaves and twigs mixed in with the sand. The sand should be inspected and cleaned on a regulaz basis. SECTION 3 EQUIPMENT ACCESS EGRESS NOTE: Although there is synthetic surfacing that may be for ADA access this azea does not meet any of the ADA requirements. ASTM F-1487-98 should be referred to for ADA requirements. SECTION 6 BARS, CHIN-UP TURNING The use zone for the short bar overlaps with spiral slide. SECTION 10 CLIMBERS 1. There is an endcap missing on one of the support posts. Replace the missing endcap. 2. The concrete anchor is exposed. Adding more safety surfacing should abate this situation. 22 SECTION 11 CLIMBERS, FLEXIBLE There is a potential crush exposure between the chain and the support bars on the side of the climber. The chain material should be tightened so there is no slack. 2. The "S" hooks at the bottom aze rusting and opening. These should be closely inspected, closed properly and/or replaced as needed. 3. The anchoring device is above grade. This should be below grade. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for comments and recommendations. SUMMARY Priority item for this playground is the safety surfacing. At the time of this audit there was approximately 10" compressed material present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. We recomrnend 18" uncompressed depth to allow for compaction and compression. 23 WILDWOOD PARK SECTION 1 SITE SURVEY 1. No informational signs stating the intended age group of users for this play equipment. This equipment is for both 2-5 and 5-12 age groups. Signage should reflect that this equipment is intended for both age groups, but children under S should be closely supervised by an adult. a. 3. 4. S. There is a large hole in the middle of the play area approximately 6-10" deep and 5' wide that could pose potential trip exposures. The area under the swings is "boggy" and the weed barrier is exposed. The entire area is uneven and needs to be leveled out and additional safety surfacing provided. There are twigs, leaves, acorns and branches on the safety surfacing and sidewalks, which could pose potential slip/trip exposures. SECTION 2 SAFETY SURFACING NOTE: The entire safety surfacing area needs to be completely redone. At present it is uneven, does not drain well, has too much debris (leaves, twigs, branches, acorns) mixed in with what little wood chips are present. l. The safety surfacing (wood chips) is insufficient. At the time of this audit there was approximately 0-2" of material present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. NOTE: If the ground level play panels are designed for ADA access, the safety surfacing does not accommodate/support a wheelchair due to the differences in levels. There is an approximate 3-4" drop-off from the sidewalk to what little wood chips aze present. SECTION 4 GUARDRAILS PROTECTIVE BARRIERS There are potential entrapments at the platform for the embankment slide. Any opening between 3'/z" and 9" poses potential entrapments. There are protruding bolt ends at the embankment slide. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. SECTION 10 CLIMBERS 1. The wood climber wobbles. This unit should be closely inspected and repaired or replaced. SECTION 11 CLIMBERS, FLEXIBLE The rope on the flexible climber has excess slack where it attaches to the metal frame. This could pose potential pinch/crush exposures. 24 2. The design of the climber does not allow children to bring both feet even before proceeding to the next level. 3. The rope changes shape when stepped on and could pose potential entanglemenUentrapment exposures. The endcap on the bottom pipe is missing exposing sharp edges. 5. The final access is above the platform, which could pose entrapment exposures. NOTE: Recommend removing this unit. SECTION 15 SLIDES Red Slide 1. Use zone at front is insufficient. It overlaps with the ground level play station. The exit region height is 20". It should be between 7-15" above the safety surfacing. Metal Embankment Slide 1. Use zone at side insufficient. It overlaps with the border board/sidewalk. 2. This slide has no safety surfacing underneath it. There are rocks that users would fall onto if they fell off the slide chute. 3. Potential entrapments at the deck entrance at the wooden rails. 4. Embankment slides should have a maximum height of 12" above the underlying ground surface. 5. There is no hood or barrier to encourage users to assume a sitting position. There are exposed nail heads at the entrance to this slide that could pose potential trip exposures. The exit region height is too high (18" above the ground). Maximum exit region height for this slide is between 7-15". 8. The slide faces east, which could pose potential contact bum exposures. Metal slides should face in a northerly direction or be located in a shady area. 9. There are protruding bolt ends. Trim all bolt ends to within 2 threads beyond the face of the nut. NOTE: This slide meets few of the new requirements. We recommend removal of this piece of appazatus. SECTION 17 SWINGS The use zone overlaps with the tree stump and bench. Refer to Page 7, Figure 2 and Section 5.1.3 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for use zone requirements. 25 The "S" hooks are opening which could pose potential entanglement exposures and are showing signs of wear. All "S" hooks should be completely closed. Refer to Pages 8& 9, Figures 6& 7 of the Safety First Checklist book for illustrations. Additionally, they should be closely inspected for signs of wear and replaced as needed. The top mounting brackets are also rusting. Closely inspect and replace as needed. The tot swing is constructed of rubber with a solid metal band around the top. This type of swing is no longer recommended. Lightweigl�t rubber or plastic swing seats are preferred to help reduce the severity of impact injuries. 5. There are three swings hung on one bay, 2 sling and 1 tot. This practice is no longer recommended. Tot and sling swings should be hung from separate bays. 6. The clearances are insufficient. Refer to pages 28-30, Figures 22 23 of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Handbook For Public Playground Safety for cleazance requirements. The brackets that attach directly to the seats are bending and forming burrs that could pose potential laceration exposures. 8. The safety surfacing underneath the swing is almost non-existent. At the time of this audit the surfacing was boggy and the weed bartier was exposed. Adequate safety surfacing should be provided. NOTE: These swings do not meet most of the new requirements. All of the above items should be repaired/addressed or the swings replaced. SECTION 21 COMPOSITE STRUCTURES NOTE: Refer to individual sections for comments and recommendations. SUMMARY Priority items for this playground are the safety surfacing, large metal embankment slide, potential entrapments, swings, the flexible climber and use zones. The safety surfacing (wood chips) is insufficient. At the time of this audit there was approximately 0-2" of material present. Minimum requirement for this playground is 12" uncompressed depth. The entire safety surfacing azea needs to be completely redone. At present it is uneven, does r�ot drain well, has too much debris (leaves, twigs, branches, acorns) mixed in with what little wood chips are present. The large metal embankment slide is too high, does not have any safety surfacing around or underneath it, and there are potential entrapments at the deck/entrance. Refer to Section 15 under Metal Slide for complete text. It is our recommendation that this slide be removed. This recommendation is being made largely due to the fact that there is a rock barrier directly und�r the slide and if children fall off the slide they would land on same. Additionally, there are potential entrapments at the deck. 26 1 1 The flexible climber is constructed of rope that has excess slack where it attaches to the metal frame. This could pose potential pinch/crush exposures. The design of the climber does not allow children to bring both feet even before proceeding to the next level. The rope changes shape when stepped on and could pose potential entanglement/entrapment exposures. The endcap on the bottom pipe is missing exposing sharp edges. The final access is above the platform, which could pose entrapment exposures. Recommend removing this piece of apparatus. The use zones for the swings and the red slide are insufficient. The use zone for the slide overlaps with the ground level play station. The use zone for the swings overlaps with the tree stump and the bench. The swings need reconfiguration and/or replacement. Refer to Section 17 for comments and recommendations. 1V�'II'E: Final comments on this playground are that it needs quite a bit of work for most pieces of equipment to meet the new requirements. We recommend removal of the metal slide, flexible climber, compete renovation of the safety surfacing and reconfiguration of the swings. 27 I (:A Codes (hsc:115725-115750) s��'� Q�� SECTIUN 15725�115750 115725. On or before January 1, 1992, the state department, in consultation with the office of the State Architect, the California Parks and Recreation Society, the League of California Cities, the Department of Parks and Recreation, the State Department of Education, and the California Council of the American Society of Landscape Architects, shall adopt regulations for the design, installation, inspection, maintenance, and supervision where appropriate, and training of personnel involved in the design, installation, and maintenance, of all playgrounds either operated by public agencies, including a state agency, city, county, city and county, school districf, and any other district, or operated by any entity where the playground is open to the public. Those regulations shall meet the standard of care imposed by courts of law on playground operators, and shall, at a minimum, impose guidelines and criteria that shall be at least as protective as the guidelines in the Handbook for Public Playground Safety produced by the United States Consumer Products Safety Commission, shall give due consideration to any successor to the Handbook for Public Playground Safety that may be published, and shall include more protective requirements where the state department finds those guidelines will provide inadequate protection. The regulations shall include special provisions for playgrounds in day care settings, that shall be developed in consultation with the State Department of Social. Services and the California Children's Lobby, and that shall be appropriate for children within the range of ages in day care settings. The state department shall not be responsible for enforcement of any regulations pursuant to this section. Page 1 of 3 115730. (a) All public agencies operating playgrounds, including a state agency; city, county; city and county, and district, shall upgrade their playgrounds by replacement or improvement as necessary to satisfy the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 115725 to the extent state funds are made available specifically for that purpose through state bonds or other means. All other entities operating playgrounds open to the public shall upgrade their playgrounds by replacement or improvement, as necessary to satisfy the regulations adopted pursuant to Sect'ion 115725, on or before January 1, 2003. (b) (1) Subdivision (a) and the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 115725'shall not apply to playgrounds installed between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 1999. Those playgrounds shall be subject to the requirements to upgrade set forth in this subdivision until 15 years after the date those playgrounds were installed, at which time those playgrounds shall be subject to subdivision (a) and the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 115725. (2) All public agencies operating playgrounds installed between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 1999, shall upgrade those playgrounds by replacement or improvement as necessary to satisfy criteria that are at least as pr-otective as the guidelines in the Handbook for Public Playground Safety, Publication Number 325, United States Consumer Product 5afety Commission, November 1994, to the extent that state funds are made available specifically for that purpose'through state bonds or other means. .(3) All other entities operating playgrounds open to the public and installer3 between January 1, 1994, and December 31, 1999, shall http:llleg�nfo:cagov.../displaycode'!section=hsc�group=l 15UU1-11bUUUc�iitle=L 15715-11575 lU/ 1�/UU t .o. CA Codes (hsc: 15725-115750) upgrade those playgrounds by replacement or improvement as necessary to satisfy criteria that are at least as protective as the guidelines in the Handbook for Public Playground Safety, Publication Number 325, United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, November 1994, on or before January 1, 2003. (c) Before October 1, 2000, all public agencies operating playgrounds�and all other entities operating playgrounds open to the public shall have a playground safety inspector, certified by the National Playground Safety Institute, conduct an initial inspection for the purpose of aidinq compliance with the requirements to upgrade set forth in subdivision (a) or (b), as applicable. Any inspection report may serve as a reference when the upgrades are made, but is not intended for any other use. (d) This section shall not affect the liability or absence of liability of playground operators. 115735. For purposes of this article, all of the following shall apply: (a) An "entity operating a playground open to the public" shall include, but not be limited to, a church, subdivision, hotel, motel, resort, camp, office, hospital, shopping center, day care setting, and restaurant.. An "entity operating a playground open to the public" shall not include a foster family home, certified family home, small family home, group home, or family day care home, which is licensed and regulated to meet child safety requirements enforced by the State Department of Social Services. (b) "Playground" shall refer to an improved�outdoor area designed, equipped, and set aside for children's play that is not intended for use as an athletic playing field or athletic court, and shall. include any play equipment, surfacing, fencing, signs, internal pathways, internal landforms, vegetation, and related structures. (c) "Supervision" shall include all general and specific supervision necessary to protect children from unreasonable risk of harm from site hazards, the acts of other children, or the use of the playground in a way that was not intended by the designer or manager of the playground. The regulations required pursuant to this article shall not expand on the periods or circumstances when supervision shall be provided beyond the periods or circumstances already determined to be within the existinq standard of care to which a playground operator is held. 115740. Regulations adopted pursuant to this article shall include special provisions where appropriate, as determined by the state department, for the needs of the developmentally disablec2 in state institutions, pursuant to Division 4.1 (commencing with Section 4400) of, and Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, and in community care facilities, and other public and private institutions that provide residential or day care specifically for the developmentally disa.bled. Page 2 of 3 115745. (a) After the effective date of the requlations adopted pursuant to this article, no state funding shall be available for the planning, development, or redevelopment of any playground, unless the playground, after completion of the state-funded project, will conform to the applicable regulations adopted pursuant to this article_ However, where state funds have been appropriated to, or allocated for, a playground project prior to the effective date of thz requlations but the regulations became effective prior to the http:/fleg�nto. ca. gov.../displaycodeYsect�on=hsc�cgroup=115UU t-1161)(1U�fi1e=1157'15-1 575 1 U/ t gfUU CA Codes (hsc:115725-] 15750) r i^ i campletion of the project, that funding shall be maintained, as long as the playground is altered to conform to the regulations to the extent the alterations can be made without adding significantly to the project cost. (b) After the date by which an entity.is required to conform its playground to satisfy requlations adopted pursuant to this article, no state funding shall be available for the operation, maintenance, or supervision of the playground unless the playground conforms to the applicable regulations adopted pursuant to this article. 115750. All new playgrounds open to the public built by a public agenryo ur any other entity more than six months after the effective date of the regulations adopted pursuant to this article shall conform to the requirements of those regulations. Flhere the playground developer knows of the regulations before undertaking any expenses related to designing or building the playground, this six-month grace period shall not apply. Page 3 of 3 http://leg�nto.ca.gov.../displaycode'!section=hsc�,group=115UU1-1�16UUU8�i�i1e=115715-11575 �lU/l�lUU F Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting City Hall Administrative Offices 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga Monday, May 7, 2001 7:30 p.m. AGENDA I. Organization 1) Roll Call: Alberts, Clabeaux, Dodge, Fronczak, Ioannou, Olsen, Seroff 2) Report on Posting of the Agenda: Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2 the agenda was properly posted on May 2, 2001 3) Review of April 2, 2001 Action Minutes. II. Administration 1) Update from Public Works Director John Cherbone 2) Update from Recreation Director Joan Pisani III. Oral Written Communication (This section is for the public to speak on any item not on the agenda-3 minute limit) N. New Business 1) House Property vacation request 2) Review of easement realignment at 22111 Villa Oaks Drive 3) Items carried over from April 2, 2001 meeting: o Review Azule Park Master Plan process and survey letter packet. Warner Hutton House improvements (Discuss possible joint meeting with Youth Commission to receive their input). El Quito Park Capital Project Community Gardens o Skateboard Park 4) Wildcat Creek Clean-up May 19, 2001. 5) Safety Study-review summary notes Fundraising for Congress Springs Park V. Old Business 1) Update regarding "No bicycles permitted on trail" signage on Parker Ranch" Water Tank" trail. 2) Update on Union Pacific Rail Road Trail Community Meeting on June 7, 2001. VI. Commissioner Staff Reports 1) City Hall Update by Staff Liaison Bloomquist 2) Commissioner Reports VII. Adjournment